Change Oakland Forever

Dear Fellow Oaklanders,

You can help us Change Oakland forever!

For the first time in decades, we have the opportunity to initiate a transition in the composition of the City Council and the School Board in a City aching to emerge from the cocoon of “potential”. I have lived here since 1982 and though, I have never done a scientific assessment of how many times the “P-word” has been used to describe Oakland, it is almost a slogan for us - “The City with Potential”. That possibility has been squandered time and time again, but this moment in our history, could and should be different.

Voters in District 3 - West Oakland, Downtown, Lake Merritt, Jack London & Adams Point - will have the opportunity to select leadership to help guide the next few years of our development, growth and prosperity as we address some of the most intractable problems of our time. As I have talked now to hundreds of you over the last several weeks, you have talked about crime - both against people and property - as the most compelling issue that we must grapple with. You have shared lots of concerns, ideas and dreams of how to make ours a city where children can once again play on their block, where elders can take a peaceful walk and where all of us can live without undue fear. You told me what you want to see to ensure that our development is sustainable, green and balanced. We have talked about what would make better schools for our kids.

You told me and I listened. I need you to speak clearly on Tuesday, June 3rd when you cast your vote. Most of you have rejected the notion that more of the same will do. Most of you are not willing to take a risk on someone who will need “on the job training” to do the necessary work of revitalizing our district and taking full advantage of the opportunities that lie ahead. You understand what is at stake.

If your honor me with your vote, know that I will continue to listen to you. Know that I will elevate and lift up our best collective thinking. Know that I will lead with courage, compassion and cheer. Know that, working together, we can make our change…now!

Believe that your voice matters. Believe in the possibilities. Believe in Oakland, again!

I would be honored to serve as you City Council representative. Vote for Greg Hodge on Tuesday, and for a candidate that understands every voice matters.

Greg Hodge

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PS: Votingonly takes a few minutes of your time. Polls are open until 8pm on June 3rd. You can find your polling place address the Voter Pamphlet and Information Guide that you received in the mail. For more information, call the Alameda County Registrar of Voters at 510.267.8683 or visit the website at www.acgov.org.