Audit Accuses Oakland Officials of Interference

Oakland City Attorney Courtney Ruby says her audit proves that council President Larry Reid and member Desley Brooks have been breaking the law by directing staff to push a $2 million dollar demolition contract at the Oakland Army base toward Turner Group Construction.

The report claims there were 14 instances of interferences by Brooks and Reid.

According to Ruby, Brooks violated the city charter 12 times, Reid one time and the report lists  another violation by one of his staff members.

"The hotline that we operate we received tips that individuals are concerned about councilmember interference,” Ruby said.

Reid said he doesn't bully city staff and the report findings are "absolutely crazy."

He says if he’s guilty of anything, it’s making sure the business playing field is level.

"So Oakland businesses have the opportunity to bid on contracts when the city put them out for bid in this case they didn’t put it out for bid they brought it to rules committee,” said Reid, who questioned if the audit is politically motivated.

In a text message, Brooks said she did not get an advanced copy of the report, but based on what she’d heard, she denies the allegations.

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