INDEPENDENT CITY AUDITOR. REPORTING DIRECTLY TO THE RESIDENTS.

New Release: Investigation Report

Today, my Office released a report on a Whistleblower investigation arising from a complaint submitted to the City Auditor’s Whistleblower Hotline.


The complaint alleged a possible conflict of interest involving a City employee. After a thorough investigation, we found no evidence of misconduct or preferential treatment. However, the investigation revealed significant gaps in how the City currently identifies and monitors potential conflicts of interest and outside employment among employees. In response, we have made recommendations aimed at enhancing the City’s oversight in these areas. Key recommendations include updating existing policies, strengthening disclosure requirements, and implementing more robust monitoring processes to better detect and manage potential conflicts of interest.


The City Auditor’s Office remains committed to upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct and transparency to maintain your trust in our government. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to good governance.



If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Re-Release: Kids First! Audit Report

I would like to provide you with an update regarding the Performance Audit of Kids First! Oakland Fund for Children and Youth Act for the Fiscal Years 2018-19 through 2023-24.


My Office initially released this audit on April 3, 2025, then shortly thereafter, we removed the audit report from our website to conduct further review to ensure its accuracy.


Upon completing this additional review, we revised the report, which we have reissued today. You can see the changes we made in the Errata section of the report.


Our Office consistently strives to report results accurately. We publicly acknowledge and correct our errors when the circumstances warrant it. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Community Outreach & Engagement

🗓️ Events Summary

  • Nov 1, 2025 (11am - 12:30pm): Meet Your Accountability Officers (w/ Inspector General & Public Ethics Commission) @ Elmhurst Branch Library
  • Nov 5, 2025 (Time not specified): Redwood Heights Association | City Auditor + D4 - Panel Discussion & Community Forum (RHA Members Only)
  • Nov 16-22, 2025 (In-person & Virtual Events): It's International Fraud Awareness Week! | #FraudFighters! Learn about detecting and deterring Fraud, Waste, & Abuse in City government.
  • Nov 17, 2025 (5:30pm): Mayor's Commission on Persons with Disabilities | Fire/Medical Emergency Response Times Listening Session @ City Hall, HR1
  • Nov 17, 2025 (6pm): Public Safety Planning & Oversight Commission | Police Emergency Response Times Audit Report Presentation @ City Hall, 3rd FLR
  • Nov 18, 2025 (6pm): Public Safety Committee | Police Emergency Response Times Audit Report Presentation @ City Hall, 3rd FLR
  • Nov 19, 2025 (6pm, Zoom): International Fraud Awareness Week! Virtual review of key terms and a short tutorial on how to submit a Whistleblower Complaint.
  • Dec 2, 2025 (3:30pm): City Council | Semi-annual Audit Recommendation Follow-Up Report Presentation @ City Hall, 3rd FLR

Cannabis Regulatory Commission Vacancy: Apply Today!

The City Auditor is currently accepting applications to fill one position for an Auditor-appointed Cannabis Regulatory Commissioner, which will begin immediately. This role is part of an eleven-member volunteer board.


To Apply:

Click here (or below) to learn more about the application process and to assess whether you possess the necessary skills and qualifications to serve as a Commissioner. Please send a letter of interest and your resume with “Cannabis Commissioner Appointment 2025” in the subject line to CityAuditor@oaklandca.gov by no later than November 15, 2025.

Sincerely,

MICHAEL C. HOUSTON, MPP, CIA

CITY AUDITOR

SUBMIT A COMPLAINT TO OUR WHISTLEBLOWER PROGRAM

Our confidential hotline is for employees and residents to report fraud, waste, and abuse in the City of Oakland. Available 24/7.

(888) 329-6390
PHONE
(510) 238-3378

FAX
(510) 238-7640
HOURS

MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY
8:30 AM TO 5:00 PM

FOR PRESS INQUIRIES CONTACT:
Dena Shupe: dshupe@oaklandca.gov