$300M Infrastructure General Obligation Bond

Commissioner for the Bay Area Adult Soccer League supported the Harrison Park field conversion and praised field maintenance staff.

Suggested adding language regarding volunteer maintenance and water carts for native plant medians to minimize permanent irrigation costs.

Owner of the Bay Area Adult Soccer League, urged funding for the Harrison Park turf conversion to relieve extreme congestion at Tom Bates fields.

Co-president of the Berkeley Historical Society urged the council to recognize that Old City Hall and the Veterans Building are active, vital community spaces, not vacant structures, and requested increased funding for their restoration.

Former mayor and state senator spoke in favor of saving historic buildings, highlighting the historical society and veterans building as essential to Berkeley's cultural soul.

Questioned the definition of 'user-friendly' smart bathrooms and asked for clarification on budget allocations for King Pool if locker room repairs were removed.

Representing the Downtown Berkeley Association, supported the FEMA grant match strategy for civic center buildings and asked for ballot language flexibility so funds could be reallocated if federal grants fall through.

Expressed strong support for park projects and native plant median conversions, noting their popularity and benefits for climate resilience and low maintenance.

Speaking as an art commissioner and resident, advocated for fixing existing infrastructure and increasing funding for the Veterans Building to create a proper downtown arts center.

Spoke on behalf of the Berkeley Historical Society, asking the council to approve the bond, increase the funding for Old City Hall, and support their museum mission.

Highlighted that Old City Hall and the Veterans Building house critical community services like Dorothy Day House and Options Recovery, warning of the severe danger of inaction in an earthquake.

Representing East Shore Alliance FC, urged funding for the artificial turf conversion at Harrison Park soccer fields and restroom upgrades to address urgent health and safety issues for youth sports.

Speaking as a resident, urged the council to reject the $300 million cap and return with a higher bond amount capable of solving a larger share of the city's infrastructure backlog.

Supported native plant median conversions and the Francis Albreyer Community Center project at San Pablo Park.

Speaking for Berkeley community media and as a District 2 resident, voiced full endorsement for civic center investments.