23Jan 2024 by Kieryn Darkwater

January News: San Pablo Ave Community Mtg & Coat Drive

Homelessness, Newsletter
Hi Neighbor, I wish you my best as we begin a new year.  Earlier this month, the Mayor lamented the deterioration of civil discourse among a subset of activists in the Council chambers. The loss of life, suffering, and destruction in Gaza is hard to witness, and I pray everyday for a sustainable lasting peace. My heart breaks for victims of this war on both sides, and for their loved ones here and around the world. Still, it is deeply regrettable that some find it acceptable to shout down those with whom they disagree. I pray that we seek kindness over vitriol, empathy over self-righteousness, and unity over division.   All of us who serve in elected office have at times been on the receiving end of uncivil behavior, often…
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17Jul 2023 by Kieryn Darkwater

Summer News: City Budget & Staffing, Addressing Encampments & BART Updates

Homelessness, News, Newsletter, Sidewalks and Streets
Hi Neighbor, I hope you’re able to take time this summer to slow down and enjoy these warm sunny days with your family and friends. Last month, the Council approved a balanced budget for FY 2023-24, which you can read about in Berkeleyside and The Berkeley Scanner. In the years I have served on the Council, it has been concerning to watch some of my Council colleagues attempt to initiate new costly programs and services without appearing to consider the annual ongoing cost and the availability of staff to deliver on their ambitions. In this year’s budget, there was a recognition by Mayor Arreguín that the City does not currently have the financial or staff capacity to deliver on some of his Reimagining Public Safety initiatives. This is something I…
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20Sep 2021 by Kieryn Darkwater

Sept. News: Homelessness Updates, Districts 1 & 2 Community Meeting & More

Homelessness, News, Newsletter
Dear Neighbor, As you may know, our Health Officer recently issued a health order requiring proof of vaccination for individuals age 12 and older to enter certain indoor businesses. Last Tuesday, the City Council unanimously voted to require City employees to be vaccinated. I have been an advocate for both of these measures and will continue to support steps to prioritize our community’s public health. Vaccines are our best defense against the pandemic. Please SAVE THE DATE for a Drop-In Community Meeting with Councilmember Terry Taplin (District 2) and myself:Districts 1 & 2 Drop-In Community MeetingSat., Sept. 25, 12-2 p.m.Meadow in front of Hidden CafeStrawberry Creek Park In this newsletter: - Outreach, Clean Up and Fencing of University/I-80 Freeway Areas- RV Safe Parking Site to Open in Two Weeks- Highlights…
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23Jun 2021 by Kieryn Darkwater

June News: City Budget, Homelessness Updates, Safety on Sacramento St

Homelessness, Newsletter, Sidewalks and Streets
It’s hard to believe that a full 15 months have passed since we were first asked to shelter in place on a Tuesday last March. Over the course of weeks and months, we all faced uncertainty and isolation, and some of us faced economic devastation or the loss of a loved one. President Biden, who has experienced the loss of two children and his first spouse, recently said: “A day will come when the memory of the loved one you lost will bring a smile to your lips before it brings a tear to your eye. That’s when you know you’re going to get through it. You will get through it. But it’s a long haul.” More than 600,000 people in the U.S.—and more than 3.8 million globally—who did not survive the past…
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