Published
Thu, Jan 12, 2017, 17:02
- "We must unite as a city to improve the safety of non-permitted spaces while also working to avoid displacing vulnerable community members," Libby Schaaf said on Wednesday.
Libby Schaaf, the mayor of Oakland, has issued an executive order to protect residents of DIY spaces in the midst of inspections.
According to a statement on the city of Oakland's website, Schaaf's new executive order outlines new inspection protocols and priorities "while reducing the risk of displacement" and "protecting cultural community assets." The executive order also notes the need for housing in the midst of an affordability crisis, and the vulnerable nature of many DIY space residents.
The move comes after the deadly warehouse party fire last December, and the resulting scrutiny of DIY and underground spaces in the wake of it. Schaaf has called a meeting of Oakland city council for next Tuesday, January 17th, in order to approve amendments to the Code Enforcement Relocation Program so that Schaaf's protections can "take effect as soon as possible." Back in December, Schaaf also announced a $1.7 million grant to help foster affordable living spaces and venues in Oakland.
"We will never forget those lost in the Ghost Ship warehouse fire," said Schaaf, "and we will learn all we can from this horrific tragedy to make Oakland a safer and more resilient community."
For more on the issue of DIY spaces in the wake of the Oakland fire, read our opinion piece from late last year.
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