Audit finds weak oversight of Oakland’s $330 million capital program

Oakland’s City Auditor found weaknesses in how Public Works and Transportation manage capital projects, after the city spent about $330 million from FY 2022-23 through FY 2024-25. The audit found outdated project policies, staffing vacancies, weak payment reviews, average invoice processing of 47 days, $35,086 in sampled contractor overpayments, and inadequate oversight of $165 million in Measure KK and Measure U bond spending. The auditor made 17 recommendations, including adopting a 10-year capital plan, improving payment controls, and creating centralized project tracking. City administrators agreed or partially agreed to the recommendations, with target dates ranging from November 2026 to June 2028; payment form updates are complete.

Subject: Audit Of Capital Improvement Program Financial Management From: Office Of The City Auditor Recommendation: Receive An Informational Report From The City Auditor On The Audit Of Capital Improvement Program Financial Management: Implementing Comprehensive Systems, Policies, And Practices To Enhance Oversight Of Capital Project Delivery; On The October 13, 2026 Public Works And Transportation Committee Agenda

Sep 30, 202627-0117: Subject: Audit Of Capital Improvement Program Financial Management From: Office Of The City Auditor Recommendation: Receive An Informational Report From The City Auditor On The Audit Of Capital Improvement Program Financial Management: Implementing Comprehensive Systems, Policies, And Practices To Enhance Oversight Of Capital Project Delivery; On The October 13, 2026 Public Works And Transportation Committee AgendaSource documentPDF