Public lands: Port of Oakland: City of Oakland: permitted uses.

Senator Arreguín's proposal to modernize permitted uses of Oakland's public trust lands aims to address high vacancy rates and limited economic activity along the city's waterfront. The legislation directs the State Lands Commission to expand allowable commercial, cultural, and recreational activities on these properties by July 2026, while maintaining core public access requirements.

The bill outlines specific changes to land use policies, including adjustments to lease terms and expedited approval processes for commercial activities and property rehabilitation. The Commission must review existing regulations to allow entertainment programming, community events, and year-round waterfront activities. These modifications would apply to properties managed by both the City of Oakland and the Port of Oakland through its Board of Port Commissioners.

Under the measure's provisions, any expanded uses must balance economic development objectives with public trust principles. The bill requires that new activities contribute to public waterfront access and enjoyment while encouraging private investment in trust lands. This approach maintains state oversight of these properties through the Lands Commission, which retains its existing authority to ensure compliance with public trust requirements.