Government Affairs

A Civic Voice for the Port

The Government Affairs Division works across the Port’s departments to develop and implement legislative, regulatory and advocacy strategies. The Port of Oakland’s Government Affairs Division supports the mission of the Port by:

  • Enhancing the quality of the Port’s relationships with elected officials, business partners, trade associations, government agency and community stakeholders who influence public policy through the development and implementation of an active engagement strategy in support of Port objectives;

  • Educating and advocating on behalf of the Port on a wide range of policy and funding issues;

  • Maximizing grant funding opportunities and policy support from local, regional, state, and federal government officials and agencies;

  • Ensuring that senior level Port staff are informed about relevant policy and political decisions being considered at all levels of government; and

  • Identifying and strategically managing policy and/or political issues that can potentially impact the objectives of the Port.

Legislative/Regulatory Issues

One of our major roles in the Government Affairs Department is to monitor the actions of the U.S. Congress, the California State Legislature, local city councils, as well as actions by numerous federal, state, regional and local government agencies. What they do may affect how we operate our three divisions – – Maritime, Aviation and Commercial Real Estate or other Port operations.

We also advocate for policies and funding in support of our mission, so that we can continue to create economic vitality, jobs and waterfront enjoyment for Oakland and the region.