Attention Those with Power to Act,

My name is Stephanie Hayden and I’m a constituent, business owner, registered voter, and Chair of the Melrose Community Council living in the Melrose neighborhood of Oakland, CA Zip Code 94601.

As you are aware, extensive data prove Zip Code determines life expectancy in Oakland.

Central East Oakland has long-suffered social and economic inequities, lack of financial and infrastructure investment, and lack of municipal protections demonstrating respect for life outcomes in our neighborhood.

I’m writing today, specifically, to express my heartfelt grief for our four Melrose and Fruitvale neighbors who’ve died over the last 6 months killed by hit-and-run drivers on Foothill Blvd. This did not have to happen. I ask the City of Oakland to bring justice and safety for the victims and families impacted by these crimes. I also want the families to know we’re organizing and unified in protecting each other to solve the dangerous situations that created their tragedies.

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