Skip to Main Content

Independence

Independent City Auditor. Reporting Directly to the Residents.

Integrity

Serving Oakland With Integrity.

Transparency

Builds Trust. Strengthens City Government.

#OaklandLoveLife

Valuing Our Community.

Collaboration

Working Together. For a Better Future.

City Auditor Michael C. Houston, MPP, CIA

RELEASED! 2024-25 WHISTLEBLOWER PROGRAM ANNUAL REPORT

On November 20, 2025, my Office released the annual report for our Whistleblower Program. This report offers an overview of the whistleblower investigation process, along with details about the number and types of allegations submitted during Fiscal Year 2024-25. It includes information about the characteristics of the whistleblowers, the allegations that warranted an investigation, and concludes with a summary of the investigation outcomes and the actions taken.

We are thankful to all the whistleblowers who placed their trust in us by submitting their complaints and concerns.

As a reminder, the Whistleblower hotline is available for Oakland’s residents, businesses, and contractors. We offer over-the-phone interpretation services in more than 150 languages, with access to over 5,000 interpreters for non-English callers, available 24/7, 365 days a year. Whistleblowers can call the hotline directly at 1-888-329-6390 or submit complaints anonymously online.

With the support of Oakland residents, we can continue to uphold the highest ethical standards in the City of Oakland. So, if you see something, say something!

Click here to read the full report.

 

NEW INVESTIGATION RELEASED: Improvements Are Needed to Identify and Address Potential Conflicts of Interest and Outside Employment

On November 6, 2025, my Office released a report on a Whistleblower investigation arising from a complaint submitted to the City Auditor’s Whistleblower Hotline.

The complaint alleged a possible conflict of interest involving a City employee. After a thorough investigation, we found no evidence of misconduct or preferential treatment. However, the investigation revealed significant gaps in how the City currently identifies and monitors potential conflicts of interest and outside employment among employees. In response, we have made recommendations aimed at enhancing the City’s oversight in these areas. Key recommendations include updating existing policies, strengthening disclosure requirements, and implementing more robust monitoring processes to better detect and manage potential conflicts of interest.

The City Auditor’s Office remains committed to upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct and transparency to maintain your trust in our government. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to good governance.

You can read the full investigation report here. To find out more about our Office and our latest releases, click here to read our November 2025 Newsletter!

Submit a Complaint

Whistleblower Program

This confidential hotline is for employees or residents to report fraud, waste, and abuse in the City of Oakland. Available 24/7. Learn More.

Our Work

Audit Reports & More

The City Auditor performs audits or reviews to ensure the City is operating efficiently and effectively. Learn more about our work. Learn More.

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Your subscribe request has been sent!