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Oakland City Council
May 19, 2026

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May 19, 2026
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APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LEGALITY

___________________________
CITY ATTORNEY’S OFFICE

OAKLAND CITY COUNCIL

RESOLUTION NO. ______________ C.M.S.

INTRODUCED BY COUNCILMEMBER NOEL GALLO

RESOLUTION TO (1) COMMEMORATIVELY RENAM E 40th AVE
BETWEEN MERA STREET AND CARRINGTON STREET AS “GARY
PAYTON WAY,” (2) AUTHORIZE THE INSTALLATION OF A PLAQUE

HONORING GARY PAYTON, PURSUANT TO THE POLICY AND

PROCEDURES ESTABLISHED BY OAKLAND CITY COUNCIL
RESOLUTION NO. 77967 C.M.S.

WHEREAS, California Government Code Section 34091.1 allows a jurisdiction by resolution to name a new public street or to rename an existing public street; and

WHEREAS, the naming of a new public street or the renaming of an existing public street is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act of 1970; and

WHEREAS, the City of Oakland will occasionally honor the contributions of an outstanding individual with commemorative street names or by the renaming of a public street such as with J oe Morgan Way, Herbert Guice Way, Peter Vann Kleef Way, Dr. Huey P.

Newton Way, and Deonte Bush Way; and

WHEREAS, pursuant to the Oakland City Council Resolution No. 77967 C.M.S. (passed July 15, 2003), the City Council may, on its own motion, consider the renaming of a public street as a tribute to an individual, or as a result of a significant event or activity if one of the of the following criteria is met:

1. The individual has positively impacted the lives of a nation or the world; or

2. The name change is related to an economic development or redevelopment activity; or

3. The renaming commemorates a significant historical event; and

WHEREAS, the City Council may commemorate a nominee either by: (a) retaining the existing street name and installing commemorative plaques or signs; or (b) renaming the existing street for the individual and installing new street signs; and

WHEREAS, the City Council finds that Gary Payton’s contributions to the City of Oakland and greater Bay Area community eminently merit commemoration; and

2 WHEREAS, Gary Payton Gary Payton, known as “The Glove,” is one of the most iconic figures in basketball history and a proud native of Oakland. Celebrated for his unmatched defensive intensity, leadership, and competitive spirit, Payton’s rise from Oakland to international prominence stands as a powerful testament to discipline, determination, and community pride; and

WHEREAS, Payton first gained national recognition at Oregon State University, where he became one of the most accomplished players in the school’s history. In 1990, he was selected second overall in the NBA Draft by the Seattle SuperSonics, beginning a remarkable 1 7-year career that would establish him as one of the greatest point guards of all time; and

WHEREAS, a nine-time NBA All-Star, Payton remains the only point guard to win the NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award (1996), setting the standard for defensive excellence at his position. He led Seattle to the 1996 NBA Finals, where his tenacious defense against Michael Jordan became legendary, and later won an NBA Championship with the Miami Heat in 2006. His achievements were recognized with induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2013; and
WHEREAS, Payton’s success is rooted in a strong family legacy. His father, Al Payton, was a respected Oakland coach who instilled discipline and accountability in countless young athletes, including his son. That legacy continues through his son, Gary Payton II, wh o followed in his footsteps to the NBA and became a champion with the Golden State Warriors; and WHEREAS, beyond his on -court accomplishments, Gary Payton has remained deeply committed to giving back to Oakland through mentorship, youth programs, and community leadership. His impact extends far beyond basketball, inspiring generations to pursue excellence while staying rooted in service and community; and

WHEREAS, this street naming honors Gary Payton as a symbol of Oakland greatness, a legacy built not only on individual achievement, but on family, mentorship, and an enduring commitment to uplifting others.; and

WHEREAS, the City Council intends to honor Gary Payton’s contribution to the Oakland community and the world by retaining the existing street name, adding an additional honorary street name, and installing commemorative street signs or plaques, and intends that the costs associated with such commemorative act will be borne by Councilmember Noel Gallo’s Office; and now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED: That the City Council hereby approves the commemorative renaming of 40th Ave, between Mera Street and Carrington Street as “Gary Payton Way” while retaining the primary street name 40th Ave; and be it

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3 FURTHER RESOLVED: That the City Council directs the City Administrator to proceed with the commemorative designation of “ Gary Payton Way ” and placement of street sign(s) or plaque(s) to that effect on 40th Ave. Between Mera Street and Carrington Street, upon payment of costs.

IN COUNCIL, OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA,

PASSED BY THE FOLLOWING VOTE:

AYES - BROWN, FIFE, GALLO, HOUSTON, RAMACHANDRAN, UNGER, WANG, AND

PRESIDENT JENKINS
NOES –
ABSENT –
ABSTENTION –

ATTEST:

ASHA REED
City Clerk and Clerk of the Council of the
City of Oakland, California

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