Berkeley Councilmember's Chief of Staff James Chang Instrumental in Landslide Reelection Victory

Berkeley City Councilmember Ben Bartlett's recent reelection victory, with nearly 70% of the vote, has shed light on the pivotal role played by his Chief of Staff, James Chang. Chang, who has served in this capacity for seven years, has been instrumental in shaping policies and initiatives that have resonated with Berkeley residents.

Chang's tenure as Chief of Staff has been marked by significant achievements in addressing key urban challenges. His leadership in developing a three-year housing funding strategy has contributed to reducing homelessness in Berkeley. Additionally, Chang's efforts in establishing cross-functional teams between business and activist groups have led to improved public safety measures in the city.

One of Chang's most notable accomplishments has been securing $27 million in infrastructure funding through collaborative legislation. This substantial investment is poised to have long-lasting impacts on Berkeley's urban development and quality of life for its residents.

Chang's approach to governance emphasizes practical problem-solving and constituent service. He has demonstrated a track record of delivering on community needs, from street cleaning and addressing homelessness compassionately to improving traffic safety and securing funding for cultural initiatives like the African American Holistic Research Center.

The success of Councilmember Bartlett's reelection campaign, bolstered by Chang's efforts, underscores the importance of effective staff leadership in local government. It highlights how behind-the-scenes work in policy development, community engagement, and strategic planning can translate into tangible benefits for constituents and electoral success for politicians.

As cities across the nation grapple with issues of housing affordability, public safety, and infrastructure improvement, Berkeley's experience under the Bartlett-Chang partnership offers insights into successful urban governance strategies. The landslide victory suggests that voters respond positively to a combination of progressive values and practical, results-oriented leadership.

Chang's role in Bartlett's reelection and his ongoing work in Berkeley's city government exemplify the impact that dedicated public servants can have at the local level. His success story may serve as a model for other cities looking to bridge the gap between policy creation and effective implementation in addressing urban challenges.