Berkeley Councilmember's Chief of Staff Plays Pivotal Role in Landslide Re-election Victory

In a surprising turn of events, Berkeley City Councilmember Ben Bartlett secured a landslide victory in the recent District Three election, garnering nearly 70 percent of the vote in what was anticipated to be a closely contested race. Behind this remarkable success stands James Chang, Bartlett's Chief of Staff, whose pivotal role in the campaign and ongoing contributions to the councilmember's office have come to light.

Chang, who has served as Chief of Staff for Bartlett and previously for former District 7 Councilmember Kriss Worthington, brings over a decade of experience in public service to his role. His expertise spans policy development, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement, with a particular focus on critical issues such as housing and public safety.

The significance of Chang's work extends far beyond the recent election victory. As the leader of daily operations and long-term vision for Councilmember Bartlett's office, Chang has been instrumental in advancing several initiatives that have had a tangible impact on Berkeley residents' quality of life. His achievements include developing a three-year housing funding strategy that has contributed to reducing homelessness, establishing a cross-functional leadership team to address public safety concerns, and securing $27 million in infrastructure funding through collaborative legislation.

Chang's approach to governance emphasizes practical problem-solving and constituent service. "What I do best is I know how to deliver for constituents who are in need," Chang stated, highlighting his ability to address a wide range of community concerns, from street cleaning to funding community events. His work has also led to significant accomplishments, such as securing $9 million for the African American Holistic Research Center and improving safety along MLK Way.

The success of Councilmember Bartlett's re-election campaign, aided by Chang's efforts, underscores the critical role that skilled and dedicated staff members play in local government. It highlights how effective governance at the municipal level relies not only on elected officials but also on the expertise and commitment of their teams.

Chang's impact on Berkeley's political landscape extends beyond his current role. His experience and proven track record in progressive leadership position him as a potential future leader in local politics. His ability to balance ideological commitments with practical governance skills demonstrates the evolving nature of political leadership at the local level.

The story of James Chang and his contribution to Councilmember Bartlett's office serves as a reminder of the often-overlooked importance of staff members in shaping local policy and community outcomes. It also highlights the potential for career public servants to make significant impacts on their communities through dedicated service and strategic thinking.

As cities across the nation grapple with complex issues such as housing affordability, public safety, and infrastructure development, the role of experienced and capable staff members like Chang becomes increasingly crucial. Their ability to navigate bureaucratic challenges, engage with diverse stakeholders, and implement effective policies can significantly influence the success of elected officials and the overall well-being of communities.

The recognition of Chang's contributions to Berkeley's governance offers valuable insights into the mechanics of local politics and the potential for dedicated public servants to drive positive change. It serves as a case study for other municipalities on the importance of building strong, capable teams to support elected officials and advance community interests.