Building a Stronger Oakland.
Meet Jim & Frank
James Folkerts
Jim Folkerts is a longtime Oakland resident of 28 years with advanced degrees from Fordham University. As Chair of the Sports Association of Oakland, he provides strong leadership in recreation programs and youth sports through family-oriented initiatives that enrich residents of all ages. Retired after a 40-year career in cybersecurity at IBM and UPS, he brings valuable expertise in problem-solving, technology, and security to borough governance. A proven servant leader, Jim is actively involved in the Public Events Committee and senior support initiatives, consistently placing Oakland families first through hands-on community service.
Frank Furbacher
Frank Furbacher brings a strong business background as a Senior Director with over ten years at a marketing services company specializing in customer experience with leading brands. He excels at turning strategy into clear, measurable outcomes and brings proven expertise in operations, problem-solving, and results-driven leadership to borough governance. Combined with his deep local roots and active community involvement, Frank evaluates issues on their merits. As independents, both prioritize Oakland’s needs over external party influences, offering fresh representation that truly reflects resident priorities.
Jim Folkerts & Frank Furbacher for Oakland!
Commitment to Fiscal Responsibility and Protecting Taxpayer Resources
Jim and Frank will scrutinize municipal spending and challenge the pattern of budget cap-exceedance ordinances that have driven recent tax levy increases, including the 3.49% rise approved for 2026. In contrast to the Republican majority’s support for incremental contract amendments, personnel stipends, and fee adjustments—contributing to personnel costs comprising approximately 57% of the budget—Jim and Frank will advocate for cost containment, efficiency reviews, and alternatives that minimize the burden on homeowners.
Advocates for Expanded Transparency and Resident Participation
Jim and Frank support reinstating a second public-speaking session at council meetings, providing residents greater flexibility to offer informed input after full agenda discussion. This stands in direct opposition to Council President Talamini’s vote against the motion at the April 28, 2026, meeting, which maintained a single early-session comment period (limited to three minutes per speaker). Their approach would enhance accountability and ensure taxpayer voices are heard on critical issues such as budgets and development.
Independent Voices Free from Council Consensus Pressures
As independents, Jim and Frank are not bound by the “go-along-to-get-along” dynamic observed in Republican-led votes on spending measures, professional-service contracts, and procedural rules. They will bring independent judgment to council deliberations, evaluating each proposal based on its impact on residents rather than maintaining internal harmony. This independence builds on the successful precedent set by recent independent council members who have introduced balanced perspectives to borough governance.
Focus on Sustainable, Resident-First Governance
Jim Folkerts’s recreation expertise and Frank Furbacher’s business leadership equip them to address infrastructure, youth programs, and community initiatives while safeguarding long-term fiscal health. They will prioritize practical solutions that reflect resident input, contrasting with decisions that have expanded obligations (e.g., affordable-housing compliance costs and development-related expenditures) without corresponding emphasis on cost mitigation or broader public consultation.