Permanent Food Bank Project Gets Approval From Judge

ALAMEDA, CA — A lawsuit aiming to halt the construction of the Alameda Food Bank’s new permanent facility at Alameda Point has been dismissed, clearing the way for the long-planned project to move forward, the city announced.

On April 22, Alameda County Superior Court Judge Michael Markman granted a motion in favor of the City of Alameda and the Alameda Food Bank, dismissing all claims brought by petitioners Shelby Sheehan and Tod Hickman. The lawsuit had alleged the project would negatively impact a “historic parking lot” and that the city violated the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in approving the project.

The court found the petitioners failed to meet basic legal requirements for challenging the project under CEQA.

“We applaud the court’s decision which allows the Food Bank to move into its forever home and continue to carry out its critical mission of bringing food security to all Alamedans,” said City Attorney Yibin Shen in a statement. “This positive outcome demonstrates the City’s unwavering commitment to support our community partners and fight back against abusive and wasteful litigation threats.”

The Alameda Food Bank, which has served the community since 1977, purchased the site at 677 W. Ranger Ave. from the city and received final city approvals in July 2024. Construction of the new facility began soon after, with the goal of providing a permanent location after decades of operating out of temporary spaces.

Founded in a church nearly five decades ago, the food bank has played a critical role in fighting food insecurity for Alameda families. City officials said the new facility will ensure continued support for residents in need for years to come.