Hayward · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Hayward public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Business Friendly Hayward regulatory overhaul
Councilmembers Syrop and Andrews heard from developers that Hayward's permitting takes too many rounds of comments and drives up costs — like requiring separate water meters for each of 13 units. They want a coordinated push to make Hayward 'open for business.'
Unpermitted street vending and impacts on small businesses
Multiple restaurant owners told the council unpermitted street vendors — some allegedly selling alcohol near an elementary school — are undercutting their licensed, tax-paying businesses, forcing layoffs and cut hours. The mayor described recent enforcement wins but acknowledged the difficulty, and promised a meeting with owners, the city manager, and code enforcement.