Hayward · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Hayward public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Heat pump water heater program expansion
The city expanded its heat pump water heater direct installation program from select neighborhoods to the whole city, with installation cost help available by phone or text.
Data center environmental concerns
Data centers under 50 megawatts will be decided by the Planning Commission; bigger ones need City Council approval under a new major conditional use permit. Some commissioners questioned why large data centers face extra hurdles when Hayward sits on prime power and fiber infrastructure.
GHAD FY 2026/27 Budget and La Vista Park Drainage Concern
Construction is underway on the 39-acre hillside La Vista Park in South Hayward, with completion expected by fall 2027 — Bay views, sports fields, a ridge trail, and an amphitheater, funded by Measure F1 bonds and developer in-lieu fees.
Ava Community Energy Impact Report
Hayward's default electricity provider reported $8.6 million in local customer savings, 55,000 local accounts, and programs including e-bike rebates and home battery incentives. The CEO also discussed how the agency is approaching data center power demands without shifting costs to residents.
Stormwater Trash Reduction Compliance Achieved
After a ten-year effort, Hayward now captures 100% of trash in its sewer system before it reaches the bay, using devices in roughly 600 sewers.
Tree mitigation in-lieu fee program
Developers who can't replant trees pay in-lieu fees, expected to bring in about $250,000 a year. Staff proposed spending it on program administration, community tree-planting partnerships, canopy studies, and fire-safe defensible space planning.
Response to Cesar Chavez Allegations and City Recognition
Following recent allegations against Cesar Chavez, the council voted to review city artifacts bearing his name and rename the March 31 observance 'Farmworker Day' to match the state. The mayor apologized for skipping the usual ten-day referral notice, and the council agreed to suspend the rule.
Ward Creek Protection and Trail Access
The project borders Ward Creek, Hayward's main natural waterway. A longtime resident asked that the two buildings closest to the creek be removed to preserve public trail access; the developer declined, but a slope easement will legally protect the creek bank from future alteration.