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.
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.
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.