Hayward · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Hayward public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
FY 2026-27 Operating Budget and $30M Structural Deficit
Hayward burned through roughly $30 million in reserves and is balancing this year's budget with layoffs, cuts, and one-time fixes. The city still needs $2-4 million more in cushion, and 94% of general fund revenue goes to salaries and benefits. The February 28 retreat is where the council will tackle long-term structural solutions.
FY 2026-27 Operating Budget and Structural Deficit
The city is running a 13.82% vacancy rate with 135 open positions as a deficit-reduction strategy. Union reps described burnout, a closed library Monday, and part-timers losing up to a third of their pay. Councilmembers said the smaller workforce may be the 'new normal.'
City employee layoffs and labor relations
Layoffs are going forward despite union concessions talks, and speakers accused the council of never intending to avoid them. Council members acknowledged the pain, with some pressing for unions to bring solutions to the February retreat and for transparency about what went wrong.