Hayward · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Hayward public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
$1.5 million settlement of Costa v. City of Hayward
The council settled a lawsuit against the city for $1.5 million in closed session. Hayward's $800,000 share is already budgeted in the risk fund; insurance picks up the rest.
City Hall second-floor renovation during budget crunch
The council approved a $516,614.85 contract to build a conference room and offices at City Hall, over objections that the city recently cut jobs and services to balance its budget.
FY 2027 salary plan
The council took the first formal step to amend the city's CalPERS retirement contract covering classic members of the police and fire bargaining units — a resolution of intention and ordinance introduction. The final adoption comes later.
Reduced Frequency of Council Meetings and Committees
The council quietly cut back how often it meets and how often certain standing committees convene — fewer chances for residents to weigh in person, but less time commitment for council members.
Selling city-owned properties to rebuild reserves
The city owns risky real estate — including the downtown cinema building — that costs money to maintain. Staff plan to bring sale-or-lease decisions to council by June, with proceeds going to rebuild depleted reserves.
Measure C fund management and future capital planning
The city is leaning on Measure C money to cover general fund gaps, but the plan is to wean off over five years so those funds can go back to streets and capital projects before Measure K-1 kicks in around 2031.
Utility User Tax Code Cleanup
Councilmembers floated updating the flat cannabis tax, taxing video streaming under the utility users tax (staff says work is underway), and a first responder fee of roughly $400 per emergency medical call billed to insurance, as in San Jose.
Short-term rental enforcement as revenue
Mayor Pro Tem Syrop says Hayward bans short-term rentals but doesn't enforce it, leaving roughly 300-500 units off the housing market and an estimated $1 million a year in uncollected hotel tax and fees. He wants enforcement spun up quickly using existing contractors.
Transient occupancy tax increase and hotel industry concerns
A 40-year Hayward hotel owner pushed back on the recent TOT increase to 14%, saying occupancy is down 40% and a higher tax will drive away guests. Councilmember Roche noted the 2% excise tax expires at the end of 2027 and that the ballot measure already allowed up to 14%.