Hayward · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Hayward public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Business license tax modernization
The city is quietly moving toward a November 2026 ballot measure to modernize the business license tax, untouched for nearly 50 years. A consultant is being hired to build a fiscal model, and a community poll could happen within weeks. Estimates discussed ranged from $13-21 million (union estimate) to a prior assessment well below a $28 million figure.
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.
$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.
Russell City Redress Fund
Philanthropic Ventures Foundation was approved as fiscal sponsor for the Russell City Redress Fund, moving the redress effort forward.
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.'
CDBG Funding and the Future of the Community Services Commission
With the community agency funding cycle canceled due to budget shortfalls, about $1.5 million in federal CDBG money is going to one-time internal projects instead of nonprofits. Commissioners told the council they felt shut out of the process, and the council directed staff to expand the commission into an advisory role with a community needs assessment.
FY27-FY36 Capital Improvement Program
Public Works launched an online dashboard letting residents track 100+ city construction projects, with council members asking for maps, renderings, and clearer status descriptions.