Hayward · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Hayward public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
General Municipal Election — City Hall Vote Center
The November 3 council meeting was canceled so City Hall can serve as a vote center for the General Municipal Election. Residents can vote in person on Election Day from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM, or early from October 31 through November 2. The next regular council meeting is November 17, 2026.
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.
Tobacco retailer license enforcement and youth protection
The city is cracking down on tobacco shops that repeatedly sold flavored products, vapes, and items appealing to youth. Four licenses were revoked, and residents — including students and a prevention professional — urged the commission to hold violators accountable.
Election Information
Election Day is just around the corner, and Hayward's City Clerk is reminding everyone to check their registration and find their local drop box. Voters will be casting ballots for mayor and specific council districts, so it's time to make a plan to vote.
Downtown density increase via General Plan amendments
The commission recommended raising downtown density limits to 40–210 units per acre and remapping 130 parcels to match the Downtown Specific Plan. Consistency makes Hayward more competitive for One Bay Area Grant and transit-oriented community funding — potentially millions in state and regional money.
Shelter crisis declaration and tiny homes for domestic violence survivors
The council extended legal authorization for tiny homes on Huntwood Avenue that shelter survivors of domestic violence through 2036. A public commenter urged the city to also plan winter shelter for the city's 400-plus unhoused residents.
Business Friendly Hayward regulatory overhaul
Councilmembers Syrop and Andrews heard from developers that Hayward's permitting takes too many rounds of comments and drives up costs — like requiring separate water meters for each of 13 units. They want a coordinated push to make Hayward 'open for business.'