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.
Unarmed security services contract increase
The council quietly added $356,000 to the First Shield security contract covering city locations and the Hayward Executive Airport, bringing the total to about $5.18 million.
Juneteenth Recognition and Community Celebration
The mayor proclaimed June 19 as Juneteenth, with the sixth annual Juneteenth Freedom Celebration set for June 20 at Mount Eden High School, organized with Treasures Unleashed, HARD, Delta Sigma Theta, the NAACP, and the Wiggins Foundation.
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.
Master Fee Schedule update
The city updated its full schedule of fees for the coming fiscal year after a six-month, department-by-department review.
Alcohol spacing rules and Puesto Market
Puesto Markets was denied a beer and wine license under the 500-foot spacing rule that treats grocery stores like liquor stores. The new code fixes that — beer and wine sales at markets like Puesto's will be allowed by right, no spacing buffer needed.
General Plan Annual Progress Report
The 2025 progress report on the Hayward 2040 General Plan shows 22% of projects haven't started. Syrop questioned whether the plan should be more focused; staff defended aspirational goal-setting.
Helen Putnam Award for Learn to Earn and Hire Hayward
Hayward won a prestigious statewide award for its workforce program partnering with Chabot College, CSU East Bay, and Eden Area ROP — 400+ residents trained and $1.2 million in new wages generated.