Hayward · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Hayward public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Sanctuary City Policy Statement
Hayward is reminding residents that local police don’t do immigration enforcement and city workers don’t track immigration status. It’s a reassurance for immigrant residents and anyone who cares how local cops interact with federal immigration authorities.
Road Construction
Hayward is launching a $10 million street repair project starting with night repaving on A Street and Hathaway Avenue this late October. If you live or drive in those areas, expect some overnight noise and detours while the work gets done.
$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.
Invasive mosquito detected in Hayward
The mosquito abatement district found the invasive Aedes aegypti — an ankle-biting, disease-carrying species — downtown and near Hesperian. Residents are asked to dump standing water weekly and report dead birds; the service is already paid for through property taxes.
Housing assistance for emancipated foster youth
The council renewed $500,000 in HOME funds for Abode Services' Project Independence, which provides rental assistance to young people aging out of foster care.
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.
Workforce diversity and recruitment outreach
The annual diversity report shows 873 regular permanent employees, down 79 from last year, with 39 new hires — 72 fewer than the prior year. Commissioners pushed for more outreach to women in police, fire, and public works, and for events beyond downtown Hayward.
City Commission Appointments
Hayward fills volunteer seats on five commissions that advise the city on parks, libraries, personnel matters, and planning decisions. Who gets appointed shapes how residents' voices reach city hall.
Skywest open space vs. airport expansion
A resident urged the city to pursue green aviation and open space at the closed Skywest golf course property instead of industrial warehouses, including school partnerships and a trail loop. Staff confirmed the city is working with HARD on dedicating much of the property to open space and parks.
Downtown Parking Enforcement
Residents flagged that the city will begin enforcing long-dormant overnight parking and time limits in downtown garages on July 1 — right as the council goes on recess. Speakers said notice was thin and want a permit program in place before enforcement starts.
2025 Urban Water Management and Water Shortage Contingency Plans
Hayward adopted its required five-year water plans, projecting demand through 2050 and laying out drought stages. Council members pressed staff on data center water use, recycled water expansion, and whether residents would be prioritized in a shortage — staff said rationing choices would come back to the council during an emergency.
Code Enforcement Liens and Assessments
The council confirmed liens and sent past-due code enforcement penalties to the county for collection. Several property owners objected, including an attorney who said a $14.5 million penalty against his client — nearly four times the property's value — was unconstitutional, and a resident who cited medical hardship.
Nighttime Safety Enhancement Plan
The $1.93 million federal grant for Regis Village came with a discussion about the facility's strain on police and fire services in District 1. A fire engine there was shut down to save overtime, and council wants state and county help to restore it.
GHAD FY 2026/27 Budget and La Vista Park Drainage Concern
Construction is underway on the 39-acre hillside La Vista Park in South Hayward, with completion expected by fall 2027 — Bay views, sports fields, a ridge trail, and an amphitheater, funded by Measure F1 bonds and developer in-lieu fees.
Stormwater Trash Reduction Compliance Achieved
After a ten-year effort, Hayward now captures 100% of trash in its sewer system before it reaches the bay, using devices in roughly 600 sewers.