The City of Hayward's State of the City address on March 13, 2026, delivered by Mayor Mark Selenas, focused extensively on the city's financial challenges and recovery strategies. The mayor detailed a significant budget deficit that expanded to $26.4 million due to lower revenues, underbudgeted overtime, expanded staffing funded by one-time sources, and pay increases approved in 2024. To address this, the city has hired a permanent city manager and finance director, is negotiating labor concessions, realigning department budgets, reducing temporary positions, and implementing a 5% budget cut across departments. The council and executive team have also taken salary reductions. Public safety remains a top priority, with investments in technology and programs like the HEART program to respond to mental health crises. The mayor also highlighted progress in road maintenance, housing affordability with ongoing projects like Hayward Senior Commons, and economic development efforts supporting local businesses and job creation. Additionally, the city is enhancing community services, including emergency preparedness and homelessness support programs. No specific contract awards or procurement actions were detailed, but the address emphasized fiscal discipline and strategic budget management to sustain city services and investments.

Hayward State of the City 2026