Hayward City Council Meeting April 21, 2026

The Hayward City Council meeting on April 21, 2026, included several procurement and budget-related discussions. Key procurement actions included the approval of the Stratford Village Flood Control Facilities Improvement Assessment, which passed following a Proposition 218 public hearing and ballot tabulation, authorizing a rate increase to fund storm drainage maintenance and future improvements. The council also unanimously adopted the master fee schedule for fiscal year 2026-27, reflecting detailed departmental fee updates. Additionally, amendments to memoranda of understanding (MOUs) with labor partners were approved to address the city's budget deficit, highlighting significant collaboration to avoid layoffs and maintain services. The council approved municipal code amendments and zoning map revisions under the Business-Friendly Hayward project, aimed at streamlining permitting processes to support local businesses, including new accessory commercial units (ACUs) pilot program in single-family residential areas south of Tennyson Road. However, the ACU component generated substantial debate over enforcement challenges and neighborhood impacts, with some council members advocating for its removal or delay due to staffing and community concerns. The meeting also included approval of employment agreements with cost-saving concessions for unrepresented city employees. Overall, the meeting focused on fiscal management, infrastructure funding, and regulatory reforms to foster economic development while addressing community concerns.