Shannon Collins

The meeting encompassed a concurrent session of the City Council and the Geologic Hazard Abatement District (GHAD) Board. Key actions included the approval of the GHAD budget for the 2026/27 fiscal year, presentations regarding stormwater trash reduction and impact reports from Ava Community Energy, and the adoption of various resolutions. These resolutions covered agreements for mediation and education services, final design services for traffic calming, sewer line replacement projects, school-based mental health services, nighttime safety enhancements, and paratransit program extensions. Additionally, the Council adopted a policy addressing disruptions to telephonic or internet services during public meetings and approved amendments related to CalPERS retirement system contracts.

The meeting featured special presentations honoring National Police Week, Peace Officers' Memorial Day, and a citizen recognition award. The primary business conducted was a special work session focused on reviewing the proposed fiscal year 2026-27 operating budget, which was provided for information purposes only with no action taken.

The council meeting included a special proclamation to recognize National Police Week and honor five fallen police officers, alongside an acknowledgment and commendation for a local citizen for their heroic actions in assisting the police department during an incident in October 2025. The meeting also featured a budget work session where members of the public and union representatives shared perspectives on budget stabilization, the modernization of the business license tax, the collection of city revenue, and concerns regarding vacancy rates within the city.

The council meeting featured special presentations, including the proclamation of Public Service Recognition Week and the recognition of student scholarship recipients. Key discussion topics included reports on organizational appreciation for city employees, a public comment regarding potential hate speech targeting Hindu Americans, an update from AC Transit on upcoming service reduction considerations due to budget shortfalls, and a proposal to prioritize green energy and aviation initiatives at the Hayward Executive Airport over industrial warehouse development.

The City Council meeting included a closed session regarding public employment, student and public service recognition, and several consent calendar items. These items involved lease agreement amendments for the airport, Clean Air Center grant funding for libraries, updates to massage permit and zoning ordinances, vegetation management services for the Fire Department, and a commissioner resignation. Additionally, the Council reviewed the recommended Capital Improvement Program for fiscal years 2027-2036, approved the Community Development Block Grant allocation recommendations and Annual Action Plan, and adopted a resolution to amend the contract with the California Public Employees Retirement System for safety employee groups.