SO OF HA MAN CITY COUNCIL MEETING
777 B Street, Hayward, CA 94541
Council Chambers
CALIFORNA
The City Council meeting was called to order by Mayor Salinas at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers.
Pledge of Allegiance: Council Member Syrop
ROLL CALL
Present: COUNCIL MEMBERS Andrews, Bonilla Jr., Goldstein, Roche, Syrop, Zermeño MAYOR Salinas
Absent: NONE
CLOSED SESSION ANNOUNCEMENT
The City Council convened in closed session on January 28, 2025, at 5:30 p.m., with all members present and no public speakers, regarding conference with legal counsel pursuant to Government Code section 54956.9(d)(2) concerning anticipated litigation (one case). City Attorney Lawson indicated the City Council discussed the item and took no reportable action.
The closed session adjourned at 6:10 p.m.
Mayor Salinas used his prerogative in allowing City Manager, Dr. Alvarez, to address the audience prior to public comments.
CITY MANAGER'S COMMENTS
City Manager, Dr. Alvarez, addressed concerns about immigration enforcement under the new federal administration, with bilingual staff Miriam Lens and Flora Chen interpreting the message into Spanish and Mandarin respectively. Dr. Alvarez emphasized that Hayward, a city with a significant immigrant population-42% foreign-born and 18% non-U.S. citizens-remains committed to providing a safe environment for all residents; highlighted the 2017 Sanctuary City Resolution, administrative rules, and police department policies, which align with state and federal law and serve the best interests of the community; and added that in response to misinformation circulating on social media, the City encourages residents to subscribe to its official newsletter, The Stack, for accurate updates.
Mayor Salinas addressed the audience reassuring the City remains focused on local policies while monitoring executive orders at the federal level and disseminating verified information.
Council Member Zermeño echoed the comments offered by Mayor Salinas.
Council Member Syrop expressed gratitude for Hayward's commitment to protecting its diverse community and emphasized the need for transparency, and strong social infrastructure; acknowledged that while local government refuses to participate in federal immigration enforcement, it can still occur, making community support essential; and encouraged residents to attend workshops, including Know Your Rights workshops and the Alameda County Immigration Legal and Education Partnership (ACILEP), which assist individuals facing immigration-related legal issues.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
There were none.
PRESENTATION
Public Works Director Ameri indicated the Alameda County Flood Control had reviewed the damage caused by the 2022-2023 floods, developed improvement projects, and introduced County Flood Control and Water Conservation District Consultant Sybil Hatch, to discuss the impact on Hayward properties.
Consultant Hatch, on behalf of the Alameda County Flood Control and Water Conservation District (District), explained that with aging infrastructure, rising costs, and increasing climate threats, the district has identified $700 million in unmet capital project needs and has prioritized critical improvements for Hayward's Zones 2 ($272 million) and 4 ($31 million); noted the district is proposing an increase in the benefit assessment to address critical projects, and will seek public approval through a ballot process targeted for April; and added that if the public is in favor, the Board may approve the assessment.
Council Member Andrews, also the liaison to the Bay Area Water Supply & Conservation Agency (BAWSCA) East Bay Dischargers Authority, inquired about the impact of the proposed flood control projects on the City's Capital Improvement Plan and wastewater treatment facility. Director Ameri clarified that the wastewater plant operates separately from stormwater systems and is designed to prevent flooding, so the project would not affect its operations. In response to Council Member Andrews' inquiry as to what the District would do if the assessment were not approved, the consultant explained that without additional funding, the district would be unable to implement critical projects and would have to rely on emergency resources or seek grants.
Council Member Zermeño, also Hayward Area Shoreline Protection Agency (HASPA) representative invited the District to join HASPA to collaborate on addressing sea level rise.
In response to Council Member Syrop's inquiry about the consequence for the removal of FEMA floodplain designations, Consultant Hatch explained that expanding creek capacity will prevent flooding by directing water toward the bay, allowing FEMA to remap affected areas and remove them from floodplain status without any adverse consequences. 2 January 28.2025
СТОГ НАЧИНО CITY COUNCIL MEETING
777 B Street, Hayward, CA 94541
Council Chambers
https://hayward.zoom.us/j/81818593500?pwd=3eQLKvpvESTosLd4n8bW1WytVOAV1Y.1 CALIFORNR Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 7:00 p.m.
CONSENT
1. Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to Amend the Professional Services Agreement with St. Francis Electric, Inc., to Increase the Contract Amount by $300,000 for a Total Not-to-Exceed Amount of $1,200,000 to Continue On-Call Traffic Signal and Streetlight Maintenance and Emergency Repair Support Services CONS 25-020 Staff report submitted by Public Works Director Ameri, dated January 28, 2025, was filed.
It was moved by Council Member Andrews, seconded by Council Member Goldstein, and carried unanimously, to adopt the resolution.
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS Andrew, Bonilla Jr., Goldstein, Roche, Syrop, Zermeño
MAYOR Salinas
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Resolution 25-011, "Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to Amend the Professional Services Agreement with St. Francis Electric, Inc., to Increase the Contract Amount by $300,000 for a Total Amount Not to Exceed $1,200,000 to Continue On-Call Traffic Signal and Streetlight Maintenance and Emergency Repair Support Services"
Adopt a Resolution Approving Garbage and Recycling Rate Adjustment for 2025-2026 CONS 25-028
Staff report submitted by Public Works Director Ameri, dated January 28, 2025, was filed.
It was moved by Council Member Andrews, seconded by Council Member Goldstein, and carried unanimously, to adopt the resolution.
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS Andrew, Bonilla Jr., Goldstein, Roche, Syrop, Zermeño
MAYOR Salinas
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Resolution 25-012, "Resolution Approving Garbage and Recycling Rate Adjustment for 2025-2026"
3. Adopt an Ordinance Amending Chapter 10, Article 1 (Zoning Ordinance), Article 2 (Off- Street Parking Regulations), Article 24 (Mission Boulevard Code) and Article 28 (Downtown Development Code) of the Hayward Municipal Code Associated with Implementation of the 2023-2031 Hayward Housing Element CONS 25-031 Staff report submitted by City Clerk Lens, dated January 28, 2025, was filed.
It was moved by Council Member Andrews, seconded by Council Member Goldstein, and carried unanimously, to adopt the ordinance.
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS Andrew, Bonilla Jr., Goldstein, Roche, Syrop, Zermeño
MAYOR Salinas
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Ordinance 25-02, "Ordinance Amending Chapter 10, Article 1 (Zoning Ordinance), Article 2 (Off-Street Parking Regulations), Article 24 (Mission Boulevard Code) and Article 28 (Downtown Development Code) of the Hayward Municipal Code Associated with Implementation of the 2023- 2031 Hayward Housing Element"
WORK SESSION
4. South Bay Connect: Discuss and Provide Feedback to Capitol Corridor Joint Powers Authority Staff (Report from Public Works Director Ameri) WS 25-001 Staff report submitted by Public Works Director Ameri, dated January 28, 2025, was filed.
Public Works Director Ameri announced the item and introduced Robert Padgette, Capital Corridor Joint Powers Authority's Managing Director and Shirley Qian, Capitol Corridor Joint Powers Authority's Principal Planner.
Capital Corridor Managing Director Padgette provided an overview of the South Bay Connect project, emphasizing its goal to enhance railroad connectivity in the region.
Capital Corridor Principal Planner Qian provided details on the South Bay Connect project, coast subdivision rail improvements, desired outcomes, outreach activities since 2019; and 4|January 28.2023
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
777 B Street, Hayward, CA 94541
Council Chambers
https://hayward.z0om.us/j/81818593500?pwd=3eQLKvpvESTosLd4n8bW1WytVOAV1Y.1 CALIFORNA Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 7:00 p.m.
noted the project team continues to conduct outreach, seek federal funding efforts and preliminary design work, with implementation still several years away.
Mayor Salinas opened the public comment section at 7:49 p.m.
Kim Marshall-Reyes, a frequent commuter using the Hayward Amtrak station, urged the project team to reconsider closing Hayward station, citing increasing ridership, convenience, and reduced traffic congestion; and emphasized that Amtrak offers a safer and more reliable commute compared to Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART).
Alex Greenlon, a frequent commuter who relies on the Hayward Amtrak station, expressed concern that its closure would severely impact his ability to work and questioned why the project does not include a new Hayward station along the proposed route; argued that Capital Corridor is not a duplication of BART service; and suggested that adding a station in Hayward's industrial area could support economic growth, similar to how existing stations serve biotech and commercial hubs in Berkeley and Emeryville.
Deborah Souza, a lifelong Hayward resident, opposed the South Bay Connect project due to concerns about its impact on the fragile shoreline ecosystem and rising sea levels; emphasized the importance of preserving the Hayward station for elderly residents with limited transportation options; and questioned whether alternative transit connections would be provided if the station closes.
Caroline Harris, a Fremont resident and Tri-City Ecology Center Board Chair, opposed the South Bay Connect project, arguing that removing stations in Hayward and Fremont would reduce public transit accessibility and put more cars on the road; questioned whether shortening commute times would significantly boost ridership; and expressed concerns about the environmental impact of expanding rail infrastructure along the coastline.
Liz Ames, BART Director, opposed the South Bay Connect project noting the need for a change in project scope and arguing that its high cost and minimal time savings do not justify closing the Hayward station; and raised concerns about increased freight traffic, potential flooding from sea level rise, and lack of clarity on community input, urging a pause in the project before seeking further funding to reassess its impact and protect Hayward's downtown development.
Former Hayward Mayor Barbara Halliday strongly opposed the project, calling it an insult to Hayward and a violation of regional commitments to equity and environmental sustainability; argued that removing the station would force more people into cars, disrupt transit-oriented development, harm sensitive wetland and habitat, and negatively impact Hayward's industrial sector; and questioned how the project cost, already approaching $1 billion, would be funded.
Tom Evans supported the South Bay Connect project but raised concerns about the affordability of train travel, noting that high fares deter ridership; and expressed skepticism about the City's ability to protect the land, given past pollution and water contamination.
Mayor Salinas closed the public comment section at 8:09 p.m.
Members of the City Council thanked public members for their input and presentation by Capital Corridor representatives.
Discussion ensued among member of the City Council and Capital Corridor Joint Powers Authority's Managing Director Padgette and Principal Planner Qian and the following clarifications were made: sea level rise was analyzed in the EIR and the goal is designing the rail tracks in a way that would make it more resilient of sea level rise; the project aims to improve service reliability south of Oakland down to San Jose; potential Hayward station locations were evaluated and deemed unsuitable due to low ridership though a future station could be considered; equity was analyzed as a resource area in the Environmental Implementation Review (EIR) but not in the project definition; the project is still in development, lacks federal funding; if approved to proceed with the project, its completion is anticipated for 2029; community working group meetings were attended by about six community organizations per meeting; activating space at Amtrack parking lots could be explore to increase ridership; the proposal is a competitive project for federal funding; and the proposed project is one that was identified as a part of a regional and state-wide network.
Council Member Zermeño expressed strong opposition to the South Bay Connect project, citing concerns about sea level rise, environmental impacts on the shoreline, and the historical significance of Hayward's train station; questioned the reported low ridership numbers; and argued that removing the station would discourage public transportation, all for a time savings of just 13 minutes.
Council Member Roche strongly opposed the South Bay Connect project, arguing that it offers no benefits to Hayward and instead harms the City's transit accessibility, climate and housing goals, and low-income residents who rely on rail service; questioned why the project does not include a new Hayward station along the proposed route; and disapproved the equity analysis, stating that the Ardenwood station primarily serves tech workers while removing access for lower-income communities.
Council Member Bonilla Jr. raised concern how community feedback would impact the South Bay Connect project; raised concerns about safety at transfer stations, coordination with BART, and the potential for increased freight traffic, while also emphasizing the project's disproportionate impact on low-income residents; urged Capital Corridor to explore ways to increase ridership at the Hayward station rather than eliminating it; and requested greater community benefits if the project moves forward, including the possibility of a new station in Hayward, and better coordination with BART; and asked that targeted outreach be conducted to those riding Amtrack in Hayward.
6|January 28.2023
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
777 B Street, Hayward, CA 94541
Council Chambers
ATA
https://hayward.zoom.us/j/81818593500?pwd=3eQLKvpvESTosLd4n8bW1WytVOAV1Y.I CALIFORNIA Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 7:00 p.m.
Council Member Andrews expressed concerns about the South Bay Connect project, lack of outreach to key Hayward community groups, including the Cannery Homeowners Association, which was built around the existing train station; highlighted the project's negative impact on low-income residents who may struggle with additional commuting costs; emphasized the need for safer transit connections, particularly at the Oakland Coliseum and Richmond BART stations; and while acknowledging the project team's efforts, firmly opposed closing the Hayward station, stating that it would significantly and negatively impact the community.
Council Member Goldstein supported Capital Corridor's efforts to improve rail resiliency, but expressed disappointment that the project does not incorporate high-speed rail or electrification; raised concerns about the practicality of a shoreline station, given Hayward's growing population and the high congestion of east-west traffic, making it difficult for residents to access; emphasized the financial burden on price-sensitive riders who would need to transfer to BART, suggesting fare reductions to mitigate costs; and urged that, if the Hayward station is closed, the City should receive a tangible community benefit in return.
Council Member Syrop expressed strong concerns over the South Bay Connect project, emphasizing that removing the Hayward Amtrak station would negatively impact equity, increase traffic congestion, and disproportionately affect historically marginalized residents; questioned why a minimal station along the new route could not be considered; urged the project team to collaborate with Hayward on securing funding for alternative solutions; and encouraged ongoing engagement to ensure Hayward has a meaningful voice in the decision- making process.
Mayor Salinas expressed opposition to the South Bay Connect project; emphasized the proposal removes an essential transit service from Hayward while benefiting wealthier areas such as Ardenwood, making it an inequitable plan; questioned the validity of community input gathered during the pandemic; expressed frustration over the lack of outreach, particularly when his request for a local meeting was denied; pointed out that no mayors from affected cities support the project; and warned against repeating past mistakes where outside agencies imposed infrastructure changes that did not benefit Hayward.
Capital Corridor Managing Director Padgette acknowledged the City Council's strong opposition and assured the City Council that their concerns were heard.
LEGISLATIVE BUSINESS
5. Hayward Public Library: Adopt a Resolution Approving Hayward Public Library's 5-Year Strategic Plan 2025-2029 (Report from Library Services Director Addleman) LB 25-002 Staff report submitted by Library Services Director Addleman, dated January 28, 2025, was filed.
Library Services Director Addleman provided a synopsis of the staff report.
In response to Council Member Bonilla Jr. inquiries, Library Services Director Addleman contirmed the Hayward Youth Commission was engaged in designing a dream library, Library staff receive training to handle evolving social service issues and partner with service providers, and the library is evaluating the potential expansion of Sunday and evening hours, the library continues to partner with educational institutions to expand services.
Council Member Bonilla Jr. encouraged to continue to include a Net Pomotor Score in future surveys; stressed the importance of expanding Sunday and evening hours at the library noting the community wants to leverage resources; emphasized the importance of equitable access, particularly at the Weekes Library.
In response to Council Member Andrews' inquiries, Library Services Director Addleman confirmed there is ongoing collaboration with the Fire department for the library to serve as an evacuation site in the event of an emergency; the Library's mobile outreach service "Curbie" could attend events when booked in advance; the Weekes Library building lacks the necessary infrastructure to open a café; and currently the library does not have the capacity for a tool lending program due to storage and maintenance limitations.
Council Member Andrews suggested revisiting partnerships and utilizing the Weekes Library in collaboration with Hayward Area Recreation and Park District (HARD) to serve the community; and congratulated the library on reopening its downtown café.
In response to Council Member Syrop's inquiries, Library Services Director Addleman noted she would provide the staffing levels at the library compared to high-performing peer libraries, noting that staffing must be addressed before expanding new programs; and shared successes in newsletters and viral social media content.
Council Member Syrop praised the library's Five-Year Strategic Plan and cultural inclusivity highlighting its accessibility and impact; recommended the library explore partnerships with Eden Area Regional Occupational Program Center to integrate Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) education and job training; expressed support for expanding Sunday hours; emphasized the library's role in preserving Hayward's history, suggesting deeper collaboration with the Hayward Area Historical Society; and encouraged community involvement in storytelling Council Member Goldstein praised the library's outstanding variety of services, intentionality, and welcoming atmosphere, expressing deep appreciation for Director Addleman's leadership.
Mayor Salinas opened the public comment section at 10:01 p.m. 8|January 28.2025
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
777 B Street, Hayward, CA 94541
Council Chambers
https://hayward.zoom.us/j/81818593500?pwd=3eQLKvpvESTosLd4n8bW1WytVOAV1Y.1 CALIFORNA Tuesday, January 28, 2025, 7:00 p.m.
Dr. Shonda Goward, Library Commission Chair, strongly endorsed the Strategic Plan, highlighting the library's vital role in literacy, social services, and cultural preservation, and commending staff for their work despite past staffing shortages; and urged the City Council's support, including special recognition on National Library Workers Day (April 8, 2025).
Mayor Salinas closed the public comment section at 10:03 p.m.
Members of the City Council commended Library Services Director Addleman and the Library Commission for the work with the Five-Year Strategic Plan.
Council Member Roche expressed full support for the Five-Year Strategic Plan and praised the library's effective use of funds and diverse services, including online. Council Member Roche made a motion to approve staff's recommendation.
Council Member Syrop seconded the motion; and called the library a shining example of effective local government and commended the intentionality behind its resources and services.
Council Member Andrews applauded the library's branding and communication efforts; advocated for extended library hours, including Sunday and evening hours; encouraged greater promotion of the children's section and digital resources such as Libby (the library reading app); and recommended exploring an indoor kit resource center at Weekes Library.
Council Member Zermeño commended the library for the service provided to the community, emphasized the importance of Sunday and evening hours, linked funding expansion to supporting local businesses, and praised the library as a valuable community asset.
Council Member Bonilla Jr. commended the co-creation process of the Strategic Plan, calling it responsive, clear, comprehensive and keeps up with evolving needs of a diverse community; thanked all that were involved with the plan; and looked forward to seeing the roadmap and plan implementation.
Mayor Salinas praised the library's commitment to equity, highlighting its role in bridging the digital divide for students, its partnerships with community organizations, and its dedication to ensuring access for all residents.
It was moved by Council Member Roche, seconded by Council Member Syrop, and carried unanimously, to adopt the resolution.
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS Andrew, Bonilla Jr., Goldstein, Roche, Syrop, Zermeño
MAYOR Salinas
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Resolution 25-013, "Resolution to Approve Hayward Public Library's 5- Year Strategic Plan FY 2025-FY 2029"
COUNCIL REPORTS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
Council Member Roche announced a Black History Month celebration with the "Black Voices in American Opera" program on February 1, 2025, at the Downtown Library, in partnership with San Francisco Opera.
Council Member Andrews announced that registration is open for Disposal Day on February 8, 2025, a popular event aimed at reducing illegal dumping; and the event will continue bi- monthly, regardless of weather conditions.
Council Member Bonilla Jr. commended Council Member Andrews for her efforts in organizing and mobilizing the community to support wildfire relief in Southern California.
Council Member Syrop acknowledged Amy, a senior at Impact Academy, who will be interning for two months and attending City Council meetings to learn about local government before heading to college.
COUNCIL REFERRALS
There were none.
ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Salinas adjourned the City Council meeting at 10:18 p.m.
APPROVED
MLL - →
Mark Salinas
Mayor, City of Hayward
ATTEST:
Wein eust
Miriam Lens
City Clerk, City of Hayward
10 January 28.2023