Monday, March 3, 2025
5:00 PM
CITY OF HAYWARD
Hayward City Hall
777 B Street
Hayward, CA 94541
www.Hayward-CA.gov
Conference Room 2A and Virtual Platform (Zoom)
Council Economic Development Committee
Agenda
March 3, 2025Council Economic Development
Committee
Agenda
NOTICE: The Council Economic Development Committee will hold a meeting in Conference Room 2A.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
How to submit written Public Comment:
Send an email to [email protected] by 2:00 p.m. the day of the meeting. Please identify the Agenda Item Number in the subject line of your email. Emails will be compiled into one file, distributed to the Council Economic Development Committee and staff, and published on the City's Meeting & Agenda Center under Documents Received After Published Agenda. Written comments received after 2:00 p.m. that address an item on the agenda will still be included as part of the record.
How to provide live Public Comment during the meeting;
Participate in person Hayward City Hall, Conference Room 2A, 777 B Street, Hayward, CA 94541.
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://hayward.zoom.us/j/81891492827?pwd=faByAO92aJuW8LyQFnMr0RUk9KcwyW.1 Webinar ID: 818 9149 2827
Password: CEDC-3/3!
Or join by phone:
US: +1 669 900 6833 or +1 646 931 3860
Webinar ID: 818 9149 2827
Password: 151482901
International numbers available: https://hayward.zoom.us/u/kbowI7IJTf
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
March 3, 2025Council Economic Development
Committee
Agenda
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
The Public Comments section provides an opportunity to
address the Council Economic Development
Committee on items not listed on the agenda. The Council Economic Development Committee welcomes comments and
requests that speakers present their remarks in a respectful manner, within established time limits, and focus on issues which directly affect the City or are within the jurisdiction of the City. As the Council Economic Development Committee is prohibited by State law from discussing items not
listed on the agenda, items will be taken under consideration and may be referred to staff.
The Council Economic Development Committee welcomes
comments, including criticism, about the policies, procedures, programs, or services of the City, or of the acts or omissions of the Council Economic Development Committee. Speakers shall not use threatening, profane, or abusive language which disrupts, disturbs, or otherwise impedes the orderly conduct of a meeting. The City is committed to maintaining a workplace free of unlawful harassment and is mindful that City staff regularly attend public meetings.
Discriminatory statements or conduct that is hostile,
intimidating, oppressive, or abusive – are per se disruptive to a meeting and will not be tolerated.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Approval of the February 3, 2025 Regular Meeting MinutesMIN 25-0171.
Attachments: Attachment I Draft Minutes from the February 3, 2025 Regular CEDC Meeting
REPORTS/ACTION ITEMS
Hayward Upward Economic Recovery Program Update: Hire
Hayward (Oral Report Only)
RPT 25-0152.
Hayward Restaurant Month 2025RPT 25-0183.
Attachments: Attachment I Staff Report
March 3, 2025Council Economic Development
Committee
Agenda
FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS
Future Meeting Topics as of March 3, 2025RPT 25-0174.
Attachments: Future Meeting Topics as of March 3, 2025
COMMITTEE MEMBER/STAFF ANNOUNCEMENTS AND REFERRALS
ADJOURNMENT
CITY OF HAYWARD
Hayward City Hall
777 B Street
Hayward, CA 94541
www.Hayward-CA.gov
File #: MIN 25-017
DATE: March 3, 2025
TO: Council Economic Development Committee
FROM: Chief Economic Development Officer
SUBJECT
Approval of the February 3, 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes
RECOMMENDATION
That the Committee Members review and approve the attached Draft Minutes from the February 3, 2025 Regular Meeting.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment I Draft Minutes from the February 3, 2025 CEDC Meeting CITY OF HAYWARD Printed on 2/26/2025Page 1 of 1
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CITY COUNCIL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
MEETING MINUTES – February 3, 2025
CALL TO ORDER: Mayor Salinas called the regular meeting to order at 5:01 p.m.
ATTENDANCE: (September 2024-July 2025)
Meeting Attendees
Present
02/3/25
All Meetings
Year to Date
Meetings Mandated
By Resolution
Present Absent Present Absent
Mayor Salinas 4 0 4 0
City Council Member Andrews 4 0 4 0
City Council Member Bonilla 2 2 2 2
OTHERS IN ATTENDANCE:
Dr. Ana M. Alvarez, City Manager; Dustin Claussen, Assistant City Manager ; Paul Nguyen, Chief Economic Development Officer; Daniel Mao, Economic Development Specialist ; Amber Green, Economic Development Specialist ; Javier Castro, Community Programs Specialist ; Sara Buizer , Director of Development Services ; Elizabeth Blanton, Senior Planner; Sachiko Riddle, Assistant Planner; Jeremy Lochirco, Planning Manager; Franky Orellana, Temp Information Systems Support Technician; Lucy Lopez, Hayward Chamber of Commerce CEO; Todd Falduti, Southland Mall General Manager; Nick DHIA; Peyton; Joel DiGiorgio; Steven Tavares
PUBLIC COMMENTS
There were none.
1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF SPECIAL MEETING December 2, 2024
A motion to approve the minutes from the December 2 , 2024, Regular Meeting was made by City Council Member Andrews and seconded by Mayor Salinas. The minutes were approved.
2. Development Activity and Selected Property Updates (Oral Report Only)
Development Services Director Sara Buizer introduced Economic Development Specialist Amber Green, and together they provided a presentation on development activities and property updates.
Mayor Salinas expressed enthusiasm for Arthur Mac’s and emphasized the importance of doing whatever is necessary to facilitate their establishment.
Hayward City Council Economic Development Committee
Regular Meeting Minutes
February 3, 2025
City Council Member Andrews inquired about the necessary steps to finalize Arthur Mac’s project.
Director Buizer explained that the primary challenge was understanding occupancy regulations for this non-traditional, primarily outdoor restaurant. She noted that a recent issue had been resolved but that staff were still working on determining how the site, situated on a vacant lot between two buildings, would function safely, particularly in the event of a fire. Ensuring compliance with Fire Department safety requirements remains a key challenge. Additionally, she stated that Arthur Mac’s would need to establish utility connections and coordinate with various parties, including PG&E
City Council Member Andrews asked whether the Fire Department had visited Arthur Mac’s other locations in the Bay Area Director Buizer responded that she could not speak on behalf of the Fire Department. City Council Member Andrews suggested that Fire Department staff visit other locations, as other cities have successfully addressed similar safety concerns. She emphasized that if this project is not approved, it would send the wrong message regarding the use o f unconventional, yet proven, building materials and adaptive reuse. She added Arthur Mac’s proposed use of a repurposed Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) car is expected to attract visitors and generate interest.
City Manager Dr. Ana Alvarez reassured the City Council that staff recognize the importance of this project and are working to expedite the process.
City Council Member Andrews also expressed concern over Jiva Life’s lack of progress despite receiving development approval.
City Council Member Andrew s expressed support for the affordable housing project at Mission Crossings and inquired whether the new owners of the Holiday Inn were interested in investing in the Mission Crossings property.
Mayor Salinas requested that Mission Crossings improve the f ront landscaping, which is currently being used for parking. Director Buizer clarified that the vacant lot at the front is owned by a different party.
City Council Member Andrews asked whether AB 2729’s automatic entitlement extensions apply to properties beyond Maple and Main. Director Buizer confirmed that the extension applies to all residential projects.
City Council Member Andrews inquired whether the Maple and Main development consists solely of market-rate housing. Director Buizer stated that it includes both market-rate and affordable housing units.
City Council Member Andrews asked whether gyms have specific quality standards, noting that the gym at Lincoln Landing is superior to others in the area. Chief Economic Development Officer Paul Nguyen explained that if gyms meet their corporate and the City’s community preservation code standards, the City has no authority to intervene.
Mayor Salinas asked about Lincoln Landing’s occupancy rate. Director Buizer reported that residential units are 80% occupied, but the commercial spaces require additional tenants.
Mayor Salinas inquired about the future use of the former Sears property. Director Buizer explained that mixed ownership complicates redevelopment efforts. She noted that the property is within Zone 6 of the Airport Safety Zone which is the most flexible zoning area within the flight path.
Hayward City Council Economic Development Committee
Regular Meeting Minutes
February 3, 2025
City C ouncil Member Andrews asked what types of retailers might occupy the former Sears site.
Director Buizer stated that adaptive reuse is a possibility, b ut demolition and reconstruction could also be considered.
City Council Member Andrews raised concerns about suspicious activity near the former Honda site on Mission Blvd. , despite efforts to maintain lighting and cleanliness. Mayor Salinas added that he had seen images of individuals vandalizing the area.
Mayor Salinas suggested identifying an older property along newly paved bike paths on Mission Blvd. that could accommodate a bike shop.
Mayor Salinas requested an update on the funding gap for the Stack Center. Director Buizer stated she would follow up with the Council.
City Council Member Andrews asked about potential temporary pop -up uses for a vacant space in the Cinemaplace complex. Mayor Salinas mentioned an interested business owner. Assista nt City Manager Dustin Claussen noted that there are two applications for the property.
City Council Member Andrews proposed the idea of a cat café in vacant spaces. Assistant City Manager Claussen responded that the vacant spaces are currently in disrepair.
Mayor Salinas inquired about lease expiration dates at Cinema Plaza. Assistant City Manager Claussen stated that he would provide the Council with a report on lease agreements for individual suites.
City Council Member Andrews suggested that the movie theater enhance its marketing efforts.
Assistant City Manager Claussen stated that while the City could engage with the theater, marketing decisions ultimately fall under its management. However, a partnership could be explored.
City Council Member Andrews advocated for preserving and illuminating the Old City Hall building’s frames, expressing concerns about increas ing security costs. Assistant City Manager Claussen acknowledged the challenge and stated that staff are considering all options, as maintaining the structure remains a resource drain.
Mayor Salinas questioned whether the City was simply waiting for an earthquake to bring down the Old City Hall building. Assistant City Manager Claussen clarified that this was not the intent and that the executive team is developing potential options, which will be presented to the Council along with cost estimates.
Mayor Salinas asked whether the Council could provide input on future uses for the former CVS site on Foothill Blvd. Chief Economic Development Officer Nguyen explained that while any conforming business can occupy the space under city zoning ordinances, the Economic Development team does help guide brokers based on Council and community preferences. However, the final decision remains a private transaction.
City Council Member Andrews inquired whether there had been any interest in repurposing former pharmacy b uildings for housing. Chief Economic Development Officer Nguyen stated that no inquiries have been received to date.
Hayward City Council Economic Development Committee
Regular Meeting Minutes
February 3, 2025
City Council Member Andrews noted ongoing suspicious activity at Auto Plaza and at 26801 Mission Blvd. She acknowledged staff efforts to address security concerns at the latter location.
City Council Member Andrews asked whether the City could take action to address the closure of national banks. Chief Economic Development Officer Nguyen explained that, in general, the City has little influence, as banks argue that their services are accessible online.
Mayor Salinas suggested engaging property owners to activate vacant spaces with pop -up businesses. Chief Economic Development Officer Nguyen stated that staff regularly contacts property owners, but most have been resistant to activation efforts.
Mayor Salinas asked if the City could implement regulations for vacant buildings. Senior Planner Elizabeth Blanton confirmed that staff is exploring this issue and will provide further details in the next presentation.
Mayor Salinas requested clarification on the property lines at the former Sears site in Southland.
Todd Falduti, General Manager of Southland Mall, provided details on the various property boundaries affecting the site.
3. Business-Friendly Hayward Project Update (Oral Report Only)
Chief Economic Development Officer Paul Nguyen introduced the item, followed by Senior Planner Elizabeth Blanton, who introduced Assistant Planner Sachiko Riddle and Economic Development Specialist Amber Green. Together, they presented an update on the Business -Friendly Hayward Project.
Southland Mall General Manager Todd Falduti and Hayward Chamber of Commerce CEO Lucy Lopez provided insights into the state of retail nationwide. They emphasized that cities must explore alternative economic strategies beyond traditional retail due to the rise of online shopping platforms.
Mayor Salinas suggested implementing standardized retail operating hours to ensure consistency among businesses. He also raise d concerns about businesses keeping their front entrances locked while directing customers to enter through back doors. Additionally, he proposed incorporating window paintings into businesses to promote public art initiatives.
Mayor Salinas questioned whether there is a need to reconsider street-level retail zoning.
City Council Member Andrews advocated for strengthening the business concierge program to foster closer collaboration with the Fire Department and Planning Division. She also supported establishing standardized operating hours for businesses as part approval processes.
City C ouncil Member Andrews emphasized the importance of examining industry trends in unconventional building materials. She expressed that given the current state of public transportation; Hayward is not yet able to require retail spaces at the ground level of residential buildings. She noted that residents may not be able to sustain all these businesses and suggested that ground -floor spaces could instead be used for community and living amenities.
Hayward City Council Economic Development Committee
Regular Meeting Minutes
February 3, 2025
City C ouncil Member Andrews proposed simplifying the process for integrating public art into commercial spaces. She also raised the issue of curb appeal, acknowledging uncertainty about regulatory authority but stressing the need to enhance aesthetics.
City C ouncil Member Andrews inquired about the feasibility of using vacant properties for pop -up businesses. She emphasized the need to educate businesses on parking capacity, noting that the City does not own all parking lots.
Finally, Council Member Andrews asked for strategies to maximize the use of outdoor spaces to support local businesses.
4. Future Meeting Topics
City Council Member Andrews requested a presentation from the Downtown Hayward Improvement Association (DHIA) to explore how the City can support its success.
City Council Member Andrews requested a presentation from Library staff discussing strategies to better utilize Heritage Plaza and other spaces for economic development and increased community activation.
COMMITTEE MEMBER/ STAFF ANNOUNCEMENTS AND REFERRALS
Economic Development Specialist Daniel Mao announced the upcoming Tu ition Assistance Job Fair at Chabot College on February 2 7, 2025. The event will be held in partnership with Chabot College and Cal State East Bay.
Chief Economic Development Officer Paul Nguyen shared that two Hayward companies were finalists for the 2025 East Bay Innovation Awards, which recognize cutting -edge technology and innovation in the region. He added t he first finalist, Veev, who specializes in modular home construction , is a finalist in the manufacturing category . The second finalist, Endiat x, the inventor of “Pillbot,” a miniature remote-controlled camera designed to replace routine endoscopies by navigating through a patient's digestive tract , is a finalist in the products and technology category . Chief Economic Development Officer Nguyen noted that the awards event will be on Thursday, March 27th, at 5:00 PM. The City of Hayward is a sponsor, additional details will be shared with the City Council as they become available.
Chief Economic Development Officer Nguyen also announced that the E conomic Development team recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Arlo Rx, an online pharmaceutical company.
Economic Development Specialist Daniel Mao shared that Sourdough & Co. started a soft opening at Lincoln Landing. He highlighted that the busin ess was supported through the City’s business concierge program with assistance provided for site selection and navigating the permitting process.
ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 6:50 p.m.
CITY OF HAYWARD
Hayward City Hall
777 B Street
Hayward, CA 94541
www.Hayward-CA.gov
File #: RPT 25-015
DATE: March 3, 2025
TO: City Council Economic Development Committee
FROM: Chief Economic Development Officer
SUBJECT: Hayward Upward Economic Recovery Program Update: Hire Hayward (Oral Report Only)
RECOMMENDATION
That City Council Economic Development Committee receives updates on the progress of the Hayward Upward Economic Recovery Plan: Hire Hayward Program.
SUMMARY
The Hire Hayward program is designed to address labor shortages in key industries while creating local career opportunities for Hayward residents. With the increasing demand for highly skilled labor, this initiative empowers businesses in the industrial, advanced manufacturing, and biotechnology sectors to meet workforce challenges while investing in the local community.
Through the program, when an eligible Hayward resident is hired for a full-time technical, skilled labor, or trade position, the City provides financial assistance to support costs associated with onboarding and on-the-job training. This initiative not only helps businesses build a sustainable talent pipeline but also ensures that city residents have access to high-paying, competitive jobs. This program is funded through the American Rescue Act (ARPA). All funds are currently allocated.
At the March 3, 2025 regular meeting, staff will provide a presentation detailing the program’s current activities and impacts. Key highlights include:
· Workforce Development Support: Financial assistance to help businesses with onboarding and training costs for new hires.
· Industry-Specific Focus: Targeted support for industrial, advanced manufacturing, and biotechnology employers facing workforce shortages.
· Local Hiring Incentives: Encouraging businesses to hire Hayward residents, strengthening the local economy.
· Business Participation: Open to Hayward-based businesses that offer full-time skilled labor or trade positions and were negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
CITY OF HAYWARD Printed on 2/26/2025Page 1 of 2
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File #:RPT 25-015
By prioritizing local hiring, participating businesses contribute to the economic vitality of Hayward while ensuring a strong workforce pipeline for the city’s future growth.
CITY OF HAYWARD Printed on 2/26/2025Page 2 of 2
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CITY OF HAYWARD
Hayward City Hall
777 B Street
Hayward, CA 94541
www.Hayward-CA.gov
File #: RPT 25-018
DATE: March 3, 2025
TO: Council Economic Development Committee
FROM: Chief Economic Development Officer
SUBJECT
Hayward Restaurant Month 2025
RECOMMENDATION
The City Council Economic Development Committee receives updates on the second annual Hayward Restaurant Month promotion.
SUMMARY
Following the success of the inaugural Hayward Restaurant Month in January 2024, the Economic Development Division launched the second annual Hayward Restaurant Month in January 2025. This event builds upon the City’s COVID-19 economic recovery plan by supporting local businesses and encouraging residents to dine at Hayward restaurants. Utilizing the established framework of the Together for Hayward e-Gift Card program and the promotional capabilities of the Hayward Open for Business initiative, the 2025 promotion expanded its reach and engagement. The following report overviews this year’s implementation, participation, and impact.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment I Staff Report Restaurant Month 2025
CITY OF HAYWARD Printed on 2/26/2025Page 1 of 1
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DATE: March 3, 2025
TO: City Council Economic Development Committee
FROM: Chief Economic Development Officer
SUBJECT Hayward Restaurant Month 2025
RECOMMENDATION
The City Council Economic Development Committee receives updates on the second annual Hayward Restaurant Month promotion.
SUMMARY
Following the success of the inaugural Hayward Restaurant Month in January 2024, the Economic Development Division in the City Manager’s Office launched the second annual Hayward Restaurant Month in January 2025. This event builds upon the City’s COVID-19 economic recovery plan by supporting local businesses and encouraging residents to dine at Hayward restaurants. Utilizing the established framework of the Together for Hayward e-Gift Card program and the promotional capabilities of the Hayward Open for Business initiative, the 2025 promotion expanded its reach and engagement. The following report overviews this year’s implementation, participation, and impact.
BACKGROUND
January remains a historically slow month for restaurants due to post-holiday spending cutbacks, new health plans, and general fatigue from the holiday season. Since 2010, VisitCalifornia.org’s California Restaurant Month has aimed to boost dining activity statewide.
Many cities adopt similar restaurant month or week promotions to support local establishments. The City of Hayward launched an inaugural Hayward Restaurant Month in 2024, receiving positive feedback from participating businesses and customers.
DISCUSSION
Building on the framework established in 2024, the Economic Development staff worked to increase business participation, refining promotional strategies, and further incentivizing customer engagement.
Key highlights of the 2025 program include:
Increased Participation: 21 restaurants joined the promotion, offering unique menu items and prix fixe menu options.
Enhanced Digital Presence: Partnered with Yelp to create an interactive map and mobile application portal showcasing participating businesses.
Expanded Marketing Efforts: Partnered with the Community Media Relations Division to place advertisements on two digital billboards on State Route 92 and engaged Southland Mall, who promoted the event on their Interstate 880 billboard and posters inside the mall.
Direct Business Outreach: The Economic Development team conducted door-to-door outreach along major corridors to inform restaurants about the promotion and encourage participation.
Gift Card Incentives: The City continued the successful $100 e-Gift Card weekly drawing, awarding 12 winners throughout the month.
Earned Media: The Mercury News published a story highlighting the event.
Social Media Reach: The Community Media Relations team promoted the event on social media, generating over 27,000 social media impressions. Economic Development Team content posted on LinkedIn generated over 5,030 impressions.
ECONOMIC IMPACT
The second annual Hayward Restaurant Month successfully generated increased business for participating establishments. Some participating restaurants saw an increase of 10% or more in sales during the promotion. Community engagement grew significantly, with the event generating 27,000 social media impressions. Businesses also reported an increase in foot traffic, and overall, the promotion continued to support the local economy by encouraging residents to dine out during a traditionally slow period.
FISCAL IMPACT
As with the first year, the implementation of Hayward Restaurant Month required no additional City funds beyond Economic Development and Community Media Relations staff time. Promotional efforts were conducted through existing social media and communication channels. Bonus e-Gift Cards awarded through the weekly drawings were funded using unredeemed balances from prior promotional campaigns.
Prepared by: Javier Castro, Community Programs Specialist
Recommended by: Paul Nguyen, Chief Economic Development Officer
Approved by:
Dr. Ana M. Alvarez, City Manager
CITY OF HAYWARD
Hayward City Hall
777 B Street
Hayward, CA 94541
www.Hayward-CA.gov
File #: RPT 25-017
DATE: March 3, 2025
TO: Council Economic Development Committee
FROM: Chief Economic Development Officer
SUBJECT
Future Meeting Topics as of March 3, 2025
RECOMMENDATION
That the Committee Members review and comment on the attached Future Meeting Topics.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment I Future Meeting Topics as of March 3, 20252 CITY OF HAYWARD Printed on 2/26/2025Page 1 of 1
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City Council Economic Development
Committee Future Meeting Topics
as of March 03, 2025
RESPONSIBLE
LEAD
FUTURE MEETING AGENDA ITEMS
PRESENTATION
DATE*
Economic
Development
Update on Hayward Upward Economic
Recovery Program: Tuition Assistance April 2025
Economic
Development
Strategic Roadmap Update: EP5 and EP6
Update on midsize cities revitalized
downtowns and ordinances that may have
adverse impacts on business
Spring 2025
Library
Update on Heritage Plaza Programming &
Activation TBD
Downtown
Hayward
Improvement
Association
Representative
Update from Downtown Hayward
Improvement Association TBD
Development
Services/
Economic
Development
Strategic Roadmap Update: EP7 Update on
small businesses and popups in residential
areas TBD
*Subject to change and data availability