tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21180633882115737802024-03-12T16:31:02.926-07:00Hey Hayward!The Hey Hayward Blog is a community commentary / news blog focused on the City of Hayward, CA.
Larry Johmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08338782371894514617noreply@blogger.comBlogger38125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2118063388211573780.post-69480794791250897852016-06-06T21:15:00.000-07:002016-06-06T21:15:21.029-07:00Other Local Tax Measures<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5vCvrazx0PTja1OWDTMdsz4FPZWrrucBT0zXsoTNJqLhC7rnP7yvVF9IwQyN7Yln4Zb89nQxttW9kmuY_H4UxVzLa7HobMraJYWGqIiVf84kwdcm5SPM9ws84Pw66t823h7hdNXJFWME/s1600/taxes-are-coming.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="361" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5vCvrazx0PTja1OWDTMdsz4FPZWrrucBT0zXsoTNJqLhC7rnP7yvVF9IwQyN7Yln4Zb89nQxttW9kmuY_H4UxVzLa7HobMraJYWGqIiVf84kwdcm5SPM9ws84Pw66t823h7hdNXJFWME/s400/taxes-are-coming.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
When considering Measure D, the <b>20-year</b> extension of Hayward's Utility User Tax, bear in mind all of the other proposed tax increases that you might also get saddled with:</div>
<br />
<i>On the June ballot</i>...<br />
<br />
<u><b>Measure A</b></u><br />
<b><a href="https://ballotpedia.org/Chabot-Las_Positas_Community_College_District,_California,_Bond_Issue,_Measure_A_(June_2016)" target="_blank">Chabot-Las Positas College District Bond Measure</a></b><br />
This proposition comes 12-years after <a href="http://www.clpccd.org/bond/" target="_blank">Measure B</a> was approved. It hopes to raise half a billion dollars for the very same purpose. The proposed rate of this parcel tax is $24.50 per $100,000 of valuation. Therefore, if your property is valued at $500,000, you'll pay about $123 per year for 12-years or $1,470 total.<br />
<br />
<b><u>Measure AA</u> <a href="https://ballotpedia.org/San_Francisco_Bay_Restoration_Authority_%E2%80%9CClean_and_Healthy_Bay%E2%80%9D_Parcel_Tax,_Measure_AA_(June_2016)" target="_blank">SF Bay Clean Water, Pollution Prevention & Habitat Restoration Program</a></b><br />
A flat parcel tax charge of $12 per year for 20-years or $240 total.<br />
<br />
<br />
<i>November ballot proposals</i>...<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.eastbaytimes.com/breaking-news/ci_29611956/election-affordable-housing-bond-alameda-county" target="_blank">Alameda County's $500-Million Housing Bond Measure</a></li>
<li><a href="http://abc7news.com/news/some-east-bay-lawmakers-oppose-new-bart-bond-proposal/1184748/" target="_blank">BART's $4.8-Billion Property Tax Bond Measure</a></li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<i>In the strategizing stage for 2017/18...</i><br />
<br />
<u><b>Hayward Business Tax Increase</b></u><br />
As described in the <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B16xIRJPUE5kMGJvcnJlR0xuOUU/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">City's current budget report</a>, the City is planning on revising its Business License Ordinance with the intention of increasing business tax revenue by at least <b>10%</b> for 2017/18.<br />
<br />Larry Johmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08338782371894514617noreply@blogger.com1Hayward, CA, USA37.6688205 -122.080796437.467602 -122.40351989999999 37.870039000000006 -121.7580729tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2118063388211573780.post-53963368275095919802016-06-06T20:30:00.000-07:002016-06-07T04:29:13.654-07:00Contributors to the Measure D Campaign<div style="text-align: justify;">
Two years ago, I posted <a href="http://www.heyhayward.com/2014/06/measure-c-proposed-library-pre-election.html" target="_blank">a piece</a> about who was funding the Measure C sales tax campaign. In it, I highlighted an eyebrow raising contribution by the city's consulting architectural firm, Noll & Tam.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Berkeley firm donated $15,000 toward the effort to increase our sales tax so as to secure its stake in the lucrative new library project.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
At the time, I warned that this contribution might be recouped through a contract amendment or the like.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sure enough, 1-year later the <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B16xIRJPUE5kazBkNHVFN3pNcVE/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">City Council approved a $2-million contract amendment</a> (a 67-percent increase) for the firm as part of its authorization to advertise construction plans for bid. Not a bad return on investment, huh?<br />
<br />
Only Councilwoman Lamnin had the good sense and fortitude to vote against the item. She deserves considerable credit for that, and the rest should be genuinely ashamed.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
This is just one reason I can't support any of the incumbents seeking re-election tomorrow.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
While most in Hayward don't seem to care, I do think it's critically important that we monitor these contributions. It lets us know who's got skin in the game and where possible improprieties lurk.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Can you guess who's motivated in protecting their interests in the Utility User Tax?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The Measure D funding data makes it pretty clear.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwekFn-bJ6AgCthbYgehsOFXTnWMz7ELpy7nsqxlA2zMGQiKbJlrK_A2z38sJEzTKBqvT1HfTIGWy0FN7gmq9nvBRVMz6XwsS-jA7XEq-22TUSeqVXwHtH6uXnB1oNsPLc4EdzXG4_Lm0/s1600/MeasureDfunding.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwekFn-bJ6AgCthbYgehsOFXTnWMz7ELpy7nsqxlA2zMGQiKbJlrK_A2z38sJEzTKBqvT1HfTIGWy0FN7gmq9nvBRVMz6XwsS-jA7XEq-22TUSeqVXwHtH6uXnB1oNsPLc4EdzXG4_Lm0/s640/MeasureDfunding.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 586px;"><colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 14762; mso-width-source: userset; width: 311pt;" width="415"></col><col style="mso-width-alt: 2474; mso-width-source: userset; width: 52pt;" width="70"></col><col style="mso-width-alt: 3584; mso-width-source: userset; width: 76pt;" width="101"></col></colgroup><tbody></tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 652px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 14762; mso-width-source: userset; width: 311pt;" width="415"></col>
<col style="mso-width-alt: 2474; mso-width-source: userset; width: 52pt;" width="70"></col>
<col style="mso-width-alt: 1194; mso-width-source: userset; width: 25pt;" width="34"></col>
<col style="mso-width-alt: 4721; mso-width-source: userset; width: 100pt;" width="133"></col>
</colgroup><tbody>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="19" style="height: 14.4pt; width: 311pt;" width="415"><br /></td><td align="right" class="xl67" style="width: 52pt;" width="70"><br /></td><td style="width: 25pt;" width="34"><br /></td><td class="xl69" style="width: 100pt;" width="133"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 652px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 14762; mso-width-source: userset; width: 311pt;" width="415"></col>
<col style="mso-width-alt: 2474; mso-width-source: userset; width: 52pt;" width="70"></col>
<col style="mso-width-alt: 1194; mso-width-source: userset; width: 25pt;" width="34"></col>
<col style="mso-width-alt: 4721; mso-width-source: userset; width: 100pt;" width="133"></col>
</colgroup><tbody>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="19" style="height: 14.4pt; width: 311pt;" width="415"><b><u>Union
Interests</u></b></td>
<td align="right" class="xl67" style="width: 52pt;" width="70"><b><u>$41,633</u></b></td>
<td style="width: 25pt;" width="34"></td>
<td class="xl69" style="width: 100pt;" width="133"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">Hayward Police Officers Association</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$15,000</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B16xIRJPUE5keTI3UFpXQ3ItVHM/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Care to donate?</a></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">Hayward Firefighters #1909</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$8,633</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"><br /></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">IFPTE Local 21</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$5,000</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">Service Employees International Union (SEIU)</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$5,000</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">Sprinkler Fitters #483</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$2,500</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">(City of) Alameda Firefighters Association - IAFF #689</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$2,000</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">United PAC Labor Council</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$1,000</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69">?</td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">Construction & General Laborers #304</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$1,000</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">Int. Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local #595</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$750</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">Northern California Carpenters Regional Council</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$750</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;"></td>
<td class="xl68"></td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;"><b><u>Corporate Interests</u></b></td>
<td align="right" class="xl67"><b><u>$7,000</u></b></td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="41" style="height: 14.4pt; mso-height-source: userset;">
<td class="xl66" height="41" style="height: 14.4pt; width: 311pt;" width="415">Alecto
Healthcare Services (St Rose Hospital)</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$3,500</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl70" style="width: 100pt;" width="133">Yeah, something</td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">Paramedics Plus</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$3,500</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69">smells fishy here.</td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;"></td>
<td class="xl68"></td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;"><b><u>State Politicians</u></b></td>
<td align="right" class="xl67"><b><u>$4,000</u></b></td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">Assemblyman Ron Bonta</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$2,000</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69">Laundering of</td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">Assemblyman Bill Quirk</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$1,000</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69">special interest</td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">Senator Bob Wieckowski</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$1,000</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69">funds.</td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;"></td>
<td class="xl68"></td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;"><b><u>Current City Council and Staff</u></b></td>
<td align="right" class="xl67"><b><u>$1,700</u></b></td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">Sean Reinhart, Library Director</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$500</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">Al Mendall, Councilman</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$500</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">Marvin Peixoto, Councilman</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$250</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">Barbara Halliday, Mayor</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$250</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">Francisco Zermeno, Councilman</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$100</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">Sara Lamnin, Councilwoman</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$100</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;"></td>
<td class="xl68"></td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;"><b><u>Hayward's Consultant</u></b></td>
<td align="right" class="xl67"><b><u>$1,000</u></b></td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">Bonnie Moss</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$500</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">Clifford Moss</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$500</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;"></td>
<td class="xl68"></td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;"><b><u>Non-Profit</u></b></td>
<td align="right" class="xl67"><b><u>$1,000</u></b></td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">Friends of Hayward Public Library</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$1,000</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;"></td>
<td class="xl68"></td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;"><u><b>Past City Council and Staff</b></u></td>
<td align="right" class="xl67"><b><u>$700</u></b></td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">Steve Bristow</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$100</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">Matt McGrath</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$100</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">Michael Sweeney</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$100</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">Judith Harrison</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$100</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">Charles Plummer</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$100</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">Kevin Dowling</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$100</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">Mark Salinas</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$50</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">Lawrence Ratto</td>
<td align="right" class="xl68">$50</td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;"></td>
<td class="xl68"></td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
<tr height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="19" style="height: 14.4pt;"><b><u>Other Small Contributors</u></b></td>
<td align="right" class="xl67"><b><u>$1,725</u></b></td>
<td></td>
<td class="xl69"></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="font-size: small;">Source: <a href="http://www.fppc.ca.gov/about-fppc.html" target="_blank">Fair Political Practices Commission</a> (FPPC) campaign disclosure forms posted on the <a href="http://www.hayward-ca.gov/your-government/elections/fppc-campaign-disclosure-forms-and-other-forms" target="_blank">City's website</a>.</span>Larry Johmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08338782371894514617noreply@blogger.com0Hayward, CA, USA37.6688205 -122.080796437.467602 -122.40351989999999 37.870039000000006 -121.7580729tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2118063388211573780.post-59997839876747308952016-05-13T15:00:00.001-07:002016-05-13T15:20:49.335-07:00East Bay Times: Reject Measure D<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOZOxyTETYTIvP8Vuiakv64s2doSYWC3-AgTKS0wriVyvUa5AsYpcmyGNGV5xF0_xt82Zi7vTdGPam7YIR3kuu2MOllGeuDWIYTclBKXWdjdFnOLm2tor7dIOX4smK_BbSwZwQYltAz-c/s1600/EastBayTimes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOZOxyTETYTIvP8Vuiakv64s2doSYWC3-AgTKS0wriVyvUa5AsYpcmyGNGV5xF0_xt82Zi7vTdGPam7YIR3kuu2MOllGeuDWIYTclBKXWdjdFnOLm2tor7dIOX4smK_BbSwZwQYltAz-c/s1600/EastBayTimes.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Last month the East Bay Times <a href="http://www.eastbaytimes.com/news/ci_29825177/hayward:-need-to-renew-utility-tax-debated-at-forum" target="_blank">reported on the Measure D debate</a>.<br />
<br />
Now they've taken a position. <b><a href="http://www.eastbaytimes.com/news/ci_29885713/editorial:-reject-hayward-pittsburg-tax-measures" target="_blank">Reject it they say</a>.</b><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
I can't argue with that.</div>
Larry Johmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08338782371894514617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2118063388211573780.post-84347359542196782872016-05-09T10:00:00.000-07:002016-06-04T10:13:40.280-07:00The problems with the argument in favor of Measure D<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today is the start of early voting. If you haven't yet done so, it's time to educate thyself.<br />
<br />
Unlike those who'd prefer you not give consideration to an alternative point-of-view, I very much recommend that you read the argument presented by the proponents of Measure D. It's chock full of specious statements that deserve rebuke.<br />
<br />
Click the images below to view the proponent's argument in favor of Measure D, as well as their rebuttal to <a href="http://www.heyhayward.com/2016/04/argument-against-extending-utility-user.html" target="_blank">my argument against</a>.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbxGjyX8aOWnvqKaLmzsptAsxCW3nSkTgNtXfCwgmsEY1RYRHyRagvQjMbl8qUBNkyDG_u127LJj3_4TGWZG0WHpHL940b7HtYqGRrXxY0_1T2XF2qnoqzpPt0pzlaIA4l9o9RTuW3I2A/s1600/Argument+in+Favor+of+UUT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbxGjyX8aOWnvqKaLmzsptAsxCW3nSkTgNtXfCwgmsEY1RYRHyRagvQjMbl8qUBNkyDG_u127LJj3_4TGWZG0WHpHL940b7HtYqGRrXxY0_1T2XF2qnoqzpPt0pzlaIA4l9o9RTuW3I2A/s320/Argument+in+Favor+of+UUT.jpg" width="270" /></a>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxlBf_JH7taels0dvmMoNBg0rLqHV6FUVbHNPW1uHiCdG2CBw2LhjyVdydN5yKw7zTz9fl0vWeT_yzSH1LlpppuOVP7E7L2WogbZl62SWiLw8DtBoJZq6DBgUQ2T-D0kkSGe5BXltdEZU/s1600/Rebuttal+to+Argument+Against+the+UUT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxlBf_JH7taels0dvmMoNBg0rLqHV6FUVbHNPW1uHiCdG2CBw2LhjyVdydN5yKw7zTz9fl0vWeT_yzSH1LlpppuOVP7E7L2WogbZl62SWiLw8DtBoJZq6DBgUQ2T-D0kkSGe5BXltdEZU/s320/Rebuttal+to+Argument+Against+the+UUT.jpg" width="270" /></a>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b>The argument in favor </b><b>emphatically</b><b> and </b><b>dramatically</b><b> states that if the UUT is not extended, the consequences will be "<i>SEVERE</i>" and "<i>DEVASTATING</i>." </b>While such alarmist pronouncements may have seemed reasonable at the start of the recession, this incessant sky is falling rhetoric has become old and distasteful. If we are to believe that we are in the the very same state of emergency that we were in 7-years ago, then any threatened cuts should begin with the city's executive staff and the presiding Council.<br />
<br />
As the chart below clearly shows, the city does not have a revenue problem. Property tax revenue continues to grow, the city's increased sales tax has kicked in, and we have three more years of the UUT.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B16xIRJPUE5kSFNjdmhOWC0wSlE/view?usp=sharing" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggeQWtf1Gk3jmx7t_PDJ9Tjg9EaYy2HATuAGEl1xruBToEmnBBbB8ngYMwVPb0OfC_M347ZYuCYNNeBll6hmg6dbwv-6JzCrdZADfCnZJmSXPNncwHQ2L1rkGnZcCDog1fRF-a_4ZDR30/s1600/General+Revenue+Chart-610.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
_ _ _ _ _<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>The argument in favor states that the current UUT "<i>will expire shortly.</i>"</b> No it won't. It will expire in the latter half of 2019--exactly 10-years after it took effect.</div>
<br />
At a City Council meeting, this past January 26th, the Assistant City Manager explained why it's before us now. She said, "<i>in order to ensure that we renew this critical revenue source for the city, we have two shots at coming to an election; one in June of this year and one in June of 2018</i>."<br />
<br />
While the statement is refreshingly candid; it confesses a plan that is entirely inappropriate. The city ought not be taking shots, preparing for possible multiple campaigns, to "<i>ensure</i>" our taxation. The proper approach is to provide citizens with a simple unbiased proposition at a time when it is most relevant.<br />
<br />
Only in 2018, would it be proper to consider the question: "Do we extend this temporary, supplemental tax, yes or no?"<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigcplWa2LTCB5NLj2cuy7wL7xkpzoBuTwysleqzJWfJlOXI3ucCGQ1EFK7pDLecOJiVgYJiRAkbCoG-RPYNiKidL_vpkpcejWT9JngKWePH5imRYY9OJwGT7PfDvhUZMB4UT7HVqJY7KM/s1600/UUT-flyers-2016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigcplWa2LTCB5NLj2cuy7wL7xkpzoBuTwysleqzJWfJlOXI3ucCGQ1EFK7pDLecOJiVgYJiRAkbCoG-RPYNiKidL_vpkpcejWT9JngKWePH5imRYY9OJwGT7PfDvhUZMB4UT7HVqJY7KM/s320/UUT-flyers-2016.jpg" width="320" /></a>The city should not be spending tens of thousands of our tax dollars on costly marketing/polling consultants and campaign materials masquerading as "informational surveys." We shouldn't be repeatedly bothered by calls that ask "would you be more or less likely to vote for the measure if it said..."<br />
<br />
And the electorate should definitely not be coerced with fear mongering, superfluous arguments that warn of severe and devastating consequences should the proposition be rejected.<br />
<br />
These actions do not represent a government by the people, for the people. Rather, it's a perfect example of the tail wagging the dog.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
_ _ _ _ _</div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>The argument in favor states that the city "<i>has worked hard to be fiscally responsible.</i>"</b> Perhaps. But working toward a goal and actually achieving it are two different things. One can argue, and indeed I will in future posts, that the city has not been fiscally responsible--not always at least.<br />
<br />
But even if it has, so what? Is it not everyone's expectation that the city work hard to be fiscally responsible? This measure is not about rewarding a fulfillment of expectations, it's all about extending a burden on taxpayers.<br />
<br />
Whether you believe the city has been fiscally responsible or not is immaterial; responsibleness is not a compelling reason to extend this tax.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
_ _ _ _ _</div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>The argument in favor proclaims that "<i>by law, the State cannot take this funding away.</i>"</b> This is just wishful thinking. The State writes the law and amends the law. For all intents and purposes, the State <i>is</i> the law. If the State desires funds from the city, it will have it one way or the other.<br />
<br />
If you believe the revenue from this particular tax is safely tucked away inside a mattress, then what difference does it make if an equivalent amount is just taken from those sources that you believe are vulnerable?<br />
<br />
Moreover, none of the city's funds are protected from legal judgments. This is the more serious threat looking forward.<br />
<br />
Regardless, at the end of the day, the notion that this tax is more protected than other sources is irrelevant. Attempting to guard against potential threats that may not materialize is not a justification to further burden tax payers now.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
_ _ _ _ _</div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>The argument in favor states that the measure "<i>lasts 20-years only.</i>"</b> It might just as well be 50-years "<i>only</i>," as it's every bit as arbitrary.<br />
<br />
The existing 10-year timeline coincided with city staff's prediction for the real estate recovery. The timeline for this proposed extension is not based on any justified financial factor, but only on what the City Council believes the majority of the electorate is willing to put up with.<br />
<br />
This subject was the dominant topic of discussion among City Council members over multiple Council meetings. During the January 26th meeting, Councilman Mendell stated that he strongly favored a timeline of 20-years, "<i>because I don't want to have to do this every 10-years.</i>"<br />
<br />
At the February 23rd meeting, Councilman Jones said that he preferred that the tax have no end, but that a 20-year horizon was acceptable since: "<i>I may not be around in 20-years anyway.</i>"<br />
<br />
This protracted and arbitrary timeline, selected only for political expediency and to merely allude to impermanence, is no reason to support this measure.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
_ _ _ _ _</div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>The argument in favor states that the measure "<i>REQUIRES annual audits to ensure funds are spent as promised.</i>"</b> While it's true that the existing ordinance does require annual audits, it's not really for the purpose of ensuring funds are spent as promised. This is because funds derived from this tax cannot be legally obligated for any special purpose.<br />
<br />
The UUT is a general tax. All its revenue is commingled with the revenue from all other general sources which ultimately funds the city's general operating budget.<br />
<br />
To promise that UUT funds will be used in a particularly special way would mean that it is actually a special tax. To pass a special tax requires a two-thirds majority vote. The UUT previously passed with only a <a href="https://ballotpedia.org/City_of_Hayward_Utility_Users_Tax,_Measure_A_(May_2009)" target="_blank">54-percent</a> majority.<br />
<br />
What the UUT audit is primarily for is to ensure that the city exacts its pound of flesh. The focus of the audit is not the city's accounting records, but rather that of the utility companies.<br />
<br />
In early April, I made an official public records request to see all of the audit reports produced thus far. Over a month has past and the City still hasn't allowed me to lay eyes on a single one. The city's only response is that the documents are currently being reviewed.<br />
<br />
Were they not reviewed when they were originally received? Are they presently being edited too? This prolonged stalling is peculiar, opaque, and a violation of the <a href="http://www.thefirstamendment.org/publicrecordsact.pdf" target="_blank">California Public Records Act</a>. What is the city trying to hide?<br />
<br />
If government transparency and promises of spending accountability are important to you, then clearly the supposed existence of these audits lends zero credibility to any argument in support of this tax.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: red;">UPDATE (5/27/2016): Today, I finally received word from the City that the requested audit reports are "<i>confidential and exempt from disclosure.</i>" This irrefutably confirms that the proponents' assurance of accountability is merely a charade.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
_ _ _ _ _</div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>The argument in favor proclaims that "<i>all residents and businesses will pay their fair share.</i>"</b> I hope <a href="http://www.heyhayward.com/2016/04/argument-against-extending-utility-user.html" target="_blank">my argument against the measure</a> clearly explains how this is not true.<br />
<br />
If not, here's another example to ponder: Why should a business that is heavily utility dependent, such a laundromat, have to pay an extraordinarily disproportionate amount toward city services by way of this tax than say a night-club/bar, which might have a significantly greater demand for costly police and paramedic services?<br />
<br />
Consider it honestly; all<i> do not</i> pay a fair share.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
_ _ _ _ _</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>The rebuttal to the argument against the measure states "<i>The demand for city services has increased as City of Hayward expenses also continue to rise.</i>"</b> Demand for city services has indeed increased as the City Council rezones parcel after parcel permitting ever increasing housing density.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hundreds of new residential units are being constructed and sold, such as those in the new cannery communities off of Winton Avenue. Aside from the property tax revenue these properties generate year after year (traditionally the city's largest source of revenue), every time one of these properties is sold additional revenue is generated through the real property transfer tax.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Furthermore, property owners in many newer Hayward communities are making even greater contributions to city coffers through special assessments for <a href="http://www.tricityvoice.com/articlefiledisplay.php?issue=2009-06-10&file=cannery+place.txt" target="_blank">policing</a>, <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B16xIRJPUE5kb0tZMEstME1idjA/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">maintenance</a>, and <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B16xIRJPUE5kWmpXVGk1YUZEcWc/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">lighting and landscaping</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
_ _ _ _ _</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>The rebuttal to the argument against the measure states: "<i>ALL City of Hayward employees went five years with absolutely no cost of living increases in their salaries.</i>"</b> Actually, with an <a href="http://www.ebcitizen.com/2016/04/hayward-appeals-state-finding-it.html" target="_blank">unsettled labor dispute</a> lingering between the City and its Service Employees International Union (SEIU) employees, this remains to be seen. Cost of living increases might still be awarded retroactively.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Regardless, what is the purpose of this statement? To garner sympathy votes? Are the proponents of this measure so presumptuous as to imply that Hayward tax payers were doing better than city employees during these recessionary times? Many Hayward tax payers lost their jobs entirely, never mind having received cost of living increases.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Besides, it doesn't seem that city employees did as poorly as implied. An evaluation of compensation data found on TransparentCalifornia.com reveals that many employees were receiving rather generous compensation amounts in 2011 (the first year of available data) and even more so in 2014 (the latest year of available data at the time of this posting).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Have a look at firefighters. The table below shows the top earners in 2011. It compares their total compensation then with that of 2014.</div>
<br />
<table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" dir="ltr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #ccc; font-family: arial,sans,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; table-layout: fixed;"><colgroup><col width="86"></col><col width="93"></col><col width="84"></col><col width="98"></col></colgroup><tbody>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Firefighter"}" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #000000; border-left: 1px solid #000000; border-right: 1px dotted #000000; border-top: 1px solid #000000; font-family: Arial; font-weight: bold; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; vertical-align: bottom;">Firefighter</td><td colspan="3" data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Total Compensation (Salary & Benefits)"}" rowspan="1" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #000000; border-right: 1px solid #000000; border-top: 1px solid #000000; font-family: Arial; font-weight: bold; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; vertical-align: bottom;">Total Compensation (Salary & Benefits)</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"Initials"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">Initials</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":2011}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 120%; font-weight: bold; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">2011</td><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"increase"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; font-style: italic; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">increase</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":2014}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 120%; font-weight: bold; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">2014</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"CB"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">CB</td><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":344153}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="http://transparentcalifornia.com/salaries/2011/hayward/craig-r-bueno/" target="_blank">$344,153</a></td><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"-","6":1}" style="background-color: #efefef; border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; white-space: nowrap;">-</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"retired"}" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #000000; border-right: 1px solid #000000; color: #666666; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; font-style: italic; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap; wrap-strategy: 0;">retired</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"MB"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">MB</td><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":310771}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="http://transparentcalifornia.com/salaries/2011/hayward/mark-bennett/" target="_blank">$310,771</a></td><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"-","6":1}" style="background-color: #efefef; border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">-</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"retired"}" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #000000; border-right: 1px solid #000000; color: #666666; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; font-style: italic; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap; wrap-strategy: 0;">retired</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"JM"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">JM</td><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":307976}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="http://transparentcalifornia.com/salaries/2011/hayward/jon-a-moser/" target="_blank">$307,976</a></td><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"+13%","6":1}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">+13%</td><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":347042}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="http://transparentcalifornia.com/salaries/2014/hayward/jon-a-moser/" target="_blank">$347,042</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"GS"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">GS</td><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":300422}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="http://transparentcalifornia.com/salaries/2011/hayward/george-r-silva/" target="_blank">$300,422</a></td><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"-","6":1}" style="background-color: #efefef; border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; white-space: nowrap;">-</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"retired"}" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #000000; border-right: 1px solid #000000; color: #666666; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; font-style: italic; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap; wrap-strategy: 0;">retired</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"NA"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">NA</td><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":286879}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="http://transparentcalifornia.com/salaries/2011/hayward/nathaniel-l-armstrong/" target="_blank">$286,879</a></td><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"+13%","6":1}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">+13%</td><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":324491}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="http://transparentcalifornia.com/salaries/2014/hayward/nathaniel-l-armstrong/" target="_blank">$324,491</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"MG"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">MG</td><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":279354}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="http://transparentcalifornia.com/salaries/2011/hayward/michael-k-gotro/" target="_blank">$279,354</a></td><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"+16%","6":1}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">+16%</td><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":324153}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="http://transparentcalifornia.com/salaries/2014/hayward/michael-k-gotro/" target="_blank">$324,153</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"GC"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">GC</td><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":274361}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="http://transparentcalifornia.com/salaries/2011/hayward/garrett-r-contreras/" target="_blank">$274,361</a></td><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"+17%","6":1}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">+17%</td><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":320804}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="http://transparentcalifornia.com/salaries/2014/hayward/garrett-r-contreras/" target="_blank">$320,804</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"JA"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">JA</td><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":274157}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="http://transparentcalifornia.com/salaries/2011/hayward/john-s-anderson/" target="_blank">$274,157</a></td><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"+14%","6":1}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">+14%</td><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":313070}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="http://transparentcalifornia.com/salaries/2014/hayward/john-s-anderson/" target="_blank">$313,070</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"SW"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">SW</td><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":270163}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="http://transparentcalifornia.com/salaries/2011/hayward/steven-m-walsh/" target="_blank">$270,163</a></td><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"+15%","6":1}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">+15%</td><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":309914}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="http://transparentcalifornia.com/salaries/2014/hayward/steven-m-walsh/" target="_blank">$309,914</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"DF"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">DF</td><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":268593}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: top; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="http://transparentcalifornia.com/salaries/2011/hayward/dennis-r-freitas/" target="_blank">$268,593</a></td><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"-","6":1}" style="background-color: #efefef; border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: dotted; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">-</td><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"retired"}" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #000000; border-right: 1px solid #000000; color: #666666; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; font-style: italic; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap; wrap-strategy: 0;">retired</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"PV"}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-left-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-left-style: solid; border-left-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">PV</td><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":267243}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="http://transparentcalifornia.com/salaries/2011/hayward/philip-j-vecchio/" target="_blank">$267,243</a></td><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":2,"2":"+10%","6":1}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: dotted; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;">+10%</td><td data-sheets-numberformat="[null,4,"\"$\"#,##0",1]" data-sheets-value="{"1":3,"3":294631}" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-bottom-style: solid; border-bottom-width: 1px; border-right-color: rgb(0, 0, 0); border-right-style: solid; border-right-width: 1px; font-family: Calibri; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px; text-align: center; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="http://transparentcalifornia.com/salaries/2014/hayward/philip-j-vecchio/" target="_blank">$294,631</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
If you think increases in compensation were only limited to firefighters during these years, you'd be wrong. While the magnitude of increases were typically less significant, many also received greater amounts because of automatic step increases, overtime, promotions, etcetera.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
_ _ _ _ _</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>The rebuttal to the argument against the measure states: "<i>Hayward's UUT funds now comprise the city's third largest revenue source.</i>"</b> So? It didn't just unexpectedly become the third largest revenue source. The revenue amount was predicted to be the third largest when the measure was originally proposed. It's not some sort of shocking surprise that now requires continuance.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Think about it like this: let's say over the next four years you expect to reduce your full-time employment and associated income because you need additional time to pursue schooling, take care of a family member, or fight a wicked illness. To help you along, a relative or friend agrees to grant you a supplemental allowance--your second largest source of income.<br />
<br />
After 4-years you return to full time work and your traditional income level is restored. At that point, do you tell your generous benefactor that the supplemental allowance must continue for at least another 8-years because you've grown accustomed to it, and because it's now your second largest source of revenue?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Would you then further have the audacity to threaten your benefactor with severe and devastating consequences if it's not continued?<br />
<br />
No. To have this kind of gall, you'd have to be a politician.<br />
<br />
At the January 26th City Council meeting, Councilman Zermeño admitted that the way he's "<i>selling</i>" Measure D on the campaign trail is by stressing this third largest revenue angle.<br />
<br />
I sincerely hope Hayward voters aren't so gullible as to be buying into it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
_ _ _ _ _</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>The rebuttal to the argument against the measure states: "<i>Approximately 75% of UUT funds (roughly $12 million/year) go directly to public safety operations (police and fire).</i>"</b> As previously explained, the revenue from a general tax cannot be directly allocated for a special purpose. To state that there is this direct allocation is to declare the UUT a special tax.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But since the measure did not previously pass by a super majority (the requirement of a special tax), the proponents are thereby indicating that the UUT, with its apparent direct allocations, is actually illegitimate. This puts the <i>entirety</i> of all UUT funds in jeopardy of a lawsuit that seeks to recover ill-gotten gains (thereby rendering all of the persistent allusions to the State boogeyman irrelevant).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The city has already had to contend with one big ugly lawsuit due to its handling of this tax (<a href="http://caselaw.findlaw.com/ca-court-of-appeal/1663033.html" target="_blank">Sipple v. City of Hayward</a>). We don't now need a catastrophic one because of all this irresponsible fear-mongering.</div>
Larry Johmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08338782371894514617noreply@blogger.com1Hayward, CA, USA37.6688205 -122.080796437.467602 -122.40351989999999 37.870039000000006 -121.7580729tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2118063388211573780.post-27044565236306296722016-04-11T21:00:00.000-07:002016-04-12T08:42:00.732-07:00Free Phone Service via the Internet<div style="text-align: justify;">
One of my arguments against the Utility User Tax is that it burdens neighbors disproportionately for the same privilege of accessing city services simply based on the choices one makes regarding utilities.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I, for example, pay very little toward this tax, but I avail myself of the same city services as those who pay considerably more. I drive on the same roads, visit the same library, call upon the same police and paramedic services.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The reason I don't pay much toward the UUT is because I happen to utilize technology that can't effectively be taxed.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
For TV and video I use an over the air antenna and an Internet connection. For mobile phone service I use a no-contract, wi-fi capable, cell phone that allows me to make and receive free voice over Internet calls.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.google.com/googlevoice/about.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVZtwupwJs1fiFIaURFxg26HXUyDY2MJfaKL2ZSAhv1HE_VOrq1-H0Bz8cuLTziy8tG9ZIg0jlbodGoFCahHdgeiQDwo2XAyQL9MzPbFvItAfUBQboMirGTbc6TL9l2VIdXGGFo1IcApQ/s1600/GoogleVoice.png" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
For my home phone and office phone I use voice over Internet calling exclusively. Specifically, I use <a href="https://www.google.com/googlevoice/about.html" target="_blank">Google Voice</a> in conjunction with <a href="http://www.obitalk.com/info/googlevoice" target="_blank">Obihai products</a>. This allows me to use normal phones in a way that is every bit as good or better than traditional land line service. The best part, of course, is that it doesn't cost me anything more than the cost of Internet access and equipment. It's basically free and can't be taxed (after all, 5.5% of nothing is nothing).</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I coincidentally started using Google Voice around the time the UUT was enacted in 2009. There were a few hiccups early on, but it has definitely proven itself to be an incredible service and a huge money saver. I've saved well over a thousand dollars for phone service over the past 7-years.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Now some who are reading this might actually be paying for voice over Internet service as part of their AT&T or Comcast bundle of services. If this is what you're doing, allow me to suggest that you're doing it wrong.<br />
<br />
If you've been coaxed into paying for VoIP service as part of a bundle to reduce your Internet access cost, you should reconsider your plan. Surrendering the package deal, in favor of just Internet access and utilizing a service such as Google Voice, is almost guaranteed to save you a ton of money.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtdeo4qOQSKveZwFgRMEXjfN7X9KyCKFBimW2lYKUwdHSru2952X1EB6S3NH2Xc0KEgIygC_mLWv7OmMIyfMffy7genosSDnhN4Ve7kn_iXjasliBU0vAmYwT4yYHlIX1lX8lEJk5XbJg/s1600/Obi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtdeo4qOQSKveZwFgRMEXjfN7X9KyCKFBimW2lYKUwdHSru2952X1EB6S3NH2Xc0KEgIygC_mLWv7OmMIyfMffy7genosSDnhN4Ve7kn_iXjasliBU0vAmYwT4yYHlIX1lX8lEJk5XbJg/s200/Obi.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">OBi200 VoIp phone adapter</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There may be other alternatives to Google Voice that might be just as good or better, but I can only recommend what I know. And I'm recommending Google Voice at this time, because I've become aware that Amazon will be having a <a href="http://mailsg.obihai.com/wf/click?upn=nFYZ9lbJj4s1T68NCGcqPaYajaMKJX2RI7DXAgMGSsLna6AF-2FMPefrGiFoQlGZkp_oGvHi7ep5j2N7Qfu-2FQdUQp3FLSleuNvTTiXTUQZKkNogoZlXuQN1svQQJO0pqGSD7fN2xijFEwBJVReE9ox2j64qUK2QEqGnOgojAewJkvOQuy7l5cL7ZgA9yGNDZL2C5bDder8QKMW0WFqbyyFXqItkkuALscjtqWNg4Q2XZjcwd-2BKVI2-2BHViqs3cRLO36qZoJYxDA9DOFHu1ruawTK14RZOq4ehxCz-2B116iGBa2JK7F6QaKUmT1p5uusOfGmhyUAff4BO8yXa6pJ5w7Uk1YjaHqmOh4rUStpNg6gd7xNqRJ4S6J4k-2FwXM2fTyYgZWB7sKVLNuSfA0EvalNwDHECSP5btB2gYtGOm5f1QbcB0l725vba2fUPvejzYs9G-2FQ-2B0cX2e-2BG9wx7RexLkxcqL4A-3D-3D" target="_blank">lightning deal</a> on the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BUV7C9A/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00BUV7C9A&linkCode=as2&tag=obihatechn-20" target="_blank">OBi200 VoIP phone adapter</a> starting at 8 am tomorrow, Tuesday April 12th. You should be able to save over 25-percent off the regular price.<br />
<br />
These deals happen occasionally, but not too frequently. So you might want to check it out.<br />
<br />
And just in case you're wondering, no, I don't have any marketing affiliation with either Google or Obihai. I receive no benefit from recommending the service or product.<br />
<br />
If you think I'm overly enthusiastic about this technology, check out the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BUV7C9A/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00BUV7C9A&linkCode=as2&tag=obihatechn-20#customerReviews" target="_blank">customer reviews on Amazon</a>. There's big money to be saved.</div>
<br />Larry Johmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08338782371894514617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2118063388211573780.post-67129379329357495882016-04-10T08:00:00.000-07:002016-04-10T08:45:14.002-07:00A walk in the park... in Hayward<div style="text-align: justify;">
The East Bay Regional Park District has created a webpage recommending numerous short walking trails throughout its vast system of parks. These trails are described as relatively non-strenuous pathways suitable for senior citizens, parents with small children, or for anyone not ready for demanding hikes through the wilderness.<br />
<br />
Three of the recommended trails are located right here in Hayward:</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGPHmefmNzoN6DaPqnfdBi21vZdqzzCE868CoU-TVpLxhDxqWBuP31Ji-XhLFt-Zr5zCV2Tr89-2WnDlhUs5tZr89MqQ2rXQM8SybqfxaiaeRLUhU13dbtVqwzKQ5LRw1UBa5U3Sz1a-c/s1600/EBRPD+-+Hayward_Shoreline_Short_Loop_map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGPHmefmNzoN6DaPqnfdBi21vZdqzzCE868CoU-TVpLxhDxqWBuP31Ji-XhLFt-Zr5zCV2Tr89-2WnDlhUs5tZr89MqQ2rXQM8SybqfxaiaeRLUhU13dbtVqwzKQ5LRw1UBa5U3Sz1a-c/s1600/EBRPD+-+Hayward_Shoreline_Short_Loop_map.jpg" /></a></div>
<strong style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.8px;"></strong><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.8px;"><strong style="line-height: 16.8px;">Hayward Shoreline: Cogswell Marsh Loop</strong><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 16.8px;"> </span></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.8px;">Route: (shown in red) From the parking area, head south and continue out into Cogswell Marsh. This a “lollipop” loop and you will soon be walking the head of the lollipop. Do not turn south when you reach the footbridge at Johnson’s Landing. Instead, pass the footbridge and go north to complete the lollipop loop and return to the parking area. Description: The Cogswell Marsh Loop provides users with an intimate bay experience. Thanks to an ever-present bay breeze and buffer from the city, it’s easy to forget that you’re at the center of a great megalopolis. Keep an eye out for least terns, and be sure to read the information signs that tell the interesting history of this marshland restoration. Trail type: dirt and gravel. Trail condition: good. Amenities at trailhead: parking, information, restrooms. Amenities on trail: information, benches. 2.75 miles. Elevation gain: 0 feet. Maximum grade: 0%.</span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.8px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.8px;"><br /></span>
<strong style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.8px;">Garin: Jordan Pond Loop</strong><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.8px;"> </span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.8px;">Route: (shown in red below) Begin from the Garin Barn Visitor Center and head south towards Jordan Pond. Take the trail around the pond and back to the parking area. Description: This quick loop around Jordan Pond takes you past popular picnic and lawn areas. You’ll see the historic Visitor Center, with artifacts from the ranching and farming history of the Hayward area inside, and a variety of antique farm equipment on display outside. As you make your way around the lake, you may see squirrels, raptors, and lizards, as well as a variety of wildflowers in the spring and early summer. Trail type: natural, fire road and narrow. Trail condition: smooth. Amenities at trailhead: Visitor Center, restrooms, benches, trash cans, recycling, information, phone, drinking water, parking, horseshoes, picnic tables. Amenities on trail: picnic areas, trash cans, benches, restrooms, fishing. .75 miles. Elevation gain: 50 feet. Maximum grade: 8%.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw58-PkIk05Z7Sl9ZmLwMmWdsgUvPqiKZFdQBpVH1CaWw_3c39RdnPnpvNulN6uyjHTR-WgBtbB0iSGkauk6nDdgtQWxUMLmD6OQdzjJPb8oZgZGTXJReOIGmXzCtP-FfDmmQZoLlGahg/s1600/EBRPD-Garin_Short_Loop_map-edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw58-PkIk05Z7Sl9ZmLwMmWdsgUvPqiKZFdQBpVH1CaWw_3c39RdnPnpvNulN6uyjHTR-WgBtbB0iSGkauk6nDdgtQWxUMLmD6OQdzjJPb8oZgZGTXJReOIGmXzCtP-FfDmmQZoLlGahg/s1600/EBRPD-Garin_Short_Loop_map-edited.jpg" /></a></div>
<strong style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.8px;">Garin: Dry Creek Trail Out-and-Back</strong><span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.8px;"> </span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "trebuchet ms" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 16.8px;">Route: (shown in orange on the right) Begin from the Garin Barn Visitor Center and head south on Jordan Pond Loop towards Jordan Pond. Turn left onto the paved beginning of the Dry Creek Trail and follow it, bearing left at the first junction, and right at the second to avoid the rougher parts of the trail. Walk until you get to the gate at Meyers Ranch Trail and turn back for your return. Description: This longer walk provides opportunities to see wildlife, grasslands, and chaparral areas. Attentive walkers may see raptors soaring overhead, lizards and squirrels underfoot, and butterflies all around in season. Dry Creek Trail is mostly shaded as it courses along the canyon bottom. Trail type: natural and paved, fire road and narrow. Trail condition: rustic. Amenities at trailhead: Visitor Center, restrooms, benches, trash cans, recycling, information, phone, drinking water, parking, horseshoes, picnic tables. Amenities on trail: picnic areas, trash cans, benches, fishing. 2.2 miles. Elevation gain: 245 feet. Maximum grade: 10%. </span><br />
<br />
The maps and descriptions above are from the Park District website. For a printable brochure and more information on other nearby walking trails, visit their site at: <a href="http://www.ebparks.org/activities/hiking/shortloopwalks" target="_blank">www.EBparks.org</a></div>
Larry Johmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08338782371894514617noreply@blogger.com0Hayward, CA, USA37.6688205 -122.080796437.467602 -122.40351989999999 37.870039000000006 -121.7580729tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2118063388211573780.post-1527826523448313532016-04-04T16:00:00.000-07:002016-07-06T08:52:25.509-07:00Argument against extending the Utility User Tax<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #ea9999; font-family: "times" , "times new roman" , serif;">NOTE: The following is my principle argument against Measure D. An abridged version will appear in the voter guide that is circulated around the end of April. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In 2009, the <a href="http://www.tricityvoice.com/articlefiledisplay.php?issue=2009-03-11&file=Fiscal+Crisis.txt" target="_blank">City Council declared a fiscal emergency</a> to justify a
Utility User Tax (UUT). The purpose of
this temporary, 10-year tax was to weather the effects of the recession (ie. the collapse of property values, home sales, and indiscriminate spending<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; line-height: 15.6933px;">—</span>or, more accurately, the municipal revenue derived from property tax assessments, the tax on real property transfers, and sales tax).</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B16xIRJPUE5kS1JuT3BUaUlLLUk/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">2009 city staff report</a> on the subject predicted that "<i>...it will take a number of years for valuations to return to current levels, in what could be a 7-10 year recovery for real estate values</i>."</div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Now, 7-years later, property values have indeed recovered, and there are <a href="https://mirage-carol.codio.io/" target="_blank">hundreds of residential units currently in the city's planning process</a>. It might actually be said that the economy is doing rather well.<br />
<br />
So from now until 2019, when the UUT is set to expire, the city should reap a windfall. It currently has restored revenue levels, the supplemental revenue of the UUT, and, of course, the added bonus of having new revenue from our elevated sales tax, which is now at 10%<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 14.6667px; line-height: 15.6933px;">—</span>the
highest in the state.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The bottomline is that an extension of the utility user tax should no longer be necessary. To suggest otherwise is an admission that the City is budgetarily inept, and that we’re
perpetually stuck in a state of emergency.<br />
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Speaking of emergencies, instead of incessantly threatening to cut emergency services if we don't pass every tax measure it conceives, the City
ought to be reining in the highest compensation levels of its emergency service
personnel. Visit <a href="http://transparentcalifornia.com/salaries/2014/hayward/" target="_blank">TransparentCalifornia.com</a> and count the number of Hayward firefighters receiving total annual compensation
amounts of over $300,000. You’ll be shocked.</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Regarding the UUT itself, most have no idea what they’re being
taxed on or the specific amount they pay each year… Do you?</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Some utilities are taxed; some aren’t. Electricity is taxed;
water isn’t. Gas is taxed; sewer isn’t. Xfinity TV is taxed; Dish TV isn’t.
Landline phone service is taxed; free VoIP phone service can't be. Cell phone service billed to a
Hayward address is taxed; service invoiced elsewhere (such as a prepaid/no-contact
account or a friends and family/employer plan) can't effectively be taxed either.</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The tax is ridiculously confusing. The <a href="http://uutinfo.org/uutinfo_city_info/hayward/Hayward_UUT_Ordinance(2009).pdf" target="_blank">ordinance</a> that defines it is 26-pages long. It's so complex that immediately following its passage the <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B16xIRJPUE5kblpqb1B2WHptMWc/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">City hired a consultant</a> to help manage it. Not long after, it was discovered that the City was in receipt of UUT money collected for providing Internet access. This is prohibited by the Federal <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Internet_Tax_Freedom_Act" target="_blank">Internet Tax Freedom Act</a>. Subsequent refund requests were denied, and a costly lawsuit ensued (<a href="http://caselaw.findlaw.com/ca-court-of-appeal/1663033.html" target="_blank">Sipple v. City of Hayward</a>). In its decision, the appellate court stated the shamefully obvious: keeping the improper tax would leave the city "unjustly enriched at the expense of [the service provider's] customers."</div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But that wouldn't be the only injustice here. That's because there’s no logical correlation between this confusingly
applied tax and an individual’s burden on city services. Individual neighbors
requiring the same level of city services can be taxed significantly different
amounts based on the manner of their utility consumption.</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
An individual having Dish TV, free VoIP home phone service, a
no-contract mobile phone, and a solar array that can generate all needed power
might not pay anything toward city services via this tax<sup><span style="font-family: "calibri" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #444444;">1</span></span></sup>. While someone who has
Xfinity TV, a traditional landline phone, a cell phone billed to their Hayward
address, and all PG&E provided power may be paying hundreds annually.</div>
<br />
This is plainly unfair, and it shouldn't continue.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But that isn't the only reason.<br />
<br />
The UUT, in conjunction with all of the other wonderful taxes, fees, and assessments that have been enacted lately, is killing the golden goose—our crucial business sector.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Despite a booming economy, our city is struggling to attract and retain good businesses. Consider Hayward’s largest for-profit employer, bus manufacturer Gillig. This celebrated company has given up on Hayward and is moving to Livermore—our nearby neighbor that has no utility tax, no emergency facilities tax, and a lower sales tax rate.<br />
<br />
Do you think Tesla would remain in Fremont if that city were to impose taxes on the utilities upon which its <a href="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/57/Tesla_auto_bots.jpg" target="_blank">highly automated factory</a> depends—adding another 5.5% or so to production costs? Not likely.<br />
<br />
These taxes have a huge impact on a business's bottomline. Neighboring Dublin understands this. It attracts new businesses, like <a href="http://www.contracostatimes.com/breaking-news/ci_29640675/ikea-proposes-new-store-21-acre-site-dublin" target="_blank">IKEA</a>, by <a href="http://dublin.ca.gov/24/Economic-Development" target="_blank">trumpeting</a> the fact that it doesn't have any utility taxes.<br />
<br />
In conclusion, the UUT's purpose has been fulfilled. Extending it until 2039 simply relieves the city from budgetary constraints that demand efficient operations and tough decision making. Don't extend an unnecessary tax that is plainly unfair and bad for business.<br />
<br />
Vote No on Measure D.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.heyhayward.com/search/label/Measure%20D"><i>More...</i></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 16.8667px;">___________</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: 'times new roman'; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: normal; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 16.8667px;"><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; vertical-align: super;"><span style="color: #444444;">1</span></span>It should be said that the UUT ordinance does attempt to tax just about every utility under the sun, including solar energy. The City expects those who generate their own off-grid electricity to measure, calculate, self-report and remit a proper tax amount. Similarly, if you use propane tanks for your barbeque grill, you'll also need to send in your tax if it wasn't already collected at the filling station. If you subscribe to Netflix, then yes you too need to remit your tax on video services to City Hall. Do I even need to suggest how ridiculously impractical and unrealistic all of this is? Just this year another <a href="http://www.boe.ca.gov/industry/prepaid_mts_surcharge.html#overview" target="_blank">new law took effect</a> that requires the collection of the UUT by retailers at the point-of-sale for prepaid cell phone minutes. This means that purchasing prepaid cards at Southland Mall will cost you 5.5% more than if you buy them at Stoneridge Mall, since neighboring Pleasanton doesn't have a UUT.</span></div>
</div>
</div>
Larry Johmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08338782371894514617noreply@blogger.com7Hayward, CA, USA37.6688205 -122.080796437.467602 -122.40351989999999 37.870039000000006 -121.7580729tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2118063388211573780.post-6133706208387247402016-03-30T15:30:00.000-07:002016-04-05T09:16:52.091-07:00Here we go again.It's been awhile since I've taken the time to write a Hayward blog post; too many other interesting things have been consuming my time.<br />
<br />
But now another election cycle has arrived, and with it, another local tax measure.<br />
<br />
This time it's a proposal to extend Hayward's temporary Utility User's Tax for 20 more years (even though the current tax doesn't expire for another three).<br />
<br />
Truth be told, I wasn't exactly interested in this particular tax until I recently viewed a discussion among the city council and staff that took place back in January. Near the end of their conversation, our city leaders discussed whether or not there was an official argument against the original measure back in 2009. There wasn't.<br />
<br />
But the mayor went on to lament that "we might not be so fortunate this time."<br />
<br />
Well, she was right. Because at that very instant I decided; if no one else would pick up the gauntlet, I would.<br />
<br />
If there's anything I consider more pitiful than this town's apathetic electorate, it's politicians who wish that no consideration be given to alternative views.<br />
<br />
So I subsequently submitted an argument against the measure for publication in the voter information pamphlet. Since no one else did, you'll see it in the guide that's sent out around the end of April.<br />
<br />
In the coming days I'll post my argument here and further elaborate with additional future posts. With each of these I hope to open some eyes.<br />
<br />
In each instance, I'll provide, or otherwise link you to, the evidence in support of my position.<br />
<br />
Ultimately, you might not agree with my perspective. But if you follow this blog up until the time that you cast your vote, then at least you'll have the good sense to form a considered opinion by taking into account an alternative point-of-view.<br />
<br />
Wouldn't it be nice if all our politicians did the same?Larry Johmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08338782371894514617noreply@blogger.com1Hayward, CA, USA37.6688205 -122.080796437.467602 -122.40351989999999 37.870039000000006 -121.7580729tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2118063388211573780.post-47740938841159593062015-11-02T18:00:00.000-08:002015-11-02T18:19:53.330-08:00Beware of the Swarmers<div style="text-align: justify;">
Last night's rain and today's comfortable temperatures have brought out the swarmers.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
No, not lazy Halloween zombies who have belatedly risen from soggy graves. I'm talking about something much more menacing--flying termites. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/e8/Formosan_termite_alates.jpg/399px-Formosan_termite_alates.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/e8/Formosan_termite_alates.jpg/399px-Formosan_termite_alates.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Actually, flying termites are not all that menacing. It's the colonies from which they emerge, or the ones they might create, that represent the real danger.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Winged termites, or swarmers, are those that are leaving an established colony to reproduce and create new ones. These swarmers have no biting or chewing mouthparts. Consequently, they themselves pose no immediate risk. But their presence in large quantities indicates a significant nearby nest and a potentially growing threat.<br />
<br />
Well established <a href="http://www.doityourselftermitecontrol.com/subterranean-termites.html" target="_blank">subterranean termite colonies</a> can have hundreds, thousands, or even hundreds-of-thousands of wingless worker termites. Given enough time these tiny, but voracious, workers can turn your wood home into dust.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
So be on the lookout.<br />
<br />
If you spot a line or cluster of these insidious winged insects on, in, or around your home, now or in the future, you'd be well advised to follow up with a thorough home inspection and any advised corrective action.<br />
<br />
Most <a href="https://www.google.com/webhp?sourceid=chrome-instant&ion=1&espv=2&ie=UTF-8#q=free+termite+inspection+hayward&rflfq=1&rlha=0&tbm=lcl&tbs=lf:1,lf_ui:2&oll=37.714082899281536,-122.14300019999996&ospn=0.18685624625579322,0.383148193359375&oz=13&fll=37.657977633931175,-122.07845552226559&fspn=0.09349883577529994,0.1915740966796875&fz=13&qop=1&rlfi=hd:;si:" target="_blank">local pest control companies</a> offer free termite inspections.</div>
Larry Johmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08338782371894514617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2118063388211573780.post-34230081305134595192015-09-15T16:30:00.000-07:002015-10-11T09:10:12.368-07:00$90-million Library Investment at Risk? It's Hayward's Fault<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
On tonight's City Council Consent<i> </i>Agenda is a resolution to award a construction contract for a new library and park plaza.<br />
<br />
According to the subject <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B16xIRJPUE5kM2wtNTVSNXRZb0k/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">staff report</a>, the cost for the project will be about $65.7-million.<br />
<br />
But, let's be honest, that's not really the total amount. What the report neglects to mention is the cost of the required financing. That amount has to be inferred from another source.</div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLZS6zq9210iZ7rIf_8pVXkEGaY6d0VDsCJF3wPS-SE0YhmRqyuLjLXTGwRUf-X8z1WYCoUCAah9_exPvrOBsQiDaS6ViBmBbfYlQR4jH-S5b72ObZ-TWCKHAMI4cDanmdCFmVboNAQqc/s1600/Library+C+St+View.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLZS6zq9210iZ7rIf_8pVXkEGaY6d0VDsCJF3wPS-SE0YhmRqyuLjLXTGwRUf-X8z1WYCoUCAah9_exPvrOBsQiDaS6ViBmBbfYlQR4jH-S5b72ObZ-TWCKHAMI4cDanmdCFmVboNAQqc/s640/Library+C+St+View.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Architectural rendering of Hayward's proposed new library--the front entrance at C Street. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="color: white;">.</span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A July staff report on financing authorization identifies the need to borrow $53-million for the project. This amount is to be paid back over a period of 20-years at an interest rate of as much as 4-percent. This will result in an overall finance charge of nearly $25-million and an overall project cost of about $90-million.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Allow me to state the obvious: $90-million is a tremendous amount of money. It's equivalent to $600 for every man, woman and child living in Hayward ($90,000,000 <span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">÷ </span>150,000).</div>
<br />
But the expenditure isn't just massive, it's risky as well.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In response to the requirements of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/California_Environmental_Quality_Act" target="_blank">California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)</a>, the City issued a <a href="http://www.hayward-ca.gov/CITY-GOVERNMENT/DEPARTMENTS/DEVELOPMENT-SERVICES/documents/2015/Hayward%20Library-Learning%20Ctr%20Initial%20Study_20Mar2015.pdf" target="_blank">Mitigated Negative Declaration</a> for the project. It includes <a href="http://www.hayward-ca.gov/CITY-GOVERNMENT/DEPARTMENTS/DEVELOPMENT-SERVICES/documents/2015/Hayward%20Library-Learning%20Ctr%20IS-MND_Appendices.pdf" target="_blank">eight appendices</a> of investigative reports that collectively total over 1,300-pages of information including such things as tree health, noise levels, and historical resource quality. Yet it doesn't include a single page of what is perhaps the most important document of all, the site's geotechnical study. Why is that?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlHlvx-0ruSuIMUmb4xX8IIWNaJ0vlskDbG8nv9unfSPC0ase2PpxdhkrAdCMisQcjb8Ov0ESVLpUlx0ItB75k-HderMk0bFKEvmZ0xkm17yF-uhfKZA0F59kRT_bYfrT9LyVWJ-_WOKc/s1600/EarthQuakeFaultZone.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlHlvx-0ruSuIMUmb4xX8IIWNaJ0vlskDbG8nv9unfSPC0ase2PpxdhkrAdCMisQcjb8Ov0ESVLpUlx0ItB75k-HderMk0bFKEvmZ0xkm17yF-uhfKZA0F59kRT_bYfrT9LyVWJ-_WOKc/s320/EarthQuakeFaultZone.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Planned library location (red square) within a regulatory<br />
Alquist-<span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Priolo Earthquake Fault Zone (yellow) and ad-</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">jacent </span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">to known fault creep (C) traces of the Hayward</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Fault. </span><i style="font-size: 12.8px;">Map Image from <a href="http://www.quake.ca.gov/gmaps/WH/regulatorymaps.htm" target="_blank">CA Dept. of Conservation</a>.</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Being that the site is located within a regulated earthquake fault zone, shouldn't the public (and perhaps those who actually authorize the project) know the full extent by which the site's seismic risk was investigated?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
More specifically, how does it demon-strate, as required by California's <a href="http://www.conservation.ca.gov/cgs/rghm/ap/Pages/main.aspx" target="_blank">Alquist-Priolo Act</a> and <a href="http://www.hayward-ca.gov/GENERALPLAN/documents/2014/GPU103114/HayGPU_Part-3.6_HAZ_Element_Approved_2014-07-01.pdf#page=3" target="_blank">City policy</a>, that the proposed structure won't be built across an active fault? </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
There doesn't appear to be any surface disturbance at the project site that is large enough to suggest that a proper trenching study had been performed. In fact, the text of the Neg Dec indicates that only <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cone_penetration_test" target="_blank">cone penetrometer testing</a> (CPT) was conducted.<br />
<br />
If this is true, it's woefully insufficient. For a project of this type, size, and cost, considerably more ought to be done. <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B16xIRJPUE5kR19CcjBlNGxzNm8/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Guidelines for evaluating the hazard of surface fault rupture</a> published by the California Geological Survey (CGS) state that trenching needs to be conducted in conjunction with other methods. It also states that CPT must be done in conjunction with continuously logged borings. Nothing in the Neg Dec indicates that this has occurred.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's widely known that a creep trace of the Hayward Fault is located no farther from the building site than the proposed building is wide. This separation is apparently sufficient for some to presume that the Hayward Fault represents a less than significant impact to the safety of the site. But seismologists at both CGS and the United States Geological Survey (USGS) have told me that a known creep trace is not a definitive indicator as to where a significant surface displacement might occur during a major seismic event.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
A trenching study at Tyson's Lagoon in Fremont, for example, has revealed that adjacent to a known creep trace is another active trace of the Hayward Fault that appears to only move during major events. Additionally, Jim Lienkaemper of USGS has told me that many trenches in the wider Hayward Fault zone have revealed second and third order fault traces away from the main creeping trace that are active and in most cases are believed to have moved in a seismic rupture.</div>
<br />
These numerous inconspicuous possibilities for lateral shift across a wide swath of a fault is the reason that the Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zones are as wide as they are and why appropriate investigations are required.<br />
<br />
Not withstanding the potential physical danger posed by not properly investigating a site, the failure to demonstrate proper compliance with the Act exposes the City to enormous financial liability for possible negligence.<br />
<br />
One section of the Alquist-Priolo Act effectively strips away the "act of God" defense by stipulating that a city that does not comply with specific provisions of the Act "may be liable for earthquake-related injuries or deaths caused by its failure to so adhere."<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
I've previously heard project proponents brush aside concerns over any seismic risk. They've confidently stated that the proposed library will be a robust steel structure built to modern building code standards.</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Design professionals and city officials shouldn't have to be reminded that our modern building code doesn't guarantee anything. It merely defines minimum building standards in an effort to reasonably protect public health, safety, and general welfare. In a worst case scenario, the hope is that today's minimum standards are sufficiently adequate to provide occupants enough time to escape a structure before it might ultimately suffer catastrophic failure.<br />
<br />
As demonstrated by past deadly failures constructed to standards that were considered modern for their time, success is not guaranteed. Our knowledge and, consequently, our regulations are constantly evolving.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Case in point, a <a href="http://www.sfgate.com/science/article/Links-in-Hayward-Calaveras-faults-a-big-danger-6176234.php" target="_blank">UC Berkeley study</a> published earlier this year revealed a newly discovered connection between the Hayward Fault and the Calaveras Fault. This connection supposedly increases the amount of energy that could potentially be released during a major event by more than 2½-times that which had previously been thought possible. Will future building standards for this very project site be revised to consider greater local ground accelerations based on the new findings? Probably.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
But regardless of regulations, be they modern or not, no building, steel or otherwise, can withstand a massive lateral shift of the earth directly beneath its foundation. During a major seismic event, it's believed that the Hayward Fault has the potential of shifting 4-feet or more. Any building walls straddling such a rupture will most definitely yield.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.pge.com/en/safety/systemworks/gas/transmissionpipelines/index.page" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyvEIyCmeqYlXYwsDRkagh5Ebq9ZZ9xFTMBcfNjJS1pwEbIy9owJY9oAqujYc_GNmL9RhvkOYmD9xxm86tGAxD-E7rqxZjtb0RO6L2QZsqU9PH5XCCqu85DtkJ60unX9d804MkpB2wnE8/s1600/PGEpipline-annotated+%25281%2529.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;"><div style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">
PG&E map (click to visit the interactive web page). The blue lines indicate<br />
the location of high-pressure gas transmission pipelines. The red pin<br />
indicates the proposed location of the new library, and the red lines indicate<br />
known creep traces of the Hayward Fault (both added by <span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">this blog).</span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
There's also a potential-ly exacerbating issue not even mentioned in the Neg Dec. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Just a few steps from what will be the new library's front door lies a PG&E, high-pressure, gas transmission pipe-line -- the kind that exploded 20-miles to the west in San Bruno in 2010.<br />
<br />
As can be seen on the inset PG&E map, this high-pressure gas line crosses the Fault Zone perpendicularly at C Street.</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It really won't matter where the ground surface actually ruptures in a major event, at a previously identified fault trace or somewhere adjacent, the shearing of this and other pipelines will be a virtual certainty. (Just last month, the East Bay Municipal Utility District reported <a href="http://patch.com/california/sanleandro/ebmud-reports-nine-boken-water-pipes-following-monday-quake" target="_blank">nine water pipes broke</a> throughout its service area following a minor quake on the Hayward Fault.)</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
PG&E believes it has addressed the threat posed by fault crossings with the installation of automatic shut-off valves. However, not being able to find any detail as to the actual extent of its efforts, I remain dubious. And apparently, I'm not alone. The Public Utilities Commission has also indicated a <a href="http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-puc-public-records-20150817-story.html" target="_blank">lack of confidence in PG&E's safety policies and practices</a> by announcing last month its consideration of an investigative review.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Don't forget that the principle cause of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1906_San_Francisco_earthquake#Fires" target="_blank">San Francisco's citywide destruction in 1906</a> was not due to the shaking earth, but to the relentless fires that ensued--which were abundantly fueled by broken gas lines.</div>
<span style="color: white;">.</span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Some will suggest that we have nothing to fear. After all, Fire Station No. 1 is only a block away at C Street and Main. Unfortunately, however, that building may be similarly at risk. Like the proposed library, it's located within the earthquake fault zone, across the street from an identified fault trace, and immediately adjacent to the PG&E gas transmission line.</div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNolbE5mYla3p_T6f_3eVaFfU1-W33LIu-tTNon5uEto3WjrYaPY4CPrcBocR_5xsiVDy_FuPUSyIxMtW_1GofIdXHhlwPvCiGwjAHwXX1ZwWSby3ZtrxAGjfh-x6lRzWLP7k692krrKc/s1600/HPD+-+Northern+District+Office.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNolbE5mYla3p_T6f_3eVaFfU1-W33LIu-tTNon5uEto3WjrYaPY4CPrcBocR_5xsiVDy_FuPUSyIxMtW_1GofIdXHhlwPvCiGwjAHwXX1ZwWSby3ZtrxAGjfh-x6lRzWLP7k692krrKc/s400/HPD+-+Northern+District+Office.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hayward PD Substation. Main St at its front, fault trace at its rear.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And if that doesn't suggest a cavalier attitude toward the city's namesake fault, then consider that across from the fire station is the local police substation. It's located in an old masonry structure (constructed in 1927) whose rear wall sits inches from a mapped fault trace, and it too is immediately adjacent to the high-pressure gas transmission line. Clearly, if the City considers a site like this suitable for its public safety personnel, then nothing must be off limits for other civic buildings.</div>
<br />
This then begs the question: hasn't anything been learned from history?<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Hayward has a rather unfortunate legacy with regard to its public buildings.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The city's first permanent library, the <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKTXncTFrsPeMqqjCgPtdDgVQnF1-Z_sB34IpNfvCIt4XHo45hSF2HjkhEK3X123M5BLvXia0aQscKV3G9gd75C_DiJj4n_imJdMOarRE2QO0aDNn16qiXMQk5xJ3C8vd2WL1dw4CNpN0/w1235-h851-no/HaywardCarnegieLibrary.png" target="_blank">Carnegie Library</a>, was located just over a thousand feet from the proposed project site. It was substantially damaged during the historic 1906 earthquake.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The abandoned City Hall on Mission Blvd, which sits kitty-corner to the proposed project site, was constructed directly atop one of the creep fault traces. It's now slowly being ripped in half.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The city's widely admired Union High School was torn down and the site abandoned because it was considered too seismically hazardous. But then the <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ41ffP5fpK2VbjRSUkn0rYUrVuUaTJloUcTIuuZd1A5a4_HdmiThDXI5RpLs24Ng7jMS_RnG66fng0_3dWwd8uGrxNmsLctTqGG6WsgJH0py3OPMlR8762ucjYIe05Lv41i-hsWx3phc/w648-h851-no/IMG_2420.JPG" target="_blank">City Center complex</a> was erected at the very same spot only to be rendered useless by the 1989 Loma Prieta quake.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Two years ago Cal State's iconic Warren Hall was imploded because it was considered the most seismically unsafe building in the entire state university system. (The Hayward Fault lies at the base of the hill upon which Warren Hall was perched.)</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
How is it that one city can have such an infamous record?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
It's partly out of stupidity and partly out of pride, but mostly it's due to simple ignorance. Decision makers generally didn't know any better. The fact is the Hayward Fault wasn't mapped, nor a regulatory fault zone established, until after most of these structures were constructed.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Today, however, we know better.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Therefore, it has to be asked. If in the future this incredibly expensive project becomes prematurely unusable simply because of its risky location (like the fiasco of <a href="http://articles.latimes.com/2002/dec/05/local/me-belmont5" target="_blank">LA's Learning Center Complex</a>) then what's going to be our excuse?</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Proverbs 16:18</span>Larry Johmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08338782371894514617noreply@blogger.com0Hayward, CA, USA37.6688205 -122.080796437.467602 -122.40351989999999 37.870039000000006 -121.7580729tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2118063388211573780.post-27729535594377358422015-07-28T19:00:00.000-07:002015-10-11T09:10:46.833-07:00For God's sake, we're renaming city streets after churches now?<div style="text-align: justify;">
Quite by accident I tuned-in to last week's Hayward City Council meeting in time to hear the Council approve the renaming of a public street to that of a church.<br />
<br />
Astonishingly, council members voted 7-0 in favor of changing the name of <b>Forselles Way</b> to <b>Glad Tidings Way</b> as petitioned by the <a href="http://www.gladtidingscogic.org/" target="_blank">Glad Tidings Church of God in Christ</a>. (The church's most prominent facility is located at 27689 Tyrrell Avenue at the corner of Forselles Way as shown in the street image below.) </div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.633395,-122.072139,3a,75y,252.46h,90.06t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1snb3LA4A5li_SCD5pNlOX4A!2e0!7i13312!8i6656" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9yi6gGtEkLtr3zLVL3m3TbqgR7yg_JblWw41p7FLtjx9DK2Zme0s52YarpUO-dwD8GJgvBNUBXTqsoZwIIpgKuW5Or4sv5bNz9Wlvio75t-Y8aFDs_-l2tcloF3iSvurkdlJyXe_x1iQ/s640/GladTidings.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Google Street View Image - March 2015</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<br />
<div>
<span style="color: white;">.</span><br />
Forselles Way is a city owned, tax-payer maintained, thoroughfare that connects Tyrrell Avenue with Tampa Avenue. It's only about a quarter-of-a-mile long and flanked by eight privately owned parcels. Only three of these parcels have Forselles Way addresses, all of which are mixed use developments primarily consisting of residential apartments. A former Hayward mayor owns one; a corporation owns the other two. <strike>Both (<i>i.e. all</i>) of these immediately impacted property owners</strike> The former mayor and her property representatives objected to the name change at the council meeting. Despite this, the council members unanimously sided with the church. Now the objecting property owner and twenty tenants are obligated to change their addresses.<br />
<br />
Outrageous.<br />
<br />
<i><span style="color: red;">Correction: It was originally stated that the corporate property owner also objected to the name change at the council meeting. It did not.</span></i><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Forselles+Way,+Hayward,+CA+94544/@37.6329977,-122.0741268,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9419952ba207:0xf1d1c0a3eb786613" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbaaRuwdeO2yUc1crUOLNBLK_r4kIH0jDqhnn1nEvLmaTe7clzOSXeTDGhTIQSxgVSGiwpVBjfU7-Hp2DNemXrXPwR_wb2aPi19CPHgpUz-uQNCqsrHyDV-tDT1Ix_hYBw0CZB9CjW_T4/s640/MapOfForsellesAddresses.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Map of Forselles Way (gray cross-hatching). Yellow shaded parcels are the only ones with a Forselles Way address. The owner of the smallest yellow shaded parcel opposes the renaming of Forselles Way to Glad Tidings Way.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: white;">.</span><br />
Never mind respecting property owner's rights, how about having some respect for the separation of church and state? The concept, after all, is only defined by the very first line of our Constitution's First Amendment, i.e. the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Establishment_Clause" target="_blank">Establishment Clause</a>.<br />
<br />
Incredibly, the City Attorney asserted at the meeting that Council's approval of the name change is not in conflict with the First Amendment, because it doesn't recognize or choose one religion over another.<br />
<br />
<i>Excuse me?</i><br />
<br />
This is precisely what it does. By rechristening the street with the church's name, the Council is not only recognizing <b>Glad Tidings Church</b>, it's chosen to promote it over all others.<br />
<br />
Or are we to understand that the Council plans on equalizing things by further renaming streets to recognize other religious establishments in the city? Considering that there are <a href="http://www.yelp.com/search?find_desc=Religious+Organizations&find_loc=Hayward%2C+CA#start=0&l=p:CA:Hayward::" target="_blank">scores of religious organizations in Hayward</a>, many sharing the same street, things might get rather interesting. Pandora's box has now been cast wide open.<br />
<br />
What if the former mayor, who happens to be <a href="http://www.jweekly.com/article/full/70756/ex-mayor-continues-to-shine-in-jewish-circles-and-beyond/" target="_blank">a champion of the Jewish faith</a>, invites a rabbi to establish a synagogue on her Forselles Way property? Does the Council believe it's proper to force a Jewish institution, or even just a citizen of Jewish faith, to accept a street name that, according to the King James Bible, means <a href="http://www.bible-history.com/isbe/G/GLAD+TIDINGS/" target="_blank">preach God in Christ</a>?<br />
<br />
It should be obvious that the new name will have a chilling effect on the desire of other religious organizations and even citizens of other faiths to locate on the street. This equates to a form of discrimination--a blatant violation of constitutional rights.<br />
<br />
And if the Council's decision isn't offensive enough, consider the manner by which the City advanced the cause. It too is similarly egregious and most definitely suspicious.<br />
<br /></div>
First, the City didn't even intend to have the matter heard or discussed by anyone at all. It was buried within the Council's '<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/i1S8Cc4gED6MMxNXm8Ul8r90HC_tq7hsulQ8_equRFw=w656-h285-no" target="_blank">consent agenda</a>'--the part of the meeting where numerous routine, supposedly non-controversial issues are voted on as a whole, all at once, without discussion. In this particular instance, it was <a href="http://www.hayward-ca.gov/CITY-GOVERNMENT/CITY-COUNCIL-MEETINGS/2015/CCA15PDF/cca072115.pdf#page=3" target="_blank">Item #8 in a group of 20 "routine" items</a>. Had it not been for the in-person objections, the name change would have been approved with hardly anyone noticing at all.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
Secondly, it seems oddly convenient that a decision that might subsequently be challenged was scheduled for the last typical Council meeting before its summer break. The next opportunity for the Council action to be redressed is September 15, 2015--after the new name has most likely been implemented.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Next, isn't it peculiar that there isn't any discussion of the glaring First Amendment issue in the <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B16xIRJPUE5kMjdkbUpsYzBidDg/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">Council Staff Report</a>? Isn't it also odd that none of the Council members inquired about it? It wasn't until the presiding mayor made her closing remarks that she awkwardly alluded to a non-public discussion on the matter, apparently introduced by an email message that remains undisclosed. She then asked the City Attorney to weigh-in, where he provided the comment previously mentioned. Curiously, the Council's meeting webpage doesn't include the referenced message. It only links to correspondence in support of the name change--one from the Police Chief of neighboring Union City and another from a former Hayward School Board President.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.hayward-ca.gov/CITY-GOVERNMENT/CITY-COUNCIL-MEETINGS/" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="433" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqknza-ZqvSpZ5lEPCmlUIxJdUszfVTupzDC31xvUM7HiIDgV6BioBrPfKRiXDDYp2Ryya72z5QuR9ZjZ7KUh-AAe9TpXO_l9pd_XQX-fPdHw6cL47JhusgS1aKg0vfdDmZeE-XFK41Rk/s640/ForsellesCorrespondence.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Screenshot of the Council's meeting webpage that shows it providing links to only correspondence in support of the Item #8 name change, but not to the inquisitive message alluded to in the meeting <span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">(7/28/2015).</span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;"><i>Click the image to visit the Council webpage.</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: white;">.</span><br />
Finally, at the end of the discussion and just prior to the vote, the presiding mayor actually thanked those responsible for bringing the name change request to Council. She also said she was sorry that the issue had caused such dissent and hoped that differences would be resolved as we all move on. Kumbaya, Madam Mayor. Kumbaya.</div>
Larry Johmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08338782371894514617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2118063388211573780.post-23542016881846491752015-07-22T16:00:00.000-07:002015-07-27T11:26:09.941-07:00With ever-lasting gratitude, we profoundly appreciate your service to and ultimate sacrifice for the Hayward community.<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://www.sfgate.com/crime/article/Slain-Hayward-sergeant-Scott-Lunger-loved-6400083.php" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDLepYTk2npKbvl1DrBCX08YgAF5Q_C6uzu6p7MTKYJPbT2Ejle8SP_j7zzDNevmUlSrULcp21Y-HMbAhJ5nEPtdFMW5htr1OY91dO3yrpmzZiB7iKeXKuqjx6WHibrAi17TtzuQbJtPI/s640/Lunger.jpg" width="492" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/HaywardPoliceDept/photos/a.629032127151028.1073741828.522907627763479/921597094561195/" target="_blank">Image credit: Hayward PD</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/insidebayarea/obituary.aspx?n=Scott-Lunger&pid=175375130" target="_blank">Obituary</a><br />
<br />
<i>To make a donation, contact:</i><br />
<a href="http://haywardpoa.com/" target="_blank">Hayward Police Officers' Association</a><br />
<br /></div>
Larry Johmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08338782371894514617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2118063388211573780.post-52494358722908164712015-06-16T17:00:00.000-07:002015-07-25T09:40:48.849-07:00Bring Back the Blotter!<div style="text-align: justify;">
Two years ago, the <a href="http://www.hayward-ca.gov/CITY-GOVERNMENT/DEPARTMENTS/POLICE/" target="_blank">Hayward Police Department</a> joined the public safety website <a href="https://nixle.com/city-of-hayward-police-dept/" target="_blank">Nixle</a>. Each week, the department would post a blotter to the Nixle platform. It provided an informative description of recent criminal activity, the corresponding police response, and the outcome.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In March of this year the regular posting of the blotter abruptly stopped with a promise that it would return three weeks later in a new and improved format. Two months have now passed since it was supposed to have returned.</div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjRuyUdFpgEK4voesihExB1SR6-0xnC4jQcIJzdy2QawcrYwePdi2eOAiClTXGgC3AQYgjptES6VJtb0fmLLDgxJPQJevLcYbBO3K4WlhPruCRKv209GDjnSWv2Uai3SJlWW8V-_5zX4U/s1600/blotter.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjRuyUdFpgEK4voesihExB1SR6-0xnC4jQcIJzdy2QawcrYwePdi2eOAiClTXGgC3AQYgjptES6VJtb0fmLLDgxJPQJevLcYbBO3K4WlhPruCRKv209GDjnSWv2Uai3SJlWW8V-_5zX4U/s1600/blotter.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(Message posted to Nixle by Hayward PD in March)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When I inquired to staff as to what was going on, I was told that the blotter was discontinued because it was thought that it cast Hayward in a bad light. It would return when it could be figured out how to present the information in way that didn't reflect so negatively on the city.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Huh? This doesn't really seem to jibe with the PD's previous message. But if what I was told is true, we're probably in for a long wait. How do you put a happy face on criminal activity?<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.crimemapping.com/map/ca/hayward" target="_blank">CrimeMapping.com</a> still appears to be updated by the department. But with descriptions of only one or two words in length, the information is hardly useful or interesting. What's more, this kind of limited reporting actually <i>does</i> make the city look bad, because it only indicates widespread criminal activity and not successful policing in the form of identifying suspects and making arrests.<br />
<br />
To be useful to residents and businesses (and therefore the department itself), the reporting should be detailed and accurate without any unnecessary censorship or spin. It should also include mug shots like those included in the <a href="https://nixle.com/alert/5431324/" target="_blank">Union City Police Blotter</a>. Geo-referencing the information to an interactive map is also nice, but without a truly descriptive narrative it is of little value.<br />
<br />
Please bring back the blotter.</div>
Larry Johmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08338782371894514617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2118063388211573780.post-3969179278589941602015-06-14T14:00:00.000-07:002015-06-18T09:27:37.842-07:00Free photovoltaic systems for qualified homeowners<div style="text-align: justify;">
Last month, the San Francisco Chronicle reported that some low-income homeowners are eligible to receive free solar arrays that typically cost $15,000 or more. According to the <a href="http://www.sfgate.com/business/article/Low-income-homeowners-get-free-solar-panels-6281762.php" target="_blank">article</a>, the generous giveaway is made possible through a California program managed by Grid Alternatives, an Oakland based, non-profit company.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Upon browsing the <a href="http://www.gridalternatives.org/" target="_blank">Grid Alternatives website</a>, I was confused to find program eligibility requirements that apparently differed from those mentioned in the article. While I personally wouldn't qualify under the requirements of either list, I wondered how anyone could if the requirements of both needed to be satisfied. So out of curiosity, I decided to contact the company to find out more.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As it turns out, Grid Alternatives purchases and installs solar panels using subsidies acquired through multiple State programs having different qualifications. Depending on a client's particular situation, the company will seek funding from the appropriate source.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Of course, "appropriate" is a subjective term. Some argue that none of this is appropriate, since it all appears to be a questionable gift of public funds.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Whatever the case, it is what it is. So I figured I'd just share what I've learned for those who might be able to take advantage of the opportunities while they last.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
The two programs currently worth trumpeting are the Single-family Affordable Solar Homes (SASH) program and the Low Income Weatherization Program. The SASH program is the more established of the two (for photovoltaics) and the one most prominently featured on the Grid Alternative's website at the time of this posting. The Low Income Weatherization program is the one highlighted by the Chronicle article.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The common fundamental prerequisites for both programs are:</div>
<br />
1) The homeowner must live in the home, and<br />
2) The household must earn no more than <b>80-percent</b> of the area median income (AMI)<br />
(based on the previous year's tax return).<br />
<br />
For those living in Alameda County, the income limits are as follows:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.gridalternatives.org/sites/default/files/CA%20AMI%20Limits%202014.pdf" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgbAltSImLlUZmwGf7chjvWiPsrcciYm-qR808cvW0dcBPitijcY_0JyxkgOsY8mhSqU2sTF-G4zEyusgJcA3jKqIEv2N1D8TWQxNcQT33RQe3Xc-IEv2zmOHtzhKYs4PX0hL5qzDEwMQ/s640/AC-Income.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<span style="color: white;">.</span><br />
<div>
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<b><u>Single-family Affordable Solar Homes (SASH) Program</u></b><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The <a href="http://www.cpuc.ca.gov/PUC/energy/Solar/sash.htm" target="_blank">Single-family Affordable Solar Homes or SASH</a> program is a solar incentive program intended to fully or partially subsidize the installation of a photovoltaic system for low-income homeowners. It's offered through the <a href="http://www.gosolarcalifornia.ca.gov/about/csi.php" target="_blank">California Solar Initiative (CSI)</a> and is overseen by the California Public Utilities Commission (PUC). The program has a budget of $108.3-million and is managed by <a href="http://www.gridalternatives.org/learn/sash/sash-eligibility-requirements" target="_blank">Grid Alternatives</a> on the PUC's behalf.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In addition to the common requirements previously described, this program requires that the home be classified as "affordable housing" as defined by the <a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/PaR1wisbTOjgx2TWGlEzd5EHV08qIceMkNi4RdeRpQU=w868-h690-no" target="_blank">Public Utilities Code 2852</a>.<br />
<br />
If not, the home should otherwise be located in a qualified census tract. In Hayward, current qualifying census tracts include those shaded in green and blue on the map below. These can change from year-to-year; so what qualifies this year may not in future years and vice-versa. (<i>This census tract qualifier is a new one that was recently approved by the State and is not listed on Grid Alternative's website at the time of this posting</i>.)</div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.huduser.org/qct/qctmap.html" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrZnSdJRuanhm_lgvE9wwv6ot3UCiGkQUmQDyt1cvBDFp-8mWDAcKAwcn5UAUrS-iih9SezGW8_x9KlGoHg4tU9q0OyP9CHBo9SPdMD6Hmd-KIva5YFFf9C3NDcMFznTzvSNsMZPEPbjk/s1600/HaywardCensusTracts.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;">Blue and green shaded area = Currently eligible census tracts in 2015.<br />
Purple shaded area = Previously eligible census tracts, but no longer.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<b><u><br /></u></b>
<span style="color: white;">.</span><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b><b><u>Low Income Weatherization Program</u></b><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The <a href="http://www.csd.ca.gov/Services/LowIncomeWeatherizationProgram.aspx" target="_blank">Low Income Weatherization Program</a> has traditionally disbursed funds to organizations like <a href="http://www.spectrumcs.org/energy-services/weatherization" target="_blank">Hayward's Spectrum Community Services</a> for repairing or replacing inefficient, energy consuming appliances and systems in low income households. But thanks to the <a href="http://www.calepa.ca.gov/EnvJustice/GHGInvest/" target="_blank">greenhouse gas-reduction funds</a> generated by California's <a href="http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/capandtrade/capandtrade.htm" target="_blank">Cap-and-Trade Program</a>, it now also provides money for <a href="http://www.gridalternatives.org/news/californias-cap-trade-investments-hitting-grid-rooftops" target="_blank">Grid Alternatives</a> to install photovoltaic systems for low income homeowners.<br />
<br />
While the Weatherization Program currently has a smaller budget than the SASH program, the <a href="http://fusion.net/story/140864/californias-cap-and-trade-program-has-generated-so-much-money-that-the-state-doesnt-know-what-to-do-with-it/" target="_blank">funding windfall</a> generated by cap-and-trade, together with a legislated minimum allocation requirement, suggest that this program will potentially offer greater opportunities in the future.<br />
<br />
In addition to the common fundamental requirements previously described, this program requires that the home be located in a disadvantaged community. A <a href="http://www.calepa.ca.gov/EnvJustice/GHGInvest/Documents/SB535DesCom.pdf" target="_blank">disadvantaged community</a> is an area disproportionately burdened by environmental pollution and socioeconomic issues as established by the California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA), In Hayward, this is the red shaded area on the map below.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Only Hayward's western most neighborhoods have been assigned this designation. This is obviously based upon a recognition that these neighborhoods are primarily disadvantaged by their proximity to the <a href="http://www.calpine.com/power/plant.asp?plant=261" target="_blank">Russell City Energy Center</a>. Strangely, however, the delineated boundary doesn't appear completely rational or fair. While the area includes the <a href="http://www.edenshorescommunity.com/" target="_blank">Eden Shores Community</a>, where some homes are currently valued at over a million dollars, the boundary appears to deliberately exclude the more economically depressed neighborhood portions surrounding Mt Eden Park. These excluded portions are closer to the power plant, are clearly at a greater disadvantage, and are seemingly more suitable candidates of current and future offers of assistance in terms of program requirements and objectives.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Future boundary changes are possible, according to CalEPA. Therefore, it should be incumbent upon the <a href="http://www.hayward-ca.gov/city-government/departments/mayor-&-city-council/" target="_blank">City Council</a> and <a href="http://asmdc.org/members/a20/" target="_blank">Assemblyman Bill Quirk</a> to lobby hard for the proper expansion of the disadvantaged area. Considering that they <a href="http://www.eastbayexpress.com/oakland/hayward-at-odds-over-proposed-plant/Content?oid=1504557" target="_blank">didn't offer any resistance</a> to locating the offending pollution source in the community in the first place, it's the least they can do now. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://arcg.is/1FSMbJs" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi87Vl-t7K4xbZmx4nZWY0ckSldQ1krWtsIDPQIhAC6RDZuJ8irs0haoTNucTU5ixfjDPd124pmZ3q_t_f3-QEUWtag2SOxSkAJkcTcnguiKqxoiE-zENAqkzJEYPhsmlIKUHHtZ3qWhfc/s1600/MapForFreeSolar.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: left;">Red shading represents a disadvantaged area that potentially qualifies low-income homeowners<br />
for free or greatly discounted photvoltaic systems.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: justify;">If all of this seems a bit convoluted, that's because it is. These are multifaceted bureaucratic programs with evolving rules and conditions. Be sure to </span><a href="http://www.gridalternatives.org/learn/contact-us" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">contact Grid Alternatives</a><span style="text-align: justify;"> if you think you qualify or are otherwise uncertain. As the programs' adminstrator/contractor, only they can definitively determine and correctly explain how they might be able to assist.</span></div>
<br />Larry Johmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08338782371894514617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2118063388211573780.post-40835167383370613162015-05-03T13:00:00.000-07:002016-04-10T08:08:43.974-07:00EBRPD Police - A Nextdoor Introduction<span style="font-family: inherit;">This past week, the Police Department of the East Bay Regional Park District </span>(EBRPD)<span style="font-family: inherit;"> joined the online social website '<a href="https://nextdoor.com/" target="_blank">Nextdoor</a>.' As a way of introduction, a brief description of the department was posted. It partially states:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">"</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><i><span style="color: #38761d;">By land, by sea, and by air we provide around-the-clock services through a variety of specialized assignments. Our department includes patrol teams, the Air Support Unit, Marine Patrol, Equestrian Patrols, K-9 Unit, Special Enforcement Unit, Investigations Unit, and a 24-hour per day 9-1-1 Communications Center.</span></i><span style="color: #1e1c1c;">"</span></span></b><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><span style="color: #1e1c1c;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"><span style="color: #1e1c1c;">Rather i</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">mpressive I think...and also somewhat sad. </span>After all,<span style="font-family: inherit;"> what does it say about our society that our park spaces require such extensive law enforcement?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">When you visit the <a href="http://www.ebparks.org/about/police" target="_blank">District's website</a> you learn that its police force is made up of 65-sworn officers costing more than $13-million per year. You'll also find images and video of the department's operations and equipment, including a SWAT team and </span>a <a href="http://www.swat-vehicles.com/batt-vehicle.php" target="_blank">"Ballistic Armored Tactical Transport" (BATT)</a> truck. The armored vehicle is similar to the one <a href="http://www.heyhayward.com/2015/03/police-response-and-posture-things-need.html" target="_blank">used by Hayward</a> and that <a href="http://www.ebpublishing.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=9400:council-approves-bearcat-purchase&catid=1:latest&Itemid=28" target="_blank">recently ordered by the City of San Leandro</a>.<br />
<br />
I can't help but wonder; don't our cities, counties, state and federal law enforcement agencies have enough <a href="http://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424127887323848804578608040780519904" target="_blank">warrior cops</a> and militaristic hardware that we have to further fund a dedicated SWAT team and an armored truck for our parks as well?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVQ7cx8-izJLFAceLhPJxQ8lm-wfksLY11iqTd3sFX1Cva3ncFSok6dskCSMV2XAkNEZsX-ytIVG9DDGQbHYrTsSvorcG7H-kWL6PP-dxrwMpMNjs5TvUBE3WBNY4G2l8GEamwi_3jto4/s1600/ebrpd+police.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="369" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVQ7cx8-izJLFAceLhPJxQ8lm-wfksLY11iqTd3sFX1Cva3ncFSok6dskCSMV2XAkNEZsX-ytIVG9DDGQbHYrTsSvorcG7H-kWL6PP-dxrwMpMNjs5TvUBE3WBNY4G2l8GEamwi_3jto4/s1600/ebrpd+police.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Images from East Bay Regional Park District Police Department webpage and recruitment video.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />Larry Johmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08338782371894514617noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2118063388211573780.post-88903519787461009892015-04-01T09:00:00.000-07:002015-04-02T12:42:18.118-07:00Hayward's Sales Tax Increases to 10-percent -- April 1, 2015No, it's not an April Fools' joke unfortunately. Today, Hayward's sales tax--together with that of San Leandro, Union City, and Albany--increases to 10-percent, the highest in the state. The increase is a result of voters approving <a href="http://ballotpedia.org/Alameda_County_Transportation_Commission_Sales_Tax,_Measure_BB_%28November_2014%29" target="_blank">County Transportation Measure BB</a> this past November. (<i>Hayward's sales tax rate had just previously increased from 9- to 9<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">½</span>-percent this past October as a consequence of <a href="http://ballotpedia.org/City_of_Hayward_Sales_Tax,_Measure_C_%28June_2014%29" target="_blank">Measure C</a>.</i>)<br />
<br />
El Cerrito and four Los Angeles communities share our top tier tax status. At 10-percent, we now have a higher sales tax rate than 99-percent of the nearly <a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1FElM3FCt4KNsJQSCqBNraBNJLXu3TsPR0nYJmNbSzGU/edit?usp=sharing" target="_blank">1,800 communities</a> listed on the <a href="http://www.boe.ca.gov/cgi-bin/rates_2015.cgi" target="_blank">State Board of Equalization's website</a>.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgFk2_FRBBcM3YoQQYYLBinVHRQWVQuRPKCrh0ZBEHcB8mIJA0bKoOApSdZrr5dexRYA8tHgYGkkIV6UGz81mkpFpIgvGO7jUQsB5eNeHpUnjWgb9DjrJ2TjNf2qQJkKaFD_2vR2suYW4/s1600/10+percent.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgFk2_FRBBcM3YoQQYYLBinVHRQWVQuRPKCrh0ZBEHcB8mIJA0bKoOApSdZrr5dexRYA8tHgYGkkIV6UGz81mkpFpIgvGO7jUQsB5eNeHpUnjWgb9DjrJ2TjNf2qQJkKaFD_2vR2suYW4/s1600/10+percent.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a>Approximately 500 California communities have a sales tax rate of 7<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">½</span>-percent--the State's base rate. What's the difference? 2½-percentage points obviously, but in more tangible terms: a $30,000 vehicle purchased and registered in a city having a 10-percent sales tax rate will cost <b>$750 more</b> in sales tax than one purchased and registered in community having a 7<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">½</span>-percent rate--an appreciable difference.<br />
<br />
<i>For a breakdown of Hayward's sales tax composition, see <a href="http://www.heyhayward.com/2014/06/measure-c-vote-no-before-were-all-cooked.html" target="_blank">this previous post</a>.</i>Larry Johmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08338782371894514617noreply@blogger.com0Hayward, CA, USA37.6688205 -122.080796437.467602 -122.40351989999999 37.870039000000006 -121.7580729tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2118063388211573780.post-38109705426914645022015-03-31T12:00:00.000-07:002015-03-31T12:00:25.297-07:00New Senior Apartments at Grand and B Streets<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVlQG8hj08GrW0tK2v8pXhy8Mbud43JFcOTtda3-NJt0d1-YAQRf1eA5JArYJ9dBjPv9ganTVqp_3PbdEN9dlDsbOSjPhe5DLnCEqZHOZki7NAXE2NdQjlWaUEgWrnA9hiigLt6uZSAWg/s1600/eden2.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVlQG8hj08GrW0tK2v8pXhy8Mbud43JFcOTtda3-NJt0d1-YAQRf1eA5JArYJ9dBjPv9ganTVqp_3PbdEN9dlDsbOSjPhe5DLnCEqZHOZki7NAXE2NdQjlWaUEgWrnA9hiigLt6uZSAWg/s1600/eden2.png" height="264" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
Construction of Eden Housing's <a href="http://www.edenhousing.org/property/hayward-senior-phase-ii" target="_blank">Hayward Senior Phase II</a> project, located at the intersection of Grand and B Streets, is now complete. The new 22-apartment facility, as seen in the photo above, is fairly faithful to the plan approved by the City Council in May 2011 (below).<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: right; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmKk7_butb7Q6eNK-MKu6cZFwClD01ycSEz44U8SoPcgfyeAZEpjhldKtvJJNd5wUN9kZ1fq8Hn6xm1nA7hZ72-j1uMChYQE3guvm3KcEUQCWeBHQWtfEx0RFdpwijbrBm89jzxGNCah0/s1600/RevisedRendering.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmKk7_butb7Q6eNK-MKu6cZFwClD01ycSEz44U8SoPcgfyeAZEpjhldKtvJJNd5wUN9kZ1fq8Hn6xm1nA7hZ72-j1uMChYQE3guvm3KcEUQCWeBHQWtfEx0RFdpwijbrBm89jzxGNCah0/s1600/RevisedRendering.png" height="166" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Revised development proposal after collaborating with neighbors.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
While I'm not a fan of the bright white window frames that contrast rather harshly with the earth tone colors of other materials, I think that overall the project turned out quite well--considerably better than what was originally proposed before neighbors got involved.<br />
<br />
I recall receiving a postcard back in early 2011 announcing the proposed project. The card contained a tiny black & white image, not much bigger than a postage stamp. I couldn't make out the details, but it didn't appear to be particularly attractive. Upon requesting and receiving the original pic (below), it was confirmed; I didn't like it, nor did my neighbors.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdiOOpuFaGbnzc4N0Z62wr6JbcqbmY9R-rpFCV3hNVx7QeNjI-JK23CMrcSvSoAWF4wBT4ZzPE2e6D2kVvoHmO1Fb5Su8T_X2PLK8XVWoF5RGoS3A9pHLfEoxutbOPQWb_b3Xw4lO9QXk/s1600/OriginalRendering.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdiOOpuFaGbnzc4N0Z62wr6JbcqbmY9R-rpFCV3hNVx7QeNjI-JK23CMrcSvSoAWF4wBT4ZzPE2e6D2kVvoHmO1Fb5Su8T_X2PLK8XVWoF5RGoS3A9pHLfEoxutbOPQWb_b3Xw4lO9QXk/s1600/OriginalRendering.png" height="215" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Original development proposal before neighborhood involvement.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
There weren't any neighbor-hood meetings conducted prior to the scheduled project approval. So a petition was circulated requesting that it be rejected. With about 50 households signing the petition and numerous individuals expressing objections and concerns at the Council meeting, consideration was postponed to a later date.<br />
<br />
Eden Housing and its architectural firm, <a href="http://www.struthersdias.com/project-item/hayward-senior-phase-ii/" target="_blank">Struthers Dias Architects</a>, then worked diligently to respond to the community's concerns. They held two neighborhood meetings and went back to the drawing board after each one. The outcome speaks for itself. The community collaboration clearly resulted in a much <a href="http://www.hayward-ca.gov/CITY-GOVERNMENT/CITY-COUNCIL-MEETINGS/rp/2011/cca050311-P08.pdf" target="_blank">improved plan</a> for which all involved can be generally proud.<br />
<br />
<i>NOTE: All of the apartments at this new facility have already been leased. Those interested in similar housing opportunities should regularly check the <a href="http://www.edenhousing.org/now-leasing" target="_blank">Eden Housing website</a>. </i><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Larry Johmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08338782371894514617noreply@blogger.com0Hayward, CA, USA37.6688205 -122.080796437.467602 -122.40351989999999 37.870039000000006 -121.7580729tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2118063388211573780.post-36911996232560843092015-03-08T23:50:00.000-07:002015-06-17T07:46:05.431-07:00Police Response and Posturing - Things Need to ImproveIn the relatively recent past, there have been numerous shootings at the Hayward BART Station:<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.insidebayarea.com/news/ci_26098076/shooting-closes-hayward-bart-station?source=rss" target="_blank">July 5, 2014 - a man was shot in the stomach</a>.</li>
<li><a href="http://sanfrancisco.cbslocal.com/2014/09/24/bart-police-release-video-capturing-moments-before-june-shooting-near-hayward-station-suspects-evidence/" target="_blank">June 17, 2014 - multiple shots were fired near the bus zone</a>.</li>
<li><a href="http://abc7news.com/news/police-investigate-hayward-bart-station-shooting/102220/" target="_blank">June 7, 2014 - groups of teens opened fire on one another</a>.</li>
<li><a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B16xIRJPUE5kbVJNdDhnUVBUSms/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">October 29, 2012 - numerous shots were fired, one into an adjacent home</a>.</li>
</ul>
<br />
In each instance, the police response was remarkably underwhelming. I know this, because I live and work across the street. The response to the 2012 shooting, in fact, didn't even get noticed by the press. You won't find a single article about it online.<br />
<br />
As far as I know, none of the shooters in any of these instances were ever identified or arrested. This is despite the fact that the Hayward Station is a bustling transit hub with numerous security cameras and a near 24/7 police presence.<br />
<br />
Last week, in a neighborhood just a few blocks away, it was a whole nother story. Early Sunday morning, some moron decided that the smartest response to being pulled over was to shoot at the officer and then flee on foot. What ensued was a neighborhood lockdown, a 12-hour manhunt, and a spectacle that made the streets of Hayward look like those of Fallujah. The dummy was eventually captured, and I imagine he'll remain locked up for quite some time--to which I applaud and say good riddance.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
But all this leaves me wondering; why is the response to a threat on an officer taken so much more seriously than a threat on an entire station of civilians? How is it that anyone can walk into a downtown transit hub adjacent to City Hall and get away with discharging a firearm, time and time again? Why is it though, that when an officer is threatened, a militaristic dragnet is launched? This kind of disparate response doesn't seem right to me.<br />
<br />
To be clear, I'm not objecting to a thorough and professional police response as is warranted. But in my humble opinion the police are not nearly as dedicated to responding to threats on the public as they are to threats on the brotherhood--I'm talking to the point of absurdity.<br />
<br />
When images of last week's manhunt started to appear on various social media sites. I couldn't believe what I was seeing.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-XWPedpl6NG_4v1dymGnsU-W5ebgHD6cDcN360g1DYvpMW5kqGpD97Gm6uyqsQQnPnFNaeSBzFYkt1unWJCb7L3ydrPWl3aoRFbfK1OtekgaK3fJVBaAUXynOLs9aWXJcl4mlsZ_TrU8/s1600/Hayward+Special+Response+Unit+650.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-XWPedpl6NG_4v1dymGnsU-W5ebgHD6cDcN360g1DYvpMW5kqGpD97Gm6uyqsQQnPnFNaeSBzFYkt1unWJCb7L3ydrPWl3aoRFbfK1OtekgaK3fJVBaAUXynOLs9aWXJcl4mlsZ_TrU8/s1600/Hayward+Special+Response+Unit+650.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Images posted to various social media sites showing Hayward PD's 12-hour manhunt on Sunday, March 1, 2015.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: white;">.</span><br />
When I look at these pictures, I don't see peace officers; I see commandos. Many are not wearing police uniforms, badges, or the regular police patch. They're wearing battle-fatigues, special forces insignia, and they're armed to the teeth. These guys look like they're going to war.<br />
<br />
Now I won't pretend to know what the proper armament is for any given policing situation, but let's be honest, dressing up like G.I. Joe is completely ridiculous and unnecessary. We're not in the desert, the jungle, or any theater of war. It seems to me that this kind of dress is purely for the intimidation factor.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjck0DeW4u6AOkCtoq7y8hJ9CD6tUOtV-yQmUaC6YM15e_0RlJpna1sVuCwPLuXaKbsXjQsqBk4Ijoqsfr3xkyW8UyMNPdd9GE9d4Y9-U5EYHs1Ohhe2MbN9I7soCYlG9g2Q5fWAwcFlZQ/s1600/2011-Dodge-Charger-Pursuit-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="144" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjck0DeW4u6AOkCtoq7y8hJ9CD6tUOtV-yQmUaC6YM15e_0RlJpna1sVuCwPLuXaKbsXjQsqBk4Ijoqsfr3xkyW8UyMNPdd9GE9d4Y9-U5EYHs1Ohhe2MbN9I7soCYlG9g2Q5fWAwcFlZQ/s1600/2011-Dodge-Charger-Pursuit-3.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Police vehicle marketing image.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Policing by intimidation appears to be an increasingly disturbing trend throughout the country. Even regular police cruisers are being marketed as menacingly aggressive.<br />
<br />
Why? Does anyone believe that the bad guys are being scared straight by all of this posturing? They're not. It's primarily serving to creep out decent folks who want to live in a safe and welcoming community--me included.<br />
<br />
Hey Hayward, let's work to ensure that our police responses are always properly adequate without all the unnecessary bravado. Can we do that please?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Larry Johmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08338782371894514617noreply@blogger.com0Hayward, CA, USA37.6688205 -122.080796437.467602 -122.40351989999999 37.870039000000006 -121.7580729tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2118063388211573780.post-40332518320787373202015-02-14T11:30:00.000-08:002015-10-11T10:47:09.297-07:00Happy Valentine's Day Bay Area!A Hayward Fault Valentine by Oakland artist <a href="http://thienisawesome.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Thien Pham</a>, commissioned by <a href="http://ww2.kqed.org/arts/2015/02/12/got-you-covered-valentines-day-cards-for-the-bay-area/" target="_blank">KQED</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://ww2.kqed.org/arts/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2015/02/hayward2-e1423704261382.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNAfa366YOfVM7sH3cutAA0HcR_zm5TghisuLLm-Yv0G03iiU2xxNaQXOLktjjEKQXNy0y0By4tFZIvZV7czKYj13tFkKUNJa8VK5NfLrMf4V5s-NPuavF6eBCkmoIETZAf63g-Hto514/s1600/haywardValentine.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Larry Johmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08338782371894514617noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2118063388211573780.post-45376434016420950252015-02-02T09:00:00.000-08:002015-04-10T09:41:22.719-07:00Reduce your garbage costs<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZtDnFaHYgW8XqkBK_5fGCpa7pqf96cSwtAX1qW-HvQuNmPXkrm8k9jUibQRx0hSXmMZKz6YRXH-OgvXO6XBtVg7o_JhKMucjS58lXtyXOS_84WQX9fQ7ZzSGMcExttpHoFYYe_eYsQgQ/s1600/GarbageRates.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZtDnFaHYgW8XqkBK_5fGCpa7pqf96cSwtAX1qW-HvQuNmPXkrm8k9jUibQRx0hSXmMZKz6YRXH-OgvXO6XBtVg7o_JhKMucjS58lXtyXOS_84WQX9fQ7ZzSGMcExttpHoFYYe_eYsQgQ/s1600/GarbageRates.png" /></a>Now that the Hayward City Council approved a garbage collection rate hike of nearly 10-percent come March, residential customers should re-evaluate their disposal habits and determine their true garbage collection needs. Doing so could offset the rate increase by manyfold.<br />
<br />
According to the most recent <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B16xIRJPUE5kS01kMUQwdzlDLTg/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">StopWaste Benchmark brochure</a>, 45-percent of what Hayward residents are discarding in their garbage carts should actually be placed in their recycling carts or green waste carts. If this is true, then the average Hayward resident may be using a garbage cart that is at least one size too large. Think about it: a 35-gallon volume reduced by 45-percent is about 19-gallons; a 64-gallon volume reduced by 45-percent equals 35-gallons; and a 96-gallon volume reduced by the same amount leaves 53-gallons. Admittedly there is a bit of incongruity here as the StopWaste survey was conducted as a percentage of weight not volume. However, it's reasonable to assume that more meticulous sorting and more conscientious consuming could reduce needed cart volume by at least one size.<br />
<br />
If an overly large cart is currently desired for the purpose of occasional overflow, consider metering out some of the garbage to future regular pickups, a special bulk pickup, or a free transfer station drop-off (customers can get two free bulk pickups and two coupons for free transfer station drop-offs each year). Or consider purchasing a <a href="https://www.google.com/?gws_rd=ssl#safe=off&tbs=vw:l,cat:688&tbm=shop&q=trash+compactor" target="_blank">trash compactor</a>, the year-after-year savings might justify it.<br />
<br />
<b> <i> <u>Possible savings</u>:</i></b><br />
<br />
Switching from a <b>35</b>-gallon cart to a: <b>20</b>-gallon cart will save <b><span style="background-color: yellow; color: #38761d;">$113/year</span></b><br />
<br />
Switching from a <b>64</b>-gallon cart to a: <b>35</b>-gallon cart will save <b><span style="background-color: yellow; color: #38761d;">$280/year</span></b><br />
<b>20</b>-gallon cart will save <b><span style="background-color: yellow; color: #38761d;">$393/year</span></b><br />
<br />
Switching from a <b>96</b>-gallon cart to a: <b>64</b>-gallon cart will save <b><span style="background-color: yellow; color: #38761d;">$280/year</span></b><br />
<b>35</b>-gallon cart will save <b><span style="background-color: yellow; color: #38761d;">$560/year</span></b><br />
<b>20</b>-gallon cart will save <b><span style="background-color: yellow; color: #38761d;">$673/year</span></b><br />
<br />
In addition to the above, cart based customers with low incomes may qualify for a reduced cost savings of <span style="background-color: white;">$93/year</span>.<br />
<br />
To adjust cart size, schedule bulk pickups, request coupons for transfer station drop-offs or to learn of eligibility requirements for a low income rate reduction, call<br />
<b>Waste Management of Alameda County</b> at <b>510-537-5500.</b><br />
.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgDqwCd61pJktngR1eZosXdJK8uIevTkHVoebrijeS_d-Vytrr_mCi-Ng_IZJAFe-IInJMEa5KvCB0jTgwaQ08KTjtnaP0AY8zcib-G0gYVz_K_H2hr44CkmFHgTVtlbx10lZjGQ5Vf0Y/s1600/cart-size.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgDqwCd61pJktngR1eZosXdJK8uIevTkHVoebrijeS_d-Vytrr_mCi-Ng_IZJAFe-IInJMEa5KvCB0jTgwaQ08KTjtnaP0AY8zcib-G0gYVz_K_H2hr44CkmFHgTVtlbx10lZjGQ5Vf0Y/s1600/cart-size.png" height="160" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The various collection cart sizes. The 20-gallon size is the 35-gallon cart with a small bucket liner inside.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Larry Johmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08338782371894514617noreply@blogger.com0Hayward, CA, USA37.6688205 -122.080796437.467602 -122.40351989999999 37.870039000000006 -121.7580729tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2118063388211573780.post-7099140396923569762015-01-20T17:00:00.000-08:002015-04-08T17:15:30.164-07:00Garbage collection rates are going up, up, upLast month, Hayward property owners and businesses received notice of proposed rate increases for garbage, recycling, and organics services. <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B16xIRJPUE5kOTBCeWZVUGhzUFE/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">The notice</a> provides a table that lists comparable residential rates of nearby jurisdictions. The table indicates that Hayward's rate after the proposed increase will actually be low relative to others for the first year. This is somewhat comforting, until you realize that collection rates have been increasing significantly among all local jurisdictions and will probably continue to do so.<br />
<br />
The issue will be taken up this evening as the City Council considers approving a new franchise agreement with Waste Management. The proposal now on the table could increase our garbage collection rates by as much as 27.5-percent over the next four years and as much as 52-percent over a seven year term.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2LPj-XnouDoVXE1RehBwiIXsl6ZjFaEqkcjxILkdDujXcgKyHIMcxRxFC6gYAd_q678VrlDwh0M9BwCkJrOobbBfjgI_Gy0Y93MiiK0B95acQKhiDKrD9V__SQXTm0zVJppgtj8Ull_Q/s1600/RateChart-rev4.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2LPj-XnouDoVXE1RehBwiIXsl6ZjFaEqkcjxILkdDujXcgKyHIMcxRxFC6gYAd_q678VrlDwh0M9BwCkJrOobbBfjgI_Gy0Y93MiiK0B95acQKhiDKrD9V__SQXTm0zVJppgtj8Ull_Q/s1600/RateChart-rev4.png" height="460" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B16xIRJPUE5kX0Vock8tdmNMa0U/view?usp=sharing" target="_blank">The staff report</a> on the matter explains that substantial increases are necessary to stem Waste Management losses and to ensure a positive return on investment.<br />
<br />
Pardon me for being skeptical, but something doesn't seem right. How can the magnitude of these increases be justified when you consider:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Inflation is low and has been for years. The <a href="http://www.bls.gov/regions/west/news-release/ConsumerPriceIndex_SanFrancisco.htm" target="_blank">Bay Area Consumer Price Index</a> (CPI) has been averaging only 2.4% per year over the past six years;</li>
<li>The volume of discarded material per capita is dropping, while more rate payers are being added in more densely populated and more easily serviced neighborhoods. Hundreds of new rate payers have been added to the Burbank neighborhood in just the past few years alone. Additionally, customers are separating more of their waste for recycling;</li>
<li>Recycled materials are an increasingly valuable commodity as a greater number of consumer goods are manufactured with them;</li>
<li>With each passing year we're paying more and more disposal/recycling fees at the point of sale or as a property assessment--this includes fees for household hazardous waste, tires, lumber, paint, electronic waste, cans, bottles, etc.</li>
</ul>
<br />
Despite all this, our rates continue to increase substantially. What gives?<br />
<br />
Beats me. The problem here is that we have a business effectively operating as a monopoly. Waste Management has been servicing Hayward for at least four decades and will apparently continue to do so for at least the next seven years. Property owners and businesses must accept this as the company has exclusive operating rights in the city--no other company can legally duplicate it services. The city yields some regulatory authority with this arrangement, but true transparency is not available to the general public.<br />
<br />
What is the company's cost of servicing Hayward? What amount of revenue is it generating here? Without competition, is it operating efficiently? Who knows? The only information readily available on the Internet is that the company posted a <a href="http://investors.wm.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=119743&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1982895" target="_blank">$270-million profit</a> in its most recently reported quarter and that its CEO recently received over <a href="http://www1.salary.com/David-P-Steiner-Salary-Bonus-Stock-Options-for-WASTE-MANAGEMENT-INC.html" target="_blank">$10-million</a> in annual compensation. Not too shabby, eh?<br />
<br />
I understand the City is requesting that additional services be provided by Waste Management, which of course would impact rate payer costs. But its not clear how a dollar of additional service costs translates to the invoice of an individual rate payer. If the proposed rate increase is due primarily to the desired additional services, then perhaps the Council needs to reconsider its wish list.<br />
<br />
Another problem, that is certainly impacting cost, is that the City is effectively taxing rate payers through the franchise agreement. This is done by charging Waste Management impact fees. The city has been charging the company a fee for street sweeping, and it's now proposing a fee for roadway rehabilitation. According to the staff report, these fees total 3.5-percent of revenue, which, of course, is passed on to captive rate payers. The result is basically a clandestine tax on property owners and businesses that was never approved by voters as required by <a href="http://www.lao.ca.gov/1996/120196_prop_218/understanding_prop218_1296.html" target="_blank">Proposition 218</a>.<br />
<br />
Unfortunately, in the end, we all know how this story plays out. As long as Hayward's rate payer costs are in-line with those of neighboring jurisdictions, it makes no difference whether the proposed increases are clearly justifiable or not. They're going to happen, so budget accordingly.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Larry Johmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08338782371894514617noreply@blogger.com0Hayward, CA, USA37.6688205 -122.080796437.467602 -122.40351989999999 37.870039000000006 -121.7580729tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2118063388211573780.post-58495543254303307912015-01-19T19:29:00.000-08:002015-04-02T11:49:38.994-07:00Plastic plumbing... soon to be permitted in Hayward homes?Tomorrow the City Council will consider ending Hayward's long standing prohibition of plastic plumbing in homes and other buildings.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://ppfahome.org/pex/index.aspx" target="_blank">PEX</a>, <a href="http://ppfahome.org/abs/index.aspx" target="_blank">ABS</a>, <a href="http://ppfahome.org/pvc/index.aspx" target="_blank">PVC</a>, and <a href="http://ppfahome.org/cpvc/index.aspx" target="_blank">CPVC</a> pipes and fittings are all allowed by the California Plumbing Code. However, Hayward has traditionally adopted the State code with amendments that specifically forbid them. While this may have been warranted decades ago following initial quality concerns, doing so now just serves to add excessive costs to new construction and remodeling projects.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlOxRd7JRnWgIB4AzTKRXUSiB9909ks0wGwgM7De2z1mUloFUZRJletlqNuGjxbBXAmwom1ejh_0YObYJy8TCqEgu9_0HLYcKynPEwPK4rCS40nHXdaVIdgVNlj3bCZx8vQZPWjwevI44/s1600/PlasticPlumbing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlOxRd7JRnWgIB4AzTKRXUSiB9909ks0wGwgM7De2z1mUloFUZRJletlqNuGjxbBXAmwom1ejh_0YObYJy8TCqEgu9_0HLYcKynPEwPK4rCS40nHXdaVIdgVNlj3bCZx8vQZPWjwevI44/s1600/PlasticPlumbing.jpg" height="166" width="320" /></a>As a result, this prohibition generates a considerable amount of ridicule directed at the City. Many project owners and contractors with whom I'm familiar consider the ban incredibly burdensome and unnecessary. It's one of the frustrating hindrances frequently mentioned when discussing development in Hayward.<br />
<br />
<br />
Now numerous city departments have come around to recommending that the restrictive amendments to the State plumbing code be eliminated. I wholeheartedly concur.<br />
<br />
If the Council acts as recommended, construction using plastic plumbing materials may be permitted by the end of February.<br />
<br />
<br />Larry Johmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08338782371894514617noreply@blogger.com4Hayward, CA, USA37.6688205 -122.080796437.467602 -122.40351989999999 37.870039000000006 -121.7580729tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2118063388211573780.post-19986763483974955872015-01-04T12:00:00.003-08:002015-04-01T16:49:11.939-07:00January is Restaurant Month in Hayward<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.hayward.org/index.php/social-media/news/186-booklets-now-available-for-hayward-restaurant-month" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidrV-PvVg-AG22hoRghyW19nB5vrA9OWVfqDuh8GDliAqmyxLK4xwYEkcAo2-jDJomgz_MyIVrJp7Oe-zZwIxKuzMJQQL46ECwB1n5FXXmsxyhWrUIH4hR1Aajo2seTfV5vXdALFED9jY/s1600/RestaurantMonth1.jpg" height="144" width="320" /></a></div>
Throughout the month of January, seventeen Hayward restaurants are offering the discounts listed below via a promotional voucher booklet--<i>Dine Hayward</i>. The booklet costs $10, and proceeds benefit the City's <a href="http://user.govoutreach.com/hayward/faq.php?cid=11002" target="_blank">Homework Support Center</a> and the <a href="http://www.hayward.org/index.php/community/leadership-hayward" target="_blank">Leadership Hayward Program</a>.<br />
<br />
Booklets can be purchased at the <a href="http://www.library.hayward-ca.gov/" target="_blank">Hayward Main Library</a> as well as the <a href="http://www.hayward.org/index.php/contact-us" target="_blank">Hayward Chamber of Commerce</a>.<br />
<br />
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td width="340"><b><span style="color: #cc0000;">25% off on full order</span></b><br />
<a href="http://www.bijouexperience.com/" target="_blank">Bijou Restaurant & Bar</a> <span style="font-size: x-small;">(<i>with purchase of entree</i>)</span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">20% off on full order</span></b><br />
<a href="http://www.ihop.com/" target="_blank">IHOP</a> <span style="font-size: x-small;">(<i>after 2pm</i>)</span><br />
<a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/kin-cafe-hayward" target="_blank">Kin Cafe</a> <span style="font-size: x-small;">(<i>excludes beverages</i>)</span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">15% off on full order</span></b><br />
<a href="http://acqua-e-farina.com/" target="_blank">Acqua e Farina Ristorante</a> <span style="font-size: x-small;">(<i>excludes alcohol</i>)</span><br />
<a href="http://eko-coffee.com/" target="_blank"><span style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); border: 0px; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; border: 0px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: top;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">é</span></span></span></span>ko Coffee Bar & Tea House</a><br />
<a href="http://www.ristorantedipalermo.com/" target="_blank">Ristorante Di Palermo</a> <span style="font-size: x-small;">(<i>2 dinner entree purchase</i>)</span><br />
<a href="http://www.yelp.com/biz/san-marcos-hayward" target="_blank">San Marcos Taqueria</a> <span style="font-size: x-small;">(<i>minimum $25 purchase</i>)</span><br />
<a href="http://www.goldenpeacockbanquets.com/restaurant.html" target="_blank">The Golden Peacock</a><br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">10% off on full order</span></b><br />
<a href="http://www.bubblecrabs.com/" target="_blank">Bubble Crab Cajun Restaurant</a><br />
<a href="http://www.buonappetitorestaurant.net/" target="_blank">Buon Appetito</a> <span style="font-size: x-small;">(<i>dinner order</i>)</span><br />
<a href="http://www.haywardrec.com/bar_grill/" target="_blank">Skywest Bar & Grill</a></td><td><b><span style="color: #cc0000;">25% off a dozen cupcakes</span></b><br />
<a href="http://www.thecupcakeshoppeca.com/" target="_blank">The Cupcake Shoppe</a> <span style="font-size: x-small;">(<i>2 dozen maximum</i>)</span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">Buy one, get one free</span></b><br />
<a href="http://www.haywardareahistory.org/cafe/" target="_blank">The Cannery Cafe</a><br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">Buy one, get one 50% off</span></b><br />
<a href="http://buylocalcampaign.com/teaGarden/" target="_blank">The Golden Tea Garden</a> <span style="font-size: x-small;">(<i>high tea service</i>)</span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">One free dessert</span></b><br />
<a href="http://www.buddysbitesandbrews.com/" target="_blank">Buddy's Bites & Brews</a> <span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">(<i>w/purchase of 2 meals</i>)</span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">Free Buffalo Poppers</span></b><br />
<a href="http://buffalobillsbrewery.com/restaurant/" target="_blank">Buffalo Bill's Brewery</a> <span style="font-size: x-small;">(<i>w/purchase of an entree</i>)</span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">Free flan</span></b><br />
<a href="http://www.eltaquitorestaurant.com/" target="_blank">El Taquito #2</a> <span style="font-size: x-small;">(<i>w/purchase of specialty items 1-12</i>)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div>
<i>Note that all the coupons expire at the end of the month, and they may not be combined with any other offer or promotion. All restaurant offers are for dine-in only.</i></div>
Larry Johmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08338782371894514617noreply@blogger.com0Hayward, CA, USA37.6688205 -122.080796437.467602 -122.40351989999999 37.870039000000006 -121.7580729tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2118063388211573780.post-85850364988534493582015-01-01T15:00:00.000-08:002015-04-01T16:49:36.850-07:00Explore Hayward Businesses using Google Business ViewNow here's something fun. Have you ever used Google Maps Street View to move from an outdoor street scene to an indoor view of a store or restaurant? It's a Google feature called <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/about/partners/businessview/" target="_blank">Business View</a>, and scores of Hayward businesses can be explored this way.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.6834987,-122.0633612,3a,75y,326.4h,64.31t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sgcsU8MLEEdMF1Y_aM8pm6g!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzUoj41iYeABFCWVvt3nKGSh3rNrHUpoQ7nEEA8Umq_q456910sxSol4ft8fDM2beSvkbj4AynDvrmZEXbr-0sUwnWO10vEyQK8V1MR7sHoL6zjkLKz-EF0oq736xQhn1NjWNilv5ZdhU/s1600/Vals.png" height="331" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Business View of Val's Burgers. Click on the image to navigate around this venerable Hayward institution.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: white;">.</span><br />
Participating proprietors offer a navigable, virtual tour of their business locations with the hope that you'll be enticed enough to visit in person. Having perused some interesting sites, like <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.6728301,-122.0823356,3a,75y,139.47h,90t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sJxt75EWbKLotxPQZzl8jWg!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0" target="_blank">The Book Shop</a>, the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6765156,-122.0797511,3a,75y,354.39h,74.56t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1suB-BZrb49NY5MVqMohOSzQ!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Reptile Room</a> and <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6190339,-122.0363668,3a,75y,295.92h,81.41t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s7YLX7lwqvmDQaafU2mVbhA!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Karen's Flower Kottage</a>, I would say mission accomplished. Some others, however, may leave you wondering what they were thinking.<br />
<br />
Whatever the case, check out some of what Hayward has to offer using the links below. If you like what you see, resolve to visit and support them in 2015.<br />
<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><i>Note: Fluid navigation requires a high-speed Internet connection.</i></span><br />
<span style="color: #cc0000;"><i> Links will open in a separate tab.</i></span><br />
<br />
<table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" dir="ltr" style="border-collapse: collapse; border: 1px solid #ccc; font-family: arial,sans,sans-serif; font-size: 13px; table-layout: fixed;"><colgroup><col width="325"></col><col width="325"></col></colgroup><tbody>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Auto Dealers"]" style="background-color: #efefef; color: #434343; font-size: 110%; font-weight: bold; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;">Auto Dealers</td><td data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Restaurants / Cafes / Bakeries"]" style="background-color: #efefef; color: #434343; font-size: 110%; font-weight: bold; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;">Restaurants / Cafes / Bakeries</td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.6623232,-122.0753299,3a,75y,151.68h,66.85t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sQiH7HJxXPSkAAAQJOPSV0g!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0","Hayward Nissan")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Hayward Nissan"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.6623232,-122.0753299,3a,75y,151.68h,66.85t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sQiH7HJxXPSkAAAQJOPSV0g!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0" target="_blank">Hayward Nissan</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.672766,-122.0822596,3a,75y,325.98h,68.82t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1syOdaX3LItazNSryS-iQ38g!2e0!3e2","Acqua E' Farina")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Acqua E' Farina"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.672766,-122.0822596,3a,75y,325.98h,68.82t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1syOdaX3LItazNSryS-iQ38g!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Acqua E' Farina</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.6575963,-122.0731203,3a,75y,250.02h,90.25t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s6NopB5xeHB8AAAQJONwyNQ!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0","Team Volkswagen of Hayward")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Team Volkswagen of Hayward"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.6575963,-122.0731203,3a,75y,250.02h,90.25t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s6NopB5xeHB8AAAQJONwyNQ!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0" target="_blank">Team Volkswagen of Hayward</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.66815,-122.0961535,3a,75y,106.28h,73.03t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sFWI7XkZgtN1_xBdQ3edJ6Q!2e0!3e2","Best Burger")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Best Burger"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.66815,-122.0961535,3a,75y,106.28h,73.03t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sFWI7XkZgtN1_xBdQ3edJ6Q!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Best Burger</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td style="padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;"></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6554821,-122.0488126,3a,75y,279.49h,73.69t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sFLiNLizPDAd_5ouXDQ9QHA!2e0!3e2!6m1!1e1","Bronco Billy's Pizza Palace")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Bronco Billy's Pizza Palace"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6554821,-122.0488126,3a,75y,279.49h,73.69t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sFLiNLizPDAd_5ouXDQ9QHA!2e0!3e2!6m1!1e1" target="_blank">Bronco Billy's Pizza Palace</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Barbers / Salons"]" style="background-color: #efefef; color: #434343; font-size: 110%; font-weight: bold; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;">Barbers / Salons</td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.673307,-122.084376,3a,75y,124.5h,83.12t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sTKWcAkg-CK4dK4mXMotQJA!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0","Buon Appetito")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Buon Appetito"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.673307,-122.084376,3a,75y,124.5h,83.12t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sTKWcAkg-CK4dK4mXMotQJA!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0" target="_blank">Buon Appetito</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6713018,-122.0829991,3a,75y,14.27h,62.57t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sJ4CCsFN3eH4aZo3dVaj7jA!2e0!3e2","Antonio's Old Fashion Barber")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Antonio's Old Fashion Barber"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6713018,-122.0829991,3a,75y,14.27h,62.57t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sJ4CCsFN3eH4aZo3dVaj7jA!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Antonio's Old Fashion Barber</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6557717,-122.048768,3a,75y,323.17h,76.16t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sp6nijGIFtrNIGCXu4dEeUw!2e0!3e2","Caffe Caribe")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Caffe Caribe"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6557717,-122.048768,3a,75y,323.17h,76.16t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sp6nijGIFtrNIGCXu4dEeUw!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Caffe Caribe</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.674678,-122.0799011,3a,75y,74.17h,74.38t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sqS10Y-mnDTBRVZQPrz8M-Q!2e0!3e2","Cuts n Stuff - Hair Designs Phase II")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Cuts n Stuff - Hair Designs Phase II"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.674678,-122.0799011,3a,75y,74.17h,74.38t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sqS10Y-mnDTBRVZQPrz8M-Q!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Cuts n Stuff - Hair Designs Phase II</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6300688,-122.048038,3a,75y,71.5h,81.74t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sFDOGgTfY5IZx-hMve1JSuQ!2e0!3e2","California Gyro & Pizza")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"California Gyro & Pizza"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6300688,-122.048038,3a,75y,71.5h,81.74t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sFDOGgTfY5IZx-hMve1JSuQ!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">California Gyro & Pizza</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.676691,-122.0803561,3a,75y,308.21h,65.04t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sumGucyzfjsGH-11nj0aezg!2e0!3e2","High Fashion Studios")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"High Fashion Studios"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.676691,-122.0803561,3a,75y,308.21h,65.04t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sumGucyzfjsGH-11nj0aezg!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">High Fashion Studios</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6657324,-122.1129808,3a,75y,211h,60.96t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s-LV2sIib10s4h2ZggBT_eA!2e0!3e2","Carmen Family BBQ")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Carmen Family BBQ"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6657324,-122.1129808,3a,75y,211h,60.96t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s-LV2sIib10s4h2ZggBT_eA!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Carmen Family BBQ</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6058739,-122.0275658,3a,75y,302.72h,73.9t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sYGLIUmGTTiRvthbqFby-Mg!2e0!3e2","Nails International")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Nails International"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6058739,-122.0275658,3a,75y,302.72h,73.9t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sYGLIUmGTTiRvthbqFby-Mg!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Nails International</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.644716,-122.1048181,3a,75y,55.5h,77.76t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s9s1Vcj7LNlViMz-coXngKg!2e0!3e2","Celia's Mexican")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Celia's Mexican"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.644716,-122.1048181,3a,75y,55.5h,77.76t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s9s1Vcj7LNlViMz-coXngKg!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Celia's Mexican</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6125993,-122.0679555,3a,75y,2.41h,88.48t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sOO3xFHHUQp07rnMBUCsgEA!2e0!3e2","Perfect Hair & Nails")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Perfect Hair & Nails"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6125993,-122.0679555,3a,75y,2.41h,88.48t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sOO3xFHHUQp07rnMBUCsgEA!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Perfect Hair & Nails</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6556771,-122.0487602,3a,75y,299.02h,72.78t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sNvIuOUnCJjI80sZIPHhXgA!2e0!3e2","China Best")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"China Best"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6556771,-122.0487602,3a,75y,299.02h,72.78t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sNvIuOUnCJjI80sZIPHhXgA!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">China Best</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6521152,-122.1086802,3a,75y,157.82h,61.33t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sFQ4keDI7ZTbmHrH_rBTNoA!2e0!3e2","Tracy Hair Salon")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Tracy Hair Salon"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6521152,-122.1086802,3a,75y,157.82h,61.33t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sFQ4keDI7ZTbmHrH_rBTNoA!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Tracy Hair Salon</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6743677,-122.0862298,3a,75y,77.34h,77.96t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sQm0wHv_ooeWm8jgXjoRVhw!2e0!3e2","El Taquito")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"El Taquito"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6743677,-122.0862298,3a,75y,77.34h,77.96t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sQm0wHv_ooeWm8jgXjoRVhw!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">El Taquito</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6722515,-122.0803331,3a,75y,177.1h,72.46t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sFxKVKeMeHFU0MzTjHNaNBw!2e0!3e2","Vizion's Beauty Salon")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Vizion's Beauty Salon"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6722515,-122.0803331,3a,75y,177.1h,72.46t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sFxKVKeMeHFU0MzTjHNaNBw!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Vizion's Beauty Salon</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/place/El+Taquito+Restaurant+%232/@37.6588686,-122.0957363,3a,75y,306.8h,66.51t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sWYmRVbkGwKqIJOgfohQNWg!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0xb5ac62375f60590!6m1!1e1","El Taquito Restaurant #2")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"El Taquito Restaurant #2"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/El+Taquito+Restaurant+%232/@37.6588686,-122.0957363,3a,75y,306.8h,66.51t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sWYmRVbkGwKqIJOgfohQNWg!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x0:0xb5ac62375f60590!6m1!1e1" target="_blank">El Taquito Restaurant #2</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6526554,-122.1094402,3a,75y,239.23h,65.36t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sugjbHSubF0tzPdVXgOarAQ!2e0!3e2","Wonder Nails")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Wonder Nails"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6526554,-122.1094402,3a,75y,239.23h,65.36t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sugjbHSubF0tzPdVXgOarAQ!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Wonder Nails</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6669049,-122.0796203,3a,75y,143.72h,69.73t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s3brD3vpZhX9sOHvhPJjThg!2e0!3e2","Emil Villa's California BBQ")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Emil Villa's California BBQ"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6669049,-122.0796203,3a,75y,143.72h,69.73t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s3brD3vpZhX9sOHvhPJjThg!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Emil Villa's California BBQ</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td style="padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;"></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6452589,-122.1049826,3a,75y,338.21h,75.75t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1ssx3vmlt3FARkh86GO6VQjg!2e0!3e2","Eon Coffee")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Eon Coffee"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6452589,-122.1049826,3a,75y,338.21h,75.75t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1ssx3vmlt3FARkh86GO6VQjg!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Eon Coffee</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Gyms / Fitness / Health"]" style="background-color: #efefef; color: #434343; font-size: 110%; font-weight: bold; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;">Gyms / Fitness / Health</td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6736192,-122.0827392,3a,75y,232.39h,63.32t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1spYjZIZoESybdZMzW9ghTeQ!2e0!3e2","Fink's Bakery")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Fink's Bakery"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6736192,-122.0827392,3a,75y,232.39h,63.32t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1spYjZIZoESybdZMzW9ghTeQ!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Fink's Bakery</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.6534404,-122.0918776,3a,75y,348.01h,79.28t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sjYazAtjwzBOGl9Wr9TpNjg!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0","24 Hr Fitness")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"24 Hr Fitness"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.6534404,-122.0918776,3a,75y,348.01h,79.28t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sjYazAtjwzBOGl9Wr9TpNjg!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0" target="_blank">24 Hr Fitness</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6443493,-122.1045173,3a,75y,153.66h,66.5t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sMCSPUfehSclfOOKU7b-CKw!2e0!3e2","Grand Taipei Restaurant")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Grand Taipei Restaurant"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6443493,-122.1045173,3a,75y,153.66h,66.5t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sMCSPUfehSclfOOKU7b-CKw!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Grand Taipei Restaurant</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6055785,-122.064365,3a,75y,271.37h,83.64t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sw6Lw0SU7BicAAAGu4ZQavw!2e0!3e2","24 Hr Fitness Super Sport")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"24 Hr Fitness Super Sport"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6055785,-122.064365,3a,75y,271.37h,83.64t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sw6Lw0SU7BicAAAGu4ZQavw!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">24 Hr Fitness Super Sport</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6297538,-122.0481697,3a,75y,225.15h,72.32t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1spHuvdQpOKED8mcHobHlDAA!2e0!3e2","Green Tea House")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Green Tea House"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6297538,-122.0481697,3a,75y,225.15h,72.32t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1spHuvdQpOKED8mcHobHlDAA!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Green Tea House</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/place/yuki+hana+sushi/@37.6760641,-122.0827163,3a,75y,200.42h,77.86t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sOtpQzyiTJ-YAAAQYK_0kJA!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x0000000000000000:0x45acdd5f1146a31c","Arthur Murray Dance Studios")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Arthur Murray Dance Studios"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/yuki+hana+sushi/@37.6760641,-122.0827163,3a,75y,200.42h,77.86t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sOtpQzyiTJ-YAAAQYK_0kJA!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x0000000000000000:0x45acdd5f1146a31c" target="_blank">Arthur Murray Dance Studios</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.6689047,-122.081472,3a,75y,350.27h,96.74t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sKCZeVbRaZJTLezxx7WfD3Q!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0","Hayward Ranch")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Hayward Ranch"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.6689047,-122.081472,3a,75y,350.27h,96.74t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sKCZeVbRaZJTLezxx7WfD3Q!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0" target="_blank">Hayward Ranch</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.673711,-122.0825313,3a,75y,17.11h,71.46t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sFICQ8eyjCh1U4AaFz2QFCw!2e0!3e2","Hayward Martial Arts")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Hayward Martial Arts"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.673711,-122.0825313,3a,75y,17.11h,71.46t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sFICQ8eyjCh1U4AaFz2QFCw!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Hayward Martial Arts</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6477629,-122.0916953,3a,75y,256.09h,73.53t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1stKWXEeIlGY-XJ3HnMmxLdw!2e0!3e2","Kenkoy's Grill")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Kenkoy's Grill"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6477629,-122.0916953,3a,75y,256.09h,73.53t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1stKWXEeIlGY-XJ3HnMmxLdw!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Kenkoy's Grill</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6762308,-122.0830051,3a,75y,330.43h,87.72t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sZq9BrLMxAMHCCqMq0niEMA!2e0!3e2","Hot Box Yoga")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Hot Box Yoga"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6762308,-122.0830051,3a,75y,330.43h,87.72t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sZq9BrLMxAMHCCqMq0niEMA!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Hot Box Yoga</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6123077,-122.0274901,3a,75y,180.49h,70.53t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sUlaNXPg6MzbWyVVWIKA5vg!2e0!3e2","Kona BBQ & Grill")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Kona BBQ & Grill"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6123077,-122.0274901,3a,75y,180.49h,70.53t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sUlaNXPg6MzbWyVVWIKA5vg!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Kona BBQ & Grill</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/place/yuki+hana+sushi/@37.675689,-122.0825396,3a,75y,333.15h,69.9t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1suFaSf9EaqX-NvntWxQiuWQ!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x0000000000000000:0x45acdd5f1146a31c","Kraski's Nutrition")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Kraski's Nutrition"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/yuki+hana+sushi/@37.675689,-122.0825396,3a,75y,333.15h,69.9t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1suFaSf9EaqX-NvntWxQiuWQ!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x0000000000000000:0x45acdd5f1146a31c" target="_blank">Kraski's Nutrition</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6723284,-122.0878188,3a,75y,197.59h,72.8t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s8kWwpYqgThH4xkUIhtrJuw!2e0!3e2","Korea House")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Korea House"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6723284,-122.0878188,3a,75y,197.59h,72.8t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s8kWwpYqgThH4xkUIhtrJuw!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Korea House</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6489564,-122.1060889,3a,75y,13.41h,62.84t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1srgKVCzEf8HJrLVSeC64NjQ!2e0!3e2","Sparta Gymnastics Academy")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Sparta Gymnastics Academy"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6489564,-122.1060889,3a,75y,13.41h,62.84t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1srgKVCzEf8HJrLVSeC64NjQ!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Sparta Gymnastics Academy</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6687105,-122.0954408,3a,75y,359.07h,74.07t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1siJavDSgwjs-LI_QKwfbC1g!2e0!3e2","La Cosita")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"La Cosita"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6687105,-122.0954408,3a,75y,359.07h,74.07t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1siJavDSgwjs-LI_QKwfbC1g!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">La Cosita</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td style="padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;"></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6696757,-122.0819733,3a,75y,142.16h,56.62t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sPSLTeyjkUjnaFLP0xcQZEQ!2e0!3e2","La Paradis")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"La Paradis"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6696757,-122.0819733,3a,75y,142.16h,56.62t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sPSLTeyjkUjnaFLP0xcQZEQ!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">La Paradis</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Others"]" style="background-color: #efefef; color: #434343; font-size: 110%; font-weight: bold; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;">Others</td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.6715022,-122.0825874,3a,75y,49.21h,65.29t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s7cGnvqIrkpbkLRWQns-T2A!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0","Los Compadre's ")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Los Compadre's "]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/C+St,+Hayward,+CA+94541/@37.671474,-122.082593,3a,75y,52.5h,70.72t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sd0wKRurQDpjM1Qqa3Qc_og!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f93d86916a0df:0xcbf8885345b2f21f" target="_blank">Los Compadres </a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.6536373,-122.0711314,3a,75y,56.33h,61.93t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s4kKIZxJ3e6lin94nzkDsWw!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0","Acme Awards and Embroidery")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Acme Awards and Embroidery"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.6536373,-122.0711314,3a,75y,56.33h,61.93t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s4kKIZxJ3e6lin94nzkDsWw!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0" target="_blank">Acme Awards and Embroidery</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6379259,-122.0564235,3a,75y,137.69h,73.88t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1shOqSFmizazJ9ZJVhvCoPTQ!2e0!3e2","Los Dos Hermanos")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Los Dos Hermanos"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6379259,-122.0564235,3a,75y,137.69h,73.88t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1shOqSFmizazJ9ZJVhvCoPTQ!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Los Dos Hermanos</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6666439,-122.1177628,3a,75y,53.86h,69.37t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sZcO1VZMZS-QAAAQXMAzzlw!2e0!3e2","Airport Home Appliance")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Airport Home Appliance"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6666439,-122.1177628,3a,75y,53.86h,69.37t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sZcO1VZMZS-QAAAQXMAzzlw!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Airport Home Appliance</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6694195,-122.081649,3a,75y,202.47h,69.07t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s7jYmc6guhs7EWoG_NqMezQ!2e0!3e2","Los Planes De Renderos")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Los Planes De Renderos"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6694195,-122.081649,3a,75y,202.47h,69.07t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s7jYmc6guhs7EWoG_NqMezQ!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Los Planes De Renderos</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.6740139,-122.0841263,3a,75y,284.7h,90t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1smxGnAAg_RIVwXjmfiav5Ug!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0","Alma's Creations")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Alma's Creations"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.6740139,-122.0841263,3a,75y,284.7h,90t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1smxGnAAg_RIVwXjmfiav5Ug!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0" target="_blank">Alma's Creations</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6655799,-122.1177417,3a,75y,11.08h,67.89t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sLHrxZJxiFWMyl8iZtjTozw!2e0!3e2","Mr. Pho")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Mr. Pho"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6655799,-122.1177417,3a,75y,11.08h,67.89t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sLHrxZJxiFWMyl8iZtjTozw!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Mr. Pho</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6733003,-122.0817215,3a,75y,61.23h,73.96t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s_po_6TH2-DeUUYeDtKuVaA!2e0!3e2!6m1!1e1","Avalon Jewelry")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Avalon Jewelry"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6733003,-122.0817215,3a,75y,61.23h,73.96t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s_po_6TH2-DeUUYeDtKuVaA!2e0!3e2!6m1!1e1" target="_blank">Avalon Jewelry</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.6677162,-122.0796091,3a,75y,56.64h,68.02t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s2IUYZIj9iVRKF5B47DwwNw!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0","My Favorite Indian")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"My Favorite Indian"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.6677162,-122.0796091,3a,75y,56.64h,68.02t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s2IUYZIj9iVRKF5B47DwwNw!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0" target="_blank">My Favorite Indian</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6408428,-122.0591119,3a,75y,280.33h,89.02t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sUKeHfnAPVaQAAAQIt_OdxQ!2e0!3e2","Bedrosians")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Bedrosians"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6408428,-122.0591119,3a,75y,280.33h,89.02t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sUKeHfnAPVaQAAAQIt_OdxQ!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Bedrosians</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.672693,-122.083297,3a,75y,48.27h,82.97t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sMHPE8x_XP_EMqubJuAmwXg!2e0!3e2","Pizza House")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Pizza House"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.672693,-122.083297,3a,75y,48.27h,82.97t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sMHPE8x_XP_EMqubJuAmwXg!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Pizza House</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6749455,-122.0809865,3a,75y,54.51h,78.14t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sWM3J7tWs_nIAAAQfCMPMew!2e0!3e2","Chalk It Up Pool Hall")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Chalk It Up Pool Hall"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6749455,-122.0809865,3a,75y,54.51h,78.14t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sWM3J7tWs_nIAAAQfCMPMew!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Chalk It Up Pool Hall</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6301657,-122.0480525,3a,75y,219.37h,74.15t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1srMe67PGB1mkKkhq2kOy7PQ!2e0!3e2","Red Chili")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Red Chili"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6301657,-122.0480525,3a,75y,219.37h,74.15t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1srMe67PGB1mkKkhq2kOy7PQ!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Red Chili</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6258214,-122.042124,3a,75y,351.51h,61.4t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s7XqEbHQX2pAjK1uQJIdmsQ!2e0!3e2","Colyer's Used Appliances")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Colyer's Used Appliances"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6258214,-122.042124,3a,75y,351.51h,61.4t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s7XqEbHQX2pAjK1uQJIdmsQ!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Colyer's Used Appliances</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.6825426,-122.0652977,3a,75y,145.26h,76.8t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sMhvkX7Bv4E_a1WqoM4pAEg!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0","Ribs-n-Things")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Ribs-n-Things"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.6825426,-122.0652977,3a,75y,145.26h,76.8t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sMhvkX7Bv4E_a1WqoM4pAEg!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0" target="_blank">Ribs-n-Things</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6751612,-122.0813233,3a,75y,234.62h,65.95t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1spFRUJSrCe_CLnhACD7PySA!2e0!3e2","Cycle Path Hayward")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Cycle Path Hayward"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6751612,-122.0813233,3a,75y,234.62h,65.95t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1spFRUJSrCe_CLnhACD7PySA!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Cycle Path Hayward</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6718828,-122.084092,3a,75y,104.89h,71.4t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sPgpmeEONHoTnKU9S1xPqzw!2e0!3e2","Shark Shack")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Shark Shack"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6718828,-122.084092,3a,75y,104.89h,71.4t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sPgpmeEONHoTnKU9S1xPqzw!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Shark Shack</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6661653,-122.1139717,3a,75y,64.6h,64.48t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s-DUXzR25jaZVo2CEclmKnQ!2e0!3e2","East Bay Lawn Mower")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"East Bay Lawn Mower"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6661653,-122.1139717,3a,75y,64.6h,64.48t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s-DUXzR25jaZVo2CEclmKnQ!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">East Bay Lawn Mower</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6763906,-122.0799969,3a,75y,256.36h,69.27t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1smsiCwDVa8whDODDhe56yXg!2e0!3e2","Sunflower 2")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Sunflower 2"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6763906,-122.0799969,3a,75y,256.36h,69.27t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1smsiCwDVa8whDODDhe56yXg!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Sunflower 2</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.6720405,-122.0836095,3a,75y,318.93h,61.7t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sjmntJbBscY24pjDs9X68Ig!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0","Eden Jewelry and Loan Co.")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Eden Jewelry and Loan Co."]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.6720405,-122.0836095,3a,75y,318.93h,61.7t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sjmntJbBscY24pjDs9X68Ig!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0" target="_blank">Eden Jewelry and Loan Co.</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6192921,-122.0370198,3a,75y,265.67h,76.84t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sFknZf9VG03IuFgqv55N3VA!2e0!3e2","Taqueria Los Gallos 2")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Taqueria Los Gallos 2"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6192921,-122.0370198,3a,75y,265.67h,76.84t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sFknZf9VG03IuFgqv55N3VA!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Taqueria Los Gallos 2</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6680958,-122.0974267,3a,75y,18.79h,73.05t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sdPb939YfY6ymo5c-GYtJ1Q!2e0!3e2","Fiesta Depot")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Fiesta Depot"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6680958,-122.0974267,3a,75y,18.79h,73.05t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sdPb939YfY6ymo5c-GYtJ1Q!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Fiesta Depot</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6728159,-122.0824537,3a,75y,140.27h,75.29t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sfuT2FCRYcLNdNyau8JSMCQ!2e0!3e2","The Bistro")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"The Bistro"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6728159,-122.0824537,3a,75y,140.27h,75.29t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sfuT2FCRYcLNdNyau8JSMCQ!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">The Bistro</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6486069,-122.0655379,3a,75y,5.5h,74.56t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s2xeShPaYwdFh0Rf0iidOgQ!2e0!3e2","Hayward Floral")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Hayward Floral"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6486069,-122.0655379,3a,75y,5.5h,74.56t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s2xeShPaYwdFh0Rf0iidOgQ!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Hayward Floral</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6725629,-122.0822258,3a,75y,47.79h,80.95t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sQrq6jwKq1Wlp_P4wv2KJiw!2e0!3e2","The Golden Tea Room")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"The Golden Tea Room"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6725629,-122.0822258,3a,75y,47.79h,80.95t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sQrq6jwKq1Wlp_P4wv2KJiw!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">The Golden Tea Room</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6741568,-122.0860814,3a,75y,323.97h,60.72t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1syPkzYjUOjgKaLUIRaEirJQ!2e0!3e2","Hayward Gift")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Hayward Gift"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6741568,-122.0860814,3a,75y,323.97h,60.72t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1syPkzYjUOjgKaLUIRaEirJQ!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Hayward Gift</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6676626,-122.0818494,3a,75y,182.42h,74.71t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sY5wBNxk0QD9x9gsrkQ_-pA!2e0!3e2","Togos")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Togos"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6676626,-122.0818494,3a,75y,182.42h,74.71t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sY5wBNxk0QD9x9gsrkQ_-pA!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Togos</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6758299,-122.08016,3a,75y,258.47h,64.23t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sbYxafeOa6lluEOraN0zR0w!2e0!3e2","Hayward Minuteman Press")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Hayward Minuteman Press"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6758299,-122.08016,3a,75y,258.47h,64.23t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sbYxafeOa6lluEOraN0zR0w!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Hayward Minuteman Press</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6812762,-122.0872504,3a,75y,2.32h,83.51t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sgQd3Inyc6I7K2Zt3r5x8sA!2e0!3e2","Tommy's Donuts")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Tommy's Donuts"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6812762,-122.0872504,3a,75y,2.32h,83.51t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sgQd3Inyc6I7K2Zt3r5x8sA!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Tommy's Donuts</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.673765,-122.0845012,3a,75y,309.5h,70.81t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sapfwyZHS3A0J5eZy__OfnQ!2e0!3e2","Hayward Video")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Hayward Video"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.673765,-122.0845012,3a,75y,309.5h,70.81t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sapfwyZHS3A0J5eZy__OfnQ!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Hayward Video</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6516116,-122.109724,3a,75y,259.23h,68.8t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sjWK9wyGUKQWyI0o7aHAp4g!2e0!3e2","Tomodachi Sushi Bistro")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Tomodachi Sushi Bistro"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6516116,-122.109724,3a,75y,259.23h,68.8t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sjWK9wyGUKQWyI0o7aHAp4g!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Tomodachi Sushi Bistro</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6761744,-122.0829146,3a,75y,60.66h,65.91t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sKbcPg9Hea5R2ybT84xUp-w!2e0!3e2","Higgins Jewelry Center")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Higgins Jewelry Center"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6761744,-122.0829146,3a,75y,60.66h,65.91t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sKbcPg9Hea5R2ybT84xUp-w!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Higgins Jewelry Center</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.6628262,-122.0837565,3a,75y,177.49h,90.24t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1st4sTJDy5Jbpnv_mpAGPeoQ!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0","United Bar & Grill")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"United Bar & Grill"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.6628262,-122.0837565,3a,75y,177.49h,90.24t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1st4sTJDy5Jbpnv_mpAGPeoQ!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0" target="_blank">United Bar & Grill</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6190339,-122.0363668,3a,75y,295.92h,81.41t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s7YLX7lwqvmDQaafU2mVbhA!2e0!3e2","Karen's Flower Kottage")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Karen's Flower Kottage"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6190339,-122.0363668,3a,75y,295.92h,81.41t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s7YLX7lwqvmDQaafU2mVbhA!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Karen's Flower Kottage</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6648916,-122.0779695,3a,75y,146.82h,75.44t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sEwQEl7Oi25M9yURoWHl1wQ!2e0!3e2","United Paleria y Neveria")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"United Paleria y Neveria"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6648916,-122.0779695,3a,75y,146.82h,75.44t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sEwQEl7Oi25M9yURoWHl1wQ!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">United Paleria y Neveria</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.663946,-122.0772127,3a,75y,265.57h,66.07t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1se3TdDS5KFInz4g9myUIyRw!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0","Kim Pacific Martial Arts Supply")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Kim Pacific Martial Arts Supply"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.663946,-122.0772127,3a,75y,265.57h,66.07t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1se3TdDS5KFInz4g9myUIyRw!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0" target="_blank">Kim Pacific Martial Arts Supply</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.6834987,-122.0633612,3a,75y,326.4h,64.31t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sgcsU8MLEEdMF1Y_aM8pm6g!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0","Val's Burgers")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Val's Burgers"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.6834987,-122.0633612,3a,75y,326.4h,64.31t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sgcsU8MLEEdMF1Y_aM8pm6g!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0" target="_blank">Val's Burgers</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6689985,-122.0951553,3a,75y,286.05h,67.98t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1swX2VrQUCi0BdXhW1ai7Fdg!2e0!3e2","La Esperanza Tricolor")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"La Esperanza Tricolor"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6689985,-122.0951553,3a,75y,286.05h,67.98t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1swX2VrQUCi0BdXhW1ai7Fdg!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">La Esperanza Tricolor</a></td><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.6713484,-122.0828585,3a,75y,78.55h,73.29t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sz2YAHDD78-5BD3w89_W9pg!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0","Yuki Hana Sushi")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Yuki Hana Sushi"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.6713484,-122.0828585,3a,75y,78.55h,73.29t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sz2YAHDD78-5BD3w89_W9pg!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0" target="_blank">Yuki Hana Sushi</a></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6684535,-122.0966152,3a,75y,64.9h,55.83t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1smUKD7Kbq11vduwThXPIH0g!2e0!3e2","La Mexicana")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"La Mexicana"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6684535,-122.0966152,3a,75y,64.9h,55.83t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1smUKD7Kbq11vduwThXPIH0g!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">La Mexicana</a></td><td style="padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;"></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6761963,-122.0799413,3a,75y,87.17h,64.31t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s0fQ77THlz-btT2lvXToYhA!2e0!3e2","R&H Liquors")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"R&H Liquors"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6761963,-122.0799413,3a,75y,87.17h,64.31t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s0fQ77THlz-btT2lvXToYhA!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">R&H Liquors</a></td><td style="padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;"></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6765156,-122.0797511,3a,75y,354.39h,74.56t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1suB-BZrb49NY5MVqMohOSzQ!2e0!3e2","Reptile Room")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Reptile Room"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6765156,-122.0797511,3a,75y,354.39h,74.56t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1suB-BZrb49NY5MVqMohOSzQ!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Reptile Room</a></td><td style="padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;"></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6714285,-122.0803977,3a,75y,3.62h,44.47t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sBiofEhlB6TOPX6kLepppKg!2e0!3e2","Sun Tans to Go")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Sun Tans to Go"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6714285,-122.0803977,3a,75y,3.62h,44.47t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sBiofEhlB6TOPX6kLepppKg!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Sun Tans to Go</a></td><td style="padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;"></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6344174,-122.0652423,3a,75y,333.66h,74.9t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sxp5-lnuIWHpsOE1LSOIE8g!2e0!3e2!6m1!1e1","Superway Aquarium")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Superway Aquarium"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6344174,-122.0652423,3a,75y,333.66h,74.9t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sxp5-lnuIWHpsOE1LSOIE8g!2e0!3e2!6m1!1e1" target="_blank">Superway Aquarium</a></td><td style="padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;"></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.6728301,-122.0823356,3a,75y,139.47h,90t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sJxt75EWbKLotxPQZzl8jWg!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0","The Book Shop")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"The Book Shop"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.6728301,-122.0823356,3a,75y,139.47h,90t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sJxt75EWbKLotxPQZzl8jWg!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0" target="_blank">The Book Shop</a></td><td style="padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;"></td></tr>
<tr style="height: 21px;"><td data-sheets-formula="=HYPERLINK("https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6731915,-122.08245,3a,75y,242.14h,71.19t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sUxHf8an1PDECPFsdgS7q6w!2e0!3e2","Tu Tiendo Azteca")" data-sheets-value="[null,2,"Tu Tiendo Azteca"]" style="color: #1155cc; font-size: 110%; padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: bottom;"><a class="in-cell-link" href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.6731915,-122.08245,3a,75y,242.14h,71.19t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sUxHf8an1PDECPFsdgS7q6w!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Tu Tiendo Azteca</a></td><td style="padding: 2px 3px 2px 3px; vertical-align: bottom;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Lastly, for those who like to reminisce; here are a couple of old time classics--gone but not forgotten... <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/@37.643558,-122.1040672,3a,75y,208.79h,83.22t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1swe5tQQV__cZmvQPaieP_zA!2e0!3e2" target="_blank">Vasiliki's</a> (now Black Bear Diner) and <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Hayward,+CA/@37.6758528,-122.0782381,3a,75y,350.07h,69.74t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1s-kHIzaKP_-RDZssXHjY6Cw!2e0!3e2!4m2!3m1!1s0x808f9431b601597d:0x70474dec26939c0" target="_blank">Medina's Gym</a>.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Please report broken links, businesses that no longer exist, or businesses using Business View that have not been included here.</span>Larry Johmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08338782371894514617noreply@blogger.com0Hayward, CA, USA37.6688205 -122.080796437.467581 -122.40351989999999 37.87006 -121.7580729tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2118063388211573780.post-85407455063959934852014-11-30T07:59:00.000-08:002015-01-27T20:16:22.904-08:00New Restricted Parking Around Hayward BART Station The City of Hayward has been busy installing signs that restrict parking along streets near the Hayward BART Station and at the parking garage across from City Hall. The posted restrictions limit parking to a maximum of 2- or 4-hours during the work week at the locations shown on the map below.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJE_VexbS6-_eab5PGwTFOtWPo-kVd0hMuHQPDZDxdVscTisLdkSREBvNqNj6gOYtdItHHa4tBnOZ31Yee8j1ay9txgeAZ_0BVQs0FiyCUVmjGI4rdw0S4MW7fL4wjJ7KRr2dHggaGNcI/s1600/ParkingRestrictions-edited.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJE_VexbS6-_eab5PGwTFOtWPo-kVd0hMuHQPDZDxdVscTisLdkSREBvNqNj6gOYtdItHHa4tBnOZ31Yee8j1ay9txgeAZ_0BVQs0FiyCUVmjGI4rdw0S4MW7fL4wjJ7KRr2dHggaGNcI/s1600/ParkingRestrictions-edited.png" height="476" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Click on the map to view an enlarged version. (Image credit: City of Hayward)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="color: white;">.</span><br />
Beginning tomorrow, December 1st, the city will enforce restrictions by issuing warnings to those who exceed the posted time limits. After a grace period of a couple of weeks, citations will be issued. The fine for parking over the time limit is currently $77.50.<br />
<br />
The new parking restrictions are in response to BART's plan to charge for parking at the Hayward Station. Hayward is the last station where drivers can still park for free. But this will come to end on December 8th when BART will begin charging a $1 fee to park between the hours of 4 am and 3 pm.<br />
<br />
BART's new fee will undoubtedly increase desire for free off-site parking. The city hopes to limit this by enforcing the new restricted parking zones. Doing so, however, creates two potential problems.<br />
<br />
First, those who reside on streets within the new restricted zones and who park their vehicles on the street for lengthy periods are at risk of being ticketed. Fred Kelley, the City's Transportation Manager, acknowledges that this is a possibility. But he assured me that the City will attempt to avoid citing vehicles of those locals who reside within the restricted areas and will dismiss tickets of those locals who are mistakenly cited. The alternative is to establish a parking zone that requires parking permits. While such permits are a possible future consideration, the City's current plan, if effective, is preferable, since locals won't have a need to purchase permits.<br />
<br />
The other problem that will probably arise from the City's parking restrictions will surely frustrate many BART patrons who currently park at the Hayward Station. Currently, there is an insufficient number of parking spaces available at the station to accommodate demand. The lot and garage are typically filled to capacity by 8:15 am every Monday through Thursday. Those who arrive later are forced to find parking off-site in competition with those who prefer city streets or the City's garage to that of the BART parking lot or garage. If nearby off-site parking is effectively eliminated by the City's parking restrictions, the station's parking capacity will likely be reached considerably earlier. Those not arriving before then may have to park many blocks away, find another way to get to BART, or give up on it altogether.<br />
<br />Larry Johmannhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08338782371894514617noreply@blogger.com7Hayward, CA, USA37.6688205 -122.080796437.467602 -122.40351989999999 37.870039000000006 -121.7580729