Hayward employees express discontent over city manager's leadership and policy changes

Concerns over leadership and employee morale dominated the Hayward City Council meeting on May 6, 2025, as city staff voiced their frustrations during Public Service Recognition Week. Emily Huang, a management analyst in the Community Services Division, opened the discussion by highlighting the positive impact of city services, which reached over 136,000 residents last year. However, she quickly shifted focus to the turmoil within the organization, sparked by the abrupt departure of the Human Resources Director, Bridal Frey, just days before her scheduled exit.

Huang described the situation as demoralizing, stating, “We have lost all trust. We are demoralized.” She criticized the city manager's actions, suggesting they sent a message that loyalty and service are undervalued. This sentiment was echoed by other employees, including Manny Grewal, who raised concerns about a new return-to-office policy implemented without employee input, calling it a reflection of a top-down leadership style that fosters fear and distrust.

Dr. Amber Green, who recently resigned, emphasized that the city manager's decisions contradict the core values of caring, openness, and integrity. She pointed out that the lack of transparency and disregard for employee well-being are damaging the organization’s morale and effectiveness. “If we as staff are expected to uphold the city's values, shouldn't our leaders be held to the same standard?” she questioned.

The meeting underscored a growing discontent among city employees, who fear that the current leadership approach could jeopardize the quality of services provided to residents. As the council members listened to these heartfelt testimonies, the call for a leadership reset became clear, with employees urging for a more compassionate and transparent administration to restore trust and morale within the city workforce.