Dear Russell City community members and stakeholders,
As the recently appointed City Manager of the City of Hayward, I would like to take this opportunity to introduce myself and to update you on the status of the Russell City Project.
Since starting in my new role as the City’s Chief Executive Officer on Thursday, Jan. 9, 2025, I have been meeting and greeting new colleagues and Hayward community members, familiarizing myself with the City of Hayward priorities and responding to unanticipated challenges and community concerns. As you might imagine, there are both opportunities and challenges in this wonderfully diverse and vibrant city. The city is rich in culture and history in every neighborhood.
I have also been learning about high priority initiatives such as the Russell City Project and the extraordinary effort that has gone into it thus far. I have been reviewing its timeline—beginning with the City Council’s 2021 apology to former Russell City residents. I am aware of the work performed by the Russell City Steering Committee, the San Francisco State researchers, and Ceres group, as well as the information obtained during the Town Hall meetings last summer.
As you know from the City’s last email communication on Nov. 4, 2024, dates of a planned City Council work session to discuss potential Council action in December were postponed allowing for further evaluation by City staff. At the same time, City staff have been in contact with government agencies and others to explore possible partnerships. These conversations are meant to broaden options for eventual City Council action.
My goal is to find a way forward that builds on all the hard work that has already been done, while also being mindful of the ongoing challenges we face—especially with limited municipal resources in a tough economic climate. To move things ahead, the City has been putting in a lot of effort to fine-tune the project under this framework. That includes actively looking for partners who can support and strengthen our efforts along the way.
I want to reassure you that the Russell City Project is still very much a priority for the City. It remains one of our key initiatives, with a strong focus on recognizing and honoring the rich legacy of the Russell City community. City staff are diligently continuing their work, and I expect we will have more updates to share with you soon.
Respectfully,
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