In 2002, 72% of voters rejected a ballot measure approving Castro Valley incorporation. Advocates for cityhood, however, haven’t given up, and a new vote is projected for March 2028. The difference this time, say proponents, is a realistic surplus-yielding budget sure to appeal at the polls.
On Tuesday, Oct. 20, the group spearheading the drive for cityhood, Town of Castro Valley (TCV), presented the latest projected first-year budget figures at a community update held at the Castro Valley Public Library. After a presentation given by TCV board member Yon Hardisty, the attendees got to ask questions of the board members present.
This recent drive to incorporate Castro Valley comes on the heels of an Initial Feasibility Analysis (IFA) commissioned by Alameda Local Area Formation Commission (LAFCO). LAFCO is a state-mandated local agency that oversees boundary changes to cities and special districts, the formation of new agencies including incorporation of new cities and the consolidation of existing agencies.
The report, finalized in July 2024 and prepared by Berkson Associates, weighed the positive and negative aspects of incorporating some or all the areas of Castro Valley, Fairview and Eden (comprising Ashland, Cherryland, San Lorenzo and Hayward Acres).
Encouraged by the IFA findings, and in line with its budget analyses, cityhood proponents determined that a potentially successful plan for incorporation could be presented to LAFCO. Formulating one is just what TCV has been pursuing since 2024, the latest version of which was the subject of Tuesday’s meeting.
TCV points to the current lack of representation as a condition denying Castro Valley available civic funding. In recent years, say advocates, more than $14M in grants distributed to surrounding cities were denied to Castro Valley, since it lacked independent city status.
Moreover, local zoning and development are now subject to forces beyond Castro Valley’s control, a critical lack given California’s requirements for new housing. City status ensures that local interest defines land use and regulation. Importantly, repairs and improvements to infrastructure would proceed on a schedule set by local demands, not the county’s.
TCV public information officer Michael Singer said he was “happy that there was a turnout of considerable size.” He continued, “I would say that we got the message across, giving people a chance to hear the most recent information and respond with their questions.”
Questions posed at the Tuesday meeting focused on the information sources for the proposed first year budget, possible changes to public services, physical boundaries of the new city, government structure and the potential for new taxes.
The budget numbers, say TCV, were based on revenue and expense data provided by Alameda County pertinent to the area. Many county services would remain in place, not requiring a change in jurisdiction, while others, most notably police services, could be negotiated, say advocates, for a better deal than the county’s current rate of assessment.
As it stands, unincorporated areas are assessed fees for services at a rate determined by the county; however, as a city, Castro Valley would have the ability to seek flexibility as an independent client looking to contract for those services.
The current plan’s suggested boundary map differentiates the Core Downtown area, Cull Canyon, Crow Canyon, Jensen Ranch and Palo Verde/Palomares. TCV’s plan includes all five areas, but LAFCO may accept the plan as is, or counter with its own suggestions. For instance, the Core Downtown area might be incorporated first, with the outlying areas being annexed as financial viability affords.
“LAFCO,” says Singer, “sets the terms of the feasibility, and then it goes out for public review.” The initial boundary question is fluid, and public input will be a key element in a final determination before any proposal reaches the vote.
After Tuesday’s meeting and public feedback, Singer is confident that the plan will be submitted soon. Those interested in further details are encouraged to visit townofcastrovalley.com.
