CC 08-29-22 Item No. 2_Late_Written CommunicationsCC 08-29-2022
Item No. 2
Councilmember
Written
Communication
Written Communications
Vallco SB-35 proposal changes: 2018 vs The Rise 2022
2018 SB-35 Vallco Towers vs. 2022 SB-35 Towers .. 2
BLOCK 3 BLOCK 2
48 Du/Ac
Sites to consider for EIR
Study
The site to the west of Post Office: 0.44+0.32+0.25 acres
Current Zoning P(CN, ML, Res 4-12)
Post Office
Site to the south of Post Office: 0.56 acre
Currentr Zoning P(CN, ML, Res 4-12)
Site to the south of Post Office: 0.56+0.28+0.06 acre
Current Zoning P(CN, ML, Res 4-12)
Post Office
Bubb Road area
Outback site (1.51 acre)
Current zoning P(CG, ML, Res)
From:Kirsten Squarcia
To:Jon Robert Willey
Cc:City Clerk; Pamela Wu; Christopher Jensen; Piu Ghosh (she/her); Luke Connolly
Subject:RE: Bubb Rd
Date:Monday, August 29, 2022 9:55:20 PM
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Thank you Councilmember Willey (Council Bcc’d), this will also be included with the written
communications for Housing Element Agenda Item #2.
Regards, Kirsten
Kirsten Squarcia
City Clerk
City Manager's Office
KirstenS@cupertino.org
(408) 777-3225
From: Jon Robert Willey <JWilley@cupertino.org>
Sent: Monday, August 29, 2022 9:48 PM
To: Kirsten Squarcia <KirstenS@cupertino.org>
Subject: Fwd: Bubb Rd
Sent from my iPhone
Jon Robert Willey
Councilmember
City Council
JWilley@cupertino.org
408-777-3193
Begin forwarded message:
From: scemail777@gmail.com
Date: August 29, 2022 at 8:48:47 PM PDT
To: Jon Robert Willey <JWilley@cupertino.org>
Subject: Bubb Rd
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open
attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
Jon…great ideas about Bubb Rd at tonight’s meeting…a GREAT place for high density.
I’ve “walked” it a month ago…the problem is that most of the building’s have tenants
and several of them have Apple as tenant…the “gold standard” type tenant for a
property owner.
Here’s what you’ve got for Bubb Rd from my drive. Unfortunately, Apple is a tenant in a
majority of the sites and the others are either owner/users, churches or State of CA
corp yard.
Staring on the North end of Bubb Rd on the Hwy 85 Side of Bubb and working South
towards McClellan Rd
10800 Bubb
Tenant: Institute for Western Civilization
Land Area: 0.81 acres
Bldg Area: 14,000/SF
10100 Bubb (For Sale Right now)
Tenant: Vacant Building with some Tenant Improvements done
Land Area: 0.87 acres
Bldg Area: 13,500/SF
10130 Bubb
Tenant/Owner: State of CA “Corp Yard”
Land Area: 2.96 acres
Bldg Area: Not Listed
10240 Bubb
Tenant: Durect Corp
Land Area: 1.65 acres
Bldg Area: 30,000/SF
10260 Bubb Rd
Tenant: Durect Corp (same tenant at 10240 Bubb)
Land Area: 1.28 acres
Bldg Area: 20,000/SF
10300 Bubb Rd
Tenant: Apple
Land Area: 1.43 acres
Bldg Area: 23,000/SF
10340 Bubb Rd
Tenant/Owner: Home of Christ Church
Land Area: 1.48 acres
Bldg Area: 30,000/SF
10420 Bubb Rd
Tenant/Owner: Home of Christ Church
Land Area: 3.53 acres
Bldg Area: 50,000/SF
10440 Bubb Rd
Tenant: Do not know
Land Area: 1.13 acres
Bldg Area: 19,500/SF
10460 Bubb Rd
Tenant: Apple
Land Area: 3.59 acres
Bldg Area: 45,400/SF
Staring on the North end of Bubb Rd on the Railroad Side of Bubb and working
South towards McClellan Rd
10061 Bubb Rd
Tenant: Multi Tenant Building w/some space for lease
Land Area: 0.69 acres
Bldg Area: 14,400/SF
10101 Bubb Rd
Tenant: Apple
Land Area: 1.05 acres
Bldg Area: 15,600/SF
10131 Bubb Rd
Tenant: Apple
Land Area: 1.06 acres
Bldg Area: 18,000/SF
10161 Bubb Rd
Tenant: Apple
Land Area: 1.06 acres
Bldg Area: 14,800/SF
10231 Bubb Rd
Tenant: Apple
Land Area: 1.06 acres
Bldg Area: 18,500/SF
10261 Bubb Rd
Tenant: Unknown
Land Area: 1.06 acres
Bldg Area: 19,600/SF
10341 Bubb Rd
Tenant: Apple
Land Area: 1.22 acres
Bldg Area: 27,000/SF
10411 Bubb Rd
Tenant: Apple
Land Area: 1.15 acres
Bldg Area: 20,000/SF
Scott
408-640-0383
From: Jon Robert Willey
<JWilley@cupertino.org>
Sent: Monday, August 29, 2022 11:24 PM
To: Kirsten Squarcia <KirstenS@cupertino.org>
Subject: FW: Housing Element
Jon Robert Willey
Councilmember
City Council
JWilley@cupertino.org
408-777-3193
From: scemail777@gmail.com <scemail777@gmail.com>
Sent: Monday, August 22, 2022 4:05 PM
To: Jon Robert Willey <JWilley@cupertino.org>
Subject: RE: Housing Element
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachment s unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
FYI...I went back in my cell phone and found this picture I took in Saratoga (an example of the banners
they posted around the City for their Housing Element process)…this picture was taken in October 2021.
Scott
408-640-0383
From: Jon Robert Willey <JWilley@cupertino.org>
Sent: Monday, August 22, 2022 10:45 AM
To: scemail777@gmail.com
Subject: Re: Housing Element
Hello Scott,
Thank you for your e-mail and spending your time to meet on Friday. Fortunately, I was able to
mention our meeting to Darcy during our Farmers Market ribbon cutting on Sunday and I feel it
would be very beneficial for him to also meet with you. But I haven't connected with him yet to
discuss the details which I think will greatly improve our Housing Element process and
task. Hopefully I can discuss it with him this week, before our next c ity meeting, so I can decide
how to cover the topics that you brought up. And if you are able to also attend next week's
meeting and cover some of your suggestions, I think that will greatly help when I then ask staff
to implement these improvements.
Well, I don't know what else to say now, but I really appreciate your time and interest in
helping us with this important item.
Many thanks,
Jon
Jon Robert Willey
Councilmember
City Council
JWilley@cupertino.org
408-777-3193
From: scemail777@gmail.com <scemail777@gmail.com>
Sent: Saturday, August 20, 2022 11:35 AM
To: Jon Robert Willey <JWilley@cupertino.org>
Subject: RE: Housing Element
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
Hi Jon…just wanted to shoot you a quick note and say “thanks” for your time today. I had a really nice
time talking with you and kicking around ideas. I hope the kids were successful and getting their “3
names”! And tell your little Steph Curry, that I loved her “floater at the buzzer”! Have a nice
weekend.
Scott
408-640-0383
From: Jon Robert Willey <JWilley@cupertino.org>
Sent: Wednesday, August 17, 2022 6:49 PM
To: scemail777@gmail.com
Subject: Re: Housing Element
Hello Scott,
Sounds good, Friday at noon, Senior Center patio tables, see below.
And if anything things change, just give me a call.
Jon
408 896-7590
Jon Robert Willey
Councilmember
City Council
JWilley@cupertino.org
408-777-3193
From: scemail777@gmail.com <scemail777@gmail.com>
Sent: Wednesday, August 17, 2022 2:18 PM
To: Jon Robert Willey <JWilley@cupertino.org>
Subject: RE: Housing Element
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
Great to hear back from you thanks.
This Friday at 12pm would work for me…I’m happy to meet at either spot…whatever is most convenient
for you. Just let me know, but if we do it at the senior center, just let me know where the patio is.
Really looking forward to it. Thanks.
Scott
408-640-0383
From: Jon Robert Willey <JWilley@cupertino.org>
Sent: Wednesday, August 17, 2022 1:59 PM
To: scemail777@gmail.com
Subject: Re: Housing Element
Hello Scott,
Thank you for your e-mail . . . and for your ideas last night. It was very interesting that other
residents also liked some of your ideas.
And yes, I am happy to meet and discuss your ideas further. Since I still have my regular job as
an engineer, I try to meet during the lunch hou r. So would Friday at noon work . . . or a day
next week? And the two places I've used for meeting are Pannera next to Target on Stevens
Creek or on the patio at the senior center.
Best regards,
Jon
Jon Robert Willey
Councilmember
City Council
JWilley@cupertino.org
408-777-3193
From: scemail777@gmail.com <scemail777@gmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, August 16, 2022 9:38 PM
To: Jon Robert Willey <JWilley@cupertino.org>
Subject: Housing Element
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
Councilmember Wiley…I’d like to schedule a coffee with you to talk about the Housing Element. You just
said in the meeting tonight…”Resident engagement is your priority”…there are 18 people on this call
right now.
The first hour of this meeting tonight has not been productive.
Would you be willing to meet with me for a cup of coffee?
Thank you.
Scott
408-640-0383
CC 08-29-2022
Item No. 2
6th Cycle
Housing Element
Update
Written Communications
From:Benjamin Fu
To:City Clerk; Kirsten Squarcia; Lauren Sapudar
Subject:FW: Midpen Comment Letter: Cupertino Housing Site Inventory
Date:Monday, August 29, 2022 5:47:20 PM
Attachments:Midpen Comment Letter_Cupertino Housing Element Update 2023-2031.pdf
Hi Kirsten,
Please see attached comment letter submitted to the City Manager’s Office and City Council.
Thanks,
Ben
Benjamin Fu
Director of Community Development
Community Development
BenjaminF@cupertino.org
(408) 777-3247
From: Tyler Smith <tsmith@openspace.org>
Sent: Monday, August 29, 2022 3:04 PM
To: Benjamin Fu <BenjaminF@cupertino.org>; City Council <CityCouncil@cupertino.org>
Cc: Cupertino City Manager's Office <citymanager@cupertino.org>; Housing
<Housing@cupertino.org>; Ana Ruiz <aruiz@openspace.org>; Susanna Chan
<schan@openspace.org>; Jane Mark <jmark@openspace.org>
Subject: Midpen Comment Letter: Cupertino Housing Site Inventory
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
Hello Director Fu, City Clerk,
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (Midpen) is submitting a comment letter for the 08/29
City Council agenda item: Discuss Priority Housing Sites for the 2023-2031 Housing Element update.
Midpen appreciates the City of Cupertino’s efforts to address the region’s housing needs, and the
opportunity to provide comments. Attached is a comment letter discussing two properties in Monta
Vista South. Midpen would like the comment letter to be distributed to the City Council.
Thank you,
Tyler Smith (he/him)
Planner II
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
tsmith@openspace.org
650-772-3654 (direct)
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
5050 El Camino Real, Los Altos, CA 94022
650.691.1200 (office)
openspace.org
From 50 to Forever: Caring for the land that cares for us – By creating Midpen 50
years ago, our community prioritized clean air and water, healthy habitats for diverse
native plants and animals, ecosystems that are resilient to the effects of our changing
climate, and places for people to connect with nature – that's what Midpen provides in
perpetuity. Celebrate with us all year long >
August 29, 2022
Benjamin Fu, Community Development Director
City of Cupertino
10300 Torre Avenue
Cupertino, CA 95014
SENT VIA E-MAIL TO: benjaminf@cupertino.org, housing@cupertino.org,
citycouncil@cupertino.org, citymanager@cupertino.org
Subject: City of Cupertino Draft Housing Element Update (2023-2031) Comments
Dear Mr. Fu:
On behalf of the Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (Midpen), we respectfully submit
the following comments regarding the City of Cupertino (City) draft Housing Element Update
for 2023-2031. Midpen has been following the Housing Element Update process and
appreciates the City’s public engagement process as it considers how best to address the
region’s housing needs.
Comprised of over 65,000 acres of acquired and protected open space on the San Francisco
Peninsula, Midpen is one of the largest regional open space districts in California. Our braided
mission is to acquire and preserve in perpetuity open space and agricultural land of regional
significance, to protect and restore the natural environment, to preserve rural character and
encourage viable agricultural use of land resources, and to provide opportunities for
ecologically sensitive public enjoyment and education.
While much of Midpen’s open space lands reside along the ridgeline of the Santa Cruz
Mountains, Midpen owns and manages lands much closer to the built environment such as
Rancho San Antonio Open Space Preserve, and Fremont Older Open Space Preserve (Fremont
Older). One of the properties considered for the City’s Recommended Sites Inventory, 21710
Regnart Road (Property), is located within a quarter mile of Fremont Older. Based on the
Property’s proximity to Fremont Older, we would like to share specific considerations regarding
the proposed intensification to allow a net increase of 23 additional housing units as
incorporated within the Housing Element Update.
The Property sits across two parcels (APN 35623057, 35623001), and is recommended to have
its general plan and zoning designations updated to Res Low 1-5 and R1-5. Under these new
designations, the 1.6-acre property would be allowed to have a net increase of 23 housing units.
The Property is located in the CALFIRE-identified Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) and is
2
approximately 250 meters from a CALFIRE-identified Very High Fire Severity Zone1. Considering
recent, climate-driven increases in fire frequency and the proximity of the very high fire severity
zone for the area, an increase in housing density will exacerbate fire risks, posing additional
challenges for wildland fire fighting and threats to public safety.
An additional concern is that Regnart Creek runs through the Property. The significantly
intensified development potentially poses an increased risk to the riparian corridor, which
serves as habitats and facilitates wildlife movement.
Another location of concern is 21530 Rainbow Drive, a Tier 2 property less than a quarter mile
from Fremont Older. The property is located in the WUI and is only 100 meters from an
identified Very High Fire Severity Zone. This property is proposed to have its zoning designation
updated to R1-7.5, and if considered as a Tier 1 property, could accommodate a net increase of
four additional dwelling units.
These two sites, while not directly adjacent to protected open space, are examples where
additional intensification of development in the WUI increases the risk of wildfire that may
spread to adjacent natural lands such as Fremont Older Open Space Preserve and Rancho San
Antonio Open Space Preserve. We respectfully request that you reconsider intensification of
housing sites within the WUI due to the increased risk of wildfire that has the potential to
threaten both residents and essential habitats in nearby open space.
Thank you for your consideration and we welcome any questions you may have. Please direct
questions to Jane Mark, Planning Manager, at jmark@openspace.org.
Sincerely,
Susanna Chan
Assistant General Manager
CC:
Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District Board of Directors
Ana Ruiz, General Manager, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
Jane Mark, Planning Manager, Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District
Benjamin Fu, Community Development Director, City of Cupertino (benjaminf@cupertino.org)
City Council via City Clerk (citycouncil@cupertino.org)
Cupertino Housing (housing@cupertino.org)
Pamela Wu, City Manager, City of Cupertino (CityManager@cupertino.org)
1 https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/6508928ba28b49648ec26f61848a3f76
From:Andres Vega
To:City Clerk
Subject:De Anza students for an ambitious housing element
Date:Tuesday, August 30, 2022 7:41:20 AM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
City Clerk Kirsten Squarcia,
I am a student at De Anza College. I heard about the Cupertino housing element update
process and have been trying to stay engaged. I strongly support an ambitious housing
element, so that we can (1) meet the housing needs of De Anza students, faculty, and workers,
and (2) meaningfully address racism and segregation in the South Bay. The current status of
the draft housing element is not sufficiently ambitious to accomplish this.
As a De Anza student, I have seen my fellow peers deal with housing insecurity and
homelessness. We should plan for more homes at all incoming levels near the College to meet
our needs. Home and rental prices in Cupertino have risen dramatically over the past several
years, making it impossible for most young people to move back here after college.
The median home price has more than doubled in the past decade, at nearly $2.5 million
dollars. Rents are typically above 3,000 a month, meaning that even a household making over
$100,000 annually would be cost-burdened to rent a typical apartment in Cupertino.
These numbers make it clear—students and our housing needs must be part of the housing
element conversation. The programs, policies, and zoning that Cupertino advances should
therefore be tailored to our needs.
77% of the homes planned to account for Cupertino's 6th Cycle RHNA come from pipeline
projects. Two pipeline projects in particular account for the bulk of that figure: 2402 homes at
Vallco/The Rise, and 600 net new homes at The Hamptons. Combined, these two projects
constitute some 84% of all pipeline project homes. Both have been approved for a number of
years (2018 and 2016, respectively), but, to date, neither has built a single new home.
In effect, this is allowing Cupertino to avoid having to plan for affordable housing on several
sites near De Anza College, by falling back on thousands of pipeline units—many of which the
city is unable to demonstrate are likely to be built during the planning period.
The City must do all three of the following to realistically meet the housing needs of our
cherished community college:
Optimize Planning for the Community
Plan our city around people. Reduce burdensome costs, fees, and unnecessary requirements
that make it difficult to build and scale affordable housing projects.
Promote Sustainable Housing
Incentivize mixed-use, efficient, walkable, bikeable, transit-oriented housing options by
strengthening our Heart of the City Plan—which dictates what can be built on Stevens Creek
Blvd.
Protect our Communities
Center the housing needs of those who already work, play, and teach in Cupertino, but cannot
afford to live here. Protect our vulnerable renters and homeowners.
Upzoning: As a young person, I am OK with taller buildings being part of Cupertino’s future,
and I also do not believe Cupertino is “full”. If we allow developers to build up and out, we can
make much better use of limited land and allow for more families of all backgrounds and
incomes to be here.
Andres Vega
thefaultyjetpack@gmail.com
101 Jefferson Drive, 235
Menlo Park, California 94025
From:Madison Martin
To:City Clerk
Subject:De Anza students for an ambitious housing element
Date:Tuesday, August 30, 2022 6:52:13 AM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
City Clerk Kirsten Squarcia,
I am a student at Foothill College. I heard about the Cupertino housing element update process
and have been trying to stay engaged. I strongly support an ambitious housing element, so that
we can (1) meet the housing needs of Foothill and De Anza students, faculty, and workers, and
(2) meaningfully address racism and segregation in the South Bay. The current status of the
draft housing element is not sufficiently ambitious to accomplish this.
As a Foothill student, I have seen my fellow peers deal with housing insecurity and
homelessness. We should plan for more homes at all incoming levels near the College to meet
our needs. Home and rental prices in Cupertino have risen dramatically over the past several
years, making it impossible for most young people to move back here after college.
The median home price has more than doubled in the past decade, at nearly $2.5 million
dollars. Rents are typically above 3,000 a month, meaning that even a household making over
$100,000 annually would be cost-burdened to rent a typical apartment in Cupertino.
These numbers make it clear—students and our housing needs must be part of the housing
element conversation. The programs, policies, and zoning that Cupertino advances should
therefore be tailored to our needs.
77% of the homes planned to account for Cupertino's 6th Cycle RHNA come from pipeline
projects. Two pipeline projects in particular account for the bulk of that figure: 2402 homes at
Vallco/The Rise, and 600 net new homes at The Hamptons. Combined, these two projects
constitute some 84% of all pipeline project homes. Both have been approved for a number of
years (2018 and 2016, respectively), but, to date, neither has built a single new home.
In effect, this is allowing Cupertino to avoid having to plan for affordable housing on several
sites near De Anza College, by falling back on thousands of pipeline units—many of which the
city is unable to demonstrate are likely to be built during the planning period.
The City must do all three of the following to realistically meet the housing needs of our
cherished community college:
Optimize Planning for the Community
Plan our city around people. Reduce burdensome costs, fees, and unnecessary requirements
that make it difficult to build and scale affordable housing projects.
Promote Sustainable Housing
Incentivize mixed-use, efficient, walkable, bikeable, transit-oriented housing options by
strengthening our Heart of the City Plan—which dictates what can be built on Stevens Creek
Blvd.
Protect our Communities
Center the housing needs of those who already work, play, and teach in Cupertino, but cannot
afford to live here. Protect our vulnerable renters and homeowners.
Upzoning: As a young person, I am OK with taller buildings being part of Cupertino’s future,
and I also do not believe Cupertino is “full”. If we allow developers to build up and out, we can
make much better use of limited land and allow for more families of all backgrounds and
incomes to be here.
Madison Martin
01.copay.fustian@icloud.com
749 Shearton Dr
San Jose , California 95117
From:Angelica Velasquez Jimenez
To:City Clerk
Subject:De Anza students for an ambitious housing element
Date:Tuesday, August 30, 2022 6:49:11 AM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
City Clerk Kirsten Squarcia,
I am a student at De Anza College. I heard about the Cupertino housing element update
process and have been trying to stay engaged. I strongly support an ambitious housing
element, so that we can (1) meet the housing needs of De Anza students, faculty, and workers,
and (2) meaningfully address racism and segregation in the South Bay. The current status of
the draft housing element is not sufficiently ambitious to accomplish this.
As a De Anza student, I have seen my fellow peers deal with housing insecurity and
homelessness. We should plan for more homes at all incoming levels near the College to meet
our needs. Home and rental prices in Cupertino have risen dramatically over the past several
years, making it impossible for most young people to move back here after college.
The median home price has more than doubled in the past decade, at nearly $2.5 million
dollars. Rents are typically above 3,000 a month, meaning that even a household making over
$100,000 annually would be cost-burdened to rent a typical apartment in Cupertino.
These numbers make it clear—students and our housing needs must be part of the housing
element conversation. The programs, policies, and zoning that Cupertino advances should
therefore be tailored to our needs.
77% of the homes planned to account for Cupertino's 6th Cycle RHNA come from pipeline
projects. Two pipeline projects in particular account for the bulk of that figure: 2402 homes at
Vallco/The Rise, and 600 net new homes at The Hamptons. Combined, these two projects
constitute some 84% of all pipeline project homes. Both have been approved for a number of
years (2018 and 2016, respectively), but, to date, neither has built a single new home.
In effect, this is allowing Cupertino to avoid having to plan for affordable housing on several
sites near De Anza College, by falling back on thousands of pipeline units—many of which the
city is unable to demonstrate are likely to be built during the planning period.
The City must do all three of the following to realistically meet the housing needs of our
cherished community college:
Optimize Planning for the Community
Plan our city around people. Reduce burdensome costs, fees, and unnecessary requirements
that make it difficult to build and scale affordable housing projects.
Promote Sustainable Housing
Incentivize mixed-use, efficient, walkable, bikeable, transit-oriented housing options by
strengthening our Heart of the City Plan—which dictates what can be built on Stevens Creek
Blvd.
Protect our Communities
Center the housing needs of those who already work, play, and teach in Cupertino, but cannot
afford to live here. Protect our vulnerable renters and homeowners.
Upzoning: As a young person, I am OK with taller buildings being part of Cupertino’s future,
and I also do not believe Cupertino is “full”. If we allow developers to build up and out, we can
make much better use of limited land and allow for more families of all backgrounds and
incomes to be here.
Angelica Velasquez Jimenez
4avelasquez@gmail.com
80 Descanso Dr
San Jose, California 95134
From:Ian Ang
To:City Clerk
Subject:De Anza students for an ambitious housing element
Date:Tuesday, August 30, 2022 6:48:29 AM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
City Clerk Kirsten Squarcia,
I am a student at De Anza College. I heard about the Cupertino housing element update
process and have been trying to stay engaged. I strongly support an ambitious housing
element, so that we can (1) meet the housing needs of De Anza students, faculty, and workers,
and (2) meaningfully address racism and segregation in the South Bay. The current status of
the draft housing element is not sufficiently ambitious to accomplish this.
As a De Anza student, I have seen my fellow peers deal with housing insecurity and
homelessness. We should plan for more homes at all incoming levels near the College to meet
our needs. Home and rental prices in Cupertino have risen dramatically over the past several
years, making it impossible for most young people to move back here after college.
The median home price has more than doubled in the past decade, at nearly $2.5 million
dollars. Rents are typically above 3,000 a month, meaning that even a household making over
$100,000 annually would be cost-burdened to rent a typical apartment in Cupertino.
These numbers make it clear—students and our housing needs must be part of the housing
element conversation. The programs, policies, and zoning that Cupertino advances should
therefore be tailored to our needs.
77% of the homes planned to account for Cupertino's 6th Cycle RHNA come from pipeline
projects. Two pipeline projects in particular account for the bulk of that figure: 2402 homes at
Vallco/The Rise, and 600 net new homes at The Hamptons. Combined, these two projects
constitute some 84% of all pipeline project homes. Both have been approved for a number of
years (2018 and 2016, respectively), but, to date, neither has built a single new home.
In effect, this is allowing Cupertino to avoid having to plan for affordable housing on several
sites near De Anza College, by falling back on thousands of pipeline units—many of which the
city is unable to demonstrate are likely to be built during the planning period.
The City must do all three of the following to realistically meet the housing needs of our
cherished community college:
Optimize Planning for the Community
Plan our city around people. Reduce burdensome costs, fees, and unnecessary requirements
that make it difficult to build and scale affordable housing projects.
Promote Sustainable Housing
Incentivize mixed-use, efficient, walkable, bikeable, transit-oriented housing options by
strengthening our Heart of the City Plan—which dictates what can be built on Stevens Creek
Blvd.
Protect our Communities
Center the housing needs of those who already work, play, and teach in Cupertino, but cannot
afford to live here. Protect our vulnerable renters and homeowners.
Upzoning: As a young person, I am OK with taller buildings being part of Cupertino’s future,
and I also do not believe Cupertino is “full”. If we allow developers to build up and out, we can
make much better use of limited land and allow for more families of all backgrounds and
incomes to be here.
Ian Ang
iannangg02@gmail.com
10051 Pasadena Avenue
Cupertino, California 95014
From:Kieren E
To:City Clerk
Subject:De Anza students for an ambitious housing element
Date:Tuesday, August 30, 2022 1:58:57 AM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
City Clerk Kirsten Squarcia,
I am a student at De Anza College. I heard about the Cupertino housing element update
process and have been trying to stay engaged. I strongly support an ambitious housing
element, so that we can (1) meet the housing needs of De Anza students, faculty, and workers,
and (2) meaningfully address racism and segregation in the South Bay. The current status of
the draft housing element is not sufficiently ambitious to accomplish this.
As a De Anza student, I have seen my fellow peers deal with housing insecurity and
homelessness. We should plan for more homes at all incoming levels near the College to meet
our needs. Home and rental prices in Cupertino have risen dramatically over the past several
years, making it impossible for most young people to move back here after college.
The median home price has more than doubled in the past decade, at nearly $2.5 million
dollars. Rents are typically above 3,000 a month, meaning that even a household making over
$100,000 annually would be cost-burdened to rent a typical apartment in Cupertino.
These numbers make it clear—students and our housing needs must be part of the housing
element conversation. The programs, policies, and zoning that Cupertino advances should
therefore be tailored to our needs.
77% of the homes planned to account for Cupertino's 6th Cycle RHNA come from pipeline
projects. Two pipeline projects in particular account for the bulk of that figure: 2402 homes at
Vallco/The Rise, and 600 net new homes at The Hamptons. Combined, these two projects
constitute some 84% of all pipeline project homes. Both have been approved for a number of
years (2018 and 2016, respectively), but, to date, neither has built a single new home.
In effect, this is allowing Cupertino to avoid having to plan for affordable housing on several
sites near De Anza College, by falling back on thousands of pipeline units—many of which the
city is unable to demonstrate are likely to be built during the planning period.
The City must do all three of the following to realistically meet the housing needs of our
cherished community college:
Optimize Planning for the Community
Plan our city around people. Reduce burdensome costs, fees, and unnecessary requirements
that make it difficult to build and scale affordable housing projects.
Promote Sustainable Housing
Incentivize mixed-use, efficient, walkable, bikeable, transit-oriented housing options by
strengthening our Heart of the City Plan—which dictates what can be built on Stevens Creek
Blvd.
Protect our Communities
Center the housing needs of those who already work, play, and teach in Cupertino, but cannot
afford to live here. Protect our vulnerable renters and homeowners.
Upzoning: As a young person, I am OK with taller buildings being part of Cupertino’s future,
and I also do not believe Cupertino is “full”. If we allow developers to build up and out, we can
make much better use of limited land and allow for more families of all backgrounds and
incomes to be here.
Kieren E
kierenemens@gmail.com
801 Rose Ave
Mountain View, California 94040
From:Amy Shannon
To:City Clerk
Subject:De Anza students for an ambitious housing element
Date:Monday, August 29, 2022 11:54:18 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
City Clerk Kirsten Squarcia,
I am a student at De Anza College. I heard about the Cupertino housing element update
process and have been trying to stay engaged. I strongly support an ambitious housing
element, so that we can (1) meet the housing needs of De Anza students, faculty, and workers,
and (2) meaningfully address racism and segregation in the South Bay. The current status of
the draft housing element is not sufficiently ambitious to accomplish this.
As a De Anza student, I have seen my fellow peers deal with housing insecurity and
homelessness. We should plan for more homes at all incoming levels near the College to meet
our needs. Home and rental prices in Cupertino have risen dramatically over the past several
years, making it impossible for most young people to move back here after college.
The median home price has more than doubled in the past decade, at nearly $2.5 million
dollars. Rents are typically above 3,000 a month, meaning that even a household making over
$100,000 annually would be cost-burdened to rent a typical apartment in Cupertino.
These numbers make it clear—students and our housing needs must be part of the housing
element conversation. The programs, policies, and zoning that Cupertino advances should
therefore be tailored to our needs.
77% of the homes planned to account for Cupertino's 6th Cycle RHNA come from pipeline
projects. Two pipeline projects in particular account for the bulk of that figure: 2402 homes at
Vallco/The Rise, and 600 net new homes at The Hamptons. Combined, these two projects
constitute some 84% of all pipeline project homes. Both have been approved for a number of
years (2018 and 2016, respectively), but, to date, neither has built a single new home.
In effect, this is allowing Cupertino to avoid having to plan for affordable housing on several
sites near De Anza College, by falling back on thousands of pipeline units—many of which the
city is unable to demonstrate are likely to be built during the planning period.
The City must do all three of the following to realistically meet the housing needs of our
cherished community college:
Optimize Planning for the Community
Plan our city around people. Reduce burdensome costs, fees, and unnecessary requirements
that make it difficult to build and scale affordable housing projects.
Promote Sustainable Housing
Incentivize mixed-use, efficient, walkable, bikeable, transit-oriented housing options by
strengthening our Heart of the City Plan—which dictates what can be built on Stevens Creek
Blvd.
Protect our Communities
Center the housing needs of those who already work, play, and teach in Cupertino, but cannot
afford to live here. Protect our vulnerable renters and homeowners.
Upzoning: As a young person, I am OK with taller buildings being part of Cupertino’s future,
and I also do not believe Cupertino is “full”. If we allow developers to build up and out, we can
make much better use of limited land and allow for more families of all backgrounds and
incomes to be here.
Amy Shannon
ashannon96@gmail.com
261 Trianon Way
Los Altos, California 94022
From:Eren Saglam
To:City Clerk
Subject:De Anza students for an ambitious housing element
Date:Monday, August 29, 2022 11:44:42 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
City Clerk Kirsten Squarcia,
I am a student at De Anza College. I heard about the Cupertino housing element update
process and have been trying to stay engaged. I strongly support an ambitious housing
element, so that we can (1) meet the housing needs of De Anza students, faculty, and workers,
and (2) meaningfully address racism and segregation in the South Bay. The current status of
the draft housing element is not sufficiently ambitious to accomplish this.
As a De Anza student, I have seen my fellow peers deal with housing insecurity and
homelessness. We should plan for more homes at all incoming levels near the College to meet
our needs. Home and rental prices in Cupertino have risen dramatically over the past several
years, making it impossible for most young people to move back here after college.
The median home price has more than doubled in the past decade, at nearly $2.5 million
dollars. Rents are typically above 3,000 a month, meaning that even a household making over
$100,000 annually would be cost-burdened to rent a typical apartment in Cupertino.
These numbers make it clear—students and our housing needs must be part of the housing
element conversation. The programs, policies, and zoning that Cupertino advances should
therefore be tailored to our needs.
77% of the homes planned to account for Cupertino's 6th Cycle RHNA come from pipeline
projects. Two pipeline projects in particular account for the bulk of that figure: 2402 homes at
Vallco/The Rise, and 600 net new homes at The Hamptons. Combined, these two projects
constitute some 84% of all pipeline project homes. Both have been approved for a number of
years (2018 and 2016, respectively), but, to date, neither has built a single new home.
In effect, this is allowing Cupertino to avoid having to plan for affordable housing on several
sites near De Anza College, by falling back on thousands of pipeline units—many of which the
city is unable to demonstrate are likely to be built during the planning period.
The City must do all three of the following to realistically meet the housing needs of our
cherished community college:
Optimize Planning for the Community
Plan our city around people. Reduce burdensome costs, fees, and unnecessary requirements
that make it difficult to build and scale affordable housing projects.
Promote Sustainable Housing
Incentivize mixed-use, efficient, walkable, bikeable, transit-oriented housing options by
strengthening our Heart of the City Plan—which dictates what can be built on Stevens Creek
Blvd.
Protect our Communities
Center the housing needs of those who already work, play, and teach in Cupertino, but cannot
afford to live here. Protect our vulnerable renters and homeowners.
Upzoning: As a young person, I am OK with taller buildings being part of Cupertino’s future,
and I also do not believe Cupertino is “full”. If we allow developers to build up and out, we can
make much better use of limited land and allow for more families of all backgrounds and
incomes to be here.
Eren Saglam
ghostpyy.eren@gmail.com
419, Rincon Ave
Sunnyvale , California 94086
From:Hussain Ali
To:City Clerk
Subject:De Anza students for an ambitious housing element
Date:Monday, August 29, 2022 11:41:41 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
City Clerk Kirsten Squarcia,
Hello! Below is a copy/pasted message from the president of the Student Body at De Anza
College, where I currently attend. It is copy/pasted because she can articulate my thoughts in
writing much better than I can. I've read through it and I strongly support what it's advocating
for, and I hope you do the same. You'll probably never read this, much less listen to it, but I
thought I'd give this whole civil activism thing a try. Have a good rest of your day/evening! and
thanks in advance
I am a student at De Anza College. I heard about the Cupertino housing element update
process and have been trying to stay engaged. I strongly support an ambitious housing
element, so that we can (1) meet the housing needs of De Anza students, faculty, and workers,
and (2) meaningfully address racism and segregation in the South Bay. The current status of
the draft housing element is not sufficiently ambitious to accomplish this.
As a De Anza student, I have seen my fellow peers deal with housing insecurity and
homelessness. We should plan for more homes at all incoming levels near the College to meet
our needs. Home and rental prices in Cupertino have risen dramatically over the past several
years, making it impossible for most young people to move back here after college.
The median home price has more than doubled in the past decade, at nearly $2.5 million
dollars. Rents are typically above 3,000 a month, meaning that even a household making over
$100,000 annually would be cost-burdened to rent a typical apartment in Cupertino.
These numbers make it clear—students and our housing needs must be part of the housing
element conversation. The programs, policies, and zoning that Cupertino advances should
therefore be tailored to our needs.
77% of the homes planned to account for Cupertino's 6th Cycle RHNA come from pipeline
projects. Two pipeline projects in particular account for the bulk of that figure: 2402 homes at
Vallco/The Rise, and 600 net new homes at The Hamptons. Combined, these two projects
constitute some 84% of all pipeline project homes. Both have been approved for a number of
years (2018 and 2016, respectively), but, to date, neither has built a single new home.
In effect, this is allowing Cupertino to avoid having to plan for affordable housing on several
sites near De Anza College, by falling back on thousands of pipeline units—many of which the
city is unable to demonstrate are likely to be built during the planning period.
The City must do all three of the following to realistically meet the housing needs of our
cherished community college:
Optimize Planning for the Community
Plan our city around people. Reduce burdensome costs, fees, and unnecessary requirements
that make it difficult to build and scale affordable housing projects.
Promote Sustainable Housing
Incentivize mixed-use, efficient, walkable, bikeable, transit-oriented housing options by
strengthening our Heart of the City Plan—which dictates what can be built on Stevens Creek
Blvd.
Protect our Communities
Center the housing needs of those who already work, play, and teach in Cupertino, but cannot
afford to live here. Protect our vulnerable renters and homeowners.
Upzoning: As a young person, I am OK with taller buildings being part of Cupertino’s future,
and I also do not believe Cupertino is “full”. If we allow developers to build up and out, we can
make much better use of limited land and allow for more families of all backgrounds and
incomes to be here.
Hussain Ali
hussainali22422@gmail.com
513 iris lane
San Ramon , California 94582
From:Sevki Kiymaci
To:City Clerk
Subject:De Anza students for an ambitious housing element
Date:Monday, August 29, 2022 11:21:34 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
City Clerk Kirsten Squarcia,
I am a student at De Anza College. I heard about the Cupertino housing element update
process and have been trying to stay engaged. I strongly support an ambitious housing
element, so that we can (1) meet the housing needs of De Anza students, faculty, and workers,
and (2) meaningfully address racism and segregation in the South Bay. The current status of
the draft housing element is not sufficiently ambitious to accomplish this.
As a De Anza student, I have seen my fellow peers deal with housing insecurity and
homelessness. We should plan for more homes at all incoming levels near the College to meet
our needs. Home and rental prices in Cupertino have risen dramatically over the past several
years, making it impossible for most young people to move back here after college.
The median home price has more than doubled in the past decade, at nearly $2.5 million
dollars. Rents are typically above 3,000 a month, meaning that even a household making over
$100,000 annually would be cost-burdened to rent a typical apartment in Cupertino.
These numbers make it clear—students and our housing needs must be part of the housing
element conversation. The programs, policies, and zoning that Cupertino advances should
therefore be tailored to our needs.
77% of the homes planned to account for Cupertino's 6th Cycle RHNA come from pipeline
projects. Two pipeline projects in particular account for the bulk of that figure: 2402 homes at
Vallco/The Rise, and 600 net new homes at The Hamptons. Combined, these two projects
constitute some 84% of all pipeline project homes. Both have been approved for a number of
years (2018 and 2016, respectively), but, to date, neither has built a single new home.
In effect, this is allowing Cupertino to avoid having to plan for affordable housing on several
sites near De Anza College, by falling back on thousands of pipeline units—many of which the
city is unable to demonstrate are likely to be built during the planning period.
The City must do all three of the following to realistically meet the housing needs of our
cherished community college:
Optimize Planning for the Community
Plan our city around people. Reduce burdensome costs, fees, and unnecessary requirements
that make it difficult to build and scale affordable housing projects.
Promote Sustainable Housing
Incentivize mixed-use, efficient, walkable, bikeable, transit-oriented housing options by
strengthening our Heart of the City Plan—which dictates what can be built on Stevens Creek
Blvd.
Protect our Communities
Center the housing needs of those who already work, play, and teach in Cupertino, but cannot
afford to live here. Protect our vulnerable renters and homeowners.
Upzoning: As a young person, I am OK with taller buildings being part of Cupertino’s future,
and I also do not believe Cupertino is “full”. If we allow developers to build up and out, we can
make much better use of limited land and allow for more families of all backgrounds and
incomes to be here.
Sevki Kiymaci
sevki.2003.unutmaz@gmail.com
1036 Cynthia Lane
San Jose, California 95129
From:Cedric Buenviaje
To:City Clerk
Subject:De Anza students for an ambitious housing element
Date:Monday, August 29, 2022 11:12:41 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
City Clerk Kirsten Squarcia,
I am a student at De Anza College. I heard about the Cupertino housing element update
process and have been trying to stay engaged. I strongly support an ambitious housing
element, so that we can (1) meet the housing needs of De Anza students, faculty, and workers,
and (2) meaningfully address racism and segregation in the South Bay. The current status of
the draft housing element is not sufficiently ambitious to accomplish this.
As a De Anza student, I have seen my fellow peers deal with housing insecurity and
homelessness. We should plan for more homes at all incoming levels near the College to meet
our needs. Home and rental prices in Cupertino have risen dramatically over the past several
years, making it impossible for most young people to move back here after college.
The median home price has more than doubled in the past decade, at nearly $2.5 million
dollars. Rents are typically above 3,000 a month, meaning that even a household making over
$100,000 annually would be cost-burdened to rent a typical apartment in Cupertino.
These numbers make it clear—students and our housing needs must be part of the housing
element conversation. The programs, policies, and zoning that Cupertino advances should
therefore be tailored to our needs.
77% of the homes planned to account for Cupertino's 6th Cycle RHNA come from pipeline
projects. Two pipeline projects in particular account for the bulk of that figure: 2402 homes at
Vallco/The Rise, and 600 net new homes at The Hamptons. Combined, these two projects
constitute some 84% of all pipeline project homes. Both have been approved for a number of
years (2018 and 2016, respectively), but, to date, neither has built a single new home.
In effect, this is allowing Cupertino to avoid having to plan for affordable housing on several
sites near De Anza College, by falling back on thousands of pipeline units—many of which the
city is unable to demonstrate are likely to be built during the planning period.
The City must do all three of the following to realistically meet the housing needs of our
cherished community college:
Optimize Planning for the Community
Plan our city around people. Reduce burdensome costs, fees, and unnecessary requirements
that make it difficult to build and scale affordable housing projects.
Promote Sustainable Housing
Incentivize mixed-use, efficient, walkable, bikeable, transit-oriented housing options by
strengthening our Heart of the City Plan—which dictates what can be built on Stevens Creek
Blvd.
Protect our Communities
Center the housing needs of those who already work, play, and teach in Cupertino, but cannot
afford to live here. Protect our vulnerable renters and homeowners.
Upzoning: As a young person, I am OK with taller buildings being part of Cupertino’s future,
and I also do not believe Cupertino is “full”. If we allow developers to build up and out, we can
make much better use of limited land and allow for more families of all backgrounds and
incomes to be here.
Thank you.
Cedric Buenviaje
buenviajecedric@gmail.com
3778 Lake Mead Dr
Fremont, California 94555
From:Amy Huang
To:City Clerk
Subject:De Anza students for an ambitious housing element
Date:Monday, August 29, 2022 11:03:23 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
City Clerk Kirsten Squarcia,
I am a student at De Anza College. I heard about the Cupertino housing element update
process and have been trying to stay engaged. I strongly support an ambitious housing
element, so that we can (1) meet the housing needs of De Anza students, faculty, and workers,
and (2) meaningfully address racism and segregation in the South Bay. The current status of
the draft housing element is not sufficiently ambitious to accomplish this.
As a De Anza student, I have seen my fellow peers deal with housing insecurity and
homelessness. We should plan for more homes at all incoming levels near the College to meet
our needs. Home and rental prices in Cupertino have risen dramatically over the past several
years, making it impossible for most young people to move back here after college.
The median home price has more than doubled in the past decade, at nearly $2.5 million
dollars. Rents are typically above 3,000 a month, meaning that even a household making over
$100,000 annually would be cost-burdened to rent a typical apartment in Cupertino.
These numbers make it clear—students and our housing needs must be part of the housing
element conversation. The programs, policies, and zoning that Cupertino advances should
therefore be tailored to our needs.
77% of the homes planned to account for Cupertino's 6th Cycle RHNA come from pipeline
projects. Two pipeline projects in particular account for the bulk of that figure: 2402 homes at
Vallco/The Rise, and 600 net new homes at The Hamptons. Combined, these two projects
constitute some 84% of all pipeline project homes. Both have been approved for a number of
years (2018 and 2016, respectively), but, to date, neither has built a single new home.
In effect, this is allowing Cupertino to avoid having to plan for affordable housing on several
sites near De Anza College, by falling back on thousands of pipeline units—many of which the
city is unable to demonstrate are likely to be built during the planning period.
The City must do all three of the following to realistically meet the housing needs of our
cherished community college:
Optimize Planning for the Community
Plan our city around people. Reduce burdensome costs, fees, and unnecessary requirements
that make it difficult to build and scale affordable housing projects.
Promote Sustainable Housing
Incentivize mixed-use, efficient, walkable, bikeable, transit-oriented housing options by
strengthening our Heart of the City Plan—which dictates what can be built on Stevens Creek
Blvd.
Protect our Communities
Center the housing needs of those who already work, play, and teach in Cupertino, but cannot
afford to live here. Protect our vulnerable renters and homeowners.
Upzoning: As a young person, I am OK with taller buildings being part of Cupertino’s future,
and I also do not believe Cupertino is “full”. If we allow developers to build up and out, we can
make much better use of limited land and allow for more families of all backgrounds and
incomes to be here.
Amy Huang
yamianhuang@gmail.com
14120 Alta Vista Ave.
saratoga, California 95070
From:Pierce Tao
To:City Clerk
Subject:De Anza students for an ambitious housing element
Date:Monday, August 29, 2022 11:00:21 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
City Clerk Kirsten Squarcia,
I am a student at De Anza College. I heard about the Cupertino housing element update
process and have been trying to stay engaged. I strongly support an ambitious housing
element, so that we can (1) meet the housing needs of De Anza students, faculty, and workers,
and (2) meaningfully address racism and segregation in the South Bay. The current status of
the draft housing element is not sufficiently ambitious to accomplish this.
As a De Anza student, I have seen my fellow peers deal with housing insecurity and
homelessness. We should plan for more homes at all incoming levels near the College to meet
our needs. Home and rental prices in Cupertino have risen dramatically over the past several
years, making it impossible for most young people to move back here after college.
The median home price has more than doubled in the past decade, at nearly $2.5 million
dollars. Rents are typically above 3,000 a month, meaning that even a household making over
$100,000 annually would be cost-burdened to rent a typical apartment in Cupertino.
These numbers make it clear—students and our housing needs must be part of the housing
element conversation. The programs, policies, and zoning that Cupertino advances should
therefore be tailored to our needs.
77% of the homes planned to account for Cupertino's 6th Cycle RHNA come from pipeline
projects. Two pipeline projects in particular account for the bulk of that figure: 2402 homes at
Vallco/The Rise, and 600 net new homes at The Hamptons. Combined, these two projects
constitute some 84% of all pipeline project homes. Both have been approved for a number of
years (2018 and 2016, respectively), but, to date, neither has built a single new home.
In effect, this is allowing Cupertino to avoid having to plan for affordable housing on several
sites near De Anza College, by falling back on thousands of pipeline units—many of which the
city is unable to demonstrate are likely to be built during the planning period.
The City must do all three of the following to realistically meet the housing needs of our
cherished community college:
Optimize Planning for the Community
Plan our city around people. Reduce burdensome costs, fees, and unnecessary requirements
that make it difficult to build and scale affordable housing projects.
Promote Sustainable Housing
Incentivize mixed-use, efficient, walkable, bikeable, transit-oriented housing options by
strengthening our Heart of the City Plan—which dictates what can be built on Stevens Creek
Blvd.
Protect our Communities
Center the housing needs of those who already work, play, and teach in Cupertino, but cannot
afford to live here. Protect our vulnerable renters and homeowners.
Upzoning: As a young person, I am OK with taller buildings being part of Cupertino’s future,
and I also do not believe Cupertino is “full”. If we allow developers to build up and out, we can
make much better use of limited land and allow for more families of all backgrounds and
incomes to be here.
Pierce Tao
dastudenttrustee@fhda.edu
5981 Countess Drive
San Jose, California 95129
From:Edwyn Castillo
To:City Clerk
Subject:De Anza students for an ambitious housing element
Date:Monday, August 29, 2022 10:42:53 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
City Clerk Kirsten Squarcia,
I am a student at De Anza College. I heard about the Cupertino housing element update
process and have been trying to stay engaged. I strongly support an ambitious housing
element, so that we can (1) meet the housing needs of De Anza students, faculty, and workers,
and (2) meaningfully address racism and segregation in the South Bay. The current status of
the draft housing element is not sufficiently ambitious to accomplish this.
As a De Anza student, I have seen my fellow peers deal with housing insecurity and
homelessness. We should plan for more homes at all incoming levels near the College to meet
our needs. Home and rental prices in Cupertino have risen dramatically over the past several
years, making it impossible for most young people to move back here after college.
The median home price has more than doubled in the past decade, at nearly $2.5 million
dollars. Rents are typically above 3,000 a month, meaning that even a household making over
$100,000 annually would be cost-burdened to rent a typical apartment in Cupertino.
These numbers make it clear—students and our housing needs must be part of the housing
element conversation. The programs, policies, and zoning that Cupertino advances should
therefore be tailored to our needs.
77% of the homes planned to account for Cupertino's 6th Cycle RHNA come from pipeline
projects. Two pipeline projects in particular account for the bulk of that figure: 2402 homes at
Vallco/The Rise, and 600 net new homes at The Hamptons. Combined, these two projects
constitute some 84% of all pipeline project homes. Both have been approved for a number of
years (2018 and 2016, respectively), but, to date, neither has built a single new home.
In effect, this is allowing Cupertino to avoid having to plan for affordable housing on several
sites near De Anza College, by falling back on thousands of pipeline units—many of which the
city is unable to demonstrate are likely to be built during the planning period.
The City must do all three of the following to realistically meet the housing needs of our
cherished community college:
Optimize Planning for the Community
Plan our city around people. Reduce burdensome costs, fees, and unnecessary requirements
that make it difficult to build and scale affordable housing projects.
Promote Sustainable Housing
Incentivize mixed-use, efficient, walkable, bikeable, transit-oriented housing options by
strengthening our Heart of the City Plan—which dictates what can be built on Stevens Creek
Blvd.
Protect our Communities
Center the housing needs of those who already work, play, and teach in Cupertino, but cannot
afford to live here. Protect our vulnerable renters and homeowners.
Upzoning: As a young person, I am OK with taller buildings being part of Cupertino’s future,
and I also do not believe Cupertino is “full”. If we allow developers to build up and out, we can
make much better use of limited land and allow for more families of all backgrounds and
incomes to be here.
Edwyn Castillo
edwynac@hotmail.com
301 Acalanes Dr.
Sunnyvale , California 94086
From:Shivani Kavuluru
To:City Clerk
Subject:We need a more ambitious housing element
Date:Monday, August 29, 2022 9:21:40 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
City Clerk Kirsten Squarcia,
This is for the Cupertino City Council, staff, and consultants:
I am writing today regarding the updated site inventory. There are some key changes that I
urge you to consider. I am overall concerned that Cupertino will receive similar criticism from
California HCD because we are similarly overcounting pipeline projects as in the case of San
Francisco https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/article/housing-California-construction-17368517.php
San Francisco is depending on a number of pipeline projects that they have been unable to
substantiate as being likely to get developed.
To ensure we do not end up repeating the mistakes of San Francisco and subsequently getting
our city into further legal trouble, we should commit to the following:
1) Reduce reliance on Pipeline Projects.
Reliance on pipeline projects, such as The Rise (Vallco) and the Hamptons, introduces risk of
missing production goals and displacement of current residents. The Rise will not likely be
completed in eight years, so more alternative sites are needed. Development of the Hamptons
may displace hundreds of individuals and families, and has not started even though it was
approved in 2016.
Please direct staff to provide an explanation for the assumption that the Rise will be complete
within eight years, and a housing feasibility study for the Hamptons site. Furthermore, please
direct staff to find additional, back-up sites for both these projects in the event that site
development cannot begin or be completed within the 8-year period of the Housing Element.
2) Recommend a larger buffer of housing units.
The current buffer is too low to meet the HCD requirements, and may invoke parts of the “No
Net Loss Law”. The buffer could be expanded by increasing higher permissible densities on
key sites, or by including more sites. The Housing Element itself could also include an alternate
set of back-up sites to provide more certainty that our Housing Element is certified, and that our
housing production goals are actually accomplished.
3) Reconsider upzoning as a policy tool.
The City’s policy priorities should focus on feasibility so that the City can actually produce
much-needed homes at all income levels.
Policies from Staff Report June 28, page 2:
“Housing sites should be dispersed throughout the City and strive for a balance between
eastern and western areas” and
“the Housing Element should avoid ‘up-zoning’ sites to the extent feasible”
are opposed to each other. The city does not currently include many sites zoned for multi-
family buildings, therefore the City cannot disperse new housing throughout the city without up-
zoning. The City should still consider upzoning as an important tool for building affordable
housing. Concerns about building bulk and aesthetics can be addressed through other policies.
4.) Prioritize sites in the Heart of the City.
The City should focus its efforts on building homes in the Heart of the City. By building more
homes along transit corridors and near places people work, play, and shop, the City can
encourage more people to take transit and reduce traffic congestion. There are several Heart
of the City Specific Plan areas that have 0 (zero) sites on the proposed site inventory. There
are several Heart of the City areas on the western and eastern sides of the city to help maintain
a balance of sites. Please add more sites inside the Heart of the City.
5.) Avoid unnecessary displacement projects.
The current site inventory proposes sites with existing homes. Going forward with
redevelopment of these sites would displace these residents. Some of these projects would not
even generate a significant number of net new units. The City should avoid displacement
projects if there are more reasonable alternatives for building net new homes.
Please continue your work for a sustainable plan that will provide housing for all incomes and
abilities, and that will further fair housing practices.
Shivani Kavuluru
kavuluru.shivani@gmail.com
1551 Mcgregor Way
San Jose, California 95129
From:Noel Eberhardt
To:City Clerk
Subject:We need a more ambitious housing element
Date:Monday, August 29, 2022 8:54:39 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
City Clerk Kirsten Squarcia,
First of all, I'd really like to see housing development along the traffic primary traffic corridors,
and not spread out in the single home residential areas.
Secondly, the City has wasted too much on legal fees fighting the inevitable. For example, the
Vallco debacle winds up with what was essentially proposed instead of the alternate proposal
rejected with loss of untold legal fees.
This is for the Cupertino City Council, staff, and consultants:
I am writing today regarding the updated site inventory. There are some key changes that I
urge you to consider. I am overall concerned that Cupertino will receive similar criticism from
California HCD because we are similarly overcounting pipeline projects as in the case of San
Francisco https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/article/housing-California-construction-17368517.php
San Francisco is depending on a number of pipeline projects that they have been unable to
substantiate as being likely to get developed.
To ensure we do not end up repeating the mistakes of San Francisco and subsequently getting
our city into further legal trouble, we should commit to the following:
1) Reduce reliance on Pipeline Projects.
Reliance on pipeline projects, such as The Rise (Vallco) and the Hamptons, introduces risk of
missing production goals and displacement of current residents. The Rise will not likely be
completed in eight years, so more alternative sites are needed. Development of the Hamptons
may displace hundreds of individuals and families, and has not started even though it was
approved in 2016.
Please direct staff to provide an explanation for the assumption that the Rise will be complete
within eight years, and a housing feasibility study for the Hamptons site. Furthermore, please
direct staff to find additional, back-up sites for both these projects in the event that site
development cannot begin or be completed within the 8-year period of the Housing Element.
2) Recommend a larger buffer of housing units.
The current buffer is too low to meet the HCD requirements, and may invoke parts of the “No
Net Loss Law”. The buffer could be expanded by increasing higher permissible densities on
key sites, or by including more sites. The Housing Element itself could also include an alternate
set of back-up sites to provide more certainty that our Housing Element is certified, and that our
housing production goals are actually accomplished.
3) Reconsider upzoning as a policy tool.
The City’s policy priorities should focus on feasibility so that the City can actually produce
much-needed homes at all income levels.
Policies from Staff Report June 28, page 2:
“Housing sites should be dispersed throughout the City and strive for a balance between
eastern and western areas” and
“the Housing Element should avoid ‘up-zoning’ sites to the extent feasible”
are opposed to each other. The city does not currently include many sites zoned for multi-
family buildings, therefore the City cannot disperse new housing throughout the city without up-
zoning. The City should still consider upzoning as an important tool for building affordable
housing. Concerns about building bulk and aesthetics can be addressed through other policies.
4.) Prioritize sites in the Heart of the City.
The City should focus its efforts on building homes in the Heart of the City. By building more
homes along transit corridors and near places people work, play, and shop, the City can
encourage more people to take transit and reduce traffic congestion. There are several Heart
of the City Specific Plan areas that have 0 (zero) sites on the proposed site inventory. There
are several Heart of the City areas on the western and eastern sides of the city to help maintain
a balance of sites. Please add more sites inside the Heart of the City.
5.) Avoid unnecessary displacement projects.
The current site inventory proposes sites with existing homes. Going forward with
redevelopment of these sites would displace these residents. Some of these projects would not
even generate a significant number of net new units. The City should avoid displacement
projects if there are more reasonable alternatives for building net new homes.
Please continue your work for a sustainable plan that will provide housing for all incomes and
abilities, and that will further fair housing practices.
Noel Eberhardt
neberhardt@sbcglobal.net
21407 Krzich Place
Cupertino, California 95014
From:John Zhao
To:City Clerk
Subject:We need a more ambitious housing element
Date:Monday, August 29, 2022 6:55:37 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
City Clerk Kirsten Squarcia,
I am writing today regarding the updated site inventory being reviewed at tonight's and
tomorrow's City Council meetings. There are some key changes that I urge you to consider. I
am overall concerned that Cupertino will receive similar criticism from California HCD because
we are similarly overcounting pipeline projects as in the case of San Francisco
https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/article/housing-California-construction-17368517.php San
Francisco is depending on a number of pipeline projects that they have been unable to
substantiate as being likely to get developed.
To ensure we do not end up repeating the mistakes of San Francisco and subsequently getting
our city into further legal trouble, we should commit to the following:
1) Reduce reliance on Pipeline Projects.
Reliance on pipeline projects, such as The Rise (Vallco) and the Hamptons, introduces risk of
missing production goals and displacement of current residents. The Rise will not likely be
completed in eight years, so more alternative sites are needed. Development of the Hamptons
may displace hundreds of individuals and families, and has not started even though it was
approved in 2016.
Please direct staff to provide an explanation for the assumption that the Rise will be complete
within eight years, and a housing feasibility study for the Hamptons site. Furthermore, please
direct staff to find additional, back-up sites for both these projects in the event that site
development cannot begin or be completed within the 8-year period of the Housing Element.
2) Recommend a larger buffer of housing units.
The current buffer is too low to meet the HCD requirements, and may invoke parts of the “No
Net Loss Law”. The buffer could be expanded by increasing higher permissible densities on
key sites, or by including more sites. The Housing Element itself could also include an alternate
set of back-up sites to provide more certainty that our Housing Element is certified, and that our
housing production goals are actually accomplished.
3) Reconsider upzoning as a policy tool.
The City’s policy priorities should focus on feasibility so that the City can actually produce
much-needed homes at all income levels.
Policies from Staff Report June 28, page 2:
“Housing sites should be dispersed throughout the City and strive for a balance between
eastern and western areas” and
“the Housing Element should avoid ‘up-zoning’ sites to the extent feasible”
are opposed to each other. The city does not currently include many sites zoned for multi-
family buildings, therefore the City cannot disperse new housing throughout the city without up-
zoning. The City should still consider upzoning as an important tool for building affordable
housing. Concerns about building bulk and aesthetics can be addressed through other policies.
4.) Prioritize sites in the Heart of the City.
The City should focus its efforts on building homes in the Heart of the City. By building more
homes along transit corridors and near places people work, play, and shop, the City can
encourage more people to take transit and reduce traffic congestion. There are several Heart
of the City Specific Plan areas that have 0 (zero) sites on the proposed site inventory. There
are several Heart of the City areas on the western and eastern sides of the city to help maintain
a balance of sites. Please add more sites inside the Heart of the City.
5.) Avoid unnecessary displacement projects.
The current site inventory proposes sites with existing homes. Going forward with
redevelopment of these sites would displace these residents. Some of these projects would not
even generate a significant number of net new units. The City should avoid displacement
projects if there are more reasonable alternatives for building net new homes.
Please continue your work for a sustainable plan that will provide housing for all incomes and
abilities, and that will further fair housing practices.
John Zhao
jzhao098@gmail.com
10411 Lansdale Ave
Cupertino, California 95014
From:John Geis
To:City Clerk
Subject:We need a more ambitious housing element
Date:Monday, August 29, 2022 5:15:00 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
City Clerk Kirsten Squarcia,
This is for the Cupertino City Council, staff, and consultants:
I am writing today regarding the updated site inventory. There are some key changes that I
urge you to consider. I am overall concerned that Cupertino will receive similar criticism from
California HCD because we are similarly overcounting pipeline projects as in the case of San
Francisco https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/article/housing-California-construction-17368517.php
San Francisco is depending on a number of pipeline projects that they have been unable to
substantiate as being likely to get developed.
To ensure we do not end up repeating the mistakes of San Francisco and subsequently getting
our city into further legal trouble, we should commit to the following:
1) Reduce reliance on Pipeline Projects.
Reliance on pipeline projects, such as The Rise (Vallco) and the Hamptons, introduces risk of
missing production goals and displacement of current residents. The Rise will not likely be
completed in eight years, so more alternative sites are needed. Development of the Hamptons
may displace hundreds of individuals and families, and has not started even though it was
approved in 2016.
Please direct staff to provide an explanation for the assumption that the Rise will be complete
within eight years, and a housing feasibility study for the Hamptons site. Furthermore, please
direct staff to find additional, back-up sites for both these projects in the event that site
development cannot begin or be completed within the 8-year period of the Housing Element.
2) Recommend a larger buffer of housing units.
The current buffer is too low to meet the HCD requirements, and may invoke parts of the “No
Net Loss Law”. The buffer could be expanded by increasing higher permissible densities on
key sites, or by including more sites. The Housing Element itself could also include an alternate
set of back-up sites to provide more certainty that our Housing Element is certified, and that our
housing production goals are actually accomplished.
3) Reconsider upzoning as a policy tool.
The City’s policy priorities should focus on feasibility so that the City can actually produce
much-needed homes at all income levels.
Policies from Staff Report June 28, page 2:
“Housing sites should be dispersed throughout the City and strive for a balance between
eastern and western areas” and
“the Housing Element should avoid ‘up-zoning’ sites to the extent feasible”
are opposed to each other. The city does not currently include many sites zoned for multi-
family buildings, therefore the City cannot disperse new housing throughout the city without up-
zoning. The City should still consider upzoning as an important tool for building affordable
housing. Concerns about building bulk and aesthetics can be addressed through other policies.
4.) Prioritize sites in the Heart of the City.
The City should focus its efforts on building homes in the Heart of the City. By building more
homes along transit corridors and near places people work, play, and shop, the City can
encourage more people to take transit and reduce traffic congestion. There are several Heart
of the City Specific Plan areas that have 0 (zero) sites on the proposed site inventory. There
are several Heart of the City areas on the western and eastern sides of the city to help maintain
a balance of sites. Please add more sites inside the Heart of the City.
5.) Avoid unnecessary displacement projects.
The current site inventory proposes sites with existing homes. Going forward with
redevelopment of these sites would displace these residents. Some of these projects would not
even generate a significant number of net new units. The City should avoid displacement
projects if there are more reasonable alternatives for building net new homes.
Please continue your work for a sustainable plan that will provide housing for all incomes and
abilities, and that will further fair housing practices.
John Geis
jgeis4401@gmail.com
10714 Deep Cliffe Dr
Cupertino, California 95014
From:Sadia Khan
To:City Clerk
Subject:We need a more ambitious housing element
Date:Monday, August 29, 2022 5:14:16 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
City Clerk Kirsten Squarcia,
This is for the Cupertino City Council, staff, and consultants:
I am writing today regarding the updated site inventory. There are some key changes that I
urge you to consider. I am overall concerned that Cupertino will receive similar criticism from
California HCD because we are similarly overcounting pipeline projects as in the case of San
Francisco https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/article/housing-California-construction-17368517.php
San Francisco is depending on a number of pipeline projects that they have been unable to
substantiate as being likely to get developed.
To ensure we do not end up repeating the mistakes of San Francisco and subsequently getting
our city into further legal trouble, we should commit to the following:
1) Reduce reliance on Pipeline Projects.
Reliance on pipeline projects, such as The Rise (Vallco) and the Hamptons, introduces risk of
missing production goals and displacement of current residents. The Rise will not likely be
completed in eight years, so more alternative sites are needed. Development of the Hamptons
may displace hundreds of individuals and families, and has not started even though it was
approved in 2016.
Please direct staff to provide an explanation for the assumption that the Rise will be complete
within eight years, and a housing feasibility study for the Hamptons site. Furthermore, please
direct staff to find additional, back-up sites for both these projects in the event that site
development cannot begin or be completed within the 8-year period of the Housing Element.
2) Recommend a larger buffer of housing units.
The current buffer is too low to meet the HCD requirements, and may invoke parts of the “No
Net Loss Law”. The buffer could be expanded by increasing higher permissible densities on
key sites, or by including more sites. The Housing Element itself could also include an alternate
set of back-up sites to provide more certainty that our Housing Element is certified, and that our
housing production goals are actually accomplished.
3) Reconsider upzoning as a policy tool.
The City’s policy priorities should focus on feasibility so that the City can actually produce
much-needed homes at all income levels.
Policies from Staff Report June 28, page 2:
“Housing sites should be dispersed throughout the City and strive for a balance between
eastern and western areas” and
“the Housing Element should avoid ‘up-zoning’ sites to the extent feasible”
are opposed to each other. The city does not currently include many sites zoned for multi-
family buildings, therefore the City cannot disperse new housing throughout the city without up-
zoning. The City should still consider upzoning as an important tool for building affordable
housing. Concerns about building bulk and aesthetics can be addressed through other policies.
4.) Prioritize sites in the Heart of the City.
The City should focus its efforts on building homes in the Heart of the City. By building more
homes along transit corridors and near places people work, play, and shop, the City can
encourage more people to take transit and reduce traffic congestion. There are several Heart
of the City Specific Plan areas that have 0 (zero) sites on the proposed site inventory. There
are several Heart of the City areas on the western and eastern sides of the city to help maintain
a balance of sites. Please add more sites inside the Heart of the City.
5.) Avoid unnecessary displacement projects.
The current site inventory proposes sites with existing homes. Going forward with
redevelopment of these sites would displace these residents. Some of these projects would not
even generate a significant number of net new units. The City should avoid displacement
projects if there are more reasonable alternatives for building net new homes.
Please continue your work for a sustainable plan that will provide housing for all incomes and
abilities, and that will further fair housing practices.
Sadia Khan
khan42166@gmail.com
815 Kains Ave apt 4
Albany , California 94706
From:Sheng-Ming Egan
To:City Clerk
Subject:We need a more ambitious housing element
Date:Monday, August 29, 2022 5:11:06 PM
CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
City Clerk Kirsten Squarcia,
This is for the Cupertino City Council, staff, and consultants, from a resident of Cupertino since
1996:
I am writing today regarding the updated site inventory. There are some key changes that I
urge you to consider. I am overall concerned that Cupertino will receive similar criticism from
California HCD because we are similarly overcounting pipeline projects as in the case of San
Francisco https://www.sfchronicle.com/sf/article/housing-California-construction-17368517.php
San Francisco is depending on a number of pipeline projects that they have been unable to
substantiate as being likely to get developed.
To ensure we do not end up repeating the mistakes of San Francisco and subsequently getting
our city into further legal trouble, we should commit to the following:
1) Reduce reliance on Pipeline Projects.
Reliance on pipeline projects, such as The Rise (Vallco) and the Hamptons, introduces risk of
missing production goals and displacement of current residents. The Rise will not likely be
completed in eight years, so more alternative sites are needed. Development of the Hamptons
may displace hundreds of individuals and families, and has not started even though it was
approved in 2016.
Please direct staff to provide an explanation for the assumption that the Rise will be complete
within eight years, and a housing feasibility study for the Hamptons site. Furthermore, please
direct staff to find additional, back-up sites for both these projects in the event that site
development cannot begin or be completed within the 8-year period of the Housing Element.
2) Recommend a larger buffer of housing units.
The current buffer is too low to meet the HCD requirements, and may invoke parts of the “No
Net Loss Law”. The buffer could be expanded by increasing higher permissible densities on
key sites, or by including more sites. The Housing Element itself could also include an alternate
set of back-up sites to provide more certainty that our Housing Element is certified, and that our
housing production goals are actually accomplished.
3) Reconsider upzoning as a policy tool.
The City’s policy priorities should focus on feasibility so that the City can actually produce
much-needed homes at all income levels.
Policies from Staff Report June 28, page 2:
“Housing sites should be dispersed throughout the City and strive for a balance between
eastern and western areas” and
“the Housing Element should avoid ‘up-zoning’ sites to the extent feasible”
are opposed to each other. The city does not currently include many sites zoned for multi-
family buildings, therefore the City cannot disperse new housing throughout the city without up-
zoning. The City should still consider upzoning as an important tool for building affordable
housing. Concerns about building bulk and aesthetics can be addressed through other policies.
4.) Prioritize sites in the Heart of the City.
The City should focus its efforts on building homes in the Heart of the City. By building more
homes along transit corridors and near places people work, play, and shop, the City can
encourage more people to take transit and reduce traffic congestion. There are several Heart
of the City Specific Plan areas that have 0 (zero) sites on the proposed site inventory. There
are several Heart of the City areas on the western and eastern sides of the city to help maintain
a balance of sites. Please add more sites inside the Heart of the City.
5.) Avoid unnecessary displacement projects.
The current site inventory proposes sites with existing homes. Going forward with
redevelopment of these sites would displace these residents. Some of these projects would not
even generate a significant number of net new units. The City should avoid displacement
projects if there are more reasonable alternatives for building net new homes.
Please continue your work for a sustainable plan that will provide housing for all incomes and
abilities, and that will further fair housing practices.
Sheng-Ming Egan
nsmegan@gmail.com
11735 RIdge Creek Ct.
Cupertino, California 95014