CC 09-17-2024
Oral
Communications
Written Communications
From: Venkat Ranganathan
To: City Clerk; City Council; Cupertino City Manager"s Office Subject: Re: 5G Cell tower questions
Date: Monday, September 16, 2024 9:21:14 AM
Attachments: image001.png
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.
This is the response from Bill Hammett from Hammett-Edison Consulting Engineers, who performed the radiation test. I disable WiFi and otherwise use tools that can provide lower level details of the communication (and other system aspects of the iphone) and sometimes the connection does go to LTE much less 5G. Not sure it is fully active yet - will try to measure radiation when it is marked active.
Thanks
Venkat
====
Venkat -
Thanks for your note. I can’t speak to the City’s map, but we confirmed the site was in operation when we visited with a bucket truck to take measurements at the antennas. Anecdotally, some people have had to switch wifi off on their phones to see the ‘5G’ or ‘wideband’ icon appear. And yes, the readings of fractions of a milliwatt/cm2 are indeed typical at the sites we’ve measured in Cupertino.
Our records also show that an antenna for 4G service was originally proposed, but it was not installed, or is inactive if it was, based on our bucket truck measurements at the antennas.
I hope these comments are helpful.
Regards,
Bill
=====
From: Venkat Ranganathan <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, September 13, 2024 8:37 AM
To: [email protected] <[email protected]>
Subject: Fwd: 5G Cell tower questions
Please include the forwarded email for written communications in the next council meeting.
Thanks
Venkat
From: Venkat Ranganathan <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, September 12, 2024 9:21:06 PM
To: [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; Cupertino City Manager's Office <[email protected]> Subject: 5G Cell tower questions
Dear Council
I wanted to know what is the real status of 5G cell towers that are in state permitted? I got a call to perform complementary radio frequency measurement in my home from Hammett & Edison, Inc (I have also contact him) and showed that there is 1 microwatt/cm2 near the bedroom, which is 20ft from the Tower, which is below the normal and if we move farther away, the radiation level reaches
0. Also, according to the engineer, who helped with checking the radiation, it is only 5G antenna there, but my RF meters that can detect RF signals up to 10GHz also measured RF which was in sync with what he was measuring – He went and checked the RF signal frequency used by Verizon 5G small tower is 28GHz, beyond the range of my meter but still it was getting picked up. From the initial letters from Verizon and discussions with the city, the cell tower was 5G+4G.
So, is It a 5G+4G antenna there or only a 5G antennae? Is it operational or still in permitted state only? I am assuming it is not fully operational because the iphone that I bought specifically for testing this with Verizon plan is still not showing the UWB range (which I see for example, when I go to the CVS or Starbucks).
If it is in permitted state and not active, not sure what is emitting the 1 microwatt/sq.cm RF
radiation? Also, if it is only permitted and not yet active, will the RF radiation check will be done again?
When I used another EMF measuring device that detects the type of device emitting the radiation, it was saying mixed use (possibly because the device is not equipped to understand small cell towers).
From: Harsha Aswath
To: City Council; City Clerk; Pamela Wu; Piu Ghosh (she/her); City of Cupertino Planning Dept.; Luke Connolly; Benjamin Fu
Subject: Opposition to Proposed Development at 20739 Scofield Drive Date: Sunday, September 15, 2024 6:08:09 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.
Dear City Council and Planning Commission,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed development at 20739 Scofield Drive. While I understand the need for affordable housing, this project poses significant safety risks and is not appropriate for our neighborhood.
With only 4 of the 20 units designated as affordable, the project clearly prioritizes personal profit over community well-being. Its proximity to Faria Elementary raises serious concerns, as Scofield Drive already experiences heavy traffic and lacks sidewalks, putting children walking to and from school in danger. Adding 20 housing units and the additional cars they will bring will only worsen these risks.
Furthermore, the scale and density of this development are out of place in our neighborhood and threaten to negatively impact the character of our community.
I urge you to reject this proposal to protect the safety, character, and future of Cupertino.
Thank you for your consideration.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include in written communications for the next city council meeting. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Resident, Cupertino
From: Vinita Reddy
To: City Council; Cupertino City Manager"s Office; David Stillman; City Clerk Subject: Urgent Request to Halt De Anza Blvd Lane Reduction Project Pending Comprehensive Review Date: Saturday, September 14, 2024 11:22:46 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications for the next city council meeting.
Dear David, Chad, Manager Wu, and Council Members,
Thank you for engaging with the community during last night’s session. The feedback you’ve received from hundreds of concerned residents reflects a growing sense of unease about the De Anza Blvd Buffered Bike Lane project. I urge you to pause the project immediately until several crucial steps are taken to ensure it aligns with the needs and best interests of Cupertino residents.
First and foremost, I am requesting that all traffic studies and related reports be made available to the public.
Transparency is non-negotiable for a project of this scope, and withholding or limiting access to critical data erodes public trust.
I am particularly concerned about the apparent lack of a thorough, publicly disclosed analysis of the impact on east- west traffic, which predominantly affects Cupertino residents. The proposed lane reductions seem to prioritize north- south traffic—likely comprised of inter-city commuters—at the expense of local residents who depend on efficient east-west routes for daily travel. Penalizing Cupertino residents for the benefit of non-local commuters is an unacceptable outcome.
Before this project can move forward, I strongly and respectfully implore you to take the following steps:
1. Publish all traffic studies, including the full scope of data collection and analysis. This should include identifying any gaps in the research or additional tests that were not conducted but should have been. A project of this scale demands the highest level of scrutiny, and the public deserves to understand the full picture.
2. Conduct further traffic studies, with a focus on east-west traffic impacts, and provide the community with a detailed analysis of the findings. Without this, the project risks creating lasting, negative consequences for local traffic patterns.
3. Schedule follow-up community meetings to present the results of these studies and allow for meaningful dialogue before any further action is taken. Public input is critical, and the community must be fully informed and heard.
4. Review the impact of buffered bike lanes on Stevens Creek Blvd to assess the real-world outcomes of a similar project. Has bicycle usage meaningfully increased? Do we have metrics to support the justification for additional lane reductions on major roads like De Anza Blvd? If no such data exists, I urge you to gather it before proceeding.
In the absence of clear metrics showing substantial benefits, it is premature to impose similar changes on De Anza Blvd.
Without these steps, it is impossible to justify moving forward with this project. I strongly request that the City halt any further work on the De Anza Blvd Buffered Bike Lane project until these actions are completed. With over 60,000 residents in Cupertino, this decision will affect far more drivers than cyclists, and the interests of the broader community must take precedence. A small fraction of the population may benefit from this change, but it is the majority who will bear the brunt of any negative consequences.
While I support the goal of promoting bicycle safety, this must not come at the expense of sound traffic management or the convenience and safety of the vast majority of Cupertino residents. I trust that you will give this matter the serious consideration it deserves and will act in the best interests of our community by halting the project until a more comprehensive, balanced approach can be taken.
Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. I look forward to your urgent and immediate actions on the above and your commitment to halt this project until these steps are taken.
Sincerely,
Vinita Reddy
From: Yeming Wu
To: City Council; City Clerk; Pamela Wu; Piu Ghosh (she/her); City of Cupertino Planning Dept.; Luke Connolly; Benjamin Fu
Subject: Opposition to Proposed Development at 20739 Scofield Drive Date: Saturday, September 14, 2024 8:48:46 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.
Dear City Council and Planning Commission,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed development at 20739 Scofield Drive. While I understand the need for affordable housing, this project poses significant safety risks and is not appropriate for our neighborhood.
With only 4 of the 20 units designated as affordable, the project clearly prioritizes personal profit over community well-being. Its proximity to Faria Elementary raises serious concerns, as Scofield Drive already experiences heavy traffic and lacks sidewalks, putting children walking to and from school in danger. Adding 20 housing units and the additional cars they will bring will only worsen these risks.
Furthermore, the scale and density of this development are out of place in our neighborhood and threaten to negatively impact the character of our community.
I urge you to reject this proposal to protect the safety, character, and future of Cupertino.
Thank you for your consideration.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include in written communications for the next city council meeting. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Resident, Cupertino
Dr. Ye-Ming Wu, DDS, MS, MDiv, DMin
Clinical Professor, UCSF
Pastor, Agape Asian Mission
President, Agape Dental Group
From: [email protected]
To: City Council; Cupertino City Manager"s Office; David Stillman; Chad Mosley; City Clerk Subject: Urgent Request to Halt De Anza Blvd Lane Reduction Project Pending Comprehensive Review Date: Friday, September 13, 2024 8:31:22 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications for the next city council meeting.
Dear David, Chad, Manager Wu, and Council Members,
Thank you for engaging with the community during last night’s session. The feedback you’ve received from hundreds of concerned residents reflects a growing sense of unease about the De Anza Blvd Buffered Bike Lane project. I urge you to pause the project immediately until several crucial steps are taken to ensure it aligns with the needs and best interests of Cupertino residents.
First and foremost, I am requesting that all traffic studies and related reports be made available to the public.
Transparency is non-negotiable for a project of this scope, and withholding or limiting access to critical data erodes public trust.
I am particularly concerned about the apparent lack of a thorough, publicly disclosed analysis of the impact on east- west traffic, which predominantly affects Cupertino residents. The proposed lane reductions seem to prioritize north- south traffic—likely comprised of inter-city commuters—at the expense of local residents who depend on efficient east-west routes for daily travel. Penalizing Cupertino residents for the benefit of non-local commuters is an unacceptable outcome.
Before this project can move forward, I strongly and respectfully implore you to take the following steps:
1. Publish all traffic studies, including the full scope of data collection and analysis. This should include identifying any gaps in the research or additional tests that were not conducted but should have been. A project of this scale demands the highest level of scrutiny, and the public deserves to understand the full picture.
2. Conduct further traffic studies, with a focus on east-west traffic impacts, and provide the community with a detailed analysis of the findings. Without this, the project risks creating lasting, negative consequences for local traffic patterns.
3. Schedule follow-up community meetings to present the results of these studies and allow for meaningful dialogue before any further action is taken. Public input is critical, and the community must be fully informed and heard.
4. Review the impact of buffered bike lanes on Stevens Creek Blvd to assess the real-world outcomes of a similar project. Has bicycle usage meaningfully increased? Do we have metrics to support the justification for additional lane reductions on major roads like De Anza Blvd? If no such data exists, I urge you to gather it before proceeding.
In the absence of clear metrics showing substantial benefits, it is premature to impose similar changes on De Anza Blvd.
Without these steps, it is impossible to justify moving forward with this project. I strongly request that the City halt any further work on the De Anza Blvd Buffered Bike Lane project until these actions are completed. With over 60,000 residents in Cupertino, this decision will affect far more drivers than cyclists, and the interests of the broader community must take precedence. A small fraction of the population may benefit from this change, but it is the majority who will bear the brunt of any negative consequences.
While I support the goal of promoting bicycle safety, this must not come at the expense of sound traffic management or the convenience and safety of the vast majority of Cupertino residents. I trust that you will give this matter the serious consideration it deserves and will act in the best interests of our community by halting the project until a more comprehensive, balanced approach can be taken.
Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. I look forward to your urgent and immediate actions on the above and your commitment to halt this project until these steps are taken.
Sincerely,
Swetha
Sent from my iPhone
From: Sanjeev Verma
To: City Council; Cupertino City Manager"s Office; David Stillman; Chad Mosley; City Clerk Subject: Urgent Request to Halt De Anza Blvd Lane Reduction Project Pending Comprehensive Review Date: Friday, September 13, 2024 4:15:48 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications for the next city council meeting.
Dear David, Chad, Manager Wu, and Council Members,
Thank you for engaging with the community during last night’s session. The feedback you’ve received from hundreds of concerned residents reflects a growing sense of unease about the De Anza Blvd Buffered Bike Lane project. I urge you to pause the project immediately until several crucial steps are taken to ensure it aligns with the needs and best interests of Cupertino residents.
First and foremost, I am requesting that all traffic studies and related reports be made available to the public. Transparency is non-negotiable for a project of this scope, and withholding or limiting access to critical data erodes public trust.
I am particularly concerned about the apparent lack of a thorough, publicly disclosed analysis of the impact on east-west traffic, which predominantly affects Cupertino residents. The proposed lane reductions seem to prioritize north-south traffic—likely composed of inter-city commuters—at the expense of local residents who depend on efficient east-west routes for daily travel. Penalizing Cupertino residents for the benefit of non-local commuters is an unacceptable outcome.
Before this project can move forward, I strongly and respectfully implore you to take the following steps:
1. Publish all traffic studies, including the full scope of data collection and analysis. This should include identifying any gaps in the research or additional tests that were not conducted but should have been. A project of this scale demands the highest level of scrutiny, and the public deserves to understand the full picture.
2. Conduct further traffic studies, with a focus on east-west traffic impacts, and provide the community with a detailed analysis of the findings. Without this, the project risks creating lasting, negative consequences for local traffic patterns.
3. Schedule follow-up community meetings to present the results of these studies and allow for meaningful dialogue before any further action is taken. Public input is critical, and the community must be fully informed and heard.
4. Review the impact of buffered bike lanes on Stevens Creek Blvd to assess the real-world outcomes of a similar project. Has bicycle usage meaningfully increased? Do we have metrics to support the justification for additional lane reductions on major roads like De Anza Blvd? If no such data exists, I urge you to gather it before proceeding. In the absence of clear metrics showing substantial benefits, it is premature to impose similar changes on De Anza Blvd.
Without these steps, it is impossible to justify moving forward with this project. I strongly request that the City halt any further work on the De Anza Blvd Buffered Bike Lane project until these actions are completed. With over 60,000 residents in Cupertino, this decision will affect far more drivers than cyclists, and the interests of the broader community must take precedence. A small fraction of the population may benefit from this change, but it is the majority who will bear the brunt of any negative consequences.
While I support the goal of promoting bicycle safety, this must not come at the expense of sound traffic management or the convenience and safety of the vast majority of Cupertino residents. I trust that you will give this matter the serious consideration it deserves and will act in the best interests of our community by halting the project until a more comprehensive, balanced approach can be taken.
Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. I look forward to your urgent and immediate actions on the above and your commitment to halt this project until these steps are taken.
Sincerely,
Sanjeev Verma
From: Deepa Mahendraker
To: City Council; Cupertino City Manager"s Office; David Stillman; Chad Mosley; City Clerk Subject: Urgent Request to Halt De Anza Blvd Lane Reduction Project Pending Comprehensive Review Date: Friday, September 13, 2024 3:18:50 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications for the next city council meeting.
Dear David, Chad, Manager Wu, and Council Members,
Thank you for engaging with the community during last night’s session. The feedback you’ve received from hundreds of concerned residents reflects a growing sense of unease about the De Anza Blvd Buffered Bike Lane project. I urge you to pause the project immediately until several crucial steps are taken to ensure it aligns with the needs and best interests of Cupertino residents.
First and foremost, I am requesting that all traffic studies and related reports be made available to the public.
Transparency is non-negotiable for a project of this scope, and withholding or limiting access to critical data erodes public trust.
I am particularly concerned about the apparent lack of a thorough, publicly disclosed analysis of the impact on east- west traffic, which predominantly affects Cupertino residents. The proposed lane reductions seem to prioritize north- south traffic—likely comprised of inter-city commuters—at the expense of local residents who depend on efficient east-west routes for daily travel. Penalizing Cupertino residents for the benefit of non-local commuters is an unacceptable outcome.
Before this project can move forward, I strongly and respectfully implore you to take the following steps:
1. Publish all traffic studies, including the full scope of data collection and analysis. This should include identifying any gaps in the research or additional tests that were not conducted but should have been. A project of this scale demands the highest level of scrutiny, and the public deserves to understand the full picture.
2. Conduct further traffic studies, with a focus on east-west traffic impacts, and provide the community with a detailed analysis of the findings. Without this, the project risks creating lasting, negative consequences for local traffic patterns.
3. Schedule follow-up community meetings to present the results of these studies and allow for meaningful dialogue before any further action is taken. Public input is critical, and the community must be fully informed and heard.
4. Review the impact of buffered bike lanes on Stevens Creek Blvd to assess the real-world outcomes of a similar project. Has bicycle usage meaningfully increased? Do we have metrics to support the justification for additional lane reductions on major roads like De Anza Blvd? If no such data exists, I urge you to gather it before proceeding.
In the absence of clear metrics showing substantial benefits, it is premature to impose similar changes on De Anza Blvd.
Without these steps, it is impossible to justify moving forward with this project. I strongly request that the City halt any further work on the De Anza Blvd Buffered Bike Lane project until these actions are completed. With over 60,000 residents in Cupertino, this decision will affect far more drivers than cyclists, and the interests of the broader community must take precedence. A small fraction of the population may benefit from this change, but it is the majority who will bear the brunt of any negative consequences.
While I support the goal of promoting bicycle safety, this must not come at the expense of sound traffic management or the convenience and safety of the vast majority of Cupertino residents. I trust that you will give this matter the serious consideration it deserves and will act in the best interests of our community by halting the project until a more comprehensive, balanced approach can be taken.
Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. I look forward to your urgent and immediate actions on the above and your commitment to halt this project until these steps are taken.
Sincerely,
Deepa Mahendraker
Sent from my iPhone
From: Kaihua Jiang
To: City Council; City Clerk; Pamela Wu; Piu Ghosh (she/her); City of Cupertino Planning Dept.; Luke Connolly; Benjamin Fu
Subject: Absolutely No!!!! Stop the disaster plan at 20739 Scofield Drive Date: Friday, September 13, 2024 11:12:22 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.
Dear City Council and Planning Commission,
As a resident in the neighborhood, I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed development at 20739 Scofield Drive as this would be a total disaster to the entire neighborhood and the Cupertino city. While I understand the need for affordable housing, this project poses significant safety risks and is not appropriate for our neighborhood.
With only 4 of the 20 units designated as affordable, the project clearly prioritizes personal profit over community well-being. Its proximity to Faria Elementary raises serious concerns, as Scofield Drive already experiences heavy traffic and lacks sidewalks, putting children walking to and from school in danger. Adding 20 housing units and the additional cars they will bring will only worsen these risks.
Furthermore, the scale and density of this development are out of place in our neighborhood and threaten to negatively impact the character of our community.
I urge you to reject this proposal to protect the safety, character, and future of Cupertino.
Thank you for your consideration.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include in written communications for the next city council meeting. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Resident, Cupertino
From: Venkat Ranganathan
To: City Clerk
Subject: Fwd: 5G Cell tower questions
Date: Friday, September 13, 2024 8:38:23 AM
Attachments: image001.png
RF Radiation detector 09122024.mp4
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.
Please include the forwarded email for written communications in the next council meeting.
Thanks
Venkat
From: Venkat Ranganathan <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, September 12, 2024 9:21:06 PM
To: [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; Cupertino City Manager's Office <[email protected]> Subject: 5G Cell tower questions
Dear Council
I wanted to know what is the real status of 5G cell towers that are in state permitted? I got a call to perform complementary radio frequency measurement in my home from Hammett & Edison, Inc (I have also contact him) and showed that there is 1 microwatt/cm2 near the bedroom, which is 20ft from the Tower, which is below the normal and if we move farther away, the radiation level reaches
0. Also, according to the engineer, who helped with checking the radiation, it is only 5G antenna there, but my RF meters that can detect RF signals up to 10GHz also measured RF which was in sync with what he was measuring – He went and checked the RF signal frequency used by Verizon 5G small tower is 28GHz, beyond the range of my meter but still it was getting picked up. From the initial letters from Verizon and discussions with the city, the cell tower was 5G+4G.
So, is It a 5G+4G antenna there or only a 5G antennae? Is it operational or still in permitted state only? I am assuming it is not fully operational because the iphone that I bought specifically for testing this with Verizon plan is still not showing the UWB range (which I see for example, when I go to the CVS or Starbucks).
If it is in permitted state and not active, not sure what is emitting the 1 microwatt/sq.cm RF
radiation? Also, if it is only permitted and not yet active, will the RF radiation check will be done again?
When I used another EMF measuring device that detects the type of device emitting the radiation, it was saying mixed use (possibly because the device is not equipped to understand small cell towers).
From: Santosh Rao
To: David Stillman; Chad Mosley; Pamela Wu; City Council; Tina Kapoor Cc: City Clerk
Subject: Traffic study on DeAnza Blvd.
Date: Friday, September 13, 2024 7:17:15 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.
Subject: Urgent Request to Halt De Anza Blvd Lane Reduction Project Pending Comprehensive Review
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications for the next city council meeting.
Dear David, Chad, Manager Wu, and Council Members,
Thank you for engaging with the community during last night’s session. The feedback you’ve received from hundreds of concerned residents reflects a growing sense of unease about the De Anza Blvd Buffered Bike Lane project. I urge you to pause the project immediately until several crucial steps are taken to ensure it aligns with the needs and best interests of Cupertino residents.
First and foremost, I am requesting that all traffic studies and related reports be made available to the public. Transparency is non-negotiable for a project of this scope, and withholding or limiting access to critical data erodes public trust.
I am particularly concerned about the apparent lack of a thorough, publicly disclosed analysis of the impact on east-west traffic, which predominantly affects Cupertino residents. The proposed lane reductions seem to prioritize north-south traffic—likely comprised of inter-city commuters—at the expense of local residents who depend on efficient east-west routes for daily travel. Penalizing Cupertino residents for the benefit of non-local commuters is an unacceptable outcome.
Before this project can move forward, I strongly and respectfully implore you to take the following steps:
1. Publish all traffic studies, including the full scope of data collection and analysis. This should include identifying any gaps in the research or additional tests that were not conducted but should have been. A project of this scale demands the highest level of scrutiny, and the public deserves to understand the full picture.
2. Conduct further traffic studies, with a focus on east-west traffic impacts, and provide the community with a detailed analysis of the findings. Without this, the project risks creating lasting, negative consequences for local traffic patterns.
3. Schedule follow-up community meetings to present the results of these studies and allow for meaningful dialogue before any further action is taken. Public input is critical, and the community must be fully informed and heard.
4. Review the impact of buffered bike lanes on Stevens Creek Blvd to assess the real-world outcomes of a similar project. Has bicycle usage meaningfully increased? Do we have metrics to support the justification for additional lane reductions on major roads like De Anza Blvd? If no such data exists, I urge you to gather it before proceeding. In the absence of clear metrics showing substantial benefits, it is premature to impose similar changes on De Anza Blvd.
Without these steps, it is impossible to justify moving forward with this project. I strongly request that the City halt any further work on the De Anza Blvd Buffered Bike Lane project until these actions are completed. With over 60,000 residents in Cupertino, this decision will affect far more drivers than cyclists, and the interests of the broader community must take precedence. A small fraction of the population may benefit from this change, but it is the majority who will bear the brunt of any negative consequences.
While I support the goal of promoting bicycle safety, this must not come at the expense of sound traffic management or the convenience and safety of the vast majority of Cupertino residents. I trust that you will give this matter the serious consideration it deserves and will act in the best interests of our community by halting the project until a more comprehensive, balanced approach can be taken.
Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. I look forward to your urgent and immediate actions on the above and your commitment to halt this project until these steps are taken.
Sincerely,
San Rao
Cupertino Resident
Driving on DeAnza Blvd daily since 1998
From: Wenyi Fei
To: City Council; City Clerk; Pamela Wu; Piu Ghosh (she/her); City of Cupertino Planning Dept.; Luke Connolly; Benjamin Fu
Subject: Opposition to Proposed Development at 20739 Scofield Drive Date: Friday, September 13, 2024 1:03:49 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.
Dear City Council and Planning Commission,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed development at 20739 Scofield Drive. While I understand the need for affordable housing, this project poses significant safety risks and is not appropriate for our neighborhood.
With only 4 of the 20 units designated as affordable, the project clearly prioritizes personal profit over community well-being. Its proximity to Faria Elementary raises serious concerns, as Scofield Drive already experiences heavy traffic and lacks sidewalks, putting children walking to and from school in danger. Adding 20 housing units and the additional cars they will bring will only worsen these risks.
Furthermore, the scale and density of this development are out of place in our neighborhood and threaten to negatively impact the character of our community.
I urge you to reject this proposal to protect the safety, character, and future of Cupertino.
Thank you for your consideration.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include in written communications for the next city council meeting. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Resident, Cupertino
Get Outlook for Android
From: [email protected]
To: City Council; City Clerk; Pamela Wu; Piu Ghosh (she/her); City of Cupertino Planning Dept.; Luke Connolly; Benjamin Fu
Subject: Opposition to Proposed Development at 20739 Scofield Drive Date: Thursday, September 12, 2024 5:03:35 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.
Dear City Council and Planning Commission,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed development at 20739 Scofield Drive. While I understand the need for affordable housing, this project poses significant safety risks and is not appropriate for our neighborhood.
With only 4 of the 20 units designated as affordable, the project clearly prioritizes personal profit over community well-being. Its proximity to Faria Elementary raises serious concerns, as Scofield Drive already experiences heavy traffic and lacks sidewalks, putting children walking to and from school in danger. Adding 20 housing units and the additional cars they will bring will only worsen these risks.
Furthermore, the scale and density of this development are out of place in our neighborhood and threaten to negatively impact the character of our community.
I urge you to reject this proposal to protect the safety, character, and future of Cupertino.
Thank you for your consideration.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include in written communications for the next city council meeting. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Resident, Cupertino
Sent from my iPhone
From: Gi Ti
To: City Council; City Clerk; Pamela Wu; Piu Ghosh (she/her); City of Cupertino Planning Dept.; Luke Connolly; Benjamin Fu
Subject: Opposition to Proposed Development at 20739 Scofield Drive Date: Wednesday, September 11, 2024 10:10:27 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.
Dear City Council and Planning Commission,
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed development at 20739 Scofield Drive. While I understand the need for affordable housing, this project poses significant safety risks and is not appropriate for our neighborhood.
With only 4 of the 20 units designated as affordable, the project clearly prioritizes personal profit over community well-being. Its proximity to Faria Elementary raises serious concerns, as Scofield Drive already experiences heavy traffic and lacks sidewalks, putting children walking to and from school in danger. Adding 20 housing units and the additional cars they will bring will only worsen these risks.
Furthermore, the scale and density of this development are out of place in our neighborhood and threaten to negatively impact the character of our community.
I urge you to reject this proposal to protect the safety, character, and future of Cupertino.
Thank you for your consideration.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include in written communications for the next city council meeting. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Resident, Cupertino
Sent from my iPhone
From: Ravi Kiran Singh Sapaharam
To: City Council; City Clerk; Pamela Wu; Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her) Subject: Urgent Request to Downzone Evulich Ct and Protect Environmental Resources Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 3:29:27 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications for items not on the agenda for the upcoming City Council meeting.
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, Manager Wu, Director Luke, and Senior Planner Piu, I am writing to express my concerns about the proposed high-density development on Evulich Ct and urge the city to downzone this site to R1. This development threatens local environmental resources, including Stevens Creek, Blackberry Farm, and wildlife corridors. The city's Housing Element allows flexibility to redistribute housing without disrupting these sensitive areas.
I urge the city to:
1. Downzone Evulich Ct to R1.
2. Apply an Environmental Protection Overlay to safeguard nearby ecosystems.
3. Utilize buffer units in the Housing Element to relocate housing density.
Thank you for considering this matter.
Sincerely,
Cupertino Resident
Ravi
PMP®, CSM®, ITIL®
669.224.0559
From: Ravi Kiran Singh Sapaharam
To: City Council; City Clerk
Subject: Request to Allow Full Oral Public Comments Up Front at City Council Meetings Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 3:16:46 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below as written communications for items not on the agenda for the 09/17/24 City Council meeting.
Dear Mayor Sheila Mohan and Cupertino City Council Members, I am writing to respectfully urge you, Mayor Mohan, to use your discretion to allow all public oral comments to be heard upfront during City Council meetings, without the current limitation of 30 minutes and deferring the remainder to the end of the meeting.
Limiting public comments to 30 minutes before pushing the rest to the end of often lengthy sessions creates a significant inconvenience for residents who have taken the time to attend. Many are forced to wait late into the night or, worse, abandon their opportunity to be heard altogether. This practice disproportionately affects working families, seniors, and those with other obligations, sending the message that their input is not as valued as the convenience of the meeting structure.
Allowing all oral comments to be made at the start of the meeting fosters transparency, inclusivity, and demonstrates a genuine commitment to hearing the voices of Cupertino's residents.
If you choose not to exercise your discretion on this matter, I urge the City Council members to call for a formal vote on this procedure. Let the public see whether each council member prioritizes the convenience of residents or whether they choose to inconvenience those they represent by making them wait until the end of the meeting or give up their opportunity for input altogether.
Thank you for considering this request, and I look forward to your decision to better serve the people of Cupertino.
Sincerely,
Cupertino Resident
Ravi
PMP®, CSM®, ITIL®
669.224.0559
From: Santosh Rao
To: City Council; City Clerk; Pamela Wu
Subject: Subject: Request to Allow Full Oral Public Comments Up Front at City Council Meetings Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 3:05:07 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below as written communications for items not on the agenda for the 09/17/24 City Council meeting.
Dear Mayor Sheila Mohan and Cupertino City Council Members, I am writing to respectfully urge you, Mayor Mohan, to use your discretion to allow all public oral comments to be heard upfront during City Council meetings, without the current limitation of 30 minutes and deferring the remainder to the end of the meeting.
Limiting public comments to 30 minutes before pushing the rest to the end of often lengthy sessions creates a significant inconvenience for residents who have taken the time to attend.
Many are forced to wait late into the night or, worse, abandon their opportunity to be heard altogether. This practice disproportionately affects working families, seniors, and those with other obligations, sending the message that their input is not as valued as the convenience of the meeting structure.
Allowing all oral comments to be made at the start of the meeting fosters transparency, inclusivity, and demonstrates a genuine commitment to hearing the voices of Cupertino's residents.
If you choose not to exercise your discretion on this matter, I urge the City Council members to call for a formal vote on this procedure. Let the public see whether each council member prioritizes the convenience of residents or whether they choose to inconvenience those they represent by making them wait until the end of the meeting or give up their opportunity for input altogether.
Thank you for considering this request, and I look forward to your decision to better serve the people of Cupertino.
Sincerely,
Santosh Rao
From: Philip Tsai
To: Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her); Pamela Wu; City Council; City Clerk Subject: Reject Vista Heights Development Due to Public Safety and Environmental and Geotechnical Risks Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 3:00:43 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below as written communications for items not on agenda for the upcoming city council meeting.
Mayor Sheila Mohan
Cupertino City Council Members
City Manager Pamela Wu
City Planners Luke and Piu
City of Cupertino
10300 Torre Avenue
Cupertino, CA 95014
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, and City Officials,
We are a family living on Linda Vista Dr and also voicing on behalf of neighbors. In addition to our opposition to Evulich R3 zoning and request to downzone to R1 single-family design, I am writing to express grave concerns regarding the proposed Vista Heights development project, specifically located near Linda Vista Park.
After thoroughly reviewing the Geotechnical Report prepared for this project, I believe that proceeding with the development would expose the City of Cupertino to serious safety, environmental, and liability risks. The report highlights significant geotechnical hazards, including evidence of previous landslides and a high potential for future landslide events, which necessitates immediate action to reject this project based on environmental and geotechnical considerations.
Key Red Flags from the Geotechnical Report
Landslide Evidence and Future Risk: The geotechnical report provides alarming evidence of debris flow deposits, which indicate that landslides have previously occurred at this site. Test Pit 9 specifically reveals sandy silt with gravel and debris flow material, a clear indication of prior earth movement. The presence of such material suggests that the area has already been compromised by landslides and that any new construction could exacerbate these conditions, leading to future slope failures. Given Cupertino's hilly topography and seasonal rainfall, the risk of reactivating these past landslides is considerable.
Unstable Soil Composition: Numerous test pits identified soils that are weak and highly weathered, especially the conglomerate and sandstone formations found in many areas. These soils exhibit low compressive strength, raising concerns about their ability to support large- scale construction. For instance, Test Pits 1-TP4, 1-TP7, and 1-TP22 all indicate very weak soil conditions, making this site unsuitable for dense development. The soils’ tendency to shift, especially during rainstorms or seismic events, would put future residents and nearby homes at considerable risk.
Groundwater and Slope Stability Issues: In addition to unstable soils, Test Pit 11 encountered groundwater seepage at a depth of just 6 feet, a factor that compounds the site's vulnerability to landslides. The interaction between fluctuating groundwater levels, weak soils, and hillside slopes creates a perfect storm for slope destabilization. This groundwater seepage, combined with the area's already documented debris flow history, poses an immediate threat to the stability of any future structures, roads, and public infrastructure.
Erosion and Environmental Degradation: The hillside’s residual soils and fill materials are prone to erosion, which could accelerate as the project progresses. The report's identification of heavily weathered sandstone and conglomerate formations only adds to the likelihood of erosion, landslides, and subsurface movement. As these processes unfold, the potential for damaging adjacent properties and public infrastructure grows exponentially, raising questions about the project's long-term sustainability and safety.
Responsibility to Public Safety
As public officials entrusted with the welfare of Cupertino’s residents, it is your duty to ensure that development projects are not only economically viable but also safe for current and future inhabitants. The findings from this geotechnical report clearly demonstrate that the Vista Heights project, in its current form, poses unacceptable risks to the safety of our community.
Moving forward with the development despite the overwhelming evidence of landslide risks could lead to catastrophic consequences, including property damage, loss of life, and significant legal liabilities for the city.
Furthermore, all the proposed homes share one single entrance and road with the Linda Vista Park - creating safety dangers to kids, families, neighbors and visitors that primarily walk into and out of the park. Packing all these proposed new families and traffic into a shared, only entrance and exit to the park is a recipe for public safety. You would not want to be the council that one day have to be accountable to an unfortunate incident of a kid getting hit by cars in this park entrance/exit.
Request for Action
Given the severity of the issues outlined in the geotechnical report, I strongly urge you to Reject the Vista Heights project based on environmental and geotechnical considerations, including the evidence of previous landslides and the high potential for future landslides.
The geotechnical report leaves little room for doubt: the combination of weak, weathered soils, groundwater seepage, and historical landslide activity renders this site too dangerous for development. I hope you will carefully consider these concerns and take swift action to protect Cupertino's residents and its natural environment from unnecessary harm.
Sincerely,
Sharon, Wu and Philip
From: Tracy Kosolcharoen
To: City Council; City Clerk
Subject: Public comments for 9/17 City Council Meeting
Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 2:57:29 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.
Hi Kirsten, Please include this in the general public comments. Thank you! Dear City Councilmembers,
I have a few asks not on the agenda:
1. Please address Cupertino's liquidity/cash management policy either via an agenda item or study session. Per Councilmember Moore's discovery of $60M+ sitting idle in a zero interest account, we need a better policy of cash management going forward. As someone who began my career working in treasury, I believe it is important for organizations to have sufficient liquidity to protect against adverse events and simply to fund day to day operations.
However, your liquidity should not be sitting in pure cash, especially in an inflationary environment. That means we are literally losing money by the day! While it does appear some of the $48-60M has moved, it would be helpful to institute formal policies to ensure this does not happen again. Please work with staff to ensure that policies are put in place to properly manage our liquidity cushion and help it keep pace with inflation.
2. Please provide an update to the public on what is happening with City Hall. Are we buying new real estate? If so, why isn't the public being informed about the costs of not only the real estate but any associated renovations? And whatever happened to the cost efficient renovation of City Hall, which is still a possibility? This issue has been ruled on and reversed by multiple councils since 2022, with no final outcome years later.
3. Please provide a study session on what it would take to downzone a property. Many areas were upzoned in the Housing Element, and while some of them along major thoroughfares make sense, some of them in the heart of neighborhoods are drawing great frustration from local residents. The Housing Element should not be a hard and fast document, but one that still has some ability to accommodate new changes as situations unfold.
Many thanks,
Tracy
From: Philip Tsai
To: Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her); Pamela Wu; City Council; City Clerk Subject: Urgent Request to Downzone Evulich Ct project
Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 2:53:54 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications for items not on agenda for the upcoming city council meeting.
Mayor Sheila Mohan
Cupertino City Council Members
Pamela Wu, City Manager
Luke, Planning Director
Piu, Senior Planner
City of Cupertino
10300 Torre Avenue
Cupertino, CA 95014
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, Manager Wu, Director Luke, and Senior Planner Piu, I am writing to express my strong objection regarding the proposed high-density development on Evulich Ct and to respectfully urge the city to downzone this site to R1. The current designation for high-density housing is not only incompatible with the surrounding residential design, but it also creates traffic hazards, threatens nearby environmental resources and disrupts local ecosystems. Cupertino has the flexibility within its Housing and Community Development (HCD) framework to meet its housing goals without sacrificing the natural and community assets around Evulich Ct.
The area surrounding Evulich Ct is ecologically sensitive, with Linda Vista Park, Blackberry Farm, Stevens Creek, Stevens Creek County Park, and a well-established wildlife corridor located in close proximity. The environmental and infrastructural strain from developing 51 townhomes on a 2.48-acre hillside plot will damage these critical green spaces. The Housing Element Site Inventory Guidebook emphasizes the importance of preserving environmental integrity when planning housing developments, particularly in areas with fragile ecosystems.
Evulich Ct, with its adjacency to these natural resources, should be protected, not overburdened.
An environmental protection overlay would provide the necessary framework to preserve these vital ecological and recreational areas. By applying this overlay, the city can enforce regulations that limit dense development, protect sensitive wildlife corridors, and ensure that critical habitats are not disrupted. Stevens Creek and Stevens Creek County Park are home to a variety of wildlife, and the corridor is essential for maintaining biodiversity in the region.
High-density development in this area could block these natural migration pathways and lead to habitat loss, disrupting local ecosystems that rely on the interconnectedness of these spaces.
Furthermore, the area’s existing infrastructure is not designed to support high-density development. The roads leading to Evulich Ct are narrow, and the area lacks sufficient water, sewer, and utility capacity to accommodate such an influx of additional 52 families (easily 150-200+ people).
Additionally, increased traffic and parking demands will create unexpected safety concerns to families visiting the immediate Linda Vista Park, the neighboring Blackberry Farm and Stevens Creek County Park, which are key recreational areas for Cupertino residents. As outlined in the Guidebook, environmental impacts, particularly on public green spaces and natural resources, should be carefully weighed before approving any significant changes in land use.
Cupertino also has alternatives for meeting its housing obligations without disrupting the ecological balance of the Evulich Ct area. The HCD’s provisions allow the city to redistribute housing density to other more suitable areas that have better infrastructure and fewer environmental sensitivities. The city can leverage its available buffer units within the Housing Element and transfer the required density away from this environmentally delicate area. This approach ensures Cupertino meets its housing obligations while protecting critical green spaces, natural resources, and wildlife.
In alignment with these concerns, I urge the city to take the following actions:
Downzone Evulich Ct to R1: This step will maintain compatibility with the surrounding single-family homes, protect local infrastructure, and prevent traffic and safety hazards, and environmental degradation.
Apply an Environmental Protection Overlay: This overlay will safeguard the adjacent wildlife corridor, Stevens Creek, Stevens Creek County Park, and Blackberry Farm, ensuring that dense development does not disrupt these ecosystems and recreational spaces.
Utilize Buffer Units in the Housing Element: By reallocating the required housing density to buffer units, Cupertino can meet its housing goals without compromising the environmental and community assets of Evulich Ct.
Cupertino has long prided itself on thoughtful, sustainable urban planning, and I am confident that the city can find a balanced solution that meets state housing mandates while prioritizing the long-term well-being of its neighborhoods and natural resources. I look forward to your response and to seeing a plan that reflects the values of sustainability and community preservation.
Thank you,
Sincerely,
Sharon, Wu and Philip
From: Ramkarthik
To: Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her); Pamela Wu; City Council; City Clerk Subject: Urgent Request to Downzone Evulich Ct and Protect Environmental Resources Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 2:49:09 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications for items not on agenda for the upcoming city council meeting.
Mayor Sheila Mohan
Cupertino City Council Members
Pamela Wu, City Manager
Luke, Planning Director
Piu, Senior Planner
City of Cupertino
10300 Torre Avenue
Cupertino, CA 95014
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, Manager Wu, Director Luke, and Senior Planner Piu, I am writing to express my strong concerns regarding the proposed high-density development on Evulich Ct and to respectfully urge the city to downzone this site to R1. The current designation for high-density housing is not only incompatible with the surrounding residential character, but it also threatens nearby environmental resources and disrupts local ecosystems.
Cupertino has the flexibility within its Housing and Community Development (HCD) framework to meet its housing goals without sacrificing the natural and community assets around Evulich Ct.
The area surrounding Evulich Ct is ecologically sensitive, with Blackberry Farm, Stevens Creek, Stevens Creek County Park, and a well-established wildlife corridor located in close proximity. The environmental and infrastructural strain from developing 51 townhomes on a
2.48-acre hillside plot would negatively affect these critical green spaces. The Housing Element Site Inventory Guidebook emphasizes the importance of preserving environmental integrity when planning housing developments, particularly in areas with fragile ecosystems.
Evulich Ct, with its adjacency to these natural resources, should be protected, not overburdened.
An environmental protection overlay would provide the necessary framework to preserve these vital ecological and recreational areas. By applying this overlay, the city can enforce regulations that limit dense development, protect sensitive wildlife corridors, and ensure that critical habitats are not disrupted. Stevens Creek and Stevens Creek County Park are home to a variety of wildlife, and the corridor is essential for maintaining biodiversity in the region.
High-density development in this area could block these natural migration pathways and lead to habitat loss, disrupting local ecosystems that rely on the interconnectedness of these spaces.
Furthermore, the area’s existing infrastructure is not designed to support high-density development. The roads leading to Evulich Ct are narrow and unimproved, and the area lacks sufficient water, sewer, and utility capacity to accommodate such an influx of residents.
Additionally, increased traffic and parking demands will degrade the experience for visitors to Blackberry Farm and Stevens Creek County Park, which are key recreational areas for Cupertino residents. As outlined in the Guidebook, environmental impacts, particularly on public green spaces and natural resources, should be carefully weighed before approving any significant changes in land use.
Cupertino also has alternatives for meeting its housing obligations without disrupting the ecological balance of the Evulich Ct area. The HCD’s provisions allow the city to redistribute housing density to other more suitable areas that have better infrastructure and fewer environmental sensitivities. The city can leverage its available buffer units within the Housing Element and transfer the required density away from this environmentally delicate area. This approach ensures Cupertino meets its housing obligations while protecting critical green spaces, natural resources, and wildlife.
In alignment with these concerns, I urge the city to take the following actions:
*Downzone Evulich Ct to R1*: This step will maintain compatibility with the surrounding single-family homes, protect local infrastructure, and prevent environmental degradation. *Apply an Environmental Protection Overlay*: This overlay will safeguard the adjacent wildlife corridor, Stevens Creek, Stevens Creek County Park, and Blackberry Farm, ensuring that dense development does not disrupt these ecosystems and recreational spaces. *Utilize Buffer Units in the Housing Element*: By reallocating the required housing density to buffer units, Cupertino can meet its housing goals without compromising the environmental and community assets of Evulich Ct.
Cupertino has long prided itself on thoughtful, sustainable urban planning, and I am confident that the city can find a balanced solution that meets state housing mandates while prioritizing the long-term well-being of its neighborhoods and natural resources. I look forward to your response and to seeing a plan that reflects the values of sustainability and community preservation.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Ram.
From: Supriya Kalyanasundaram
To: Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her); City Council; City Clerk; Pamela Wu Subject: Urgent request to Downzone Evulich Ct and Protect Environmental resources Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 2:45:37 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications for items not on agenda for the upcoming city council meeting.
Mayor Sheila Mohan
Cupertino City Council Members
Pamela Wu, City Manager
Luke, Planning Director
Piu, Senior Planner
City of Cupertino
10300 Torre Avenue
Cupertino, CA 95014
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, Manager Wu, Director Luke, and Senior Planner Piu, I am writing to express my strong concerns regarding the proposed high-density development on Evulich Ct and to respectfully urge the city to downzone this site to R1. The current designation for high-density housing is not only incompatible with the surrounding residential character, but it also threatens nearby environmental resources and disrupts local ecosystems.
Cupertino has the flexibility within its Housing and Community Development (HCD) framework to meet its housing goals without sacrificing the natural and community assets around Evulich Ct.
The area surrounding Evulich Ct is ecologically sensitive, with Blackberry Farm, Stevens Creek, Stevens Creek County Park, and a well-established wildlife corridor located in close proximity. The environmental and infrastructural strain from developing 51 townhomes on a
2.48-acre hillside plot would negatively affect these critical green spaces. The Housing Element Site Inventory Guidebook emphasizes the importance of preserving environmental integrity when planning housing developments, particularly in areas with fragile ecosystems.
Evulich Ct, with its adjacency to these natural resources, should be protected, not overburdened.
An environmental protection overlay would provide the necessary framework to preserve these vital ecological and recreational areas. By applying this overlay, the city can enforce regulations that limit dense development, protect sensitive wildlife corridors, and ensure that critical habitats are not disrupted. Stevens Creek and Stevens Creek County Park are home to a variety of wildlife, and the corridor is essential for maintaining biodiversity in the region.
High-density development in this area could block these natural migration pathways and lead to habitat loss, disrupting local ecosystems that rely on the interconnectedness of these spaces.
Furthermore, the area’s existing infrastructure is not designed to support high-density development. The roads leading to Evulich Ct are narrow and unimproved, and the area lacks sufficient water, sewer, and utility capacity to accommodate such an influx of residents.
Additionally, increased traffic and parking demands will degrade the experience for visitors to Blackberry Farm and Stevens Creek County Park, which are key recreational areas for Cupertino residents. As outlined in the Guidebook, environmental impacts, particularly on public green spaces and natural resources, should be carefully weighed before approving any significant changes in land use.
Cupertino also has alternatives for meeting its housing obligations without disrupting the ecological balance of the Evulich Ct area. The HCD’s provisions allow the city to redistribute housing density to other more suitable areas that have better infrastructure and fewer environmental sensitivities. The city can leverage its available buffer units within the Housing Element and transfer the required density away from this environmentally delicate area. This approach ensures Cupertino meets its housing obligations while protecting critical green spaces, natural resources, and wildlife.
In alignment with these concerns, I urge the city to take the following actions:
*Downzone Evulich Ct to R1*: This step will maintain compatibility with the surrounding single-family homes, protect local infrastructure, and prevent environmental degradation. *Apply an Environmental Protection Overlay*: This overlay will safeguard the adjacent wildlife corridor, Stevens Creek, Stevens Creek County Park, and Blackberry Farm, ensuring that dense development does not disrupt these ecosystems and recreational spaces. *Utilize Buffer Units in the Housing Element*: By reallocating the required housing density to buffer units, Cupertino can meet its housing goals without compromising the environmental and community assets of Evulich Ct.
Cupertino has long prided itself on thoughtful, sustainable urban planning, and I am confident that the city can find a balanced solution that meets state housing mandates while prioritizing the long-term well-being of its neighborhoods and natural resources. I look forward to your response and to seeing a plan that reflects the values of sustainability and community preservation.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Supriya Kalyanasundaram
From: Jessica
To: Piu Ghosh (she/her); Luke Connolly; City Council; City Clerk Subject: Urgent Request to Downzone Evulich Ct and Protect Environmental Resources Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 2:43:16 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below as written communications for items not on agenda for the upcoming city council meeting.
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, and City Officials,
I am writing to express grave concerns regarding the proposed Vista Heights development project, specifically located near Evulich Ct and Vista Heights. After thoroughly reviewing the Geotechnical Report prepared for this project, I believe that proceeding with the development would expose the City of Cupertino to serious safety, environmental, and liability risks. The report highlights significant geotechnical hazards, including evidence of previous landslides and a high potential for future landslide events, which necessitates immediate action to reject this project based on environmental and geotechnical considerations. *Key Red Flags from the Geotechnical Report*
*Landslide Evidence and Future Risk*: The geotechnical report provides alarming evidence of debris flow deposits, which indicate that landslides have previously occurred at this site. Test Pit 9 specifically reveals sandy silt with gravel and debris flow material, a clear indication of prior earth movement. The presence of such material suggests that the area has already been compromised by landslides and that any new construction could exacerbate these conditions, leading to future slope failures. Given Cupertino's hilly topography and seasonal rainfall, the risk of reactivating these past landslides is considerable. *Unstable Soil Composition*: Numerous test pits identified soils that are weak and highly weathered, especially the conglomerate and sandstone formations found in many areas. These soils exhibit low compressive strength, raising concerns about their ability to support large- scale construction. For instance, Test Pits 1-TP4, 1-TP7, and 1-TP22 all indicate very weak soil conditions, making this site unsuitable for dense development. The soils’ tendency to shift, especially during rainstorms or seismic events, would put future residents and nearby homes at considerable risk.
*Groundwater and Slope Stability Issues*: In addition to unstable soils, Test Pit 11 encountered groundwater seepage at a depth of just 6 feet, a factor that compounds the site's vulnerability to landslides. The interaction between fluctuating groundwater levels, weak soils, and hillside slopes creates a perfect storm for slope destabilization. This groundwater seepage, combined with the area's already documented debris flow history, poses an immediate threat to the stability of any future structures, roads, and public infrastructure. *Erosion and Environmental Degradation*: The hillside’s residual soils and fill materials are prone to erosion, which could accelerate as the project progresses. The report's identification of heavily weathered sandstone and conglomerate formations only adds to the likelihood of erosion, landslides, and subsurface movement. As these processes unfold, the potential for damaging adjacent properties and public infrastructure grows exponentially, raising questions about the project's long-term sustainability and safety. *Responsibility to Public Safety* As public officials entrusted with the welfare of Cupertino’s residents, it is your duty to ensure that development projects are not only economically viable but also safe for current and future inhabitants. The findings from this geotechnical report clearly demonstrate that the Vista Heights project, in its current form, poses unacceptable risks to the safety of our community. Moving forward with the development despite the overwhelming evidence of landslide risks could lead to catastrophic consequences, including property damage, loss of life, and significant legal liabilities for the city. *Request for Action* Given the severity of the issues outlined in the geotechnical report, I strongly urge you to *Reject the Vista Heights project based on environmental and geotechnical considerations*, including the evidence of previous landslides and the high potential for future landslides. The geotechnical report leaves little room for doubt: the combination of weak, weathered soils, groundwater seepage, and historical landslide activity renders this site too dangerous for development. I hope you will carefully consider these concerns and take swift action to protect Cupertino's residents and its natural environment from unnecessary harm.
Sincerely,
Jessica
From: Akila Natarajan
To: Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her); Pamela Wu; City Council; City Clerk Subject: Urgent: Reject Vista Heights Development Due to Geotechnical Risks Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 2:29:19 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below as written communications for items not on agenda for the upcoming city council meeting.
Mayor Sheila Mohan
Cupertino City Council Members
City Manager Pamela Wu
City Planners Luke and Piu
City of Cupertino
10300 Torre Avenue
Cupertino, CA 95014
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, and City Officials,
I am writing to express grave concerns regarding the proposed Vista Heights development project, specifically located near Evulich Ct and Vista Heights.
After thoroughly reviewing the Geotechnical Report prepared for this project, I believe that proceeding with the development would expose the City of Cupertino to serious safety, environmental, and liability risks. The report highlights significant geotechnical hazards, including evidence of previous landslides and a high potential for future landslide events, which necessitates immediate action to reject this project based on environmental and geotechnical considerations.
Key Red Flags from the Geotechnical Report
Landslide Evidence and Future Risk: The geotechnical report provides alarming evidence of debris flow deposits, which indicate that landslides have previously occurred at this site. Test Pit 9 specifically reveals sandy silt with gravel and debris flow material, a clear indication of prior earth movement. The presence of such material suggests that the area has already been compromised by landslides and that any new construction could exacerbate these conditions, leading to future slope failures. Given Cupertino's hilly topography and seasonal rainfall, the risk of reactivating these past landslides is considerable.
Unstable Soil Composition: Numerous test pits identified soils that are weak and highly weathered, especially the conglomerate and sandstone formations found in many areas. These soils exhibit low compressive strength, raising concerns about their ability to support large-scale construction. For instance, Test Pits 1-TP4, 1- TP7, and 1-TP22 all indicate very weak soil conditions, making this site unsuitable for dense development. The soils’ tendency to shift, especially during rainstorms or seismic events, would put future residents and nearby homes at considerable risk.
Groundwater and Slope Stability Issues: In addition to unstable soils, Test Pit 11 encountered groundwater seepage at a depth of just 6 feet, a factor that compounds the site's vulnerability to landslides. The interaction between fluctuating groundwater levels, weak soils, and hillside slopes creates a perfect storm for slope destabilization. This groundwater seepage, combined with the area's already documented debris flow history, poses an immediate threat to the stability of any future structures, roads, and public infrastructure.
Erosion and Environmental Degradation: The hillside’s residual soils and fill materials are prone to erosion, which could accelerate as the project progresses.
The report's identification of heavily weathered sandstone and conglomerate formations only adds to the likelihood of erosion, landslides, and subsurface movement. As these processes unfold, the potential for damaging adjacent properties and public infrastructure grows exponentially, raising questions about the project's long-term sustainability and safety.
Responsibility to Public Safety
As public officials entrusted with the welfare of Cupertino’s residents, it is your duty to ensure that development projects are not only economically viable but also safe for current and future inhabitants. The findings from this geotechnical report clearly demonstrate that the Vista Heights project, in its current form, poses unacceptable risks to the safety of our community. Moving forward with the development despite the overwhelming evidence of landslide risks could lead to catastrophic consequences, including property damage, loss of life, and significant legal liabilities for the city.
Request for Action
Given the severity of the issues outlined in the geotechnical report, I strongly urge you to Reject the Vista Heights project based on environmental and geotechnical considerations, including the evidence of previous landslides and the high potential for future landslides.
The geotechnical report leaves little room for doubt: the combination of weak, weathered soils, groundwater seepage, and historical landslide activity renders this site too dangerous for development. I hope you will carefully consider these concerns and take swift action to protect Cupertino's residents and its natural environment from unnecessary harm.
Regards,
Akila
-- Akila Natarajan
From: Philip Lo
To: Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her); Pamela Wu; City Council; City Clerk Subject: Urgent: Please DOWNZONE Evulich Ct and Protect Environmental Resources Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 2:27:17 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications for items not on agenda for the upcoming city council meeting.
Mayor Sheila Mohan
Cupertino City Council Members
Pamela Wu, City Manager
Luke, Planning Director
Piu, Senior Planner
City of Cupertino
10300 Torre Avenue
Cupertino, CA 95014
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, Manager Wu, Director Luke, and Senior Planner Piu, I am writing to express my STRONG CONCERNS
regarding the proposed high-density
development on Evulich Ct and to respectfully urge the city to downzone this site to R1. The current designation for high-density housing is not only incompatible with the surrounding residential character, but it also threatens nearby environmental resources and disrupts local ecosystems. Cupertino has the flexibility within its Housing and Community Development (HCD) framework to meet its housing goals without sacrificing the natural and community assets around Evulich Ct.
The area surrounding Evulich Ct is ecologically sensitive, with Blackberry Farm, Stevens Creek, Stevens Creek County Park, and a well-established wildlife corridor located in close proximity. The environmental and infrastructural strain from developing 51 townhomes on a
2.48-acre hillside plot would negatively affect these critical green spaces. The Housing Element Site Inventory Guidebook emphasizes the importance of preserving environmental integrity when planning housing developments, particularly in areas with fragile ecosystems.
Evulich Ct, with its adjacency to these natural resources, should be protected, not overburdened.
An environmental protection overlay would provide the necessary framework to preserve these vital ecological and recreational areas. By applying this overlay, the city can enforce regulations that limit dense development, protect sensitive wildlife corridors, and ensure that critical habitats are not disrupted. Stevens Creek and Stevens Creek County Park are home to a variety of wildlife, and the corridor is essential for maintaining biodiversity in the region.
High-density development in this area could block these natural migration pathways and lead to habitat loss, disrupting local ecosystems that rely on the interconnectedness of these spaces.
Furthermore, the area’s existing infrastructure is not designed to support high-density development. The roads leading to Evulich Ct are narrow and unimproved, and the area lacks sufficient water, sewer, and utility capacity to accommodate such an influx of residents.
Additionally, increased traffic and parking demands will degrade the experience for visitors to Blackberry Farm and Stevens Creek County Park, which are key recreational areas for Cupertino residents. As outlined in the Guidebook, environmental impacts, particularly on public green spaces and natural resources, should be carefully weighed before approving any significant changes in land use.
Cupertino also has alternatives for meeting its housing obligations without disrupting the ecological balance of the Evulich Ct area. The HCD’s provisions allow the city to redistribute housing density to other more suitable areas that have better infrastructure and fewer environmental sensitivities. The city can leverage its available buffer units within the Housing Element and transfer the required density away from this environmentally delicate area. This approach ensures Cupertino meets its housing obligations while protecting critical green spaces, natural resources, and wildlife.
In alignment with these concerns, I urge the city to take the following actions:
*Downzone Evulich Ct to R1*: This step will maintain compatibility with the surrounding single-family homes, protect local infrastructure, and prevent environmental degradation. *Apply an Environmental Protection Overlay*: This overlay will safeguard the adjacent wildlife corridor, Stevens Creek, Stevens Creek County Park, and Blackberry Farm, ensuring that dense development does not disrupt these ecosystems and recreational spaces. *Utilize Buffer Units in the Housing Element*: By reallocating the required housing density to buffer units, Cupertino can meet its housing goals without compromising the environmental and community assets of Evulich Ct.
Cupertino has long prided itself on thoughtful, sustainable urban planning, and I am confident that the city can find a balanced solution that meets state housing mandates while prioritizing the long-term well-being of its neighborhoods and natural resources. I look forward to your response and to seeing a plan that reflects the values of sustainability and community preservation.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Philip Lo
22100 Rae Lane
From: Santa Teresa Cupertino
To: Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her); Pamela Wu; City Council; City Clerk Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Urgent Request to Downzone Evulich Ct and Protect Environmental Resources Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 2:17:36 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications for items not on agenda for the upcoming city council meeting.
Mayor Sheila Mohan
Cupertino City Council Members
Pamela Wu, City Manager
Luke, Planning Director
Piu, Senior Planner
City of Cupertino
10300 Torre Avenue
Cupertino, CA 95014
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, Manager Wu, Director Luke, and Senior Planner Piu, I am writing to express my strong concerns regarding the proposed high-density development on Evulich Ct and to respectfully urge the city to downzone this site to R1. The current designation for high-density housing is not only incompatible with the surrounding residential character, but it also threatens nearby environmental resources and disrupts local ecosystems. Cupertino has the flexibility within its Housing and Community Development (HCD) framework to meet its housing goals without sacrificing the natural and community assets around Evulich Ct.
The area surrounding Evulich Ct is ecologically sensitive, with Blackberry Farm, Stevens Creek, Stevens Creek County Park, and a well-established wildlife corridor located in close proximity. The environmental and infrastructural strain from developing 51 townhomes on a 2.48-acre hillside plot would negatively affect these critical green spaces. The Housing Element Site Inventory Guidebook emphasizes the importance of preserving environmental integrity when planning housing developments, particularly in areas with fragile ecosystems.
Evulich Ct, with its adjacency to these natural resources, should be protected, not overburdened.
An environmental protection overlay would provide the necessary framework to preserve these vital ecological and recreational areas. By applying this overlay, the city can enforce regulations that limit dense development, protect sensitive wildlife corridors, and ensure that critical habitats are not disrupted. Stevens Creek and Stevens Creek County Park are home to a variety of wildlife, and the corridor is essential for maintaining biodiversity in the region.
High-density development in this area could block these natural migration pathways and lead to habitat loss, disrupting local ecosystems that rely on the interconnectedness of these spaces.
Furthermore, the area’s existing infrastructure is not designed to support high-density development. The roads leading to Evulich Ct are narrow and unimproved, and the area lacks sufficient water, sewer, and utility capacity to accommodate such an influx of residents.
Additionally, increased traffic and parking demands will degrade the experience for visitors to Blackberry Farm and Stevens Creek County Park, which are key recreational areas for Cupertino residents. As outlined in the Guidebook, environmental impacts, particularly on public green spaces and natural resources, should be carefully weighed before approving any significant changes in land use.
Cupertino also has alternatives for meeting its housing obligations without disrupting the ecological balance of the Evulich Ct area. The HCD’s provisions allow the city to redistribute housing density to other more suitable areas that have better infrastructure and fewer environmental sensitivities. The city can leverage its available buffer units within the Housing Element and transfer the required density away from this environmentally delicate area. This approach ensures Cupertino meets its housing obligations while protecting critical green spaces, natural resources, and wildlife.
In alignment with these concerns, I urge the city to take the following actions:
*Downzone Evulich Ct to R1*: This step will maintain compatibility with the surrounding single-family homes, protect local infrastructure, and prevent environmental degradation. *Apply an Environmental Protection Overlay*: This overlay will safeguard the adjacent wildlife corridor, Stevens Creek, Stevens Creek County Park, and Blackberry Farm, ensuring that dense development does not disrupt these ecosystems and recreational spaces.
*Utilize Buffer Units in the Housing Element*: By reallocating the required housing density to buffer units, Cupertino can meet its housing goals without compromising the environmental and community assets of Evulich Ct.
Cupertino has long prided itself on thoughtful, sustainable urban planning, and I am confident that the city can find a balanced solution that meets state housing mandates while prioritizing the long-term well-being of its neighborhoods and natural resources. I look forward to your response and to seeing a plan that reflects the values of sustainability and community preservation.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Cupertino Resident
Sent from my iPhone
From: Parimal Kopardekar
To: City Clerk; City Council; Pamela Wu; Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her) Subject: Fwd: Serious concerns about Evulich Ct development.
Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 2:13:40 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.
Dear City Clerk
Kindly include the following email as written communications for items not on the agenda for the upcoming city council meeting.
Mayor Sheila Mohan
Cupertino City Council Members
City Manager Pamela Wu
City Planners Luke and Piu
City of Cupertino
10300 Torre Avenue Cupertino, CA 95014
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, and City Officials,
My backyard abuts Eulich property and I am very concerned about what has been shared thus far related to number of units and density.
I am writing to express grave concerns regarding the proposed Vista Heights development project, specifically located near Evulich Ct and Vista Heights. After thoroughly reviewing the Geotechnical Report prepared for this project, I believe that proceeding with the development would expose the City of Cupertino to serious safety, environmental, and liability risks. The report highlights significant geotechnical hazards, including evidence of previous landslides and a high potential for future landslide events, which necessitates immediate action to reject this project based on environmental and geotechnical considerations. *Key Red Flags from the Geotechnical Report* *Landslide Evidence and Future Risk*: The geotechnical report provides alarming evidence of debris flow deposits, which indicate that landslides have previously occurred at this site. Test Pit 9 specifically reveals sandy silt with gravel and debris flow material, a clear indication of prior earth movement. The presence of such material suggests that the area has already been compromised by landslides and that any new construction could exacerbate these conditions, leading to future slope failures. Given Cupertino's hilly topography and seasonal rainfall, the risk of reactivating these past landslides is considerable. *Unstable Soil Composition*: Numerous test pits identified soils that are weak and highly weathered, especially the conglomerate and sandstone formations found in many areas. These soils exhibit low compressive strength, raising concerns about their ability to support large-scale construction. For instance, Test Pits 1-TP4, 1-TP7, and 1-TP22 all indicate very weak soil conditions, making this site unsuitable for dense development. The soils’ tendency to shift, especially during rainstorms or seismic events, would put future residents and nearby homes at considerable risk. *Groundwater and Slope Stability Issues*: In addition to unstable soils, Test Pit 11 encountered groundwater seepage at a depth of just 6 feet, a factor that compounds the site's vulnerability to landslides. The interaction between fluctuating groundwater levels, weak soils, and hillside slopes creates a perfect storm for slope destabilization. This groundwater seepage, combined with the area's already documented debris flow history, poses an immediate threat to the stability of any future structures, roads, and public infrastructure. *Erosion and Environmental Degradation*: The hillside’s residual soils and fill materials are prone to erosion, which could accelerate as the project progresses.
The report's identification of heavily weathered sandstone and conglomerate formations only adds to the likelihood of erosion, landslides, and subsurface movement. As these processes unfold, the potential for damaging adjacent properties and public infrastructure grows exponentially, raising questions about the project's long-term sustainability and safety. *Responsibility to Public Safety* As public officials entrusted with the welfare of Cupertino’s residents, it is your duty to ensure that development projects are not only economically viable but also safe for current and future inhabitants. The findings from this geotechnical report clearly demonstrate that the Vista Heights project, in its current form, poses unacceptable risks to the safety of our community. Moving forward with the development despite the overwhelming evidence of landslide risks could lead to catastrophic consequences, including property damage, loss of life, and significant legal liabilities for the city. *Request for Action* Given the severity of the issues outlined in the geotechnical report, I strongly urge you to *Reject the Vista Heights project based on environmental and geotechnical considerations*, including the evidence of previous landslides and the high potential for future landslides. The geotechnical report leaves little room for doubt: the combination of weak, weathered soils, groundwater seepage, and historical landslide activity renders this site too dangerous for development. I hope you will carefully consider these concerns and take swift action to protect Cupertino's residents and its natural environment from unnecessary harm. Sincerely, [Your Name]
I am writing to express my strong concerns regarding the proposed high-density development on Evulich Ct and to respectfully urge the city to downzone this site to R1. The current designation for high-density housing is not only incompatible with the surrounding residential character, but it also threatens nearby environmental resources and disrupts local ecosystems.
Cupertino has the flexibility within its Housing and Community Development (HCD) framework to meet its housing goals without sacrificing the natural and community assets around Evulich Ct.
The area surrounding Evulich Ct is ecologically sensitive, with Blackberry Farm, Stevens Creek, Stevens Creek County Park, and a well-established wildlife corridor located in close proximity. The environmental and infrastructural strain from developing 51 townhomes on a
2.48-acre hillside plot would negatively affect these critical green spaces. The Housing Element Site Inventory Guidebook emphasizes the importance of preserving environmental integrity when planning housing developments, particularly in areas with fragile ecosystems.
Evulich Ct, with its adjacency to these natural resources, should be protected, not overburdened.
An environmental protection overlay would provide the necessary framework to preserve these vital ecological and recreational areas. By applying this overlay, the city can enforce regulations that limit dense development, protect sensitive wildlife corridors, and ensure that critical habitats are not disrupted. Stevens Creek and Stevens Creek County Park are home to a variety of wildlife, and the corridor is essential for maintaining biodiversity in the region.
High-density development in this area could block these natural migration pathways and lead to habitat loss, disrupting local ecosystems that rely on the interconnectedness of these spaces.
Furthermore, the area’s existing infrastructure is not designed to support high-density development. The roads leading to Evulich Ct are narrow and unimproved, and the area lacks sufficient water, sewer, and utility capacity to accommodate such an influx of residents.
Additionally, increased traffic and parking demands will degrade the experience for visitors to Blackberry Farm and Stevens Creek County Park, which are key recreational areas for Cupertino residents. As outlined in the Guidebook, environmental impacts, particularly on public green spaces and natural resources, should be carefully weighed before approving any significant changes in land use.
Cupertino also has alternatives for meeting its housing obligations without disrupting the ecological balance of the Evulich Ct area. The HCD’s provisions allow the city to redistribute housing density to other more suitable areas that have better infrastructure and fewer environmental sensitivities. The city can leverage its available buffer units within the Housing Element and transfer the required density away from this environmentally delicate area. This approach ensures Cupertino meets its housing obligations while protecting critical green spaces, natural resources, and wildlife.
In alignment with these concerns, I urge the city to take the following actions:
*Downzone Evulich Ct to R1*: This step will maintain compatibility with the surrounding single-family homes, protect local infrastructure, and prevent environmental degradation. *Apply an Environmental Protection Overlay*: This overlay will safeguard the adjacent wildlife corridor, Stevens Creek, Stevens Creek County Park, and Blackberry Farm, ensuring that dense development does not disrupt these ecosystems and recreational spaces. *Utilize Buffer Units in the Housing Element*: By reallocating the required housing density to buffer units, Cupertino can meet its housing goals without compromising the environmental and community assets of Evulich Ct.
Cupertino has long prided itself on thoughtful, sustainable urban planning, and I am confident that the city can find a balanced solution that meets state housing mandates while prioritizing the long-term well-being of its neighborhoods and natural resources. I look forward to your response and to seeing a plan that reflects the values of sustainability and community preservation.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Parimal Kopardekar
From: Amy Chung
To: City Council; City Clerk; Pamela Wu; Piu Ghosh (she/her); Luke Connolly Cc: Yiming Chung
Subject: Urgent Request to Downzone Evulich Ct and Protect Environmental Resources Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 2:11:56 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications for items not on agenda for the upcoming city council meeting.
Mayor Sheila Mohan
Cupertino City Council Members
Pamela Wu, City Manager
Luke, Planning Director
Piu, Senior Planner
City of Cupertino
10300 Torre Avenue
Cupertino, CA 95014
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, Manager Wu, Director Luke, and Senior Planner Piu,
I am writing to express my strong concerns regarding the proposed high-density development on Evulich Ct and to respectfully urge the city to downzone this site to R1. The current designation for high-density housing is not only incompatible with the surrounding residential character, but it also threatens nearby environmental resources and disrupts local ecosystems. Cupertino has the flexibility within its Housing and Community Development (HCD) framework to meet its housing goals without sacrificing the natural and community assets around Evulich Ct.
The area surrounding Evulich Ct is ecologically sensitive, with Blackberry Farm, Stevens Creek, Stevens Creek County Park, and a well-established wildlife corridor located in close proximity. The environmental and infrastructural strain from developing 51 townhomes on a 2.48-acre hillside plot would negatively affect these critical green spaces. The Housing Element Site Inventory Guidebook emphasizes the importance of preserving environmental integrity when planning housing developments, particularly in areas with fragile ecosystems.
Evulich Ct, with its adjacency to these natural resources, should be protected, not overburdened.
An environmental protection overlay would provide the necessary framework to preserve these vital ecological and recreational areas. By applying this overlay, the city can enforce regulations that limit dense development, protect sensitive wildlife corridors, and ensure that critical habitats are not disrupted. Stevens Creek and Stevens Creek County Park are home to a variety of wildlife, and the corridor is essential for maintaining biodiversity in the region. High-density development in this area could block these natural migration pathways and lead to habitat loss, disrupting local ecosystems that rely on the interconnectedness of these spaces.
Furthermore, the area’s existing infrastructure is not designed to support high- density development. The roads leading to Evulich Ct are narrow and unimproved, and the area lacks sufficient water, sewer, and utility capacity to accommodate such an influx of residents.
Additionally, increased traffic and parking demands will degrade the experience for visitors to Blackberry Farm and Stevens Creek County Park, which are key recreational areas for Cupertino residents. As outlined in the Guidebook, environmental impacts, particularly on public green spaces and natural resources, should be carefully weighed before approving any significant changes in land use.
Cupertino also has alternatives for meeting its housing obligations without disrupting the ecological balance of the Evulich Ct area. The HCD’s provisions allow the city to redistribute housing density to other more suitable areas that have better infrastructure and fewer environmental sensitivities. The city can leverage its available buffer units within the Housing Element and transfer the required density away from this environmentally delicate area. This approach ensures Cupertino meets its housing obligations while protecting critical green spaces, natural resources, and wildlife.
In alignment with these concerns, I urge the city to take the following actions:
*Downzone Evulich Ct to R1*: This step will maintain compatibility with the surrounding single-family homes, protect local infrastructure, and prevent environmental degradation.
*Apply an Environmental Protection Overlay*: This overlay will safeguard the adjacent wildlife corridor, Stevens Creek, Stevens Creek County Park, and Blackberry Farm, ensuring that dense development does not disrupt these ecosystems and recreational spaces.
*Utilize Buffer Units in the Housing Element*: By reallocating the required housing density to buffer units, Cupertino can meet its housing goals without compromising the environmental and community assets of Evulich Ct.
Cupertino has long prided itself on thoughtful, sustainable urban planning, and I am confident that the city can find a balanced solution that meets state housing mandates while prioritizing the long-term well-being of its neighborhoods and natural resources. I look forward to your response and to seeing a plan that reflects the values of sustainability and community preservation.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Yiming Chung
From: Ravi K
To: Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her); Pamela Wu; City Council; City Clerk Subject: Urgent: Reject Vista Heights Development Due to Environmental and Geotechnical Risks Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 2:09:42 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below as written communications for items not on agenda for the upcoming city council meeting.
Mayor Sheila Mohan
Cupertino City Council Members
City Manager Pamela Wu
City Planners Luke and Piu
City of Cupertino
10300 Torre Avenue
Cupertino, CA 95014
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, and City Officials,
I am writing to express grave concerns regarding the proposed Vista Heights development project, specifically located near Evulich Ct and Vista Heights.
After thoroughly reviewing the Geotechnical Report prepared for this project, I believe that proceeding with the development would expose the City of Cupertino to serious safety, environmental, and liability risks. The report highlights significant geotechnical hazards, including evidence of previous landslides and a high potential for future landslide events, which necessitates immediate action to reject this project based on environmental and geotechnical considerations.
Key Red Flags from the Geotechnical Report
Landslide Evidence and Future Risk: The geotechnical report provides alarming evidence of debris flow deposits, which indicate that landslides have previously occurred at this site.
Test Pit 9 specifically reveals sandy silt with gravel and debris flow material, a clear indication of prior earth movement. The presence of such material suggests that the area has already been compromised by landslides and that any new construction could exacerbate these conditions, leading to future slope failures. Given Cupertino's hilly topography and seasonal rainfall, the risk of reactivating these past landslides is considerable.
Unstable Soil Composition: Numerous test pits identified soils that are weak and highly weathered, especially the conglomerate and sandstone formations found in many areas. These soils exhibit low compressive strength, raising concerns about their ability to support large- scale construction. For instance, Test Pits 1-TP4, 1-TP7, and 1-TP22 all indicate very weak soil conditions, making this site unsuitable for dense development. The soils’ tendency to shift, especially during rainstorms or seismic events, would put future residents and nearby homes at considerable risk.
Groundwater and Slope Stability Issues: In addition to unstable soils, Test Pit 11 encountered groundwater seepage at a depth of just 6 feet, a factor that compounds the site's vulnerability to landslides. The interaction between fluctuating groundwater levels, weak soils, and hillside slopes creates a perfect storm for slope destabilization. This groundwater seepage, combined with the area's already documented debris flow history, poses an immediate threat to the stability of any future structures, roads, and public infrastructure.
Erosion and Environmental Degradation: The hillside’s residual soils and fill materials are prone to erosion, which could accelerate as the project progresses. The report's identification of heavily weathered sandstone and conglomerate formations only adds to the likelihood of erosion, landslides, and subsurface movement. As these processes unfold, the potential for damaging adjacent properties and public infrastructure grows exponentially, raising questions about the project's long-term sustainability and safety.
Responsibility to Public Safety
As public officials entrusted with the welfare of Cupertino’s residents, it is your duty to ensure that development projects are not only economically viable but also safe for current and future inhabitants. The findings from this geotechnical report clearly demonstrate that the Vista Heights project, in its current form, poses unacceptable risks to the safety of our community.
Moving forward with the development despite the overwhelming evidence of landslide risks could lead to catastrophic consequences, including property damage, loss of life, and significant legal liabilities for the city.
Request for Action
Given the severity of the issues outlined in the geotechnical report, I strongly urge you to Reject the Vista Heights project based on environmental and geotechnical considerations, including the evidence of previous landslides and the high potential for future landslides.
The geotechnical report leaves little room for doubt: the combination of weak, weathered soils, groundwater seepage, and historical landslide activity renders this site too dangerous for development. I hope you will carefully consider these concerns and take swift action to protect Cupertino's residents and its natural environment from unnecessary harm.
Sincerely,
Ravi K
From: Amy Chung
To: City Council; City Clerk; Pamela Wu; Piu Ghosh (she/her); Luke Connolly Cc: Yiming Chung
Subject: Urgent request to stop Summer Hill/Vista Heights development project Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 2:09:10 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below as written communications for items not on agenda for the upcoming city council meeting.
Mayor Sheila Mohan
Cupertino City Council Members
City Manager Pamela Wu
City Planners Luke and Piu
City of Cupertino
10300 Torre Avenue
Cupertino, CA 95014
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, and City Officials,
I am writing to express grave concerns regarding the proposed Summer Hill/Vista Heights development project on the hill next to Linda Vista Park.
After thoroughly reviewing the Geotechnical Report prepared for this project, I believe that proceeding with the development would expose the City of Cupertino to serious safety, environmental, and liability risks. The report highlights significant geotechnical hazards, including evidence of previous landslides and a high potential for future landslide events, which necessitates immediate action to reject this project based on environmental and geotechnical considerations.
*Key Red Flags from the Geotechnical Report*
*Landslide Evidence and Future Risk*: The geotechnical report provides alarming evidence of debris flow deposits, which indicate that landslides have previously occurred at this site. Test Pit 9 specifically reveals sandy silt with gravel and debris flow material, a clear indication of prior earth movement. The presence of such material suggests that the area has already been compromised by landslides and that any new construction could exacerbate these conditions, leading to future slope failures. Given Cupertino's hilly topography and seasonal rainfall, the risk of reactivating these past landslides is considerable.
*Unstable Soil Composition*: Numerous test pits identified soils that are weak and highly weathered, especially the conglomerate and sandstone formations found in many areas. These soils exhibit low compressive strength, raising concerns about their ability to support large-scale construction. For instance, Test Pits 1-TP4, 1-TP7, and 1-TP22 all indicate very weak soil conditions, making this site unsuitable for dense development. The soils’ tendency to shift, especially during rainstorms or seismic events, would put future residents and nearby homes at considerable risk. *Groundwater and Slope Stability Issues*: In addition to unstable soils, Test Pit 11 encountered groundwater seepage at a depth of just 6 feet, a factor that compounds the site's vulnerability to landslides. The interaction between fluctuating groundwater levels, weak soils, and hillside slopes creates a perfect storm for slope destabilization. This groundwater seepage, combined with the area's already documented debris flow history, poses an immediate threat to the stability of any future structures, roads, and public infrastructure. *Erosion and Environmental Degradation*: The hillside’s residual soils and fill materials are prone to erosion, which could accelerate as the project progresses. The report's identification of heavily weathered sandstone and conglomerate formations only adds to the likelihood of erosion, landslides, and subsurface movement. As these processes unfold, the potential for damaging adjacent properties and public infrastructure grows exponentially, raising questions about the project's long-term sustainability and safety. *Responsibility to Public Safety*
As public officials entrusted with the welfare of Cupertino’s residents, it is your duty to ensure that development projects are not only economically viable but also safe for current and future inhabitants. The findings from this geotechnical report clearly demonstrate that the Vista Heights project, in its current form, poses unacceptable risks to the safety of our community. Moving forward with the development despite the overwhelming evidence of landslide risks could lead to catastrophic consequences, including property damage, loss of life, and significant legal liabilities for the city.
*Request for Action*
Given the severity of the issues outlined in the geotechnical report, I strongly urge you to *Reject the Vista Heights project based on environmental and geotechnical considerations*, including the evidence of previous landslides and the high potential for future landslides.
The geotechnical report leaves little room for doubt: the combination of weak, weathered soils, groundwater seepage, and historical landslide activity renders this site too dangerous for development. I hope you will carefully consider these concerns and take swift action to protect Cupertino's residents and its natural environment from unnecessary harm.
Sincerely,
Yiming Chung
From: Ravi K
To: Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her); Pamela Wu; City Council; City Clerk Subject: Urgent Request to Downzone Evulich Ct and Protect Environmental Resources Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 2:00:34 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications for items not on agenda for the upcoming city council meeting.
Mayor Sheila Mohan
Cupertino City Council Members
Pamela Wu, City Manager
Luke, Planning Director
Piu, Senior Planner
City of Cupertino
10300 Torre Avenue
Cupertino, CA 95014
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, Manager Wu, Director Luke, and Senior Planner Piu, I am writing to express my strong concerns regarding the proposed high-density development on Evulich Ct and to respectfully urge the city to downzone this site to R1. The current designation for high-density housing is not only incompatible with the surrounding residential character, but it also threatens nearby environmental resources and disrupts local ecosystems.
Cupertino has the flexibility within its Housing and Community Development (HCD) framework to meet its housing goals without sacrificing the natural and community assets around Evulich Ct.
The area surrounding Evulich Ct is ecologically sensitive, with Blackberry Farm, Stevens Creek, Stevens Creek County Park, and a well-established wildlife corridor located in close proximity. The environmental and infrastructural strain from developing 51 townhomes on a
2.48-acre hillside plot would negatively affect these critical green spaces. The Housing Element Site Inventory Guidebook emphasizes the importance of preserving environmental integrity when planning housing developments, particularly in areas with fragile ecosystems.
Evulich Ct, with its adjacency to these natural resources, should be protected, not overburdened.
An environmental protection overlay would provide the necessary framework to preserve these vital ecological and recreational areas. By applying this overlay, the city can enforce regulations that limit dense development, protect sensitive wildlife corridors, and ensure that critical habitats are not disrupted. Stevens Creek and Stevens Creek County Park are home to a variety of wildlife, and the corridor is essential for maintaining biodiversity in the region.
High-density development in this area could block these natural migration pathways and lead to habitat loss, disrupting local ecosystems that rely on the interconnectedness of these spaces.
Furthermore, the area’s existing infrastructure is not designed to support high-density development. The roads leading to Evulich Ct are narrow and unimproved, and the area lacks sufficient water, sewer, and utility capacity to accommodate such an influx of residents.
Additionally, increased traffic and parking demands will degrade the experience for visitors to Blackberry Farm and Stevens Creek County Park, which are key recreational areas for Cupertino residents. As outlined in the Guidebook, environmental impacts, particularly on public green spaces and natural resources, should be carefully weighed before approving any significant changes in land use.
Cupertino also has alternatives for meeting its housing obligations without disrupting the ecological balance of the Evulich Ct area. The HCD’s provisions allow the city to redistribute housing density to other more suitable areas that have better infrastructure and fewer environmental sensitivities. The city can leverage its available buffer units within the Housing Element and transfer the required density away from this environmentally delicate area. This approach ensures Cupertino meets its housing obligations while protecting critical green spaces, natural resources, and wildlife.
In alignment with these concerns, I urge the city to take the following actions:
Downzone Evulich Ct back to R1: This step will maintain compatibility with the surrounding single-family homes, protect local infrastructure, and prevent environmental degradation.
Please hold a study session to clarify what the process is to downzone a property Apply an Environmental Protection Overlay: This overlay will safeguard the adjacent wildlife corridor, Stevens Creek, Stevens Creek County Park, and Blackberry Farm, ensuring that dense development does not disrupt these ecosystems and recreational spaces.
Utilize Buffer Units in the Housing Element: By reallocating the required housing density to buffer units, Cupertino can meet its housing goals without compromising the environmental and community assets of Evulich Ct.
Cupertino has long prided itself on thoughtful, sustainable urban planning, and I am confident that the city can find a balanced solution that meets state housing mandates while prioritizing the long-term well-being of its neighborhoods and natural resources. I look forward to your response and to seeing a plan that reflects the values of sustainability and community preservation.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Ravi K
From: Mehrnaz Yazdi
To: Piu Ghosh (she/her); City Council; City Council; City Clerk; City Clerk; Luke Connolly Subject: Urgent request to downsize Evulich Ct and protect environment resources Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 1:53:16 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications for items not on agenda for the upcoming city council meeting.
Mayor Sheila Mohan
Cupertino City Council Members
Pamela Wu, City Manager
Luke, Planning Director
Piu, Senior Planner
City of Cupertino
10300 Torre Avenue
Cupertino, CA 95014
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, Manager Wu, Director Luke, and Senior Planner Piu, I am writing to express my strong concerns regarding the proposed high-density development on Evulich Ct and to respectfully urge the city to downzone this site to R1. The current designation for high-density housing is not only incompatible with the surrounding residential character, but it also threatens nearby environmental resources and disrupts local ecosystems. Cupertino has the flexibility within its Housing and Community Development (HCD) framework to meet its housing goals without sacrificing the natural and community assets around Evulich Ct.
The area surrounding Evulich Ct is ecologically sensitive, with Blackberry Farm, Stevens Creek, Stevens Creek County Park, and a well-established wildlife corridor located in close proximity. The environmental and infrastructural strain from developing 51 townhomes on a 2.48-acre hillside plot would negatively affect these critical green spaces. The Housing Element Site Inventory Guidebook emphasizes the importance of preserving environmental integrity when planning housing developments, particularly in areas with fragile ecosystems.
Evulich Ct, with its adjacency to these natural resources, should be protected, not overburdened.
An environmental protection overlay would provide the necessary framework to preserve these vital ecological and recreational areas. By applying this overlay, the city can enforce regulations that limit dense development, protect sensitive wildlife corridors, and ensure that critical habitats are not disrupted. Stevens Creek and Stevens Creek County Park are home to a variety of wildlife, and the corridor is essential for maintaining biodiversity in the region.
High-density development in this area could block these natural migration pathways and lead to habitat loss, disrupting local ecosystems that rely on the interconnectedness of these spaces.
Furthermore, the area’s existing infrastructure is not designed to support high-density development. The roads leading to Evulich Ct are narrow and unimproved, and the area lacks sufficient water, sewer, and utility capacity to accommodate such an influx of residents.
Additionally, increased traffic and parking demands will degrade the experience for visitors to Blackberry Farm and Stevens Creek County Park, which are key recreational areas for Cupertino residents. As outlined in the Guidebook, environmental impacts, particularly on public green spaces and natural resources, should be carefully weighed before approving any significant changes in land use.
Cupertino also has alternatives for meeting its housing obligations without disrupting the ecological balance of the Evulich Ct area. The HCD’s provisions allow the city to redistribute housing density to other more suitable areas that have better infrastructure and fewer environmental sensitivities. The city can leverage its available buffer units within the Housing Element and transfer the required density away from this environmentally delicate area. This approach ensures Cupertino meets its housing obligations while protecting critical green spaces, natural resources, and wildlife.
In alignment with these concerns, I urge the city to take the following actions:
*Downzone Evulich Ct to R1*: This step will maintain compatibility with the surrounding single-family homes, protect local infrastructure, and prevent environmental degradation. *Apply an Environmental Protection Overlay*: This overlay will safeguard the adjacent wildlife corridor, Stevens Creek, Stevens Creek County Park, and Blackberry Farm, ensuring that dense development does not disrupt these ecosystems and recreational spaces.
*Utilize Buffer Units in the Housing Element*: By reallocating the required housing density to buffer units, Cupertino can meet its housing goals without compromising the environmental and community assets of Evulich Ct.
Cupertino has long prided itself on thoughtful, sustainable urban planning, and I am confident that the city can find a balanced solution that meets state housing mandates while prioritizing the long-term well-being of its neighborhoods and natural resources. I look forward to your response and to seeing a plan that reflects the values of sustainability and community preservation.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Mehrnaz Yazdi
10807 Linda Vista Drive
Cupertino
From: James Choi
To: Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her); Pamela Wu; City Council; City Clerk Subject: Urgent request to downzone Evulich Ct (Linda Vista Drive) and protect environmental resources Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 1:45:30 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications for items not on agenda for the upcoming city council meeting. Also, please hold a study session to clarify what the process is to downzone a property.
Mayor Sheila Mohan
Cupertino City Council Members
Pamela Wu, City Manager
Luke, Planning Director
Piu, Senior Planner
City of Cupertino
10300 Torre Avenue
Cupertino, CA 95014
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, Manager Wu, Director Luke, and Senior Planner Piu, I am writing to express my strong concerns regarding the proposed high-density development on Evulich Ct and to respectfully urge the city to downzone this site to R1. The current designation for high-density housing is not only incompatible with the surrounding residential character, but it also threatens nearby environmental resources and disrupts local ecosystems.
Cupertino has the flexibility within its Housing and Community Development (HCD) framework to meet its housing goals without sacrificing the natural and community assets around Evulich Ct.
The area surrounding Evulich Ct is ecologically sensitive, with Blackberry Farm, Stevens Creek, Stevens Creek County Park, and a well-established wildlife corridor located in close proximity. The environmental and infrastructural strain from developing 51 townhomes on a
2.48-acre hillside plot would negatively affect these critical green spaces. The Housing Element Site Inventory Guidebook emphasizes the importance of preserving environmental integrity when planning housing developments, particularly in areas with fragile ecosystems.
Evulich Ct, with its adjacency to these natural resources, should be protected, not overburdened.
An environmental protection overlay would provide the necessary framework to preserve these vital ecological and recreational areas. By applying this overlay, the city can enforce regulations that limit dense development, protect sensitive wildlife corridors, and ensure that critical habitats are not disrupted. Stevens Creek and Stevens Creek County Park are home to a variety of wildlife, and the corridor is essential for maintaining biodiversity in the region.
High-density development in this area could block these natural migration pathways and lead to habitat loss, disrupting local ecosystems that rely on the interconnectedness of these spaces.
Furthermore, the area’s existing infrastructure is not designed to support high-density development. The roads leading to Evulich Ct are narrow and unimproved, and the area lacks sufficient water, sewer, and utility capacity to accommodate such an influx of residents.
Additionally, increased traffic and parking demands will degrade the experience for visitors to Blackberry Farm and Stevens Creek County Park, which are key recreational areas for Cupertino residents. As outlined in the Guidebook, environmental impacts, particularly on public green spaces and natural resources, should be carefully weighed before approving any significant changes in land use.
Cupertino also has alternatives for meeting its housing obligations without disrupting the ecological balance of the Evulich Ct area. The HCD’s provisions allow the city to redistribute housing density to other more suitable areas that have better infrastructure and fewer environmental sensitivities. The city can leverage its available buffer units within the Housing Element and transfer the required density away from this environmentally delicate area. This approach ensures Cupertino meets its housing obligations while protecting critical green spaces, natural resources, and wildlife.
In alignment with these concerns, I urge the city to take the following actions:
*Downzone Evulich Ct to R1*: This step will maintain compatibility with the surrounding single-family homes, protect local infrastructure, and prevent environmental degradation. *Apply an Environmental Protection Overlay*: This overlay will safeguard the adjacent wildlife corridor, Stevens Creek, Stevens Creek County Park, and Blackberry Farm, ensuring that dense development does not disrupt these ecosystems and recreational spaces. *Utilize Buffer Units in the Housing Element*: By reallocating the required housing density to buffer units, Cupertino can meet its housing goals without compromising the environmental and community assets of Evulich Ct.
Cupertino has long prided itself on thoughtful, sustainable urban planning, and I am confident that the city can find a balanced solution that meets state housing mandates while prioritizing the long-term well-being of its neighborhoods and natural resources. I look forward to your response and to seeing a plan that reflects the values of sustainability and community preservation.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
James Choi (Cupertino resident for 42 years)
From: James Choi
To: Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her); Pamela Wu; City Council; City Clerk Subject: Urgent request to reject Vista Heights (Linda Vista Drive) based on geotechnical report Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 1:43:00 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below as written communications for items not on agenda for the upcoming city council meeting.
Mayor Sheila Mohan
Cupertino City Council Members
City Manager Pamela Wu
City Planners Luke and Piu
City of Cupertino
10300 Torre Avenue
Cupertino, CA 95014
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, and City Officials,
I am writing to express grave concerns regarding the proposed Vista Heights development project, specifically located near Evulich Ct and Linda Vista Park.
After thoroughly reviewing the Geotechnical Report prepared for this project, I believe that proceeding with the development would expose the City of Cupertino to serious safety, environmental, and liability risks. The report highlights significant geotechnical hazards, including evidence of previous landslides and a high potential for future landslide events, which necessitates immediate action to reject this project based on environmental and geotechnical considerations.
*Key Red Flags from the Geotechnical Report*
*Landslide Evidence and Future Risk*: The geotechnical report provides alarming evidence of debris flow deposits, which indicate that landslides have previously occurred at this site.
Test Pit 9 specifically reveals sandy silt with gravel and debris flow material, a clear indication of prior earth movement. The presence of such material suggests that the area has already been compromised by landslides and that any new construction could exacerbate these conditions, leading to future slope failures. Given Cupertino's hilly topography and seasonal rainfall, the risk of reactivating these past landslides is considerable. *Unstable Soil Composition*: Numerous test pits identified soils that are weak and highly weathered, especially the conglomerate and sandstone formations found in many areas. These soils exhibit low compressive strength, raising concerns about their ability to support large- scale construction. For instance, Test Pits 1-TP4, 1-TP7, and 1-TP22 all indicate very weak soil conditions, making this site unsuitable for dense development. The soils’ tendency to shift, especially during rainstorms or seismic events, would put future residents and nearby homes at considerable risk.
*Groundwater and Slope Stability Issues*: In addition to unstable soils, Test Pit 11 encountered groundwater seepage at a depth of just 6 feet, a factor that compounds the site's vulnerability to landslides. The interaction between fluctuating groundwater levels, weak soils, and hillside slopes creates a perfect storm for slope destabilization. This groundwater seepage, combined with the area's already documented debris flow history, poses an immediate threat to the stability of any future structures, roads, and public infrastructure. *Erosion and Environmental Degradation*: The hillside’s residual soils and fill materials are prone to erosion, which could accelerate as the project progresses. The report's identification of heavily weathered sandstone and conglomerate formations only adds to the likelihood of erosion, landslides, and subsurface movement. As these processes unfold, the potential for damaging adjacent properties and public infrastructure grows exponentially, raising questions about the project's long-term sustainability and safety. *Responsibility to Public Safety*: As public officials entrusted with the welfare of Cupertino’s residents, it is your duty to ensure that development projects are not only economically viable but also safe for current and future inhabitants. The findings from this geotechnical report clearly demonstrate that the Vista Heights project, in its current form, poses unacceptable risks to the safety of our community. Moving forward with the development despite the overwhelming evidence of landslide risks could lead to catastrophic consequences, including property damage, loss of life, and significant legal liabilities for the city.
*Request for Action*
Given the severity of the issues outlined in the geotechnical report, I strongly urge you to *Reject the Vista Heights project based on environmental and geotechnical considerations*, including the evidence of previous landslides and the high potential for future landslides.
The geotechnical report leaves little room for doubt: the combination of weak, weathered soils, groundwater seepage, and historical landslide activity renders this site too dangerous for development. I hope you will carefully consider these concerns and take swift action to protect Cupertino's residents and its natural environment from unnecessary harm.
Sincerely,
James Choi (Cupertino resident for 42 years)
From: AR. Yazdi
To: [email protected]; Piu Ghosh (she/her); Pamela Wu; City Clerk; City Council Subject: Urgent request to downsize Evulich Ct and protect environment resources Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 1:32:46 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications for items not on agenda for the upcoming city council meeting.
Mayor Sheila Mohan
Cupertino City Council Members
Pamela Wu, City Manager
Luke, Planning Director
Piu, Senior Planner
City of Cupertino
10300 Torre Avenue
Cupertino, CA 95014
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, Manager Wu, Director Luke, and Senior Planner Piu, I am writing to express my strong concerns regarding the proposed high-density development on Evulich Ct and to respectfully urge the city to downzone this site to R1. The current designation for high-density housing is not only incompatible with the surrounding residential character, but it also threatens nearby environmental resources and disrupts local ecosystems. Cupertino has the flexibility within its Housing and Community Development (HCD) framework to meet its housing goals without sacrificing the natural and community assets around Evulich Ct.
The area surrounding Evulich Ct is ecologically sensitive, with Blackberry Farm, Stevens Creek, Stevens Creek County Park, and a well-established wildlife corridor located in close proximity. The environmental and infrastructural strain from developing 51 townhomes on a 2.48-acre hillside plot would negatively affect these critical green spaces. The Housing Element Site Inventory Guidebook emphasizes the importance of preserving environmental integrity when planning housing developments, particularly in areas with fragile ecosystems.
Evulich Ct, with its adjacency to these natural resources, should be protected, not overburdened.
An environmental protection overlay would provide the necessary framework to preserve these vital ecological and recreational areas. By applying this overlay, the city can enforce regulations that limit dense development, protect sensitive wildlife corridors, and ensure that critical habitats are not disrupted.
Stevens Creek and Stevens Creek County Park are home to a variety of wildlife, and the corridor is essential for maintaining biodiversity in the region. High-density development in this area could block these natural migration pathways and lead to habitat loss, disrupting local ecosystems that rely on the interconnectedness of these spaces.
Furthermore, the area’s existing infrastructure is not designed to support high-density development. The roads leading to Evulich Ct are narrow and unimproved, and the area lacks sufficient water, sewer, and utility capacity to accommodate such an influx of residents.
Additionally, increased traffic and parking demands will degrade the experience for visitors to Blackberry Farm and Stevens Creek County Park, which are key recreational areas for Cupertino residents. As outlined in the Guidebook, environmental impacts, particularly on public green spaces and natural resources, should be carefully weighed before approving any significant changes in land use.
Cupertino also has alternatives for meeting its housing obligations without disrupting the ecological balance of the Evulich Ct area. The HCD’s provisions allow the city to redistribute housing density to other more suitable areas that have better infrastructure and fewer environmental sensitivities. The city can leverage its available buffer units within the Housing Element and transfer the required density away from this environmentally delicate area. This approach ensures Cupertino meets its housing obligations while protecting critical green spaces, natural resources, and wildlife.
In alignment with these concerns, I urge the city to take the following actions:
*Downzone Evulich Ct to R1*: This step will maintain compatibility with the surrounding single-family homes, protect local infrastructure, and prevent environmental degradation. *Apply an Environmental Protection Overlay*: This overlay will safeguard the adjacent wildlife corridor, Stevens Creek, Stevens Creek County Park, and Blackberry Farm, ensuring that dense development does not disrupt these ecosystems and recreational spaces. *Utilize Buffer Units in the Housing Element*: By reallocating the required housing density to buffer units, Cupertino can meet its housing goals without compromising the environmental and community assets of Evulich Ct.
Cupertino has long prided itself on thoughtful, sustainable urban planning, and I am confident that the city can find a balanced solution that meets state housing mandates while prioritizing the long-term well-being of its neighborhoods and natural resources. I look forward to your response and to seeing a plan that reflects the values of sustainability and community preservation.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Ahmad R Yazdi
10807 Linda Vista Drive Cupertino
From: Ying Dillaha
To: Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her); Pamela Wu; City Council; City Clerk Subject: Downzone Evulich Ct!
Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 1:30:54 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications for items not on agenda for the upcoming city council meeting.
Mayor Sheila Mohan
Cupertino City Council Members
Pamela Wu, City Manager
Luke, Planning Director
Piu, Senior Planner
City of Cupertino
10300 Torre Avenue
Cupertino, CA 95014
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, Manager Wu, Director Luke, and Senior Planner Piu, I am writing to express my strong concerns regarding the proposed high-density development on Evulich Ct and to respectfully urge the city to downzone this site to R1. The current designation for high-density housing is not only incompatible with the surrounding residential character, but it also threatens nearby environmental resources and disrupts local ecosystems. Cupertino has the flexibility within its Housing and Community Development (HCD) framework to meet its housing goals without sacrificing the natural and community assets around Evulich Ct.
The area surrounding Evulich Ct is ecologically sensitive, with Blackberry Farm, Stevens Creek, Stevens Creek County Park, and a well-established wildlife corridor located in close proximity. The environmental and infrastructural strain from developing 51 townhomes on a 2.48-acre hillside plot would negatively affect these critical green spaces. The Housing Element Site Inventory Guidebook emphasizes the importance of preserving environmental integrity when planning housing developments, particularly in areas with fragile ecosystems.
Evulich Ct, with its adjacency to these natural resources, should be protected, not overburdened.
An environmental protection overlay would provide the necessary framework to preserve these vital ecological and recreational areas. By applying this overlay, the city can enforce regulations that limit dense development, protect sensitive wildlife corridors, and ensure that critical habitats are not disrupted.
Stevens Creek and Stevens Creek County Park are home to a variety of wildlife, and the corridor is essential for maintaining biodiversity in the region. High-density development in this area could block these natural migration pathways and lead to habitat loss, disrupting local ecosystems that rely on the interconnectedness of these spaces.
Furthermore, the area’s existing infrastructure is not designed to support high-density development. The roads leading to Evulich Ct are narrow and unimproved, and the area lacks sufficient water, sewer, and utility capacity to accommodate such an influx of residents.
Additionally, increased traffic and parking demands will degrade the experience for visitors to Blackberry Farm and Stevens Creek County Park, which are key recreational areas for Cupertino residents. As outlined in the Guidebook, environmental impacts, particularly on public green spaces and natural resources, should be carefully weighed before approving any significant changes in land use.
Cupertino also has alternatives for meeting its housing obligations without disrupting the ecological balance of the Evulich Ct area. The HCD’s provisions allow the city to redistribute housing density to other more suitable areas that have better infrastructure and fewer environmental sensitivities. The city can leverage its available buffer units within the Housing Element and transfer the required density away from this environmentally delicate area. This approach ensures Cupertino meets its housing obligations while protecting critical green spaces, natural resources, and wildlife.
In alignment with these concerns, I urge the city to take the following actions:
Downzone Evulich Ct to R1: This step will maintain compatibility with the surrounding single-family homes, protect local infrastructure, and prevent environmental degradation.
Apply an Environmental Protection Overlay: This overlay will safeguard the adjacent wildlife corridor, Stevens Creek, Stevens Creek County Park, and Blackberry Farm, ensuring that dense development does not disrupt these ecosystems and recreational spaces.
Utilize Buffer Units in the Housing Element: By reallocating the required housing density to buffer units, Cupertino can meet its housing goals without compromising the environmental and community assets of Evulich Ct.
Cupertino has long prided itself on thoughtful, sustainable urban planning, and I am confident that the city can find a balanced solution that meets state housing mandates while prioritizing the long-term well-being of its neighborhoods and natural resources. I look forward to your response and to seeing a plan that reflects the values of sustainability and community preservation.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Ying Sosic
Cupertino resident
From: Santosh Rao
To: City Council; Pamela Wu; Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her); City Clerk Subject: Urgent Call to Deny Vista Heights Project application on environmental and geotechnical grounds.
Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 1:14:29 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below as written communications for items not on agenda for the upcoming city council meeting.
Mayor Sheila Mohan
Cupertino City Council Members
City Manager Pamela Wu
City Planners Luke and Piu
City of Cupertino
10300 Torre Avenue
Cupertino, CA 95014
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, and City Officials,
I am writing to express grave concerns regarding the proposed Vista Heights development project, specifically located near Evulich Ct and Vista Heights.
After thoroughly reviewing the Geotechnical Report prepared for this project, I believe that proceeding with the development would expose the City of Cupertino to serious safety, environmental, and liability risks. The report highlights significant geotechnical hazards, including evidence of previous landslides and a high potential for future landslide events, which necessitates immediate action to reject this project based on environmental and geotechnical considerations.
Key Red Flags from the Geotechnical Report
Landslide Evidence and Future Risk: The geotechnical report provides alarming evidence of debris flow deposits, which indicate that landslides have previously occurred at this site.
Test Pit 9 specifically reveals sandy silt with gravel and debris flow material, a clear indication of prior earth movement. The presence of such material suggests that the area has already been compromised by landslides and that any new construction could exacerbate these conditions, leading to future slope failures. Given Cupertino's hilly topography and seasonal rainfall, the risk of reactivating these past landslides is considerable.
Unstable Soil Composition: Numerous test pits identified soils that are weak and highly weathered, especially the conglomerate and sandstone formations found in many areas. These soils exhibit low compressive strength, raising concerns about their ability to support large- scale construction. For instance, Test Pits 1-TP4, 1-TP7, and 1-TP22 all indicate very weak soil conditions, making this site unsuitable for dense development. The soils’ tendency to shift, especially during rainstorms or seismic events, would put future residents and nearby homes at considerable risk.
Groundwater and Slope Stability Issues: In addition to unstable soils, Test Pit 11 encountered groundwater seepage at a depth of just 6 feet, a factor that compounds the site's vulnerability to landslides. The interaction between fluctuating groundwater levels, weak soils, and hillside slopes creates a perfect storm for slope destabilization. This groundwater seepage, combined with the area's already documented debris flow history, poses an immediate threat to the stability of any future structures, roads, and public infrastructure.
Erosion and Environmental Degradation: The hillside’s residual soils and fill materials are prone to erosion, which could accelerate as the project progresses. The report's identification of heavily weathered sandstone and conglomerate formations only adds to the likelihood of erosion, landslides, and subsurface movement. As these processes unfold, the potential for damaging adjacent properties and public infrastructure grows exponentially, raising questions about the project's long-term sustainability and safety.
Responsibility to Public Safety
As public officials entrusted with the welfare of Cupertino’s residents, it is your duty to ensure that development projects are not only economically viable but also safe for current and future inhabitants. The findings from this geotechnical report clearly demonstrate that the Vista Heights project, in its current form, poses unacceptable risks to the safety of our community.
Moving forward with the development despite the overwhelming evidence of landslide risks could lead to catastrophic consequences, including property damage, loss of life, and significant legal liabilities for the city.
Request for Action
Given the severity of the issues outlined in the geotechnical report, I strongly urge you to Reject the Vista Heights project based on environmental and geotechnical considerations, including the evidence of previous landslides and the high potential for future landslides.
The geotechnical report leaves little room for doubt: the combination of weak, weathered soils, groundwater seepage, and historical landslide activity renders this site too dangerous for development. I hope you will carefully consider these concerns and take swift action to protect Cupertino's residents and its natural environment from unnecessary harm.
Sincerely,
Santosh Rao
From: Santosh Rao
To: City Council; Pamela Wu; City Clerk; Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her) Subject: Down zone Evlulich Ct back to R1 using provisions available under HCD guidelines.
Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 1:01:57 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications for items not on agenda for the upcoming city council meeting.
Mayor Sheila Mohan
Cupertino City Council Members
Pamela Wu, City Manager
Luke, Planning Director
Piu, Senior Planner
City of Cupertino
10300 Torre Avenue
Cupertino, CA 95014
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, Manager Wu, Director Luke, and Senior Planner Piu, I am writing to express my strong concerns regarding the proposed high-density development on Evulich Ct and to respectfully urge the city to downzone this site to R1. The current designation for high-density housing is not only incompatible with the surrounding residential character, but it also threatens nearby environmental resources and disrupts local ecosystems.
Cupertino has the flexibility within its Housing and Community Development (HCD) framework to meet its housing goals without sacrificing the natural and community assets around Evulich Ct.
The area surrounding Evulich Ct is ecologically sensitive, with Blackberry Farm, Stevens Creek, Stevens Creek County Park, and a well-established wildlife corridor located in close proximity. The environmental and infrastructural strain from developing 51 townhomes on a
2.48-acre hillside plot would negatively affect these critical green spaces. The Housing Element Site Inventory Guidebook emphasizes the importance of preserving environmental integrity when planning housing developments, particularly in areas with fragile ecosystems.
Evulich Ct, with its adjacency to these natural resources, should be protected, not overburdened.
An environmental protection overlay would provide the necessary framework to preserve these vital ecological and recreational areas. By applying this overlay, the city can enforce regulations that limit dense development, protect sensitive wildlife corridors, and ensure that critical habitats are not disrupted. Stevens Creek and Stevens Creek County Park are home to a variety of wildlife, and the corridor is essential for maintaining biodiversity in the region.
High-density development in this area could block these natural migration pathways and lead to habitat loss, disrupting local ecosystems that rely on the interconnectedness of these spaces.
Furthermore, the area’s existing infrastructure is not designed to support high-density development. The roads leading to Evulich Ct are narrow and unimproved, and the area lacks sufficient water, sewer, and utility capacity to accommodate such an influx of residents.
Additionally, increased traffic and parking demands will degrade the experience for visitors to Blackberry Farm and Stevens Creek County Park, which are key recreational areas for Cupertino residents. As outlined in the Guidebook, environmental impacts, particularly on public green spaces and natural resources, should be carefully weighed before approving any significant changes in land use.
Cupertino also has alternatives for meeting its housing obligations without disrupting the ecological balance of the Evulich Ct area. The HCD’s provisions allow the city to redistribute housing density to other more suitable areas that have better infrastructure and fewer environmental sensitivities. The city can leverage its available buffer units within the Housing Element and transfer the required density away from this environmentally delicate area. This approach ensures Cupertino meets its housing obligations while protecting critical green spaces, natural resources, and wildlife.
In alignment with these concerns, I urge the city to take the following actions:
Downzone Evulich Ct to R1: This step will maintain compatibility with the surrounding single-family homes, protect local infrastructure, and prevent environmental degradation.
Apply an Environmental Protection Overlay: This overlay will safeguard the adjacent wildlife corridor, Stevens Creek, Stevens Creek County Park, and Blackberry Farm, ensuring that dense development does not disrupt these ecosystems and recreational spaces.
Utilize Buffer Units in the Housing Element: By reallocating the required housing density to buffer units, Cupertino can meet its housing goals without compromising the environmental and community assets of Evulich Ct.
Cupertino has long prided itself on thoughtful, sustainable urban planning, and I am confident that the city can find a balanced solution that meets state housing mandates while prioritizing the long-term well-being of its neighborhoods and natural resources. I look forward to your response and to seeing a plan that reflects the values of sustainability and community preservation.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Santosh Rao
From: Vikram Saxena
To: Piu Ghosh (she/her); City Clerk; Luke Connolly; City Council; Pamela Wu Subject: Please Stop Work at Vista Heights without adequate supervision Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 12:48:59 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.
Dear City Clerk, Please include the below as written communications for items not on agenda for the upcoming city council meeting.
Mayor Sheila Mohan
Cupertino City Council Members
City Manager Pamela Wu City
Planners Luke and Piu
City of Cupertino
10300 Torre Avenue Cupertino, CA 95014
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, and City Officials,
I live on 11126 Linda Vista Drive right under the cliff over which the Vista Height development is proposed.
I am writing to express grave concerns regarding the proposed Vista Heights development project. I am worried that the developer is putting us at risk since they have started earth moving work with little oversight. We have seen mechanical equipment fluid spills and also dirt moving down from the site after rain.
After thoroughly reviewing the Geotechnical Report prepared for this project, I believe that proceeding with the development would expose the City of Cupertino to serious safety, environmental, and liability risks.
The report highlights significant geotechnical hazards, including evidence of previous landslides and a high potential for future landslide events, which necessitates immediate action to reject this project based on environmental and geotechnical considerations. *Key Red Flags from the Geotechnical Report* *Landslide Evidence and Future Risk*: The geotechnical report provides alarming evidence of debris flow deposits, which indicate that landslides have previously occurred at this site. Test Pit 9 specifically reveals sandy silt with gravel and debris flow material, a clear indication of prior earth movement.
The presence of such material suggests that the area has already been compromised by landslides and that any new construction could exacerbate these conditions, leading to future slope failures.
Given Cupertino's hilly topography and seasonal rainfall, the risk of reactivating these past landslides is considerable.
*Unstable Soil Composition*: Numerous test pits identified soils that are weak and highly weathered, especially the conglomerate and sandstone formations found in many areas. These soils exhibit low compressive strength, raising concerns about their ability to support large- scale construction
For instance, Test Pits 1-TP4, 1-TP7, and 1-TP22 all indicate very weak soil conditions, making this site unsuitable for dense development. The soils’ tendency to shift, especially during rainstorms or seismic events, would put future residents and nearby homes at considerable risk.
*Groundwater and Slope Stability Issues*: In addition to unstable soils, Test Pit 11 encountered groundwater seepage at a depth of just 6 feet, a factor that compounds the site's vulnerability to landslides. The interaction between fluctuating groundwater levels, weak soils, and hillside slopes creates a perfect storm for slope destabilization. This groundwater seepage, combined with the area's already documented debris flow history, poses an immediate threat to the stability of any future structures, roads, and public infrastructure. "Erosion and Environmental Degradation*: The hillside’s residual soils and fill materials are prone to erosion, which could accelerate as the project progresses. The report's identification of heavily weathered sandstone and conglomerate formations only adds to the likelihood of erosion, landslides, and subsurface movement. As these processes unfold, the potential for damaging adjacent properties and public infrastructure grows exponentially, raising questions about the project's long-term sustainability and safety. *Responsibility to Public Safety* As public officials entrusted with the welfare of Cupertino’s residents, it is your duty to ensure that development projects are not only economically viable but also safe for current and future inhabitants.
The findings from this geotechnical report clearly demonstrate that the Vista Heights project, in its current form, poses unacceptable risks to the safety of our community. Moving forward with the development despite the overwhelming evidence of landslide risks could lead to catastrophic consequences, including property damage, loss of life, and significant legal liabilities for the city.
*Request for Action* Given the severity of the issues outlined in the geotechnical report, I strongly urge you to *Reject the Vista Heights project based on environmental and geotechnical considerations*, including the evidence of previous landslides and the high potential for future landslides.
The geotechnical report leaves little room for doubt: the combination of weak, weathered soils, groundwater seepage, and historical landslide activity renders this site too dangerous for development. I hope you will carefully consider these concerns and take swift action to protect Cupertino's residents and its natural environment from unnecessary harm.
Sincerely
Vikram Saxena
From: Helena Cohen
To: Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her); Pamela Wu; City Council; City Clerk Subject: Vista Heights Project
Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 12:06:12 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.
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, and City Officials,
I am writing to express grave concerns regarding the proposed Vista Heights development project, specifically located near Evulich Ct and Vista Heights.
After thoroughly reviewing the Geotechnical Report prepared for this project, I believe that proceeding with the development would expose the City of Cupertino to serious safety, environmental, and liability risks. The report highlights significant geotechnical hazards, including evidence of previous landslides and a high potential for future landslide events, which necessitates immediate action to reject this project based on environmental and geotechnical considerations.
*Key Red Flags from the Geotechnical Report*
*Landslide Evidence and Future Risk*: The geotechnical report provides alarming evidence of debris flow deposits, which indicate that landslides have previously occurred at this site.
Test Pit 9 specifically reveals sandy silt with gravel and debris flow material, a clear indication of prior earth movement. The presence of such material suggests that the area has already been compromised by landslides and that any new construction could exacerbate these conditions, leading to future slope failures. Given Cupertino's hilly topography and seasonal rainfall, the risk of reactivating these past landslides is considerable. You only have to go and look at the old 100-year-old quarry that abuts Linda Vista Park to see that the landscape has never recovered and continues to erode and slip.
*Unstable Soil Composition*: Numerous test pits identified soils that are weak and highly weathered, especially the conglomerate and sandstone formations found in many areas. These soils exhibit low compressive strength, raising concerns about their ability to support large- scale construction. For instance, Test Pits 1-TP4, 1-TP7, and 1-TP22 all indicate very weak soil conditions, making this site unsuitable for dense development. The soils’ tendency to shift, especially during rainstorms or seismic events, would put future residents and nearby homes at considerable risk.
*Groundwater and Slope Stability Issues*: In addition to unstable soils, Test Pit 11 encountered groundwater seepage at a depth of just 6 feet, a factor that compounds the site's vulnerability to landslides. The interaction between fluctuating groundwater levels, weak soils, and hillside slopes creates a perfect storm for slope destabilization. This groundwater seepage, combined with the area's already documented debris flow history, poses an immediate threat to the stability of any future structures, roads, and public infrastructure. *Erosion and Environmental Degradation*: The hillside’s residual soils and fill materials are prone to erosion, which could accelerate as the project progresses. The report's identification of heavily weathered sandstone and conglomerate formations only adds to the likelihood of erosion, landslides, and subsurface movement. As these processes unfold, the potential for damaging adjacent properties and public infrastructure grows exponentially, raising questions about the project's long-term sustainability and safety. *Responsibility to Public Safety*
As public officials entrusted with the welfare of Cupertino’s residents, it is your duty to ensure that development projects are not only economically viable but also safe for current and future inhabitants. The findings from this geotechnical report clearly demonstrate that the Vista Heights project, in its current form, poses unacceptable risks to the safety of our community.
Moving forward with the development despite the overwhelming evidence of landslide risks could lead to catastrophic consequences, including property damage, loss of life, and significant legal liabilities for the city.
*Request for Action*
Given the severity of the issues outlined in the geotechnical report, I strongly urge you to *Reject the Vista Heights project based on environmental and geotechnical considerations*, including the evidence of previous landslides and the high potential for future landslides.
The geotechnical report leaves little room for doubt: the combination of weak, weathered soils, groundwater seepage, and historical landslide activity renders this site too dangerous for development. I hope you will carefully consider these concerns and take swift action to protect Cupertino's residents and its natural environment from unnecessary harm.
I sincerely hope that you carefully consider these issues.
PLEASE INCLUDE THIS EMAIL IN THE MINUTES OF TODAY'S CITY COUNCIL MEETING, 9/17/2024. Thank you!
Thank you.
Helena Cohen
408.313.2899
From: Santa Teresa Cupertino
To: Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her); Pamela Wu; City Council; City Clerk Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Please include the below as written communications for items not on agenda for the upcoming city council meeting.
Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 11:50:20 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below as written communications for items not on agenda for the upcoming city council meeting.
Mayor Sheila Mohan
Cupertino City Council Members
City Manager Pamela Wu
City Planners Luke and Piu
City of Cupertino
10300 Torre Avenue
Cupertino, CA 95014
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, and City Officials,
I am writing to express grave concerns regarding the proposed Vista Heights development project, specifically located near Evulich Ct and Vista Heights.
After thoroughly reviewing the Geotechnical Report prepared for this project, I believe that proceeding with the development would expose the City of Cupertino to serious safety, environmental, and liability risks. The report highlights significant geotechnical hazards, including evidence of previous landslides and a high potential for future landslide events, which necessitates immediate action to reject this project based on environmental and geotechnical considerations.
*Key Red Flags from the Geotechnical Report*
*Landslide Evidence and Future Risk*: The geotechnical report provides alarming evidence of debris flow deposits, which indicate that landslides have previously occurred at this site. Test Pit 9 specifically reveals sandy silt with gravel and debris flow material, a clear indication of prior earth movement. The presence of such material suggests that the area has already been compromised by landslides and that any new construction could exacerbate these conditions, leading to future slope failures. Given Cupertino's hilly topography and seasonal rainfall, the risk of reactivating these past landslides is considerable.
*Unstable Soil Composition*: Numerous test pits identified soils that are weak and highly weathered, especially the conglomerate and sandstone formations found in many areas. These soils exhibit low compressive strength, raising concerns about their ability to support large-scale construction. For instance, Test Pits 1-TP4, 1-TP7, and 1-TP22 all indicate very weak soil conditions, making this site unsuitable for dense development. The soils’ tendency to shift, especially during rainstorms or seismic events, would put future residents and nearby homes at considerable risk. *Groundwater and Slope Stability Issues*: In addition to unstable soils, Test Pit 11 encountered groundwater seepage at a depth of just 6 feet, a factor that compounds the site's vulnerability to landslides. The interaction between fluctuating groundwater levels, weak soils, and hillside slopes creates a perfect storm for slope destabilization. This groundwater seepage, combined with the area's already documented debris flow history, poses an immediate threat to the stability of any future structures, roads, and public infrastructure. *Erosion and Environmental Degradation*: The hillside’s residual soils and fill materials are prone to erosion, which could accelerate as the project progresses. The report's identification of heavily weathered sandstone and conglomerate formations only adds to the likelihood of erosion, landslides, and subsurface movement. As these processes unfold, the potential for damaging adjacent properties and public infrastructure grows exponentially, raising questions about the project's long-term sustainability and safety. *Responsibility to Public Safety*
As public officials entrusted with the welfare of Cupertino’s residents, it is your duty to ensure that development projects are not only economically viable but also safe for current and future inhabitants. The findings from this geotechnical report clearly demonstrate that the Vista Heights project, in its current form, poses unacceptable risks to the safety of our community. Moving forward with the development despite the overwhelming evidence of landslide risks could lead to catastrophic consequences, including property damage, loss of life, and significant legal liabilities for the city.
*Request for Action*
Given the severity of the issues outlined in the geotechnical report, I strongly urge you to *Reject the Vista Heights project based on environmental and geotechnical considerations*, including the evidence of previous landslides and the high potential for future landslides.
The geotechnical report leaves little room for doubt: the combination of weak, weathered soils, groundwater seepage, and historical landslide activity renders this site too dangerous for development. I hope you will carefully consider these concerns and take swift action to protect Cupertino's residents and its natural environment from unnecessary harm.
Sincerely,
Cupertino Resident
Sent from my iPhone
From: Philip Lo
To: Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her); Pamela Wu; City Council; City Clerk Subject: Written communication to include items in upcoming city council meeting Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 11:44:22 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below as written communications for items not on agenda for the upcoming city council meeting:
Mayor Sheila Mohan
Cupertino City Council Members
City Manager Pamela Wu
City Planners Luke and Piu
City of Cupertino
10300 Torre Avenue
Cupertino, CA 95014
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, and City Officials,
I am writing to express grave concerns regarding the proposed Vista Heights development project, specifically located near Evulich Ct and Vista Heights.
After thoroughly reviewing the Geotechnical Report prepared for this project, I believe that proceeding with the development would expose the City of Cupertino to serious safety, environmental, and liability risks. The report highlights significant geotechnical hazards, including evidence of previous landslides and a high potential for future landslide events, which necessitates immediate action to reject this project based on environmental and geotechnical considerations.
*Key Red Flags from the Geotechnical Report*
*Landslide Evidence and Future Risk*: The geotechnical report provides alarming evidence of debris flow deposits, which indicate that landslides have previously occurred at this site. Test Pit 9 specifically reveals sandy silt with gravel and debris flow material, a clear indication of prior earth movement. The presence of such material suggests that the area has already been compromised by landslides and that any new construction could exacerbate these conditions, leading to future slope failures. Given Cupertino's hilly topography and seasonal rainfall, the risk of reactivating these past landslides is considerable. *Unstable Soil Composition*: Numerous test pits identified soils that are weak and highly weathered, especially the conglomerate and sandstone formations found in many areas. These soils exhibit low compressive strength, raising concerns about their ability to support large- scale construction. For instance, Test Pits 1-TP4, 1-TP7, and 1-TP22 all indicate very weak soil conditions, making this site unsuitable for dense development. The soils’ tendency to shift, especially during rainstorms or seismic events, would put future residents and nearby homes at considerable risk.
*Groundwater and Slope Stability Issues*: In addition to unstable soils, Test Pit 11 encountered groundwater seepage at a depth of just 6 feet, a factor that compounds the site's vulnerability to landslides. The interaction between fluctuating groundwater levels, weak soils, and hillside slopes creates a perfect storm for slope destabilization. This groundwater seepage, combined with the area's already documented debris flow history, poses an immediate threat to the stability of any future structures, roads, and public infrastructure. *Erosion and Environmental Degradation*: The hillside’s residual soils and fill materials are prone to erosion, which could accelerate as the project progresses. The report's identification of heavily weathered sandstone and conglomerate formations only adds to the likelihood of erosion, landslides, and subsurface movement. As these processes unfold, the potential for damaging adjacent properties and public infrastructure grows exponentially, raising questions about the project's long-term sustainability and safety. *Responsibility to Public Safety*
As public officials entrusted with the welfare of Cupertino’s residents, it is your duty to ensure that development projects are not only economically viable but also safe for current and future inhabitants. The findings from this geotechnical report clearly demonstrate that the Vista Heights project, in its current form, poses unacceptable risks to the safety of our community.
Moving forward with the development despite the overwhelming evidence of landslide risks could lead to catastrophic consequences, including property damage, loss of life, and significant legal liabilities for the city.
*Request for Action*
Given the severity of the issues outlined in the geotechnical report, I strongly urge you to *Reject the Vista Heights project based on environmental and geotechnical considerations*, including the evidence of previous landslides and the high potential for future landslides.
The geotechnical report leaves little room for doubt: the combination of weak, weathered soils, groundwater seepage, and historical landslide activity renders this site too dangerous for development. I hope you will carefully consider these concerns and take swift action to protect Cupertino's residents and its natural environment from unnecessary harm.
Sincerely,
Philip Lo
22100 Rae Lane, Cupertino
From: Ying Dillaha
To: Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her); Pamela Wu; City Council; City Clerk Subject: Stop Vista Heights development
Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 11:27:40 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below as written communications for items not on agenda for the upcoming city council meeting.
Mayor Sheila Mohan
Cupertino City Council Members
City Manager Pamela Wu
City Planners Luke and Piu
City of Cupertino
10300 Torre Avenue
Cupertino, CA 95014
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, and City Officials,
I am writing to express grave concerns regarding the proposed Vista Heights development project, specifically located near Evulich Ct and Vista Heights.
After thoroughly reviewing the Geotechnical Report prepared for this project, I believe that proceeding with the development would expose the City of Cupertino to serious safety, environmental, and liability risks. The report highlights significant geotechnical hazards, including evidence of previous landslides and a high potential for future landslide events, which necessitates immediate action to reject this project based on environmental and geotechnical considerations.
Key Red Flags from the Geotechnical Report
Landslide Evidence and Future Risk: The geotechnical report provides alarming evidence of debris flow deposits, which indicate that landslides have previously occurred at this site. Test Pit 9 specifically reveals sandy silt with gravel and debris flow material, a clear indication of prior earth movement. The presence of such material suggests that the area has already been compromised by landslides and that any new construction could exacerbate these conditions, leading to future slope failures. Given Cupertino's hilly topography and seasonal rainfall, the risk of reactivating these past landslides is considerable.
Unstable Soil Composition: Numerous test pits identified soils that are weak and highly weathered, especially the conglomerate and sandstone formations found in many areas. These soils exhibit low compressive strength, raising concerns about their ability to support large-scale construction. For instance, Test Pits 1-TP4, 1-TP7, and 1-TP22 all indicate very weak soil conditions, making this site unsuitable for dense development. The soils’ tendency to shift, especially during rainstorms or seismic events, would put future residents and nearby homes at considerable risk.
Groundwater and Slope Stability Issues: In addition to unstable soils, Test Pit 11 encountered groundwater seepage at a depth of just 6 feet, a factor that compounds the site's vulnerability to landslides. The interaction between fluctuating groundwater levels, weak soils, and hillside slopes creates a perfect storm for slope destabilization. This groundwater seepage, combined with the area's already documented debris flow history, poses an immediate threat to the stability of any future structures, roads, and public infrastructure.
Erosion and Environmental Degradation: The hillside’s residual soils and fill materials are prone to erosion, which could accelerate as the project progresses. The report's identification of heavily weathered sandstone and conglomerate formations only adds to the likelihood of erosion, landslides, and subsurface movement. As these processes unfold, the potential for damaging adjacent properties and public infrastructure grows exponentially, raising questions about the project's long-term sustainability and safety.
Responsibility to Public Safety
As public officials entrusted with the welfare of Cupertino’s residents, it is your duty to ensure that development projects are not only economically viable but also safe for current and future inhabitants.
The findings from this geotechnical report clearly demonstrate that the Vista Heights project, in its current form, poses unacceptable risks to the safety of our community. Moving forward with the development despite the overwhelming evidence of landslide risks could lead to catastrophic consequences, including property damage, loss of life, and significant legal liabilities for the city.
Request for Action
Given the severity of the issues outlined in the geotechnical report, I strongly urge you to Reject the Vista Heights project based on environmental and geotechnical considerations, including the evidence of previous landslides and the high potential for future landslides.
The geotechnical report leaves little room for doubt: the combination of weak, weathered soils, groundwater seepage, and historical landslide activity renders this site too dangerous for development. I hope you will carefully consider these concerns and take swift action to protect Cupertino's residents and its natural environment from unnecessary harm.
Sincerely,
Ying Sosic
Cupertino resident
From: Peggy Griffin
To: Pamela Wu; Sheila Mohan; Kirsten Squarcia
Cc: City Clerk; J.R. Fruen; Liang Chao; Kitty Moore; Hung Wei Subject: RE: 2024-09-17 City Council Meeting - ORAL COMMUNICATIONS Date: Monday, September 16, 2024 4:23:29 PM
Attachments: image001.png
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2023-02-22 SCC Overview of Brown Act-P20 Teleconference.pdf 2023-03-22 CA Jensen Memo Re Brown Act Teleconference Amendments.pdf 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: PLEASE INCLUDE THIS EMAIL AND ALL ATTACHMENTS TOGETHER AS PART OF WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS UNDER “ORAL COMMUNICATIONS” FOR THE ABOVE MEETING.
Dear City Manager Wu, Mayor Mohan and City Clerk Squarcia,
This is a follow-up email to CA Jensen’s response. I’m sorry if I upset him by inquiring about how the public would be accommodated at the upcoming teleconferencing location on the west side of town.
To clarify a reference I made to 3 occasions where the City of Cupertino did not follow the teleconferencing rules specified in the Brown Act. The city attorney’s office was notified in early June 2024 about these occasions and without any email response from them, I am glad to see that the City of Cupertino has corrected the issues I identified.
I have included information regarding these 3 occasions for reference only along with 2 attached documents describing the Brown Act teleconferencing rules, one from CA Jensen (March 22, 2024) and one from the Santa Clara County, Office of the County Counsel (page 20-February 22, 2024):
2023-02-22 SCC Overview of Brown Act-P20 Teleconference.pdf 2023-03-22 CA Jensen Memo RE Brown Act Teleconference Amendments.pdf
Specifically, the Brown Act issues for these 3 occasions were:
Agendas did not state that the public can attend the teleconferencing locations.
The teleconference locations in the agendas were not detailed enough for the public to find the location to be able to attend.
Their agendas did not list the date and time at the separate locations. They were in different time zones and Example 2 and Example 3 were on different days due to time zones.
The City of Cupertino was not publishing the agenda at their teleconferencing locations.
Sincerely,
Peggy Griffin
EXAMPLE #1 - June 11, 2024 Planning Commission Agenda
On Tuesday, June 11, 2024 at the Cupertino Planning Commission’s regular meeting, Planning Commissioner Tejesh Mistry participated remotely pursuant to California Government Code Section 54953(b)(2) as stated in the agenda for said meeting.
As stated in Government Code Section 54953(b)(3), “If the legislative body of a local agency elects to use teleconferencing, it shall”
1. “post agendas at all teleconference locations.”
2. “Each teleconference location shall be identified in the notice and agenda of the meeting or proceeding, and”
3. “Each teleconference location shall be accessible to the public.”
Government Code Section 54953(b)(3) was not followed at all. 1) There is no evidence that the agenda was posted at the teleconference location. 2) The teleconference location posted in the agenda (1730 N Ocean Ave., Holtsville, NY 11742) identified two possible different locations.
a. Google Maps shows 1730 N Ocean Ave., Holtsville, NY 11742 as being the location of the Sonoma Grill Restaurant which was CLOSED before the Planning Commission meeting even started at 9:45 PM EDT.
b.
Apple Maps shows 1730 N Ocean Ave., Holtsville, NY 11742 as being two different locations, one being the Sonoma Grill Restaurant (CLOSED) and one being the Holiday Inn Long Island. If the intended location was this large hotel, there was no information identifying the exact room within the hotel where the public could attend.
3) The agenda states the public can only attend in person at “Cupertino Community Hall, 10350 Torre Avenue.” It does not state that the public can attend at the remote teleconference location.
Google Maps Location: shows only the Sonoma Grill Restaurant! Sonoma Grill Hours: Tuesday 3-9 PM East Coast time (CLOSED at 6:45PM PDT when PC meeting started)
Apple Maps 2 Location: 1730 N Ocean Ave. Holtsville, NY 11742 is the address of -Sonoma Grill AND the
-Holiday Inn Long Island.
It is clear that the exact teleconference location was not intended to be attended by the public because there was no way a member of the public could have found the location! Also, the agenda did not say the public could attend the teleconference location.
In looking into this issue, I found out that the City of Cupertino has done this 2 previous times for meetings of the Bicycle Pedestrian Commission. I have not looked into other possible cases.
EXAMPLE #2 – April 17, 2024 – Bike/Ped Commission
On April 17, 2024 at the Cupertino Bicycle Pedestrian Commission regular meeting Bike/Ped Commissioner John Zhao attended remotely from Shanghai, China. The address specified in the agenda was
As you can see from the Google Maps clip, this is a HUGE building of some kind. No room number, no name, nothing was posted to identify the exact location of the teleconference location.
Looking at the “2024-04-17 Cupertino Bike-Ped Mtg Agenda w Teleconference from China” It does not indicate the 2 locations where the public can attend the meeting in-person.
It does not indicate the date and time of the meeting at each location. Note that Shanghai, China would be April 18, 2024 at a different time!
EXAMPLE #3 – March 28, 2024 - Bike/Ped Commission
On March 28, 2024 at the Cupertino Bicycle Pedestrian Commission regular meeting Bike/Ped Commissioner John Zhao again attended remotely from Shanghai, China. The address specified in the agenda was
This is the same location as Example #2 with the same Brown Act issues.
REFERENCE AGENDAS:
2024-06-11 Cupertino PC Mtg Agenda w Teleconferencing from NY 2024-04-17 Cupertino Bike-Ped Mtg Agenda w Teleconferencing from China 2024-03-28 Cupertino Bike-Ped Mtg Agenda w Teleconferencing from China
From: Christopher Jensen <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, September 13, 2024 10:08 AM
To: Griffin <[email protected]>
Cc: Pamela Wu <[email protected]>; Sheila Mohan <[email protected]>; Kirsten Squarcia <[email protected]>
Subject: RE: 2024-09-17 City Council Meeting - Issues/questions with teleconferencing
Dear Ms. Griffin:
The City Attorney’s Office does not provide legal advice to member of the public or respond to biased, ignorant, and inaccurate commentary. It is of course your right to say whatever you want, but I won’t engage with serial liars.
Regards,
Chris
Christopher Jensen
City Attorney
City Attorney's Office
[email protected]
(408)777-3105
From: Griffin <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, September 13, 2024 10:00 AM
To: Christopher Jensen <[email protected]>; Pamela Wu <[email protected]>; Sheila Mohan <[email protected]>; Kirsten Squarcia <[email protected]> Subject: Re: 2024-09-17 City Council Meeting - Issues/questions with teleconferencing
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.
One more question…
Q5: ADA requirements…Is the remote location ADA compliant? Is that a requirement?
Peggy
On Sep 13, 2024, at 9:55 AM, Griffin <[email protected] > wrote:
Dear City Attorney Jensen, City Manager Wu, Mayor Mohan and City Clerk Squarcia,
I am glad the city has finally decided to follow the Brown Act regarding teleconferencing pursuant to government code 54953(b)(2) after having violated it 3 times.
QUESTIONS
Q1: What provisions will you have in place to prevent members of the public from talking to or accessing the remote council member during the meeting?
Q2: What provisions will you have in place to allow the public to ask to speak and speak from the remote location?
Q3: Where will the agenda be posted at the remote location?
Q4: Will there be seating and access to a bathroom for those attending the remote location?
Q5: The resulting video that is posted as “public record” needs to include the remote location video and audio. Is the city’s tech crew prepared to do this?
Sincerely,
Peggy Griffin
1. Remote locations are connected to the main meeting location by telephone, video, or both;
2. Quorum of the members participate from locations within jurisdiction;
3. Full address of each teleconference location is identified in the notice and agenda of the meeting;
4. Agendas are posted at all teleconference locations within required timelines;
5. Each teleconference location is accessible to the public and has technology to enable the public to participate from that location; and
6. All votes are taken by roll call.
General, Longstanding Requirements for Teleconferencing by Legislative Body Members
20Office of the County Counsel
OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY
10300 TORRE AVENUE • CUPERTINO, CA 95014
TELEPHONE: (408) 777-3403 • FAX: (408) 777-3401
TO: Pamela Wu, City Manager
Kirsten Squarcia, City Clerk
FROM: Chris Jensen, City Attorney
DATE: March 22, 2023
SUBJECT: Brown Act Changes and Remote Meeting Requirements The City Council, commissioners, and other members of City legislative bodies subject to the Brown Act have been informed that authorization for remote meetings under AB 361 expired on February 28, 2023, when the Governor’s declared State of Emergency expired.
Members of legislative bodies must now attend meetings in person or comply with the narrow exceptions authorized under state law . The Brown Act does not limit remote participation by members of the public or City staff. Exceptions that allow for remot e participation by legislative body members are outlined below.
1. Brown Act “Classic” Teleconference Rules
The Brown Act continues to allow members of local legislative bodies to participate remotely in public meetings consistent with its teleconference requirements.
Government Code section 54953 authorizes members to participate at remote locations during teleconferenced meetings so long as the legislative body: (1) posts meeting agendas at all teleconference locations; (2) identifies all teleconference locations in the notice and agenda; and (3) makes each teleconference location accessible to the public. A quorum of the legislative body must be present in person.
2. AB 2449 – New Limited Remote Participation Exception AB 2449 allows an individual member, under specific limited circumstances, to participate in a Brown Act meeting remotely without identifying their remote Brown Act Changes and Remote Meeting Requirements
March 22, 2023
teleconference location and without making their remote teleconference location accessible to the public.
In order for an individual member to participate remotely under AB 2449 , at least a quorum of the legislative body must be participating from a singular physical location that is clearly identified on the agenda and open to the public. The remotely participating member must use a two-way audiovisual platform (e.g., Zoom), and the public must be provided with either a similar two -way audiovisual platform or a phone -in option coupled with a live webcasting of the meeting.
An individual member may not participate in meetings remotely under AB 2449 for more than three consecutive months or 20% of the legislative body’s regular meetings within a calendar year. If the legislative body regularly meets fewer than 10 times a year, an individual member may not participate remote ly using the AB 2449 exception for more than two meetings.
In order to use the AB 2449 remote participation exemption, an individual member of a legislative body must notify the full membership of the body that either “just cause” or “emergency circumstances” exist for their remote participation.
Just Cause
“Just cause” is defined as any one of the following:
• Childcare or caregiving of a child, parent, grandparent, grandchild, sibling, spouse, or domestic partner that requires a member to participate remotely. • A contagious illness that prevents a member from attending in person. • A need related to a physical or mental disability.
• Travel while on business of the legislative body or another state or local agency.
In order to participate remotely for “just cause ,” an individual member must notify the legislative body at the earliest possible opportunity—up to the start of a meeting—of their need to participate remotely and provide a general description of the circumstances related to one of the four items above. A member may only use the “just cause” provision up to two meetings per calendar year.
Brown Act Changes and Remote Meeting Requirements
March 22, 2023
Emergency Circumstances
An “emergency circumstance” is defined as a physical or family medical emergency that prevents a member of a legislative body from attending in person.
In order to participate remotely under “emergency circumstances,” the individual member must request that the full legislative body allow them to participate in the meeting remotely because of emergency circumstances, and the legislative body must take action to approve the request at the public meeting. An individual member making a r equest to participate remotely due to “emergency circumstances” must provide a general description of the circumstances giving rise to the need to appear remotely. This description does not have to be more than 20 words and should not include any personal medical information. The legislative body then votes, as the first order of business at the relevant meeting, to approve or deny the member’s request to participate remotely due to “emergency circumstances.”
Additional Requirements
The following general requirements apply when meeting under the AB 2449 just cause or emergency circumstances provisions:
• Members participating remotely must do so through audio and visual technology. • The legislative body must provide a way for the public to remotely hear, visually observe, and remotely address the legislative body throughout the meeting in question.
• The agenda must identify and include an opportunity for the public to attend and directly address the legislative body both remotely and in person at the meeting. • If there is a disruption to the meeting broadcast or in the ability to take call-in or internet-based public comment, no further action can be taken on agenda items until the issue is resolved.
• The legislative body must implement a procedure for receiving and resolving requests for reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities and must give notice of these procedures.
• Members participating remotely must publicly disclose at the meeting whether any other individuals 18 years of age or older are present in the room of the Brown Act Changes and Remote Meeting Requirements
March 22, 2023
member’s remote location and state the general relationship between the individual and the member.
From: Rok Sosic
To: Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her); Pamela Wu; City Council; City Clerk Subject: Urgent Request to Downzone Evulich Ct and Protect Environmental Resources Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 10:18:40 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications for items not on agenda for the upcoming city council meeting.
Mayor Sheila Mohan
Cupertino City Council Members
Pamela Wu, City Manager
Luke, Planning Director
Piu, Senior Planner
City of Cupertino
10300 Torre Avenue
Cupertino, CA 95014
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, Manager Wu, Director Luke, and Senior Planner Piu, I am writing to express my strong concerns regarding the proposed high-density development on Evulich Ct and to respectfully urge the city to downzone this site to R1. The current designation for high-density housing is not only incompatible with the surrounding residential character, but it also threatens nearby environmental resources and disrupts local ecosystems.
Cupertino has the flexibility within its Housing and Community Development (HCD) framework to meet its housing goals without sacrificing the natural and community assets around Evulich Ct.
The area surrounding Evulich Ct is ecologically sensitive, with Blackberry Farm, Stevens Creek, Stevens Creek County Park, and a well-established wildlife corridor located in close proximity. The environmental and infrastructural strain from developing 51 townhomes on a
2.48-acre hillside plot would negatively affect these critical green spaces. The Housing Element Site Inventory Guidebook emphasizes the importance of preserving environmental integrity when planning housing developments, particularly in areas with fragile ecosystems.
Evulich Ct, with its adjacency to these natural resources, should be protected, not overburdened.
An environmental protection overlay would provide the necessary framework to preserve these vital ecological and recreational areas. By applying this overlay, the city can enforce regulations that limit dense development, protect sensitive wildlife corridors, and ensure that critical habitats are not disrupted. Stevens Creek and Stevens Creek County Park are home to a variety of wildlife, and the corridor is essential for maintaining biodiversity in the region.
High-density development in this area could block these natural migration pathways and lead to habitat loss, disrupting local ecosystems that rely on the interconnectedness of these spaces.
Furthermore, the area’s existing infrastructure is not designed to support high-density development. The roads leading to Evulich Ct are narrow and unimproved, and the area lacks sufficient water, sewer, and utility capacity to accommodate such an influx of residents.
Additionally, increased traffic and parking demands will degrade the experience for visitors to Blackberry Farm and Stevens Creek County Park, which are key recreational areas for Cupertino residents. As outlined in the Guidebook, environmental impacts, particularly on public green spaces and natural resources, should be carefully weighed before approving any significant changes in land use.
Cupertino also has alternatives for meeting its housing obligations without disrupting the ecological balance of the Evulich Ct area. The HCD’s provisions allow the city to redistribute housing density to other more suitable areas that have better infrastructure and fewer environmental sensitivities. The city can leverage its available buffer units within the Housing Element and transfer the required density away from this environmentally delicate area. This approach ensures Cupertino meets its housing obligations while protecting critical green spaces, natural resources, and wildlife.
In alignment with these concerns, I urge the city to take the following actions:
Downzone Evulich Ct to R1: This step will maintain compatibility with the surrounding single-family homes, protect local infrastructure, and prevent environmental degradation.
Apply an Environmental Protection Overlay: This overlay will safeguard the adjacent wildlife corridor, Stevens Creek, Stevens Creek County Park, and Blackberry Farm, ensuring that dense development does not disrupt these ecosystems and recreational spaces.
Utilize Buffer Units in the Housing Element: By reallocating the required housing density to buffer units, Cupertino can meet its housing goals without compromising the environmental and community assets of Evulich Ct.
Cupertino has long prided itself on thoughtful, sustainable urban planning, and I am confident that the city can find a balanced solution that meets state housing mandates while prioritizing the long-term well-being of its neighborhoods and natural resources. I look forward to your response and to seeing a plan that reflects the values of sustainability and community preservation.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Rok Sosic
Cupertino Resident
From: Rok Sosic
To: City Council; City Clerk; Pamela Wu; Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her) Subject: Urgent Request to Downzone Evulich Ct and Protect Environmental Resources Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 10:15:16 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications for items not on the agenda for the upcoming City Council meeting.
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, Manager Wu, Director Luke, and Senior Planner Piu, I am writing to express my concerns about the proposed high-density development on Evulich Ct and urge the city to downzone this site to R1. This development threatens local environmental resources, including Stevens Creek, Blackberry Farm, and wildlife corridors. The city's Housing Element allows flexibility to redistribute housing without disrupting these sensitive areas.
I urge the city to:
1. Downzone Evulich Ct to R1.
2. Apply an Environmental Protection Overlay to safeguard nearby ecosystems.
3. Utilize buffer units in the Housing Element to relocate housing density.
Thank you for considering this matter.
Sincerely,
Rok Sosic
Cupertino Resident
From: Avinash Deshpande
To: City Council; City Clerk; Pamela Wu; Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her) Subject: Urgent Request to Downzone Evulich Ct and Protect Environmental Resources Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 7:31:35 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications for items not on the agenda for the upcoming City Council meeting.
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, Manager Wu, Director Luke, and Senior Planner Piu, I am writing to express my concerns about the proposed high-density development on Evulich Ct and urge the city to downzone this site to R1. This development threatens local environmental resources, including Stevens Creek, Blackberry Farm, and wildlife corridors. The city's Housing Element allows flexibility to redistribute housing without disrupting these sensitive areas.
I urge the city to:
1. Downzone Evulich Ct to R1.
2. Apply an Environmental Protection Overlay to safeguard nearby ecosystems.
3. Utilize buffer units in the Housing Element to relocate housing density.
Thank you for considering this matter.
Sincerely,
Avinash Deshpande
Cupertino Resident
From: [email protected]
To: City Council; City Clerk; Pamela Wu; Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her) Subject: Urgent Request to Downzone Evulich Ct and Protect Environmental Resources Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 5:52:36 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications for items not on the agenda for the upcoming City Council meeting.
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, Manager Wu, Director Luke, and Senior Planner Piu,
I am writing to express my concerns about the proposed high-density development on Evulich Ct and urge the city to downzone this site to R1.
This development threatens local environmental resources, including Stevens Creek, Blackberry Farm, and wildlife corridors. The city's Housing Element allows flexibility to redistribute housing without disrupting these sensitive areas.
I urge the city to:
1. Downzone Evulich Ct to R1.
2. Apply an Environmental Protection Overlay to safeguard nearby ecosystems.
3. Utilize buffer units in the Housing Element to relocate housing density.
Thank you for considering this matter.
Sincerely,
Cupertino Resident
Sent from my iPhone
From: Lee Pan, 95014
To: City Council; City Clerk; Pamela Wu; Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her) Subject: Urgent Request to Downzone Evulich Ct and Protect Environmental Resources Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 4:58:07 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications for items not on the agenda for the upcoming City Council meeting.
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, Manager Wu, Director Luke, and Senior Planner Piu, I am writing to express my concerns about the proposed high-density development on Evulich Ct and urge the city to downzone this site to R1. This development threatens local environmental resources, including Stevens Creek, Blackberry Farm, and wildlife corridors. The city's Housing Element allows flexibility to redistribute housing without disrupting these sensitive areas.
I urge the city to:
1. Downzone Evulich Ct to R1.
2. Apply an Environmental Protection Overlay to safeguard nearby ecosystems.
3. Utilize buffer units in the Housing Element to relocate housing density.
Thank you for considering this matter.
Sincerely,
Cupertino Resident
Sent from my iPhone
From: Sam K
To: City Council; City Clerk; Pamela Wu; Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her) Subject: Urgent Request to Downzone Evulich Ct and Protect Environmental Resources Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 4:57:24 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications for items not on the agenda for the upcoming City Council meeting.
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, Manager Wu, Director Luke, and Senior Planner Piu, I am writing to express my concerns about the proposed high-density development on Evulich Ct and urge the city to downzone this site to R1. This development threatens local environmental resources, including Stevens Creek, Blackberry Farm, and wildlife corridors. The city's Housing Element allows flexibility to redistribute housing without disrupting these sensitive areas.
I urge the city to:
1. Downzone Evulich Ct to R1.
2. Apply an Environmental Protection Overlay to safeguard nearby ecosystems.
3. Utilize buffer units in the Housing Element to relocate housing density.
Thank you for considering this matter.
Sincerely,
Cupertino Resident
From: Dennis Tsao
To: City Council; City Clerk; Pamela Wu; Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her) Subject: Urgent Request to Downzone Evulich Ct and Protect Environmental Resources Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 4:46:35 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications for items not on the agenda for the upcoming City Council meeting.
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, Manager Wu, Director Luke, and Senior Planner Piu, I am writing to express my concerns about the proposed high-density development on Evulich Ct and urge the city to downzone this site to R1. This development threatens local environmental resources, including Stevens Creek, Blackberry Farm, and wildlife corridors.
The city's Housing Element allows flexibility to redistribute housing without disrupting these sensitive areas.
I urge the city to:
1. Downzone Evulich Ct to R1.
2. Apply an Environmental Protection Overlay to safeguard nearby ecosystems.
3. Utilize buffer units in the Housing Element to relocate housing density.
Thank you for considering this matter.
Sincerely,
Cupertino Resident
Dennis Tsao
call/text 650-880-3084
From: DerChang Kau
To: City Council; City Clerk; Pamela Wu; Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her) Subject: Urgent Request to Downzone Evulich Ct and Protect Environmental Resources Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 4:43:27 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications for items not on the agenda for the upcoming City Council meeting.
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, Manager Wu, Director Luke, and Senior Planner Piu, I am writing to express my concerns about the proposed high-density development on Evulich Ct and urge the city to downzone this site to R1. This development threatens local environmental resources, including Stevens Creek, Blackberry Farm, and wildlife corridors. The city's Housing Element allows flexibility to redistribute housing without disrupting these sensitive areas.
I urge the city to:
1. Downzone Evulich Ct to R1.
2. Apply an Environmental Protection Overlay to safeguard nearby ecosystems.
3. Utilize buffer units in the Housing Element to relocate housing density.
Thank you for considering this matter.
Sincerely,
Cupertino Resident
/DerChang
From: Lloyd McKee
To: City Council; City Clerk; [email protected]
Subject: Used up parking at 10315 Ann Arbor, See photos Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 4:28:48 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.
Hello,
City Clerk and City Council Members,
The enclosed photos show.
1)
Parking all used up at 10315 Ann Arbor
2) The Rivian used to park on Lauretta Drive, now, parks on Ann Arbor. This is common for cars to show up on Lauretta Drive and vice versa.
I know this email is after the 4 PM cut to enter into the Record for Item 11 on the agenda. If possible, to enter after the City Council meeting this evening?
Thank you, Lloyd McKee
21185 Lauretta Drive
Cupertino, CA 95014
From: Jie Tang
To: City Council; City Clerk; Pamela Wu; Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her) Subject: Urgent Request to Downzone Evulich Ct and Protect Environmental Resources Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 4:24:08 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications for items not on the agenda for the upcoming City Council meeting.
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, Manager Wu, Director Luke, and Senior Planner Piu, I am writing to express my concerns about the proposed high-density development on Evulich Ct and urge the city to downzone this site to R1. This development threatens local environmental resources, including Stevens Creek, Blackberry Farm, and wildlife corridors. The city's Housing Element allows flexibility to redistribute housing without disrupting these sensitive areas.
I urge the city to:
1. Downzone Evulich Ct to R1.
2. Apply an Environmental Protection Overlay to safeguard nearby ecosystems.
3. Utilize buffer units in the Housing Element to relocate housing density.
Thank you for considering this matter.
Sincerely,
Cupertino Resident
Jie Tang
Sent from my iPhone
From: Chris Lynn
To: City Council; City Clerk; Pamela Wu; Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her) Subject: Urgent Request to Downzone Evulich Ct and Protect Environmental Resources Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 4:23:18 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications for items not on the agenda for the upcoming City Council meeting.
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, Manager Wu, Director Luke, and Senior Planner Piu, I am writing to express my concerns about the proposed high-density development on Evulich Ct and urge the city to downzone this site to R1. This development threatens local environmental resources, including Stevens Creek, Blackberry Farm, and wildlife corridors. The city's Housing Element allows flexibility to redistribute housing without disrupting these sensitive areas.
I urge the city to:
1. Downzone Evulich Ct to R1.
2. Apply an Environmental Protection Overlay to safeguard nearby ecosystems.
3. Utilize buffer units in the Housing Element to relocate housing density.
Thank you for considering this matter.
Sincerely,
Cupertino Resident
From: [email protected]
To: City Council; City Clerk; Pamela Wu; Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her) Subject: Urgent Request to Downzone Evulich Ct and Protect Environmental Resources Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 4:19:24 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications for items not on the agenda for the upcoming City Council meeting.
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, Manager Wu, Director Luke, and Senior Planner Piu, I am writing to express my concerns about the proposed high-density development on Evulich Ct and urge the city to downzone this site to R1. This development threatens local environmental resources, including Stevens Creek, Blackberry Farm, and wildlife corridors. The city's Housing Element allows flexibility to redistribute housing without disrupting these sensitive areas.
I urge the city to:
1. Downzone Evulich Ct to R1.
2. Apply an Environmental Protection Overlay to safeguard nearby ecosystems.
3. Utilize buffer units in the Housing Element to relocate housing density.
Thank you for considering this matter.
Sincerely,
Jyothsna
Cupertino Resident
From: Ram Sripathi
To: City Council; City Clerk; Pamela Wu; Luke Connolly; Piu Ghosh (she/her) Subject: Urgent Request to Downzone Evulich Ct and Protect Environmental Resources Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 4:01:50 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications for items not on the agenda for the upcoming City Council meeting.
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, Manager Wu, Director Luke, and Senior Planner Piu, I am writing to express my concerns about the proposed high-density development on Evulich Ct and urge the city to downzone this site to R1. This development threatens local environmental resources, including Stevens Creek, Blackberry Farm, and wildlife corridors. The city's Housing Element allows flexibility to redistribute housing without disrupting these sensitive areas.
I urge the city to:
1. Downzone Evulich Ct to R1.
2. Apply an Environmental Protection Overlay to safeguard nearby ecosystems.
3. Utilize buffer units in the Housing Element to relocate housing density.
Thank you for considering this matter.
Sincerely,
Cupertino Resident
Sent from my iPhone
From: Ram Sripathi
To: City Council; City Clerk
Subject: Request to Allow Full Oral Public Comments Up Front at City Council Meetings Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 4:01:07 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below as written communications for items not on the agenda for the 09/17/24 City Council meeting.
Dear Mayor Sheila Mohan and Cupertino City Council Members, I am writing to respectfully urge you, Mayor Mohan, to use your discretion to allow all public oral comments to be heard upfront during City Council meetings, without the current limitation of 30 minutes and deferring the remainder to the end of the meeting.
Limiting public comments to 30 minutes before pushing the rest to the end of often lengthy sessions creates a significant inconvenience for residents who have taken the time to attend. Many are forced to wait late into the night or, worse, abandon their opportunity to be heard altogether. This practice disproportionately affects working families, seniors, and those with other obligations, sending the message that their input is not as valued as the convenience of the meeting structure.
Allowing all oral comments to be made at the start of the meeting fosters transparency, inclusivity, and demonstrates a genuine commitment to hearing the voices of Cupertino's residents.
If you choose not to exercise your discretion on this matter, I urge the City Council members to call for a formal vote on this procedure. Let the public see whether each council member prioritizes the convenience of residents or whether they choose to inconvenience those they represent by making them wait until the end of the meeting or give up their opportunity for input altogether.
Thank you for considering this request, and I look forward to your decision to better serve the people of Cupertino.
Sincerely,
Cupertino Resident
Sent from my iPhone
CC 09-17-2024
Item No. 9
Future agenda
items requested
by City
Councilmembers
Written Communications
From: Liang Chao
To: Sheila Mohan; City Clerk
Cc: Pamela Wu
Subject: Re: Request for the supplemental report to accurately identify the question author Date: Friday, September 13, 2024 10:37:25 PM
In that case, I'll make a formal agenda request for the Council to consider giving direction to allow council members to forward questions from residents without having to rephrase every question by the Councilmember.
We serve the residents. There should an efficient way for the council to forward questions from residents and get answers before council meetings.
My request is simply for the supplement report to accurately reflect it as either "(Chao)" or " (forwarded by Chao)".
That's all.
Dear City Clerk,
Please enter this entire thread into written communication of the 9/17 council meeting.
And please add this item to one of items on the TBD list.
I think I'll just ask for a second at the council meeting.
In you think I need to request a second before the council meeting, let me know.
Liang
Liang Chao
Councilmember
City Council
[email protected]
408-777-3192
From: Sheila Mohan <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, September 13, 2024 8:26 PM
To: Liang Chao <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: Request for the supplemental report to accurately identify the question author
Liang:
After thinking about your question, my opinion is that staff is responsible for responding to questions from Council on a supplemental report which is often prepared just a few hours before the Council meeting. When residents have questions, their questions and comments are already included in the agenda packet. When Councilmembers forward residents' questions to staff under their name, it could create a workload impact on staff because staff does feel a certain urgency to respond to Council especially before a Council meeting, and these questions from what you tell me are coming from residents.
I think it would be simpler if you email your own questions directly to staff.
Sheila Mohan
Mayor
City Council
[email protected]
(408)777-1326
From: Liang Chao <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, September 12, 2024 11:05 PM
To: Sheila Mohan <[email protected]>
Subject: Request for the supplemental report to accurately identify the question author
Dear Mayor Sheila,
I have made a request at the 9/4 council meeting for the supplemental report to accurately specify the origin of the question.
When the residents send questions to the council on an agenda item, I sometimes just forward the questions to the staff, since do not always have time to rephrase each question myself.
Thus, my request is simply for the supplement report to accurately reflect it as either "(Chao)" or "(forwarded by Chao)".
The reason is that I felt very uncomfortable reading the supplemental report to see my name attributed to sentences that do not come from me. The tone of voices from the residents is different from me definitely.
The city manager refused to fulfill this simple request at the 9/17 council meeting and left it to the Mayor to decide.
If you refuse to grant this simply request, please let me know as soon as possible.
In that case, I'll propose this as a TBD item as a policy matter to get direction from the entire council.
Thank you for your attention.
Liang
Liang Chao
Councilmember
City Council
[email protected]
408-777-3192
From: Liang Chao
To: Pamela Wu; Kitty Moore
Cc: City Clerk
Subject: Addition to TBD future agenda item: revise policy on handling of petitions Date: Thursday, September 12, 2024 10:30:58 PM
The Linda Vista petition signed by 600 people was handed to the City Manager by the Mayor.
The signed petition will just be filed by CDD under the project.
The city won’t route it to any other Councilmembers or departments, even though the petition states “
We respectfully ask the City Planning Department, Department of Emergency Preparedness, the Santa Clara Fire Department and Mayor Sheila Mohan and other councilmembers,"
That’s the final decision of the city attorney on the matter.
To date, as a city councilmember, I have only heard of the petition from the public comment, but I have not seen or received the petition at all.
Therefore, I have no other choice but to request a clear direction from the Council on the handling of any petition, either in digital or paper format.
I propose that
any paper petition should be scanned into digital format and then forwarded to the recipients specified on the petition through email attachments.
If the city is not able to forward the petition, for any reason, to any one of the specified recipients, the city will notify the proponent of the petition with 5 days so that the proponents can forward the petition themselves.
The petition will be entered into the public record, following applicable state law.
The proponent may request a digital copy of the paper petition, if the original petition is submitted to the city.
The Council may give direction to the city manager to comply with the proposal with administrative regulations, rather than adopting a formal council policy.
Please include this in the written communication of the 9/17 council meeting.
Liang
Liang Chao
Councilmember
City Council
[email protected]
408-777-3192
From: Liang Chao
To: Pamela Wu
Cc: City Clerk
Subject: Fwd: Proposal to Amend Park Sound Amplification Policy Date: Thursday, September 12, 2024 10:03:41 PM
Please add this to the TBA list for discussion as a future agenda item.
Please include this in the written communication of the 9/17 Council meeting.
Thanks.
Liang
Liang Chao
Councilmember
City Council
[email protected]
408-777-3192
From: yuwen su <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, September 12, 2024 9:55 PM
To: Sheila Mohan <[email protected]>; J.R. Fruen <[email protected]>; Hung Wei <[email protected]>; Liang Chao <[email protected]>; Kitty Moore <[email protected]>; Cupertino City Manager's Office <[email protected]> Subject: Proposal to Amend Park Sound Amplification Policy
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.
Dear Mayor Mohan, Council Members, Manager Wu:
I am writing to propose an update of the current city policy that bans sound amplification in our parks. The existing rule is quite restrictive and prevents many of us from enjoying recreational activities that benefit from moderate sound levels, such as dance practice and group exercises.
I suggest the following amendments to the policy:
1. Permit sound amplification if it is not audible more than 50 feet away from the source.
2. Ensure that sound amplification does not reach nearby residential areas or park events.
I would like to point out that the City of Oakland has a similar policy that permits sound amplification under specific conditions, which has successfully balanced recreational use with community peace. Adopting a similar approach could improve our park experience while still respecting our neighbors.
Thank you for considering this proposal. I am available for further discussion and would appreciate the opportunity to provide additional input if needed.
Sincerely,
Yuwen Su
7720 Orogrande Place,
Cupertino
408-390-4133
From: Santosh Rao
To: City Council; Pamela Wu
Cc: City Clerk
Subject: Please pull agenda item 9 from consent calendar.
Date: Thursday, September 12, 2024 7:17:58 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.
Dear City Clerk,
Please include the below in written communications.
Dear Mayor Mohan, Cupertino City Council members, Manager Wu, I respectfully request that you remove Item 9 from the Consent Calendar.
The disposition of requested future agenda items should not be placed on the Consent Calendar, as this assumes staff recommendations are accepted without discussion or input from the public or the council.
This is a clear misuse of the Consent Calendar process, as it undermines the input of Cupertino residents and two of the five council members who represent them. Such actions reflect an overly dismissive attitude toward agenda requests made by these council members, who represent a significant portion of our city’s population. Furthermore, allowing the majority of the council to unilaterally remove future agenda items highlights a serious flaw in the recent changes to the council procedures manual. This practice effectively suppresses the voice of the council minority and, by extension, the 40% of Cupertino residents they represent.
I urge you to revisit the council procedures to make it easier to request agenda items and more difficult to remove them without proper deliberation.
Regarding the disposition of items in Attachment A, I strongly recommend that agenda items of significant importance to residents not be placed for consideration in October, as the current council’s term is coming to an end.
The residents of Cupertino should be given the opportunity to express their choice in the upcoming November election, and the new council, seated for the 2025-2026 term, should have the responsibility of handling these future agenda items.
Specifically, I request that you refrain from removing requested agenda items related to community updates on general plan amendments or major construction projects (Items 3 and 14). Additionally, any decisions related to the potential purchase of an office building should be deferred until the new council is seated, as this represents a significant strategic decision that deserves careful consideration by the newly elected body.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
San Rao
CC 09-17-2024
Item No. 11
Lauretta Drive
and Ann Arbor
Ave Residential
Permit Parking
Written Communications
From: Liang Chao
To: City Clerk
Subject: Fwd: Permit Parking Zone on Ann Arbor Ave/Laurette Drive Date: Monday, September 16, 2024 8:12:18 PM
Please enter this into the written communication of the 9/17 council meeting.
Thanks.
Get Outlook for iOS
Liang Chao
Councilmember
City Council
[email protected]
408-777-3192
From: Alex Chang <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 16, 2024 3:12 PM
To: Liang Chao <[email protected]>
Subject: Permit Parking Zone on Ann Arbor Ave/Laurette Drive
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 Ms. Chao,
My name is Poyen (Alex) Chang and my address is at 10314 Ann Arbor Avenue, Cupertino. We met several times in Silicon Valley Chinese School events when I was serving as Principle from 2014 – 2016. I’d like to say thank you again for being so supportive to our school as an influential community leader.
Our neighborhood filed a petition recently regarding an extension of the residential permit parking zone of Ann Arbor Court, which covers along the conjunction portions of Ann Arbor Avenue and Lauretta Drive to Ann Arbor Court.
The reason of the petition is to restore the quiet/safe neighborhood we used to have before converting the tennis courts into pickle ball courts in Memorial Park. Pickle ball players park their vehicles along the curbsides starting at as early as 6:30 pm on a daily basis and the situation is getting worse apparently. Memorial Park provides the parking spaces where the players should utilize when coming to their games. Since Garden Gate Elementary School is so close, driving safety issue is greatly concerned as well.
We hope you can help reduce the unnecessary traffic and ensure the safety and peace neighborhood by approving the petition after the reading(s) of an ordinance to establish the proposed residential permit parking zone. The first reading will be held on September 17. Your attention on the petition would be greatly appreciated! Warm Regards,
Alex Chang
From: Lloyd McKee
To: City Clerk; City Council; [email protected]
Subject: Fwd: See Photos From Last Friday night -- Please approve -- permit parking zone , see enclosed files Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 2:03:08 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.
Hello,
“City Council Members” and City Clerk,
During an email with council member LChao, she informed me of the following.
“…
Please note that emails to individual council members are not entered into the written communication portion of the Council meeting records.
If you wish your email to be included, email the entire council or cc the city clerk and indicate that you wish the email to be included in the the record for the 9/17 council meeting.
…”
Please include this email chain into the record for item #11 on the agenda for September 17, 2024.
Thank you, Lloyd McKee
21185 Lauretta Drive
Cupertino, CA 95014
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Liang Chao <[email protected]>
Date: Tue, Sep 17, 2024 at 1:18 PM
Subject: Re: See Photos From Last Friday night -- Please approve -- permit parking zone , see enclosed files
To: Lloyd McKee <[email protected]
>
Thank you. Appreciate the photo. Saved me a trip.
I was hoping to drive by to take a look there yesterday, but got busy and then it was too late.
Please note that emails to individual council members are not entered into the written communication portion of the Council meeting records. If you wish your email to be included, email the entire council or cc the city clerk and indicate that you wish the email to be included in the the record for the 9/17 council meeting.
Liang Chao
Councilmember
City Council
[email protected]
408-777-3192
From: Lloyd McKee <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 16, 2024 8:48 PM
To: Liang Chao <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; David Stillman <[email protected]>
Subject: See Photos From Last Friday night -- Please approve -- permit parking zone , see enclosed files
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,
Thank you for the reply and acknowledgement that there is an issue. I am aware my emails are terse.
When there are large numbers of Cars parked on Ann Arbor/Lauretta Drive, I drive by the parking lot you reference. I see open parking stalls.
See photos from Friday night, 9/13/2024. There are 9 cars parked on Lauretta Drive.
Thank you, Lloyd McKee
21185 Lauretta Drive
Cupertino, CA 95014
Sent from my Windows 11 PC
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Liang Chao <[email protected]>
Date: Mon, Sep 16, 2024 at 7:23 PM
Subject: Re: Please approve -- permit parking zone , see enclosed files To: Lloyd McKee <[email protected]
>, [email protected]
<[email protected]>
Thanks for the maps.
I was just talking to the city manager this morning and wonder why those pickleball players don't park at the park parking lot, which is not very far.
My son played tennis there for a few years, so I've always parked in the parking lot. It's hardly full and the walk to the tennis court is nice.
Plus, they are there to exercise anyway. The short walking distance from the parking lot should be no big deal. It's a matter habit, I guess.
Unless the parking lot at the park is full, which I'm not so sure about.
Liang Chao
Councilmember
City Council
[email protected]
408-777-3192
From: Lloyd McKee <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 16, 2024 2:53 PM
To: Liang Chao <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]> Subject: Please approve -- permit parking zone , see enclosed files
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,
Councilmember Liang-Fang ''Liang'' Chao,
Your question follows.
“…
Thank you for writing to the Council.
It seems the stretch of road you request is short and quite a distance from Memorial Park Tennis court,
Why are there vehicles parking in your neighborhood?
Thanks!
Liang
…”
Human behavior is difficult to predict. I have attached a pdf that shows distance using Gooogle maps. Gooogle maps are an excellent measure of distance.
Thank you, Lloyd McKee
21185 Lauretta drive
Cupertino, CA 95014
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Liang Chao <[email protected]>
Date: Fri, Sep 13, 2024 at 4:21 PM
Subject: Re: Please approve -- permit parking zone
To: Lloyd McKee <[email protected]
>
Thank you for writing to the Council.
It seems the stretch of road you request is short and quite a distance from Memorial Park Tennis court,
Why are there vehicles parking in your neighborhood?
Thanks!
Liang
Liang Chao
Councilmember
City Council
[email protected]
408-777-3192
From: Lloyd McKee <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, September 13, 2024 12:06 PM
To: Sheila Mohan <[email protected]>; J.R. Fruen <[email protected]>; Liang Chao <[email protected]>; Kitty Moore <[email protected]>; Hung Wei <[email protected]>
Subject: Please approve -- permit parking zone
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,
Invitation to do a drive by Lauretta Drive/Ann Arbor on Saturday, 9-14- 2024.
Please be mindful that the DeAnza Parking lot is open to parking.
My Daughter walks near the Stevens Creek Dam and pays $5 to park her car. She explains it is just the cost of walking near the Dam, she likes the walks. I have sent photos of a Tesla, and other expensive cars can afford a small parking lot fee.
Please approve the “permit parking zone” for Lauretta Drive and Ann Arbor.
Enclosed is a letter from David Stillman, Transportation Manager.
Thank You, Lloyd McKee
21185 Lauretta Drive
Cupertino, CA 95014
From: Lloyd McKee
To: City Clerk; City Council; [email protected]
Subject: Fwd: Please approve -- permit parking zone , see enclosed files Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 1:58:39 PM
Attachments: email reply to Council Member LChao d20240916.pdf email reply to LChao d20240916.pdf
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,
“City Council Members” and City Clerk,
During an email with council member LChao, she informed me of the following.
“…
Please note that emails to individual council members are not entered into the written communication portion of the Council meeting records.
If you wish your email to be included, email the entire council or cc the city clerk and indicate that you wish the email to be included in the the record for the 9/17 council meeting.
…”
Please include this email chain into the record for item #11 on the agenda for September 17, 2024.
Thank you, Lloyd McKee
21185 Lauretta Drive
Cupertino, CA 95014
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Connie Chao <[email protected]>
Date: Mon, Sep 16, 2024 at 8:21 PM
Subject: Re: Please approve -- permit parking zone , see enclosed files To: Liang Chao <[email protected]>
Cc: Lloyd McKee <[email protected]>, Connie Chao <[email protected]> Hello Councilmember Chao,
Thank you for your comments and all of your efforts to make Cupertino the wonderful community it is. I am at 10315 Ann Arbor Ave at the corner of Ann Arbor Ave and Ann Arbor Ct. Lloyd is two houses away from me. We share your sentiments! We have consistently observed that pickleball players will revert back to the park’s lots if they see that there are no open slots in the “red zone” (proposed restricted area) that David Stillman marked on his map as it’s a shorter walk. The people that are parking in this red zone are staying for several hours - some diehards are parked up to six hours and come back in the late afternoon (when cooler) to play again until 10 pm when the court lights go out. With fall/winter cooler weather approaching, we fear that pickleball players will be a constant presence in this red zone from very early in the morning (as early as 6:30 am!) until 10 pm.
I hope to make the council meeting Tuesday evening to speak on behalf of our neighborhood group.
Best regards,
Constance Chao
10315 Ann Arbor Ave
Email: [email protected]
Cell: 408/806-0180
Sent from my iPhone
On Sep 17, 2024, at 4:23 AM, Liang Chao <[email protected]> wrote:
Thanks for the maps.
I was just talking to the city manager this morning and wonder why those pickleball players don't park at the park parking lot, which is not very far.
My son played tennis there for a few years, so I've always parked in the parking lot. It's hardly full and the walk to the tennis court is nice.
Plus, they are there to exercise anyway. The short walking distance from the parking lot should be no big deal. It's a matter habit, I guess.
Unless the parking lot at the park is full, which I'm not so sure about.
Liang Chao
Councilmember
City Council
[email protected]
408-777-3192
From: Lloyd McKee <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, September 16, 2024 2:53 PM
To: Liang Chao <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>
Subject: Please approve -- permit parking zone , see enclosed files
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,
Councilmember Liang-Fang ''Liang'' Chao,
Your question follows.
“…
Thank you for writing to the Council.
It seems the stretch of road you request is short and quite a distance from Memorial Park Tennis court,
Why are there vehicles parking in your neighborhood?
Thanks!
Liang
…”
Human behavior is difficult to predict. I have attached a pdf that shows distance using Gooogle maps. Gooogle maps are an excellent measure of distance.
Thank you, Lloyd McKee
21185 Lauretta drive
Cupertino, CA 95014
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Liang Chao <[email protected]>
Date: Fri, Sep 13, 2024 at 4:21 PM
Subject: Re: Please approve -- permit parking zone
To: Lloyd McKee <[email protected]
>
Thank you for writing to the Council.
It seems the stretch of road you request is short and quite a distance from Memorial Park Tennis court,
Why are there vehicles parking in your neighborhood?
Thanks!
Liang
Liang Chao
Councilmember
City Council
[email protected]
408-777-3192
From: Lloyd McKee <[email protected]>
Sent: Friday, September 13, 2024 12:06 PM
To: Sheila Mohan <[email protected]>; J.R. Fruen <[email protected]>; Liang Chao <[email protected]>; Kitty Moore <[email protected]>; Hung Wei <[email protected]>
Subject: Please approve -- permit parking zone
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,
Invitation to do a drive by Lauretta Drive/Ann Arbor on Saturday, 9-14-2024.
Please be mindful that the DeAnza Parking lot is open to parking.
My Daughter walks near the Stevens Creek Dam and pays $5 to park her car. She explains it is just the cost of walking near the Dam, she likes the walks. I have sent photos of a Tesla, and other expensive cars can afford a small parking lot fee.
Please approve the “permit parking zone” for Lauretta Drive and Ann Arbor.
Enclosed is a letter from David Stillman, Transportation Manager.
Thank You, Lloyd McKee
21185 Lauretta Drive
Cupertino, CA 95014
Hello,
The two screen images below are Gooogle maps of the distance. 1) The Ann Arbor/Lauretta Drive to Memorial Park tennis court is 0.1 miles.
2) The Memorial parking lot to Tennis Court is 0.2 miles.
The visual of map is difficult to get precise measurements.
See screen images of Gooogle maps. Shows distance from Memorial parking lot to Tennis Court.
See screen images of Gooogle maps. Shows distance from Ann Arbor/Lauretta Drive to Tennis Court.
Sincerely Yours, Lloyd McKee
21185 Lauretta Drive
Cupertino, CA 95014
Sent from my Windows 11 PC
Hello,
Councilmember Liang-Fang ''Liang'' Chao,
Your question follows.
“…
Thank you for writing to the Council.
It seems the stretch of road you request is short and quite a distance from Memorial Park Tennis court,
Why are there vehicles parking in your neighborhood?
Thanks!
Liang
…”
Human behavior is difficult to predict. I have attached a pdf that shows distance using Gooogle maps. Gooogle maps are an excellent measure of distance.
Thank you, Lloyd McKee
21185 Lauretta drive
Cupertino, CA 95014
From: Lloyd McKee
To: City Clerk; City Council; [email protected]
Subject: Please put into the Record -- Please approve -- permit parking zone Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 1:49:28 PM
Attachments: Letter from David Stillman.pdf
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,
“City Council Members” and City Clerk,
During an email with council member LChao, she informed me of the following.
“…
Please note that emails to individual council members are not entered into the written communication portion of the Council meeting records.
If you wish your email to be included, email the entire council or cc the city clerk and indicate that you wish the email to be included in the the record for the 9/17 council meeting.
…”
Please include this email chain into the record for item #11 on the agenda for September 17, 2024.
Thank you, Lloyd McKee
21185 Lauretta Drive
Cupertino, CA 95014
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Lloyd McKee <[email protected]>
Date: Fri, Sep 13, 2024 at 11:40 AM
Subject: Please approve -- permit parking zone
To: <[email protected]
>
Hello,
Vice Mayor J.R. Fruen
Please approve the “permit parking zone” for Lauretta Drive and Ann Arbor.
Enclosed is a letter from David Stillman, Transportation Manager.
Also, see enclosed photos.
Thank You, Lloyd McKee
21185 Lauretta Drive
Cupertino, CA 95014
From: Lloyd McKee
To: City Clerk; City Council; [email protected]
Subject: Please put into the Record -- Please approve -- permit parking zone Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 1:48:37 PM
Attachments: Letter from David Stillman.pdf
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,
“City Council Members” and City Clerk,
During an email with council member LChao, she informed me of the following.
“…
Please note that emails to individual council members are not entered into the written communication portion of the Council meeting records.
If you wish your email to be included, email the entire council or cc the city clerk and indicate that you wish the email to be included in the the record for the 9/17 council meeting.
…”
Please include this email chain into the record for item #11 on the agenda for September 17, 2024.
Thank you, Lloyd McKee
21185 Lauretta Drive
Cupertino, CA 95014
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Lloyd McKee <[email protected]>
Date: Fri, Sep 13, 2024 at 11:43 AM
Subject: Please approve -- permit parking zone
To: <[email protected]
>
Hello,
Councilmember Liang-Fang ''Liang'' Chao
Please approve the “permit parking zone” for Lauretta Drive and Ann Arbor.
Enclosed is a letter from David Stillman, Transportation Manager.
Also, see enclosed photos.
Thank You, Lloyd McKee
21185 Lauretta Drive
Cupertino, CA 95014
From: Lloyd McKee
To: City Clerk; City Council; [email protected]
Subject: Please put into the Record -- Please approve -- permit parking zone Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 1:46:42 PM
Attachments: Letter from David Stillman.pdf
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,
“City Council Members” and City Clerk,
During an email with council member LChao, she informed me of the following.
“…
Please note that emails to individual council members are not entered into the written communication portion of the Council meeting records.
If you wish your email to be included, email the entire council or cc the city clerk and indicate that you wish the email to be included in the the record for the 9/17 council meeting.
…”
Please include this email chain into the record for item #11 on the agenda for September 17, 2024.
Thank you, Lloyd McKee
21185 Lauretta Drive
Cupertino, CA 95014
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Lloyd McKee <[email protected]>
Date: Fri, Sep 13, 2024 at 11:48 AM
Subject: Please approve -- permit parking zone
To: <[email protected]
>
Hello,
Councilmember Hung Wei
Please approve the “permit parking zone” for Lauretta Drive and Ann Arbor.
Enclosed is a letter from David Stillman, Transportation Manager.
Also, see enclosed photos.
Thank You, Lloyd McKee
21185 Lauretta Drive
Cupertino, CA 95014
From: Lloyd McKee
To: City Clerk; City Council; [email protected]
Subject: Please put into the Record -- Please approve -- permit parking zone Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 1:44:53 PM
Attachments: Letter from David Stillman.pdf
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,
“City Council Members” and City Clerk,
During an email with council member LChao, she informed me of the following.
“…
Please note that emails to individual council members are not entered into the written communication portion of the Council meeting records.
If you wish your email to be included, email the entire council or cc the city clerk and indicate that you wish the email to be included in the the record for the 9/17 council meeting.
…”
Please include this email chain into the record for item #11 on the agenda for September 17, 2024.
Thank you, Lloyd McKee
21185 Lauretta Drive
Cupertino, CA 95014
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Lloyd McKee <[email protected]>
Date: Fri, Sep 13, 2024 at 11:46 AM
Subject: Please approve -- permit parking zone
To: <[email protected]
>
Hello,
Councilmember Kitty Moore
Please approve the “permit parking zone” for Lauretta Drive and Ann Arbor.
Enclosed is a letter from David Stillman, Transportation Manager.
Also, see enclosed photos.
Thank You, Lloyd McKee
21185 Lauretta Drive
Cupertino, CA 95014
From: Lloyd McKee
To: City Clerk; City Council; [email protected]
Subject: Please put into the Record -- Please Approve -- permit parking zone Date: Tuesday, September 17, 2024 1:44:20 PM
Attachments: Letter from David Stillman.pdf
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,
“City Council Members” and City Clerk,
During an email with council member LChao, she informed me of the following.
“…
Please note that emails to individual council members are not entered into the written communication portion of the Council meeting records.
If you wish your email to be included, email the entire council or cc the city clerk and indicate that you wish the email to be included in the the record for the 9/17 council meeting.
…”
Please include this email chain into the record for item #11 on the agenda for September 17, 2024.
Thank you, Lloyd McKee
21185 Lauretta Drive
Cupertino, CA 95014
---------- Forwarded message ---------
From: Lloyd McKee <[email protected]>
Date: Fri, Sep 13, 2024 at 11:38 AM
Subject: Please Approve -- permit parking zone
To: <[email protected]
>
Hello,
Mayor Sheila Mohan
Please approve the “permit parking zone” for Lauretta Drive and Ann Arbor.
Enclosed is a letter from David Stillman, Transportation Manager.
Also, see enclosed photos.
Thank You, Lloyd McKee
21185 Lauretta Drive
Cupertino, CA 95014