From: Ratnendra Pandey
To: Mayor and Council; Lisa Gillmor; Kathy Watanabe; Sudhanshu Jain; Karen Hardy; Kevin Park; Raj Chahal; Anthony Becker
Date: Saturday, October 26, 2024 11:09:21 AM
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Dear Mayor and Council Members,
Please look for an alternative site for a homeless center.
Please do not approve the homeless shelter at Benton Street and Lawrence Expressway in Santa Clara.
Sincerely,
Ratnendra Pandey
From: Kevin Heller
To: Mayor and Council
Subject: support for benton/lawrence housing project
Date: Monday, October 28, 2024 11:24:33 AM
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important Dear City Council Members,
I am writing as a resident, parent, and community member to express my full support for the Benton/Lawrence Interim Housing Project. I appreciate the time and effort the Council has put into advancing this initiative, an essential step in addressing our community’s housing needs and ensuring that families and children have the safety and stability they deserve.
This opportunity to secure HomeKey grant funding for the project is something we cannot afford to overlook. I’m grateful for the partnerships with the county, Sobrato, and other stakeholders that make this project one of the most efficient uses of resources to serve our city’s most vulnerable residents.
While I recognize that funding concerns may be a factor for some, but the cost of not providing safe housing for families and children is far greater. Stable housing is the foundation upon which community well-being is built, and by earmarking funds toward this project, Santa Clara is taking an inspiring step to secure that foundation.
As a member of this community, I am committed to supporting this project and the work of this Council to make our city a place where every family has the opportunity to thrive. Thank you for considering this crucial initiative, and for your ongoing dedication to the people of Santa Clara.
Kind regards,
Kevin Heller-Antrim, EdD
From: Sarah Jabin
To: Mayor and Council; Lisa Gillmor; Kathy Watanabe; Sudhanshu Jain; Karen Hardy; Kevin Park; Raj Chahal; Anthony Becker
Subject: Re: Benton Shelter Project
Date: Monday, October 28, 2024 11:46:51 AM
[You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important at https://aka ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ]
Good Morning City Council Members,
As a lifelong resident of the City of Santa Clara, I would like to express that I am against the Benton Shelter Project.
The location chosen is not near public transportation, an individual would have to walk through residential neighborhoods (condensed apartment complexes housing primarily families with small children) and single family homes to get to the nearest bus station, which is the ONLY mode of public transportation in this area. There are also already 2 smaller houseless shelters within a half mile radius. Residents from these shelters already wander through the neighborhood, including my current gated complex in which there was on a couple occasions house less people were rummaging through trash. Having a larger complex in the vicinity will cause further issues.
The shelter is also near a couple parks and elementary schools - which can pose a safety concern as there will be a no identification requirement - this can attract those who are not on parole with certain criminal offenses that may pose a danger to the public and children.
I hope the City will take these issues into consideration when considering this project.
Regards,
Sarah
From: Megan Fincher
To: Mayor and Council
Subject: Project Homekey - Lawrence and Benton - Homeless issues in Santa Clara Date: Sunday, October 27, 2024 11:20:55 PM
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Hello Mayor and Council,
I just learned about this project on Nextdoor. It seems that many people oppose this due to “safety or financial concerns”. However, I am very excited to hear about this project, and I believe safety and finances can be managed by the experts.
I was born and raised in Santa Clara, and I’m thankful that I have never been homeless. But I speak to homeless people around our city, and I know many individuals who need housing and case management. I would like to share a few stories.
There is a woman named Candie who lives in her car in a parking lot in my neighborhood. She applied for housing assistance over a year ago, but has yet to receive any support. Her children attend school in Santa Clara, but they live with a family member since she does not have housing. She has struggled a lot, including with drug addiction, but has been clean over two years. She got a job at McDonald’s and has been working hard to improve her life. But there are days where the struggle is overwhelming. If you can provide support, it would mean the world to her, and her children.
There is a man named Ramon who often stays in Central Park, but sometimes goes closer to Lawrence Expwy. If you saw him, you might not realize that he’s homeless because he takes good care of his appearance, but then you may see him carrying a suitcase wherever he goes. He stays to himself, and doesn’t cause any trouble, or drink or do drugs, and is so kind and humble. Yet he was attacked at a 7-11 in September, for simply asking for help. He lost his housing a few years ago, but doesn’t have access or knowledge of resources to get back on his feet.
There is another man named Steven who usually stays behind Dennys by City Hall, but frequents Panera and Pete’s coffee for a place to sit and access the internet on his tablet. I helped him with clothing and luggage many months ago, but it was later stolen by another homeless person, so I helped him again. He is so gracious and resilient. He has access to a case manager in Mountain View, but has no support in Santa Clara.
All of these people need support. They need case managers and help to get back on their feet. They need cell phones, safety, and other basic needs. They are not dangerous. I see them often enough to know them by name, and I help them in any way that I can. Sometimes I buy them food, other times I help with clothes, hygiene, and other essentials, or just kindness and encouragement. When I am out with my children and I see them, I introduce them to my children. These are not people to be scared of.
I do understand that community members are worried about safety and financials. However, I believe that these issues can be managed, and helping the homeless should be a financial priority. It’s sad that many people paint the homeless as dangerous. Many won’t even talk to homeless people, almost as if homelessness is contagious. Sure there are some who are dangerous, on drugs, or commit crimes, but that applies to people with housing as well.
In September, I volunteered with church friends to serve the homeless in St. James Park in San Jose. Over the course of 4 Friday afternoons, we served over 400 people with food, toiletries, clothing, blankets, and more. I witnessed the needs first hand, and heard many stories of individuals and families struggling with homelessness. I see homeless people in Santa Clara every day, and I’m sure you do too. But I don’t know of any places in Santa Clara where they can get help. I have called homeless resource lines for some of these people in Santa Clara, and the resource lines tell me to have the people call or go to offices in San Jose. However, most of these homeless people do not have phones or transportation, so they have no way to call or access the services.
I really hope that you can find a way to make this program happen and help homeless individuals and families as soon as possible. Some residents may be against it, but I beg you to do what’s right. These people need help. In addition to this, I ask you to consider other ways to reach out to the homeless in our city, and assist them with basic services like cell phones and case managers. And lastly, when you see a homeless person, smile and say hello. Treat them with dignity and respect.
Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
Megan Fincher
From: Aigul K.
To: Mayor and Council
Subject: I"m against the Benton Shelter
Date: Monday, October 28, 2024 11:13:52 AM
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important We are residents of the area where you want the shelter, if it happens you will destroy this place, where youngsters are living, and most of they go to the nearby Pomeroy Elementary School. It will be covered by the
syringes, garbage, and poop. its going to be second San Francisco, dying City.
The city already carries a debt of 600 million. Hope you will not do this.
With regards Aigul Pulatova, Tilek Mursaliev resident of Catalina Apartments
From: Liya Leah Ye
To: Liya Leah Ye
Subject: Concerns Regarding the Benton Shelter Project
Date: Saturday, October 26, 2024 9:08:23 PM
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Hello,
I hope this message finds you well. I am writing to express my concerns regarding the proposed shelter project in our community. While I understand the need for solutions to homelessness, I believe it is crucial to address the implications of this Benton Shelter project on our city and its residents.
1. Financial Pressure: The city is already facing a significant debt of $600 million. I am worried that the additional costs associated with operating and maintaining the shelter could further strain our city’s finances. We need to prioritize fiscal responsibility to ensure the long-term stability of our community.
2. Safety Risks: The proposed low-barrier shelter raises safety concerns for the surrounding community. It is essential to consider the impact on local residents and businesses, as well as the potential for increased incidents that could affect the quality of life in our neighborhood.
3. Questioning Fiscal Health: If the city is in a position to fund a new shelter, does this indicate a healthy financial standing? This raises questions about the necessity of the proposed $400 million Bond Measure I. Should we not reconsider our priorities and potentially oppose this measure, given the current economic climate? I urge you to take these concerns into consideration as discussions about the shelter project continue. It is vital for us to work together to ensure that our community remains safe, financially sound, and supportive of all its residents.
Thank you for your attention to these important matters. I look forward to hearing your thoughts.
Sincerely,
Liya (Leah) Ye
From: Rui Zhang
To: Mayor and Council; Lisa Gillmor; Kathy Watanabe; Sudhanshu Jain; Karen Hardy; Kevin Park; Raj Chahal; Anthony Becker
Subject: Concerns Over Proposed Project Homekey Shelter and Financial Impact Date: Saturday, October 26, 2024 5:51:54 PM
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Dear Santa Clara City Council Members,
I am writing to let you know about my concerns about the proposed Project Homekey shelter in our community.
While I appreciate the council’s commitment to addressing homelessness, this project raises several pressing concerns that merit careful consideration. I urge the council to re-evaluate the proposal based on the following key issues:
1. Financial Pressure on an Already Burdened Budget
Our city currently carries a debt burden of $600 million. Adding the operational and maintenance costs of a new shelter will only place further strain on our finances. I question whether additional financial obligations for this project are sustainable, especially given the other critical needs that require funding.
2. Potential Safety Risks
The planned shelter is a low-barrier facility, which may pose potential safety concerns for residents in the surrounding community. While I support efforts to assist unhoused individuals, I believe this approach may unintentionally lead to safety issues that could adversely impact neighborhood stability and quality of life.
3. Fiscal Health and the Upcoming Bond Measure
If the city believes it can afford to operate and maintain this shelter, this could suggest our finances are healthier than perceived. Should this be the case, then the proposed $400 million Bond Measure I, which would increase public debt, may be unnecessary. I encourage transparency and a re-evaluation of the city's fiscal priorities before committing to new expenditures that might not align with residents'needs.
Given these concerns, I respectfully request that the council reconsider moving forward with the Project Homekey shelter in its current form. I also ask for greater transparency in addressing these points, as they have significant implications for our city’s financial future and public safety.
Thank you for considering our views. I look forward to a thoughtful dialogue on this matter and a solution that best serves our entire community.
Sincerely,
Rui
Santa Clara Resident
From: Echeng Cheng
To: Mayor and Council
Subject: Concerns Regarding Benton Homeless Shelter Project Date: Sunday, October 27, 2024 3:19:55 PM
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important Dear Mayor,
I am writing to express my strong concerns about the proposed homeless shelter on Benton Street, a project that was initially raised over a year and a half ago and overwhelmingly opposed by residents at that time. Given the prior decision, I question what new evidence or changes justify bringing this proposal back for discussion.
If implemented, the shelter’s low-barrier entry model—with no ID verification requirements— introduces significant safety concerns for the surrounding community. The lack of screening and mixed accommodations could lead to an environment that poses risks for both shelter residents and nearby neighborhoods. As residents, we seek assurance that our safety is a top priority in any decision regarding this project.
Additionally, the city is already managing a high level of debt, and the additional operational and maintenance costs could further strain our resources. I urge the council to carefully assess the long-term financial impact this shelter could have on Santa Clara’s fiscal health.
I hope the council will take our concerns into account as it considers this project on October
29. Thank you for your attention.
Sincerely,
Ester
Cheng
Cabrillo Ave homeowner
From: Patrick Keegan
To: Mayor and Council; Lisa Gillmor; Kathy Watanabe; Sudhanshu Jain; Karen Hardy; Kevin Park; Raj Chahal; Anthony Becker
Subject: Benton Homeless Shelter
Date: Saturday, October 26, 2024 5:15:08 AM
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Do not support this! It is the wrong thing to do, at the wrong place, at the wrong time.
Patrick Keegan
From: R S
To: Mayor and Council
Subject: Benton Homeless Shelter Project
Date: Monday, October 28, 2024 11:23:01 AM
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important Hello,
I am a Santa Clara resident and I am against the building of Benton Shelter Project.
Sincerely,
Ravi Sharma
From: Zhihao Ji
To: Zhihao Ji
Subject: Vote NO on Benton Shelter
Date: Monday, October 28, 2024 11:51:40 PM
Dear Council Member,
Recently, I saw the news that Santa Clara city will vote for Benton Shelter to re-approve the budget. I am writing to express my concerns about our city’s finances and the proposal for Benton low entry barrier interim housing, which may further strain our budget.
Since the City of Santa Clara already has a $600 Million deficit and is planning to issue a new $400 Million general obligation bond, this shelter proposal will create more difficulties for city financial situations.
Could you care more about current residents? We have the International Swim Center closed, and don't have enough funds to repair and maintain it. This swim center brings so much fun for local residents and I really hope the city can invest enough for local residents.
Also, there are SO many LOCAL residents who are against this homeless shelter, but city
ignored residents' ask last year. So please don't let local residents down again this year. We are concerned about our safety since this homeless shelter is SO close to the neighborhood.
I urge you and the council to reconsider this proposal and prioritize a more balanced, financially responsible approach.
Thank you for your attention to these concerns.
Sincerely,
Zhihao
From: Lan Luo
To: Mayor and Council
Subject: Strongly Oppose to Benton Shelter Plan
Date: Monday, October 28, 2024 10:22:37 PM
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important Dear Officer,
I am reaching out to convey my concerns regarding our city’s financial situation and the proposed Benton low-entry barrier interim housing, which may place additional stress on our budget.
1. Deficit Concerns: Our city is currently grappling with a significant $600 million deficit, raising crucial questions about our fiscal priorities and long-term financial stability.
2. Interim Housing Costs: The ongoing maintenance and operational expenses linked to the proposed shelter are likely to deepen this deficit, further straining our city’s financial resources.
3. Safety for Families: The proposed shelter operates as a low-barrier facility, which does not adequately address the need for a safe, secure environment for families seeking shelter.
4. Bond Measure Opposition: If the city can accommodate an additional shelter, it suggests more budget flexibility than previously conveyed, raising doubts about the necessity of a new $400 million bond. For these reasons, I intend to vote “no” on Measure I.
I strongly encourage you and the council to reevaluate this proposal and pursue a more balanced, fiscally responsible approach.
Thank you for considering these concerns.
Sincerely,
Lan Luo
From: Sandy Jiao
To: Mayor and Council
Subject: Strong Opposition to Benton Shelter Plan
Date: Monday, October 28, 2024 10:36:17 PM
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important Dear Officer,
I am reaching out to share my concerns about our city’s finances and the proposed Benton low-barrier interim housing, which could further strain our budget.
1. Deficit Concerns: With a current city deficit of $600 million, it’s essential to address our financial priorities and long-term stability.
2. Interim Housing Costs: The operational and maintenance costs of this proposed shelter are likely to increase the deficit, adding additional pressure to our financial resources.
3. Safety for Families: As a low-barrier facility, the shelter does not fully address the need for a safe, secure environment for families in need.
4. Bond Measure Opposition: If the city can fund this shelter, it implies greater budget flexibility than previously indicated, raising questions about the necessity of the proposed $400 million bond. For these reasons, I plan to vote “no” on Measure I.
I urge you and the council to reconsider this proposal and focus on a more balanced, financially sustainable approach.
Thank you for your attention to these issues.
Sincerely,
Yang Jiao
From: Vishal Tanna
To: Mayor and Council; Sudhanshu Jain; Anthony Becker; Karen Hardy; Kevin Park; Kathy Watanabe; Lisa Gillmor; Raj Chahal
Subject: RE: Reappropriating Santa Clara city funds for Benton Shelter project Date: Tuesday, October 29, 2024 8:07:39 AM
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Dear Mayor and council members,
I am writing to express my concerns about the current state of our city’s finances and the proposal for Benton low entry barrier interim housing, which may further strain our budget.
Apart from below mentioned concerns, we are deeply concerned about all the secrecy around this project, constant backdoor pursuance from county supervisors and their pressure on city as well as very unclear and vague communication from county after this project approved back in May’23. Every time neighbors send email either it results in no response or vague one liner while we hear that county supervisors are pushing this very hard in background even though project was not selected for Homekey 3.0 funding.
1. Deficit Concerns: As you know, the city is currently facing a substantial deficit of $600 million. This raises serious questions about our fiscal priorities and sustainability.
2. Interim Housing Costs: The maintenance and operational costs associated with the proposed shelter will likely exacerbate this deficit, placing further strain on our city’s financial resources.
3. Safety for Families: The current shelter proposal remains a low-barrier facility, which does not address the need for a safe and secure environment for families seeking shelter
or those residing in the neighborhood
.
4. Bond Measure Opposition: If the city has the resources to manage an additional shelter, it suggests there is more budget flexibility than previously indicated. This, in turn, calls into question the necessity of issuing a new $400 million bond.
I urge you and the council to reconsider this proposal and prioritize a more balanced, financially responsible approach.
Thank you for your attention to these concerns.
Sincerely,
Vishal Tanna
--
Typing one handed. Please excuse typos
From: Benny Fong
To: Mayor and Council; Lisa Gillmor
Subject: Please vote NO to Benton Shelter on Oct 29, 2024 Date: Monday, October 28, 2024 1:41:26 PM
Hello Mayor Gillmor:
Please vote NO to Benton Shelter at the city council meeting. Your voters will appreciate it.
We are told Santa Clara City is under financial pressure now. The city is carrying $600 million in debt. The additional Benton Shelter will worsen our financial position by its construction cost and maintenance cost. In addition, it will increase the load of community facilities, and safety and health measures accordingly. Located within walking distances to dozens of schools, daycares, public playgrounds, and senior homes, the safety of the local community is always a big concern. The shelter will cost much more than it appears right now.
If the city had the capacity to fund a new shelter, there is no reason that we need Measure I to raise an additional $400 million Bond.
Please vote NO to refuse contribution to the built, operation and maintenance cost of Benton Shelter.
It should be funded solely on the State level.
I am counting on you!
Best Regards,
Benny Fong
Registered Voter at City of Santa Clara
From: J Pan
To: Mayor and Council
Subject: Opposed to Benton Shelter
Date: Monday, October 28, 2024 12:50:11 PM
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important Hello Santa Clara City Council,
Please vote NO to Benton Shelter on the city council meeting.
We are told Santa Clara City is under financial pressure now. The city is carrying $600 million in debt. The additional Benton Shelter will worsen our financial position by its construction cost and maintenance cost. In addition, it will increase the load of community facilities, and safety and health measures accordingly. Located within walking distances to dozens of schools, daycares, public playgrounds, and senior homes, the safety of the local community is always a big concern. The shelter will cost much more than it appears right now.
If the city had the capacity to fund a new shelter, there is no reason I believe we need Measure I to raise an additional $400 million Bond.
Please vote NO to refuse contribution to the built, operation and maintenance cost of Benton Shelter.
I am counting on you!
Best Regards,
Jiayi Pan
Registered Voter at City of Santa Clara
From: Cui Cao
To: Cui Cao
Subject: No for Benton Shelter
Date: Tuesday, October 29, 2024 9:10:11 AM
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Dear City Council Member
I am writing to express my concerns about the current state of our city’s finances and the proposal for Benton low entry barrier interim housing, which may further strain our budget. Deficit Concerns: As you know, the city is currently facing a substantial deficit of $600 million. This raises serious questions about our fiscal priorities and sustainability.
Interim Housing Costs: The maintenance and operational costs associated with the proposed shelter will likely exacerbate this deficit, placing further strain on our city’s financial resources. Safety for Families: The current shelter proposal remains a low- barrier facility, which does not address the need for a safe and secure environment for families seeking shelter. Bond Measure Opposition: If the city has the resources to manage an additional shelter, it suggests there is more budget flexibility than previously indicated. This, in turn, calls into question the necessity of issuing a new $400 million bond. For these reasons, I will be voting "no" on Measure I. I urge you and the council to reconsider this proposal and prioritize a more balanced, financially responsible approach. Thank you for your attention to these concerns.
Sincerely,
Cui Cao
From: Santa Clara Housing Advocates
To: Mayor and Council; Clerk; Karen Hardy; Anthony Becker; Lisa Gillmor; Raj Chahal; Sudhanshu Jain; Kevin Park; Kathy Watanabe
Subject: In Support of Agenda Item 1. 24-1079
Date: Monday, October 28, 2024 9:23:57 PM
Attachments: Benton Project Letter of Support 10.29.24.pdf As you know, tomorrow you will be voting to appropriate the already agreed upon money to go towards the potential Benton / Lawrence Interim Housing Project. You may remember that this was previously included in the FY 23/24 budget, which passed unanimously.
A letter is attached to this email expressing our support and gratitude for these actions, with a broad coalition of supporting organizations included.
In addition to reading through the comprehensive agenda packet created by your staff for this meeting, members in our group did additional research to clarify some questions that we have heard from the Council and other leaders. The primary concern you have shared is funding.
We hope that the summary below, currently our best understanding of how matters stand, resolves that concern. We also know that you can't put a price on the welfare of children who will one day live in this building.
We also encourage you to review the resources we created in 2023, including 16 Reasons why we support this project, backed by evidence and research.
Thank you, and we look forward to seeing you at the Council Meeting tomorrow evening.
P.S. We promise to do our part to not create another 7 hour meeting ---
As the City decided not to be a co-sponsor of the Homekey application, there are no agreements currently in place between the City and either the State or with the County/LifeMoves that commit the city to spend any funds on the Lawrence/Benton interim housing project.
The letter sent to the County from the City Manager on June 14th 2023 (in accordance with the City Council's votes the previous month) formally acknowledged a commitment to allocate up to $7M,
a combination of City
Budget operating funds and PHLA funds, over a period of 7 years towards the operation of the facility if and when it is built. The letter, provided in the agenda packet, indicates that a
Revenue Sharing agreement, requiring
a restrictive, recorded covenant, would in due course have to be negotiated between the City, County and LifeMoves, and approved by the City before any forthcoming offer of funding from Homekey could be accepted. The revenue sharing agreement would spell out all the financial details of the commitment between the City and the County/LifeMoves, and the covenant would clearly define all the restrictions on use, operations and occupancy by families, etc that would be binding on the City and the County/LifeMoves.
On June 27th 2023, in the annual budgeting process, the Council voted to confirm that up to $7M budget allocation.
Now, more than a year later, the project applicants, the County and LifeMoves, have been notified that Homekey is interested in funding the project, but because of the length of time that has passed, the budget allocation by the City - estimated slightly lower than before, at $6.6M over
7 years - must be reconfirmed before a formal award from Homekey can be offered. If that reconfirmation happens, a HomeKey offer would be forthcoming, and the City staff would negotiate with the County and LifeMoves to create the Revenue Sharing Agreement and restrictive covenant, which would then be brought back to the Council for approval.
After approval, the project applicants could proceed to accept the Homekey funding.
So, two separate legal agreements are involved. One would be between the State and the County/LifeMoves. The other would be between the City and the County/LifeMoves. The City is in a position to craft the latter agreement (which does not exist yet) in a way that would satisfy its concerns, fiscal and operational. But there is very little time - probably no more than 2 months - to get this done.
Elysa Gurman
Founder | Director & Lead Organizer
Santa Clara Housing Advocates
To: Santa Clara City Council
Santa Clara Housing Advocates (SCHA) thanks you for reaffirming your support for the Lawrence / Benton Interim Housing Project, already demonstrated by your unanimous consent to last year’s budget, which included this line item.
At the time of the original proposal, our Group came together through grassroots organizing along with the allyship of a coalition of community and political organizations in support of this project. Through our research we shared information with the Council and community about the importance of interim housing and benefits specific to this proposal. Your vote will allow for an efficient use of money to be put towards a proven solution to addressing the homelessness crisis. This project is one piece of a larger puzzle that will have positive effects on improved safety, access to healthcare including for mental illness, wrap around services for children and families, social & racial justice, and addressing systemic failures that lead to homelessness.
This vote will show a renewed commitment to our community, which includes dignity for everyone who lives here
By shifting the focus from individuals to family and lowering the height of the building as requested by some community members, this proposal has become a project that everyone in our neighborhood can be happy with, and proud of. This is a unique opportunity to leverage funds from the County, Sobrato Philanthropies, and HomeKey - and these funding streams will never come together again. You can’t put a price on the quality of life for children who will one day live in this building.
SCHA is excited to see the State of California, the City of Santa Clara, and the County of Santa Clara moving to take steps after our long wait. We look forward to the passage of the recommendation from City Staff as written on the agenda, in line with guidance from the City’s Homeless T ask Force and housing experts.
Santa Clara Housing Advocates
[email protected]
schousingadvocates.org
Santa Clara Housing Advocates is a grassroots group of local residents working towards sustainable and practical solutions to the housing crisis in our city in order to improve quality of life for all individuals and communities in Santa Clara.
SCHA has no funding and no affiliations. We are not connected in any way to the city, county, LifeMoves, or any other institution. We are not a 501(c)3 or 501(c)4, we are not a nonprofit, and we have no status as any type of legal entity.
No one asked us to do this. We are just a group of people with shared values who believe in advocating for projects such as this one.
This project also received public support in 2023 from the following organizations:
Destination Home Silicon Valley Community Foundation
SV@Home Santa Clara County Democratic Party
Bill Wilson Center Silicon Valley Democratic Club
Catalyze SV Silicon Valley Working Blue Democratic
Club
Greenbelt Alliance Jewish Democratic Club of Silicon Valley Livable Sunnyvale Peninsula Democratic Coalition
South Bay YIMBY Santa Clara Green Party
All Home Helping Hands Silicon Valley
Housing Action Coalition South County Compassion Center United Way Bay Area Santa Clara County Youth Action Board Amigos de Guadalupe No Time T o Waste
From: Phil L
To: Mayor and Council
Subject: Grave Concerns About Benton Low Entry Barrier Interim Housing Project! Date: Monday, October 28, 2024 5:20:15 PM
[You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important at https://aka ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ]
Dear Mayor & City Council,
I am writing to express my concerns about the current state of our city’s finances and the proposal for Benton low entry barrier interim housing, which may further strain our budget.
Deficit Concerns: As you know, the city is currently facing a substantial deficit of $600 million. This raises serious questions about our fiscal priorities and sustainability.
Interim Housing Costs: The maintenance and operational costs associated with the proposed shelter will likely exacerbate this deficit, placing further strain on our city’s financial resources.
Safety for Families: The current shelter proposal remains a low-barrier facility, which does not address the need for a safe and secure environment for families seeking shelter.
Bond Measure Opposition: If the city has the resources to manage an additional shelter, it suggests there is more budget flexibility than previously indicated. This, in turn, calls into question the necessity of issuing a new $400 million bond. For these reasons, I will be voting "no" on Measure I.
I urge you and the council to reconsider this proposal and prioritize a more balanced, financially responsible approach.
Thank you for your attention to these concerns.
Sincerely,
Yixin Lou
From: Charles Elliotte
To: Mayor and Council; Lisa Gillmor; Kathy Watanabe; Sudhanshu Jain; Karen Hardy; Kevin Park; Raj Chahal; Anthony Becker
Cc: [email protected]; Nong Vang
Subject: Funding for Project Homekey at Benton - please don"t sign-up Santa Clara for this poor investment Date: Monday, October 28, 2024 9:06:17 PM
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important To the Mayor and City Council of Santa Clara -
After narrowly voting to pass the Homekey project in May 2023, I applauded the City Council declining to sign on as a co-sponsor to Project Homekey's development at Benton and Lawrence later than summer.
I'd hoped that would be the end of it, but I see Project Homekey lives.
My concerns remain the same about the facility:
Safety risks for the surrounding neighborhood and the children that live here and attend school nearby.
Negative impact to nearby property values.
A temporary / permanent shelter is already being developed within 0.5 miles in the former Bella Vista Inn at El Camino and Lawrence Expressway.
We should get that shelter up and operational
to see its impacts before adding another so close by.
The cost!
The cost is exorbitant for what you're getting: $34M for 30 units on land that Santa Clara already owns, and $3.5M dollar annual operational budget.
If you're spending over $115K/yr for each unit running the place, it seems like you could just give the prospective residents the same money to get them off of the street temporarily and save the up front cost of building the housing.
This would have the added benefit
that the program could be shutdown if funding runs out.
If this is intended to be either a mental health or substance abuse treatment facility, then it should be presented as such.
Judging from the fact that Santa Clara has put the $400M Measure I on the ballot this coming year, that indicates to me that the city does not have the funding for this program. If the City is to move ahead with Project Homekey on Benton, I certainly would not be inclined to approve Measure I since that funding may very well be used to pay for Project Homekey.
Please do what's right for the community and decline funding for this poorly conceived project.
Best.
From: Julie Z
To: Mayor and Council
Subject: Concerns Regarding the Proposed Benton Shelter Project Date: Monday, October 28, 2024 9:03:45 PM
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important Dear mayor and members of the Santa Clara City Council, As a resident and mother of a young child living near the proposed Benton shelter site, I must express my strong opposition to this project due to several critical concerns.
Firstly, I question the wisdom of potentially allocating city funds to this project when our financial reports indicate a $600 million existing debt. If the city can afford to support a new shelter, this could suggest that our financial health is sufficient to negate the need for the proposed $400 million Bond Measure I, which I am also opposed to. Shouldn't we focus on reducing our debt rather than accruing more?
Secondly, the operational and maintenance costs of the Benton shelter worry me. Could these additional financial commitments further burden our city’s budget? It is imperative we consider the long-term economic impacts on our community’s financial stability.
Lastly, the shelter's low-barrier entry policy presents a potential safety risk to our neighborhood. This model could bring challenges that might compromise the security and well-being of local residents, including families like mine.
I urge the council to carefully consider the potential economic and safety implications of the Benton shelter. Our community's fiscal health and the safety of its residents should be our top priorities.
Thank you for addressing these critical issues. I trust that you will make a decision that ensures the long-term safety and financial stability of our community.
Sincerely,
Julie
From: Xiangfei Zhou
To: Mayor and Council; Lisa Gillmor; Kathy Watanabe; Sudhanshu Jain; Karen Hardy; Kevin Park; Raj Chahal Subject: Concerns on City Finances and Benton Interim Housing Proposal Date: Monday, October 28, 2024 7:49:28 PM
Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important
Dear City Council Members,
I am writing to express my concerns about the current state of our city’s finances and the proposal for Benton low-entry barrier interim housing, which may further strain our budget.
Deficit Concerns: As you know, the city is currently facing a substantial deficit of $600 million. This raises serious questions about our fiscal priorities and long-term sustainability.
Interim Housing Costs: The maintenance and operational expenses associated with the proposed shelter are likely to exacerbate this deficit, placing additional strain on our city’s financial resources.
Safety for Families: The shelter proposal remains a low-barrier facility, which does not adequately address the need for a safe, secure environment for families seeking shelter.
Bond Measure Opposition: If the city has resources to manage an additional shelter, this suggests more budget flexibility than previously indicated. Consequently, it raises questions about the necessity of issuing a new $400 million bond. For these reasons, I will be reconsidering
Measure I.
I urge you and the council to revisit this proposal and prioritize a more balanced, financially responsible approach.
Thank you for your attention to these concerns.
Sincerely,
Frey
Resident in Birdland.
From: Judy Crates
To: Mayor and Council; Lisa Gillmor; Kathy Watanabe; Sudhanshu Jain; Karen Hardy; Kevin Park; Raj Chahal; Anthony Becker
Subject: Benton and Lawrence Plan - Let"s Be Realistic
Date: Monday, October 28, 2024 4:05:27 PM
Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important
Dear City Council Members,
I live across Lawrence .5 miles from this project (still in the City of SC) so this isn't a NIMBY email. I am compelled to write this because there are so many reasons NOT to approve this plan, but here are the most
1. Egress from this complex.
Have you done a traffic study during the busiest time
of day? Benton is one of the major thoroughfares for access to Santa Clara High School. Traffic is heavy during rush hours and almost
impossible to turn left out of the
proposed complex. And turning left and then trying to go towards El Camino is a recipe for an accident. I have walked and watched. It is not realistic to think that entry and exit won't be dangerous.
2. Pedestrian access i
s unacceptable from Lawrence. Anyone trying to walk along Lawrence Expressway is another recipe for disaster. I have walked it (once) and it is truly frightening. You try walking it.
3 . Inability to fill housing spots that are available nearby. Remember the Bella Vista Motel
on El Camino?
In the Silicon Valley Voice 4/12/22 Klein the Associate Director of Real Estate Development at Resources for Community Development (RCD), one of several local agencies working together to complete the two-step process. "During Phase I of the project, Bella Vista Inn will undergo minor renovations to make it suitable homeless housing for the next few years. 64 of the site’s 66 units will be turned into interim housing, with the other two rooms designated for laundry, on-site property management and support services.
I walk by this site almost daily and it is VACANT
except for a half dozen vehicles.
There is never anyone around. The laundry room is in. The office is a couple of tables with minimal technology.
Almost
3 years later and nothing1
4. Lack of transparency on the part of Council and Staff - Did you know thata the City's
website is NOT UPDATED for Agenda Item for Oct. 29??
Please stop this nonsense!
Very sincerely,
Judy Crates
Resident and home owner in the City of Santa Clara
From: Deepak Kollipara
To: Mayor and Council; Lisa Gillmor; Kathy Watanabe; Sudhanshu Jain; Karen Hardy; Kevin Park; Raj Chahal; Anthony Becker
Date: Monday, October 28, 2024 4:43:26 PM
Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important
Dear Council Members of Santa Clara,
I am writing to express my concerns about the current state of our city’s finances and the proposal for Benton low entry barrier interim housing, which may further strain our budget.
1. Deficit Concerns: As you know, the city is currently facing a substantial deficit of $600 million. This raises serious questions about our fiscal priorities and sustainability.
2. Interim Housing Costs:
The maintenance and operational costs associated with the proposed shelter will likely exacerbate this deficit, placing further strain on our city’s financial resources.
3. Safety for Families:
The current shelter proposal remains a low-barrier facility, which does not address the need for a safe and secure environment for families seeking shelter.
4. Bond Measure Opposition:
If the city has the resources to manage an additional
shelter, it suggests there is more budget flexibility than previously indicated. This, in turn, calls into question the necessity of issuing a new $400 million bond. For these reasons, I will be voting "no" on
Measure I.
I urge you and the council to reconsider this proposal and prioritize a more balanced, financially responsible approach.
Thank you for your attention to these concerns.
Sincerely,
Deepak Rama
From: J Pan
To: Mayor and Council
Cc: Lisa Gillmor; Kathy Watanabe; Sudhanshu Jain; Karen Hardy; Kevin Park; Raj Chahal; Anthony Becker Subject: Opposed to Homekey Interim Housing Development Plan Date: Tuesday, October 29, 2024 11:10:21 AM
Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important
Hello Mayor and City Council Members,
I am a mother with two elementary school kids living in City of Santa Clara. My whole family opposes the proposed Homekey Interim Housing Development Plan (Benton Shelter Plan) because LifeMoves, who supervises the project, has a very bad record of running other homeless shelters in nearby cities.
I worked in civil engineering industry for more than a decade and in several countries.
With the record and performance of LifeMoves, I doubt they could earn any projects without bribery in any countries.
LifeMoves supervised similar shelter projects in the nearby cities, and they created very poor records in achieving projects’ goals. For example, the construction cost estimate of LifeMoves’ one shelter was doubled within a year after the approval date, however, the average inflation rate was 5%-7% per federal and state government’s reports. Does this unreasonable construction cost increase indicate LifeMoves is losing control of their projects? The intention of shelters is to provide a safe place for many homeless people to live. However, LifeMoves kept harassers in the shelter despite multiple harassment reports per local news. How can they achieve the purpose of the project by keeping the harassers in the shelters and leaving well-behaved homeless people out of the shelters due to the threats by harassers.
Per local news, the success rate of LifeMoves’ shelters is only 26%, and they lack qualified staff and nurses to operate their existing shelters even though the shelters have not reached their full capacities up to now. How can we trust LifeMoves is able to provide qualified service for the existing shelters and has resources to operate new shelters? Without resolving the problems with the existing shelters but rushing to construct another new bigger shelter will only make the problems worse. We are afraid the proposed Benton Shelter Plan will be another non-successful project by LifeMoves.
The City of Santa Clara is raising money to operate the city’s facilities not to be wasted by LifeMoves. The
City should has accountability for spending tax money. Ifthe City moved funding of projects that service residents’ needs to the Benton Shelter project, taxpayers would be very disappointed and would vote No to Measure I to stop the waste of tax money!
We voted for our city council members in the trust that we would work together to make the City of Santa Clara a better place to live. We only vote for whoever can reflect our interests.
Please vote NOT to fund the Homekey Interim Housing Development Plan! Best Regards,
Jiayi Pan Family
Registered Voter of Santa Clara
From: Srikanth Gondi
To: Mayor and Council; Lisa Gillmor; Kathy Watanabe; Sudhanshu Jain; Karen Hardy; Kevin Park; Raj Chahal; Anthony Becker
Cc: Neelima Gondi; Vijay Gondi
Subject: Benton"s interim housing proposal
Date: Tuesday, October 29, 2024 9:41:50 AM
Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important
Hi,
As a long-term resident of the Birdland neighborhood of Sunnyvale, I am writing to express my concerns about the current state of our city’s finances and the proposal for Benton low entry barrier interim housing, which may further strain our budget.
1. Deficit Concerns: As you know, the city is currently facing a substantial deficit of $600 million. This raises serious questions about our fiscal priorities and sustainability.
2. Interim Housing Costs: The maintenance and operational costs associated with the proposed shelter will likely exacerbate this deficit, placing further strain on our city’s financial resources.
3. Safety for Families: The current shelter proposal remains a low-barrier facility, which does not address the need for a safe and secure environment for families seeking shelter or those residing in the neighborhood.
4. Bond Measure Opposition: If the city has the resources to manage an additional shelter, it suggests there is more budget flexibility than previously indicated. This, in turn, calls into question the necessity of issuing a new $400 million bond.
I urge you and the council to reconsider this proposal and prioritize a more balanced, financially responsible approach.
Thank you for your attention to these concerns.
Sincerely,
-Srikanth Gondi
Resident of Sunnyvale at
From: JING LIU
To: Mayor and Council
Subject: Benton Shelter
Date: Tuesday, October 29, 2024 9:58:38 AM
[Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ] Dear City Council Member,
I am writing to express my concerns about the current state of our city’s finances and the proposal for Benton low entry barrier interim housing, which may further strain our budget.
Deficit Concerns: As you know, the city is currently facing a substantial deficit of $600 million. This raises serious questions about our fiscal priorities and sustainability.
Interim Housing Costs: The maintenance and operational costs associated with the proposed shelter will likely exacerbate this deficit, placing further strain on our city’s financial resources.
Safety for Families: The current shelter proposal remains a low-barrier facility, which does not address the need for a safe and secure environment for families seeking shelter.
Bond Measure Opposition: If the city has the resources to manage an additional shelter, it suggests there is more budget flexibility than previously indicated. This, in turn, calls into question the necessity of issuing a new $400 million bond. For these reasons, I will be voting "no" on Measure I.
I urge you and the council to reconsider this proposal and prioritize a more balanced, financially responsible approach.
Thank you for your attention to these concerns.
Sincerely,
Jing Liu
Sent from my iPhone