CC 09-06-2022 Closed session_Late_Written CommunicationsFrom:Lisa Warren
To:City Clerk; Darcy Paul; Kitty Moore; Hung Wei; Jon Robert Willey; Liang Chao; Christopher Jensen; Matt Morley
Subject:City Council Special Meeting of Sept 6, 2022 Item 1 land acquisition
Date:Tuesday, September 6, 2022 4:51:02 PM
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As a reminder, I am resending my comments that I provided for your
initial meeting on this subject.
I still believe the purchase of this property on Steven Creek Blvd would be
a great 'strategy' for the city. I believe there are funds currently available
to be used for just such a thing. Please don't miss the opportunity.
Thank you.
Lisa Warren
Previously sent message:
In recent months, a thoughtful Cupertino resident brought a few others
together to discuss the possibility and strategy of having the City be pro-
active in looking for a site that is well suited for housing that would be
100% affordable, and purchase land for that very purpose. As we so often
see, cities cannot force developers to ‘produce’ on their parcels. I have
been periodically searching for good opportunities for sites that may be a
suitable fit for this resident’s vision. I saw the listing at 21801 Stevens
Creek Boulevard, which includes the nearby parking area, and I believe it to
be a good candidate.
I spoke to Mayor Paul about this specific property and what I see as a
potentially great site for the city to own, and to partner with an affordable
housing group who would assist in developing it appropriately. I very
much appreciate Mayor Paul bringing it forward, and for recognizing the
urgency. I think that this Council can continue the great work it is doing
thinking through the big issues and addressing real problems honestly and
effectively by doing what can be done to purchase this property.
Although it is not clear on the August 25th agenda, I understand that the
city has no intention to mask the idea that this is for potential affordable
housing.
In a recent conversation with Mayor Paul, he indicated to me that he
confirmed that he can legally and publicly say that this is for considering
affordable housing.
It would be great if this council could get behind the idea of using existing
funds and resources to support much needed affordable housing.
My hope is that these negotiations are approved, go well, and the City will
take the next step to invite appropriate entities to make a positive
difference. Repurposing the existing building would be my preference if it
is at all possible. This could save ‘land fill’ and, potentially, time so that
homes of this type would be available sooner rather than later, and not
dependent on a ‘for profit developer’.
Thank you all.
Lisa Warren
From:Peggy Griffin
To:City Council; Christopher Jensen
Cc:City Clerk
Subject:9-6-2022 CC Closed Session Item #1 - 21801 Stevens Creek Blvd purchase
Date:Tuesday, September 6, 2022 4:46:30 PM
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Dear City Council,
I am in support of the purchase of the property at 21801 Stevens Creek Blvd.
The possibility of re-using the existing building structure as an affordable housing project in
collaboration with a non-profit would be wonderful. The prospect of it becoming available quickly is
exciting and I thank you all for looking at new and different ways to address our local housing issues.
One size does not fit all. We need a variety of options. This could be one of them!
Thank you all for your continued hard work.
Sincerely,
Peggy Griffin