Candidates discuss housing and budget issues at the Cupertino forum

Candidates for Cupertino City Council attended a forum on Oct. 16 at the Cupertino Senior Center moderated by Annalize Freimarck of San Jose Spotlight. Tensions were high as the candidates debated housing needs, budget deficits and local control – key issues that will shape Cupertino’s future.

One of the first questions Freimarck asked focused on affordable housing. Although Cupertino recently received state certification for its residential development element in September 2024, the city has yet to complete required rezonings.

Rezoning is a process in which the zoning of a property is changed to a different zoning district, for example when a commercial property is converted into a residential property.

If the city doesn’t make the required rezonings, it risks losing local control, meaning developers could bypass city oversight and potentially build near residential neighborhoods.

“What we can do now is work closely with the developers and residents to find a solution. We should think about zoning and necessary permits,” said Ray Wang, a former city planning commissioner and City Council candidate.

Former Cupertino Mayor Barry Chang took a critical stance, claiming the city failed to complete required rezonings because Councilmember Kitty Moore voted against the housing element in May of this year.

“If you continue to vote for people like Kitty Moore and Ray Wang, I can guarantee you it will mean more developers and commercial construction in residential areas. That’s no way to do business; This is completely wrong,” Chang said.

Sitting councilor Kitty Moore defended her stance by pointing to her extensive conversations with residents who opposed certain developments.

“I have spoken to literally hundreds of residents in connection with this project. They didn’t want these pipeline projects to be counted,” Moore said.

Gilbert Wong, a former city council member and mayor, emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of the community and said it was critical to balance development with preserving Cupertino’s character.

“We have to be very careful about the changes we allow in our neighborhoods. This isn’t just about development; It’s about preserving the community we love,” Wong said.

“We have to be ready to talk to the developers. You don’t go after them with lawsuits and lawyers,” said Claudio Bono, a hotel manager in Cupertino and vice president of the Cupertino Chamber of Commerce.

Bono also said a more welcoming approach was needed to bring developers back to the table.

The discussion then turned to Cupertino’s $15 million budget deficit, largely due to the loss of sales tax revenue from Apple, which once represented one of the city’s largest sources of tax revenue.

The candidates shared their strategies for addressing the deficit without sacrificing essential services.

Kitty Moore advocated for a thorough audit of the city’s finances, citing examples of budget inefficiencies.

“I found out that over $600,000 was budgeted for library services provided by the county. We need to better manage our city’s finances,” Moore said.

Rod Sinks, a former mayor of Cupertino, emphasized the importance of economic development as a solution to the budget crisis.

“We now have a $30 million revenue gap. We have to treat this as one-time money. But as Claudio said, we need to improve our economic development,” Sinks said.

Bono emphasized the need for a strong operating account for emergencies.

“This is an operating account. God forbid something happens in the city, like an earthquake. “If all your money is sitting in a savings account and accruing interest, what are you going to do in that situation?” Bono said.

Wong echoed this sentiment, adding that financial responsibility must be consistent with community values.

“We must ensure our budget reflects the values ​​of our community. Spending should be based on our residents’ priorities,” Wong said.

In their final statements, the candidates summarized their visions for the future of Cupertino.

Sinks highlighted his experience and ability to drive projects forward.

“I have the experience to close and implement deals. “I’m focused on the residents and I don’t accept developer financing,” Sinks said.

Moore urged voters to recognize her commitment to serving the residents of Cupertino, stating, “I have humbly and faithfully served you, our residents, for the past six years. I humbly ask for your vote.”

Wong emphasized the need for a resident-focused majority on the council.

“We see what happens when residents are no longer prioritized. If we move to a resident-focused majority, we can change that,” Wong said.

Wong urged the community to come together and work cooperatively to make Cupertino a thriving place.

“Together, we can ensure that Cupertino remains a vibrant, inclusive community for all of its residents. Let’s prioritize what really matters,” Wong said.

Finally, Chang emphasized the importance of this election and urged voters to carefully consider candidates as some may not act in the best interest of the city.

“Cupertino is in crisis. “It’s a dangerous situation if you continue to vote for people like Kitty Moore and Ray Wong,” Chang said.