San Jose's Silicon Valley Granite faces imminent eviction amid VTA disputes

The San Jose City Council meeting on May 6, 2025, highlighted urgent community concerns surrounding local businesses facing eviction due to eminent domain actions by the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA). The meeting featured emotional testimonies from family members of Sridhar Kula, the owner of Silicon Valley Granite, who is facing imminent eviction from his business premises.

Kula's family described the struggles they have faced since the VTA initiated an eminent domain lawsuit in 2021, claiming the land for future development. They expressed frustration over the VTA's shifting demands and unreasonable timelines for relocation, which they argue threaten the livelihood of Kula and his employees. The family emphasized that moving their extensive inventory of natural stone and tile, which includes over 15 million pounds of materials, would require significant time and resources—far more than the two days they were given.

The testimonies underscored the emotional toll of the situation, with family members sharing how Kula has dedicated his life to building the business and supporting the community. They called on the council to intervene and ensure that Kula receives fair treatment and adequate time to relocate without losing his livelihood.

In addition to Kula's case, the meeting also featured a speaker who raised concerns about neglect and lack of maintenance in properties managed by the San Jose Redevelopment Agency. This speaker highlighted personal experiences of inadequate infrastructure and the challenges faced in seeking accountability from the agency.

The council members listened attentively to the testimonies, with some expressing sympathy for the plight of local businesses affected by the VTA's actions. The discussions reflect a broader concern about the impact of government decisions on small businesses and the importance of community support in navigating these challenges.

As the council considers these issues, the outcomes of this meeting could have significant implications for local businesses and the community's trust in government processes. The next steps will be crucial in determining how the city addresses the needs of its residents and supports those facing displacement.