Residents urge Cupertino Council to vote yes on McClellan Terrace housing moratorium

Concerns over potential displacement of families took center stage at the Cupertino City Council meeting on May 6, 2025, as residents voiced their fears regarding the conversion of McClellan Terrace Apartments into student housing. Rosemarie Biswas, a single mother and full-time student, highlighted the critical need for affordable housing, emphasizing that her family's proximity to Monte Vista High School is essential for her son's education and safety. "If we're forced to leave before 2026, he wouldn't be able to finish high school without major disruption," she stated, urging the council to consider the impact on families already integrated into the community.

Devinder, another resident, echoed these sentiments, warning that allowing such conversions could set a dangerous precedent, potentially leading to widespread displacement of families in Cupertino. He proposed a temporary solution where existing apartment complexes could accommodate students without displacing current residents, advocating for collaboration between developers and the community.

The discussion intensified as Rithik, a junior at Monte Vista and long-time resident of McClellan Terrace, expressed concern that the proposed changes would exacerbate declining enrollment in local schools, leading to further budget cuts and school closures. "You cannot support strong public education while removing the students that fill those classrooms," he argued.

In contrast, Peter Landsberger, president of the Fort Ordienza Community College District Board of Trustees, defended the proposal, asserting that the conversion would not violate zoning laws and would still provide housing for students who are also residents of Cupertino. He cautioned against actions that could provoke legal disputes between the city and the college district.

As the council deliberates, the voices of residents underscore the urgent need for a balanced approach that addresses both the housing crisis for students and the stability of families already living in Cupertino. The outcome of this discussion could shape the future of community dynamics in the city, as residents call for solutions that prioritize existing families while accommodating the growing student population.