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More houses, not more
laws, will solve crisis
Reading Assemblyman Chris Ward’s proposal for another ineffective law, AB 1771, which would impose a 25% tax on the capital gain produced by selling a residential property within three years of buying it, should remind us all that there is only one way to fix a housing shortage. Build more housing.
Unfortunately, history tells us that the people who propose these laws often cite the fact that “other cities are doing this,” but never ask how well the laws are working.
Thomas Scott
Morgan Hill
Cupertino council flunks
fiscal responsibility
At council this week, council members failed to accept a grant of $400,000 to plan for the state-required Housing Element update in the jobs-rich heart of the city. They objected to process requirements to help the city achieve state certification of its Housing Element. Despite the city attorney’s assurances, council members persisted in believing that this grant came with additional land-use strings attached.
These council members campaigned on platforms of fiscal responsibility. Yet when they could demonstrate that responsibility, their own agenda to resist state housing laws will cost Cupertino taxpayers dearly. Staff did a lot of work to obtain this grant. And now the money will go to other cities, instead of safeguarding Cupertino’s planning.
I join Councilmember Hung Wei — the lone member to support the grant — in expressing utter bafflement at the council’s actions. Dysfunction like this must end. Maybe it’s time for a new City Council.
Jean Bedord
Cupertino
Snyder will bring new
blood to City Council
Regarding your endorsement in the San Jose District 1 Council race (“Kamei is the best choice for S.J. City Council District 1,” Page A6, April 15), as our city faces unprecedented crises of homelessness, affordably and public safety, we need council leaders who will embrace new and effective solutions; not a long-entrenched politician beholden to all the existing power players.
Ramona Arellano Snyder has a solid understanding of budget and housing issues, as your endorsement of her opponent acknowledges. As a decades-long resident of District 1, I have personally seen Ramona in action on behalf of our community. She is a dedicated, tireless leader serving on the boards of multiple non-profits that are making a difference in San Jose today. Ramona has the backing of local community groups, small business owners and ordinary residents from across our district. Please join me in voting Ramona Arellano Snyder for District 1 Councilwoman.
Doris Livezey
President, Murdock Neighborhood Association
San Jose
Source: www.mercurynews.com