Because some bean counter sitting behind a desk in Sacramento has decided that Cupertino, along with most other California cities, rates an "F" in meeting new housing starts, we should all cringe. The mantra from those in politics seems to be, "I'm from the government and I'm here to help you."

Since almost every city--small or large--is failing the housing test set by those in lofty places, could it be the test to determine the numbers were faulty? Like most other places, Cupertino has a finite amount of land zoned for housing left to develop. Do we rezone from retail/commercial (our tax base needed for city services), or build multistoried crowded towers?

We live in earthquake country and know only too well that when the earth shakes, what goes up will come down. And we need our retail/commercial to feed, clothe and supply the populace. What city leaders should do instead of wringing their hands is challenge the unreasonable and misguided test goals and fire those who set them.

Stuart Chessen
Cupertino Courier Letters
Wednesday, August 9, 2006