In 1992, my father, Salvador Puga, embarked on a journey with a vision: to serve the residents of Mountain View and surrounding areas through our beloved restaurant, Los Portales. For over 33 years, Los Portales, along with other cherished small businesses in Moffett Plaza, has been more than just places of commerce. They are the heart of our city, offering not only essential services like dining, dry cleaning, and local shopping but also providing spaces for family, friends, and neighbors to gather, creating memories and building community ties.

These small businesses are integral components of Mountain View’s unique character. While we respect the pressing need for housing, we believe in preserving the invaluable contributions that long-standing establishments bring to our community. Housing is crucial, but it cannot replace the warmth and personal touch that only small businesses can offer. The threat of displacement looms over our heads as housing projects advance, risking the loss of these historic establishments.

Los Portales isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a community pillar where we've shared our resources, time, and donations for the welfare of our neighborhood. We have continuously strived to enhance the quality of life in our community by providing spaces that matter. If we allow development to overtake these local businesses, we lose not just services, but essential parts of our community’s soul.

We urge the city planners and developers to consider alternative solutions that foster both growth and preservation. Such solutions could include mixed-use development that incorporates housing while keeping beloved small businesses in place, or offering relocation assistance to ensure these businesses continue to thrive in Mountain View.

Join us in the fight to keep Moffett Plaza and Los Portales alive in Mountain View. Your signature can help safeguard the diversity and spirit of our local economy. Sign the petition to support our small businesses and protect the unique character of our community.