When Small Businesses Die, the Community Dies

Losing my job was just the beginning of a much larger problem affecting our beloved community of Santa Clara, California. The proposed rezoning and redevelopment of Homestead Shopping Center into a townhouse residential area threatens not only many livelihoods but also the very fabric of our community.

Homestead Shopping Center has been more than just a place to shop; it is a pillar of local life, offering essential neighborhood services such as groceries, herbal medicine, restaurants, salons, and a host of other local businesses that residents rely on daily. This center has been a vital commercial and cultural hub, enriching the character and diversity of Santa Clara. The shops in this plaza are from various countries. The United States, South Korea, China, Vietnam, India, etc.

The proposed conversion into a residential zone would lead to the elimination of dozens of small businesses that form the backbone of our local economy. It would also cause significant job losses, affecting not only the employees but their families too. Moreover, it would reduce convenient access to essential daily services for nearby residents, undermining the community's cohesion and identity.

Despite these considerable risks, the proposal to reconfigure Homestead Shopping Center is progressing without a thorough examination of its impact. We, the business owners, employees, and community members, strongly oppose this rezoning and urge the City Council to act with caution and care.

We respectfully urge the City Council to reject or pause the rezoning proposal until a comprehensive community impact study is completed. It is crucial to consider alternative solutions that support development while preserving the integrity and vibrancy of our community.

Please sign this petition to protect Homestead Shopping Center and ensure a thoughtful approach to the development that respects the livelihood and culture of our local community.