Recently, the Verona Apartments and the Cypress Hotel developments at the corner of De Anza and Stevens Creek boulevards generated a storm of controversy upon their completion. "I don't think everyone was as well informed as they should [have been]," said Norman Hackford, a member of Concerned Citizens of Cupertino. His group was particularly concerned about the height and density of the buildings. Hackford added that people expected the city to follow a pre-established General Plan and were surprised when it did not. "We kind of found out after the fact," Hackford said. In response, the CCC proposed three ballot initiatives last January that would help preserve Cupertino's traditional character. The initiatives control building height, density and distance from the street.

And even more critical to the CCC, its initiatives propose that any changes in the General Plan must be approved by a vote from Cupertino residents. This would place control of General Plan changes in the hands of residents, rather than those of the city council.

City Councilman Richard Lowenthal, who does not agree with the proposed initiatives, does agree with the need for improvements in the public-information process. "When the city character can change, everyone needs to be aware," he said.

Currently, Cupertino sends a letter to everyone living within 500 feet of potential development projects. It also publishes the information in the Cupertino Scene—a newsletter sent to every city resident—and through legal notices in the Cupertino Courier.

Even so, "Our noticing is ineffective," Lowenthal said. "We want to hear about ways to improve noticing for new development."

Citizens will have a chance to provide their thoughts on Aug. 31 at 4 p.m. in the city council chambers.