Another Silicon Valley city manager is leaving their post — this time under difficult circumstances.
Cupertino’s Deborah Feng announced her resignation on May 27, nearly two years into her tenure as city manager.
“I am proud of what we've been able to accomplish throughout the past two years," Feng said in a news release. "We were able to guide the community through the pandemic, identify housing for dozens of people in need, develop a rental assistance program for our most vulnerable residents, and support our small businesses through grants.
"We could not have accomplished all of this without the support of our City Council and staff. It has been a pleasure to work side-by-side with them."
Mayor Darcy Paul wished her luck. The city mentioned the expansion of the Cupertino Library and the creation of the City Walks, Coffee Talks, and Community Forums on Policing among her accomplishments. Just days before her announcement, Feng was named one of Silicon Valley's "Women of Influence" by the Silicon Valley Business Journal.
Feng was under pressure in recent weeks after she failed to open a critical email from the State of California's Housing and Community Development Department. As a result of the oversight, San Jose officials passed a housing ordinance that conflicts with state law, exposing the city to litigation. Feng apologized publicly to the City Council.
Feng was one of two Silicon Valley administrators to announce their departures last week. On Thursday, the city manager of San Jose also announced his retirement.