As the Capital of Silicon Valley, San Jose fuels global innovation — but despite the city’s considerable economic heft, its elected leaders still struggle to command political clout on a broader stage. The city, California’s third largest, has never produced a competitive candidate for governor in its modern history. And over the past 50 years,...
Where to find a free Thanksgiving meal or food box
People struggling with food insecurity will still be able to enjoy a Thanksgiving meal thanks to Bay Area nonprofits. High food prices and a delay in CalFresh food benefits — California’s version of the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program — have left an increasing number of people having to choose between paying for food, health care...
Lawsuit alleges San Jose license plate readers violate privacy rights
A new lawsuit by local advocacy groups alleges San Jose’s use of data collected by automated license plate readers deployed around town violates drivers’ privacy rights The lawsuit, filed Tuesday in Santa Clara County Superior Court, takes aim at the city’s practice of allowing the San Jose Police Department to search a vast database of license...
San Jose youth pastor acquitted on sexual abuse
A jury has acquitted a San Jose youth pastor accused of sexually abusing two minors. The verdict was handed down Wednesday in a Morgan Hill courtroom, more than a year after former River Church youth ministry leader Brett Bymaster was arrested on charges of molesting a girl starting when she was eight years old until...
San Jose housing policy change delayed after pushback
San Jose leaders are delaying a vote on a plan to revamp a development program responsible for generating a significant portion of the city’s affordable housing. The decision follows vocal pushback from opponents who warn the policy change would mean less housing support going to those most in need. The change proposed by city staff would increase target...
San Jose opens tiny home village on Valley Water land
A long-awaited San Jose tiny home village built on land owned by the region’s largest water supplier has opened — giving 136 homeless people a roof over their heads. The tiny homes on Cherry Avenue cost $18.3 million to build and include central laundry, private bathrooms and an outdoor picnic area. Nonprofit HomeFirst will provide...
San Jose nonprofits help families with food and groceries
Two San Jose nonprofits have stepped up to help families struggling with food insecurity. Grail Family Services and Sacred Heart Community Service are providing groceries for families, including many who rely on CalFresh, California’s version of the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Grail Family Services provided 100 families each with $150 vouchers for groceries...
The Biz Beat: San Jose’s The Thrift Box overflows with unique finds
Every Wednesday, at least 30 eager shoppers line up on Lincoln Avenue in Willow Glen outside The Thrift Box, buzzing with anticipation as they await opening time. Regulars know the drill: With the store closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, the staff uses that time to tidy up the inventory and restock the displays with the...
Salvation Army to add San Jose tiny home village for sober living
Come next summer, San Jose will open dozens of more beds for homeless people who want to stay in a sober living environment. The Salvation Army on Nov. 3 broke ground on a tiny home village called HOPE Community, which will add 74 beds on its property. Each tiny home could house several people, and...
Political newcomer enters District 9 San Jose council race
Next year’s June primary election is still seven months out, but the battle lines are already taking shape in the District 9 San Jose City Council race. A relative newcomer to San Jose politics is stepping in to a crowded field that includes a well-established City Hall staffer. Lifelong District 9 resident Genny Altwer, a...