The Cupertino City Council voted unanimously to appoint Tina Kapoor as the city’s next city manager, formally removing the word “interim” from her title and signaling a shift toward stability after years of leadership turnover. The decision places Kapoor at the head of the municipal administration during a period of ongoing debate over housing, development, and long-term economic planning in the Bay Area. Her appointment follows a series of frequent leadership changes that have shaped the city’s governance since 2018, with nine individuals serving in either permanent or temporary city manager roles during that span. City officials have often acknowledged that the rapid turnover hindered continuity and created challenges for staff members working to implement long-term strategies.
Kapoor began her tenure in Cupertino in 2021 as economic development manager and later became deputy city manager in May 2023. Her transition to interim city manager came shortly after the council placed her predecessor, Pamela Wu, on administrative leave. Wu and the city later reached a settlement agreement in June in which Wu voluntarily stepped down and the city ended an ongoing investigation into her conduct. While the council had been divided on the decision to place Wu on leave, the vote to confirm Kapoor as city manager was unanimous, underscoring broad support for her leadership among councilmembers.
In her new role, Kapoor will oversee an annual operating budget of approximately $134 million, manage a workforce of more than 200 municipal employees, and guide policy discussions affecting nearly 59,000 residents. Her experience includes two decades of work in economic and business development in the cities of Fremont and San Jose, where she was involved in programs intended to strengthen local economies and support community development. City officials have said that her background positions her well to address the complex issues Cupertino faces, particularly as the region continues to navigate housing demands and community concerns about growth.
Mayor Liang Chao noted during the meeting that Kapoor has already established strong working relationships with residents, describing her as responsive and proactive in addressing public concerns. Other councilmembers echoed that sentiment, with Councilmember J.R. Fruen acknowledging both the significance of the appointment and the challenges that come with leading a city known for vigorous public debate. Several members emphasized the importance of steady leadership following years of transition, with Councilmember Sheila Mohan remarking that Kapoor’s presence during the leadership shift helped prevent the kind of disruption that often occurs when a city manager departs unexpectedly.
Kapoor’s compensation package includes an annual base salary of $327,000. When combined with benefits, payroll taxes, and retirement contributions, the total value reaches $459,675. City residents have been vocal about the need for effective, stable leadership, and several community members expressed optimism about Kapoor’s ability to guide the city through its ongoing policy discussions. Longtime resident Jean Bedord, who has closely followed local governance issues, noted that Cupertino’s history of rotating city managers created uncertainty within both the community and city staff. She pointed to a 2022 Santa Clara County Grand Jury report that highlighted a strained work environment between some councilmembers and staff, stating that the tensions had hindered the city’s ability to operate efficiently.
Bedord and other community members believe Kapoor’s appointment offers an opportunity for the city to move forward with renewed stability and clearer direction. As Cupertino continues to grapple with housing policy, development pressures, and administrative challenges, city leaders say Kapoor’s steady approach and experience in municipal governance will be central to shaping its next chapter.
