According to the terms of the settlement, the city is required to discontinue any ongoing investigations into Wu’s conduct and destroy all related documents. The reason for her departure has not been publicly disclosed, but the agreement effectively closes the matter. Vice Mayor Kitty Moore cast the only dissenting vote on the settlement.
Wu expressed gratitude for her time in office, reflecting on nearly three years of public service in the role. “This has not been an easy choice, but it is the right time to start a new chapter,” she said. “Serving this community has been a great honor in my professional career and I am proud of the accomplishments—from strengthening city services to guiding the council through numerous challenges.”
She was appointed city manager in 2022, becoming the third person to hold the position permanently since 2018. During the years between permanent appointments, the city cycled through three interim managers. Wu had previously served in senior planning and economic development roles in other local jurisdictions before taking on the top administrative role in Cupertino.
Following Wu’s departure, former Deputy City Manager Tina Kapoor has been named acting city manager. The city has not announced when a permanent replacement will be selected or whether a search process is underway. City leadership emphasized the importance of stability and continuity during this period of change. The mayor acknowledged that while transitions can be challenging, they offer opportunities for growth and renewal. “Leadership transitions are never easy — but at times, they are necessary to ensure that city operations remain stable, transparent, and responsive to the needs of our community,” she said. “I have full confidence in Acting City Manager Tina Kapoor and our dedicated staff as we continue working together to advance the city’s goals.”
Reaction to Wu’s departure has been mixed among residents. Some community members supported the decision, pointing to concerns about how city matters were being managed. One longtime resident stated that Wu had mishandled financial and confidential city matters, expressing relief at the leadership change.
The settlement brings to a close a significant chapter in Cupertino’s administration. As the city navigates this transition, officials are expected to begin evaluating potential candidates who can bring long-term stability to the role while meeting the evolving needs of a dynamic and growing community.
The city manager serves as a key administrative figure, responsible for overseeing daily operations, implementing policy decisions made by the council, and managing city staff and resources. A permanent replacement will be tasked with maintaining organizational continuity while also aligning with the city's priorities in areas such as development, public services, fiscal responsibility, and civic engagement.
The coming weeks may see updates from the council regarding the process for selecting a new city manager. In the meantime, the acting city manager is expected to ensure that services remain uninterrupted and that the city continues to operate efficiently during this period of transition.
For residents and stakeholders, this leadership change signals a moment of reflection and possibility. Cupertino’s next city manager will step into a role that requires balancing the expectations of an engaged public, a diverse council, and a complex administrative landscape—all while helping shape the city’s future..
