On Sept. 25, roughly two dozen community members attended the city council meeting wearing shirts with the words “#WeBelong,” and “PACT: People Acting in Community Together.”

Leland Erickson told the council the proposed demolition means his partner of 19 years would relocate to North Carolina for more affordable living with her family, but that he would need to find a way to remain here because he is on Medi-Cal. Erickson said North Carolina might not be able to offer him comparable health care coverage.

Eleven-year old Lupita Flores said she and her family have lived in Mountain View for four-and-a-half years. “I have made really good friendships in the apartment,” Lupita said. “It will be hard not seeing my friends every single day.”

Adriana Tapia, a member of PACT, a grassroots advocacy group, noted that residents at her complex are largely Hispanic. “This is diversity and we represent diversity,” said Tapia.

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