M 07-17-00TOWN OF LOS GATOS
CALIFORNIA
TOWN COUNCIL/PARKING AUTHORITY
JOINT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
July 17, 2000/Minutes
TOWN COUNCIL
The Town Council/Parking Authority/Redevelopment Agency of the Town of Los Gatos met in the
Council Chambers of the Town Hall, 110 East Main Street, at 7:31 p.m., Monday, July 17, 2000, in
joint regular session.
ROLL CALL
Present:Randy Attaway, Jan Hutchins, Linda Lubeck,
Joe Pirzynski and Chairman/Mayor Steve Blanton.
Absent:None
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Given by all in attendance.
CLOSED SESSION
Town Attorney, Orry Korb, reported that Council had met in Closed Session prior to this evening’s
meeting pursuant to Government Code Section 54957 to discuss Public Employee Appointment in
regards to Town Manager. No reportable action taken.
COMMENDATION/ANDY SWING/ELECTRONICS TECHNOLOGY (00.44)
Mayor Blanton introduced Andy Swing and presented the Town Commendation for service to his
community in the electronic field as it relates to high school performances and events and the
management of computer programs, and for help to fellow students learning the skills necessary to
carry on these services as he graduates. Mr. Swing was present to accept his award and recognition
from the Council.
SCHEDULE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS (01.01)
Informational report regarding currently scheduled public hearings was received and filed.
PLANNING COMMISSION/PLANNING DEPARTMENT MONTHLY STATUS REPORT (02.47)
Informational report regarding activity of Planning Commission and Department was
received and filed.
CODE COMPLIANCE/QUARTERLY REPORT (03.47)
Informational report from the Code Compliance Officer regarding abatement of code
violations was received and filed.
ACCOUNTS PAYABLE/RATIFICATION/JULY 2000 (04.V)
Motion by Mr. Pirzynski, seconded by Mr. Attaway, that Council ratify the accompanying check
registers for accounts payable invoices paid on July 7, 2000 in the amount of $125,199.80. Carried
unanimously.
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Redevelopment Agency Los Gatos, California
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TREASURER'S REPORT (05.V)
Informational report submitted by the Treasurer to the Council for the month ended May
31, 2000, was received and filed.
MINUTES OF JUNE 26, 2000 (06A.V)
Motion by Mr. Pirzynski, seconded by Mr. Attaway, that Council approve the Joint Town Council/
Redevelopment Agency Minutes of June 26, 2000, as submitted. Carried unanimously.
MINUTES OF JULY 10, 2000 (06B.V)
Motion by Mr. Pirzynski, seconded by Mr. Attaway, that Council approve the Minutes of July 10,
2000, as amended. Carried unanimously.
FUNDING FOR COPIERS/ADMINISTRATION (07.28)
Motion by Mr. Pirzynski, seconded by Mr. Attaway, that Council authorize return of funding to
fiscal year 1999-00 and remove funding from fiscal year 2000-01 for two copiers for Town
Manager’s Office. Carried unanimously.
LIBRARY AUTOMATION SYSTEM/EPIXTECH/RESOLUTION 2000-96 (08.44)
Motion by Mr. Pirzynski, seconded by Mr. Attaway, that Council adopt Resolution 2000-96
entitled, RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS AUTHORIZING THE TOWN
MANAGER TO EXECUTE A PURCHASE AND LICENSE AGREEMENT FOR UPGRADE
OF LIBRARY AUTOMATION SYSTEM BY AND BETWEEN THE TOWN OF LOS
GATOS AND EPIXTECH, INC. Carried unanimously
VERBAL COMMUNICATIONS
Englewood Neighborhood Traffic:
Greg Moss, 16788 Littlefield Road, addressed two issues that the Task Force has not addressed in
the General Plan regarding traffic: 1) Improving the traffic flow on Los Gatos Boulevard between
Shannon and Los Gatos-Saratoga Road; 2) Deceasing the congestion on Los Gatos Boulevard
during peak morning commute caused by parents bringing their children to the several schools in
this vicinity. He submitted a letter for the record. Mayor Blanton requested a report concerning
these issues.
Nina Court Appeal:
Ray Davis, resident, addressed his concerns on the Nina Court appeal and the process involved.
Noted the 20% slope requirement for CEQA review and submitted two pages for the record.
HEARINGS
DOWNTOWN PARKING MANAGEMENT PLAN/IMPLEMENTATION/HEARING (11.40)
Mayor Blanton announced that this was the time and place so noted for public hearing to consider
adopting resolution to implement a Downtown Parking Management Plan.
Chief Todd gave a brief presentation of the proposed downtown parking management plan and
noted the time involved in contacting the community through noticed meetings, newspaper stories,
mailings, correspondence and personal contact. He noted the group consensus on certain issues and
the compromises made by differing factions.
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HEARINGS CONTINUED
DOWNTOWN PARKING MANAGEMENT PLAN/IMPLEMENTATION/CONT.
Interim Manager Piper explained the need to move forward with this plan at this time if it is to be
in place by the holiday season, noting the contracts and budgeting involved. If the plan is not to be
implemented at this time it can be considered for next year’s holiday season.
The following people spoke to this issue:
Phil Micciche, 220 Alexander Ave, representing St. Mary’s parishioners, noted that 61% were
against permit parking, and 75% said they’d pay for something.. They believe there should be
employee permits; that there should be an hour and a half parking from 10am to 6:30pm allowed in
residential zones, strongly enforced with $100 penalties; residents still to pay minimum permit fee
with 2 guest passes. Downtown parking on street should be limited to 1½ hours with $25 fine. Lots
should be limited to 3hours. He noted that the 10ML garage will give 175 extra spaces which are
currently available now on the streets but will be lost under the proposed program. He also noted
that a change in policy regarding the parking restrictions on University would free up many lost
spaces protected during the Old Town reconstruction. He asked for quantification of the problem
and its solution before adoption of the plan. How many spaces added, how many lost, and how
many employees at one time need to be provided for. Try some simple solutions before something
so complex and expensive. The Friends of Parking have come up with an unfriendly plan.
Tom Boyce, 134 Wilder Ave, representing Parking Task Force, spoke of a program with a revenue
stream which would pay for a shuttle to take the employees to less preferred parking outside the
core area leaving prime spaces open for customer and visitor use. This program should offset its
cost by the increased revenue generated by customers being able to access the shops.
Florence Smith, resident, spoke of the inconvenience of paid parking on the streets, and of the
problems encountered in getting the appropriate parking permits for the handicapped and those who
are otherwise encumbered.
Bill Bacchi, 236 N. Santa Cruz Ave, spoke in favor of the Plan and the dire results of not
implementing the Plan now.
Ray Davis, resident, spoke of enhancing the “quality of life” for the residents.
Diane McNutt, 27 Jackson, representing the Chamber of Commerce, speaking for 400 local
businesses in support of a parking management plan which meets five specific criteria: 1) Better use
of the parking resources that currently exist in the downtown. 2) Revenue generation that will fund
the creation of additional parking spaces in the downtown. 3) Needs of ALL stakeholders must be
acknowledged (downtown residents, employees, other Los Gatos residents, business and property
owners, customers and visitors). 3) Patrons and visitors assisted in getting where they need to go
(not hindered). 4) Parking restriction plan not needed; managed parking is desired; (no hint of
message restricting visitors). 5) Carefully monitored program that is flexible and can make changes
quickly. 6) Recognize downtown employees as a valuable resource to the Town, and provide safe
convenient affordable parking options. There needs to be sufficient parking offered and at least one
area that is free for employees. A limited number of paid preferential permits offered to employees
in the residential districts. 7) Employee and customer satisfaction are necessary in continuing to
generate 1/3 of the Town’s revenues in sales tax and business licence fees.
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HEARINGS CONTINUED
DOWNTOWN PARKING MANAGEMENT PLAN/IMPLEMENTATION/CONT.
Speakers continued:
Sallie Robbins-Druian, 32 East Main St., spoke of Los Gatos acting as host to visitors and guests,
and noted that a gracious accommodating host would never charge his guests for parking. The
public relations impact to our Town must be considered.
Steve Zientek, 106 Tait Ave, parking as a scarce asset must be managed. This program addresses
all of the issues. It is flexible, it pays for itself within a year, it assists handicapped and encumbered
individuals with special parking devices and is specifically user friendly. As a past member of the
Parking Commission he feels that it is the first complete and concise plan he has ever seen.
Peter Dominick, 14420 Blossom Hill Road, the Town has issued 18,000 citations this year to
people not following the present parking limitation plan. The new plan will not only cost to park in
the same spaces that are available now, but will still generate the same amount of tickets or more for
people that will continue to park illegally. Tickets do not change this type of behavior.
Justin Zawadzki, 219 Bean Ave., Pastor of St. Mary’s Church, acknowledged the need for
additional parking spaces in Town and a revenue source to pay for those spaces. Speaking for the
Church he opposed the limitation on parking in the immediate neighborhood on the streets nearest
to St. Mary’s.
Bert Millen, 301 N. Santa Cruz Ave., spoke of the great success of the Parking Lot 4 program and
how wonderful it is to have that lot and the parking improvements that went along with that
assessment district.
Lois Hanson, 17150 Wild Way, related this program to a similar program in Lancaster, PA. By
instituting paid parking, it became too inconvenient for the residents to use the downtown and they
turned to shop in other locations. Even with tourists visiting, it was not sufficient to support the
town. Lancaster is suffering, shops are closing and it’s losing its charm.
Shirley Henderson, 98 W. Main St., asked that University Ave. be reopened to daytime parking.
She notes that there are 40 to 50 empty spaces going to waste everyday on this one street, and they
should be made available to people coming to Town. Employees should not have to pay $300 a
year, and there should be no meters on Main, University and Santa Cruz Aves.
Mark Mastrianni, 135 W. Main St., #F, spoke for Montebello Terrace, and enquired about the use
permit for his building and the parking considerations.
Dolores Simone, 248 Old Adobe Road, spoke of her personal business which brings her to Town 3
to 4 times a week and noted that she was a St. Mary’s parishioner. Spoke of NEVER having any
trouble finding a parking space at any time of the year. She has spoken to her neighbors and has a
consensus from 900 residents that they will not shop in the downtown if the Town institutes paid
parking.
Lynnette Vega, 123 E. Main St., Senior Programs Coordinator, Recreation Dept., explained the
situation for seniors participating in the nutrition program on Wednesdays, who pay $1.65 for the
luncheon and then will have to pay at least $1.00 for 1 hour to park in order to take advantage of
this community supported service. With the Town encouraging more emphasis on senior programs
in Town and with the Recreation Dept. working on addressing these needs, it seems counter
productive to be offering these programs and then making it difficult to receive the service by
charging to park. She mentioned other classes offered at the Recreation Center and the need for
permits for those people attending these classes. She asked for cooperation in addressing these
concerns.
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HEARINGS CONTINUED
DOWNTOWN PARKING MANAGEMENT PLAN/IMPLEMENTATION/CONT.
Speakers continued:
Ken Karn, 2378 Fairglen Dr., representing the Camera Cinema Club, has 200 members in the Los
Gatos club who study art, foreign and specialty cinema before its been released. They have guest
speakers, actors and even an Oscar winner at their meetings. Paid parking downtown would be
death to the Cinema because of all the huge movie complexes that are being built which have free
multiple hour parking. If paid parking is instituted there must be a validation program to protect the
Los Gatos Cinema.
Jim Zuur, 41 N. Santa Cruz Ave., gave the present history of downtown theaters in the Bay Area.
Most have been demolished or turned into mini-malls. Locally theaters in Saratoga, Los Altos,
Campbell, Willow Glen have disappeared in the name of progress and economy. Part of Town’s
Parking Plan had proposed to gate and validate the upper portion of Lot 4. This gated validation
system is not new, and other cities have used it. It recognizes the contribution made by the Theater
acting as a magnate and anchor for other downtown businesses. If there is to be no gate and
validate program, he asks for paid parking to stop at 6 p.m. providing free parking in the evening
and weekends.
Mike Abkin, 122 El Olivar, there will be too much wasted revenue to implement the program for a
one year study and then remove if it’s not working; the Chamber’s goals for parking were excellent
but did not incorporate paid parking: applauded the Task Force for working together on solutions
and would like to see these efforts continued in cooperation; he is opposed to paid parking but
agrees with the residential permit parking; he believes the employers should work out incentives for
their employees to park in remote areas, and that the needs of the churches within the downtown
parking program district be considered and met.
Joe Hargett, 95 Church St., would prefer to see a more incremental approach to the parking
solution. Suggested some paid parking on the structure, but no meters on main streets downtown.
The largest need is adequate parking for employees.
Tom Castro, 308 E. Main St., proponent of the Downtown Management Program because of the
High School. When High School is in session there is no place to park at this end of Town. There
are only 23 public spaces in Parking Lot 8. He proposes that the High School build itself double
decker parking.
Janet Canning, 115 Euclid Ave., noted that the new paid parking areas on the main streets and
public lots will push the visitors into the residential districts one block back, especially along the
adjacent areas of Main St. where preferential residential parking has never been instituted
Judy Petrokas, 14851 Las Flores Lane, wants the character of our Town preserved, and does not
want to see the downtown take on the look of a shopping mall with extensive parking arrangements.
Is appalled at the residents demanding unlimited on street parking privileges. This plan is expensive
to implement, gives no options to visitors, and gives preferential treatment to residents of Almond
Grove and Edelen. The Methodist Church, of which she is a member, is busy seven days a week
with programs serving seniors, and new and developing plans for youth and children. All activities
will be in jeopardy.
Joanne Rodgers, 15287 Top of the Hill Road, reported on her trip to Aspen and gave her opinion of
that city’s parking program, noting that it is a winter resort and many stores close during the
summer months. Their needs and requirements are totally different from those of Los Gatos. She
spoke of St. Petersburg, Florida and the 225 parking units they now have in storage which they
might offer to us with a discount. St. Peterburg was not prepared for the outrage from their citizens
and had to take out the units after they had been placed.
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HEARINGS CONTINUED
DOWNTOWN PARKING MANAGEMENT PLAN/IMPLEMENTATION/CONT.
Speakers continued:
John Tice, 570 University Ave, #13, personally sent out 1000 notices to invite people to attend this
evening’s meeting. Spoke of the changes to the tone and texture of our Town when the complex
parking management plan is activated. He noted that private lots will be forced to put up tow away
signs and believes that this sweeping program is far too large for our community.
Frank Mandarino, 17390 High St., does a great deal of his business in Los Gatos over breakfast,
lunch and dinner. He polled his clients and found they would not come to his meetings if they were
going to have to pay for parking. They would rather do business in another community.
Nancy Christensen, 16230 Azalea Way, emphasized the building of a new garage before any day
time on street parking is limited in the downtown residential districts. She also pointed out that if
the residential spaces are removed from the current parking space count and the balance is found in
the new garage structure, what have we gained for the cost of the garage? She asked for an
explanation of the budgeting for the revenue raised with this management program. What’s to
happen with the funds?
Leslie Dill, 220 Wilder and 110 N. Santa Cruz Ave., The plan is elitist making the assumption that
residents in Los Gatos can afford these fees and that employees in Los Gatos can afford these fees.
She noted that $300 was three days paid vacation that the employee may no longer be given by the
employer or that the employee would now have to spend on parking fees. She noted that the plan
excluded the majority of Los Gatos residents and that the foyer was filled with people raising their
hands on issues, which the Council could not see.
Sheri Lewis, 59-B N. Santa Cruz, speaking for herself, noted the over 100 hours she spent
attending all of the Parking Management Plan Task Force, wanted to commend everyone’s efforts
on the work put forward and ask that they stay committed to working on these issues. She hopes
that everyone will stay involved and seek out solutions that can benefit all of the stakeholders.
Kathie Williams, 101 S. Santa Cruz Ave., representing the employees of the United States Postal
Service, noted that her employees would have to drop off their children at day care earlier hours,
incurring more costs, to be able to hike into work and make it on time. She spoke of the difficulty
in getting applicants to apply for postal openings. By informing her applicants that they will also
have to pay for parking she is assured of having a harder time in recruiting. She would like to serve
Los Gatos with the finest people she is able to employ, but this parking program will not make that
possible.
Andrew Moore, 12 N. Santa Cruz, spoke against paid parking. He noted that everyone was talking
about the compromises that were generated but that no one really liked the plan. If no one likes the
plan, why pass it?
Mercedes Dickson, 50 University Ave., without a parking management program, the downtown
may become a restaurant row like Saratoga.
Dave Flick, 130 Stacia St., He had the answer to the number of deficit parking spaces and an
itemized report of where to locate, enable and make use of 60 new parking spaces in the downtown.
According to different estimates and needs analysis the Town has a deficit of 50 spaces and maybe
250 by alternate calculations and by including the on street parking locations. The parking
management plan and the extreme needs assessment conclusions estimate a deficit of 923 spaces,
not counting the on street parking. The committee, of Sandy Decker, Mike Abkin and assorted
tenants, has come up with 60 new spaces that can be in use within 30 days by re-striping. There are
another 150 spaces, and a total of over
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HEARINGS CONTINUED
DOWNTOWN PARKING MANAGEMENT PLAN/IMPLEMENTATION/CONT.
Speakers continued:
Dave Flick, (continued) 300 parking spaces that occur all over town in little incremental locations.
These new parking spaces can be in place for far less than has been included in the budget. Some of
the locations are found through re-striping, others are in the old bus depot, and some one way street
changes offer more that 30 spaces. When Old Town opened the other end of town lost 85 parking
spaces. He said that was unfair to take 85 parking impacts from one neighborhood and force them
into another neighborhood. He noted that 95% of those parking spaces sit empty all day long.
Another identified location is on Maple Lane, the Town’s back access to the bike trail. It is one and
a half acres which the Town could acquire and make a surface lot with 100 spaces. Behind Mt.
Charlie’s is an area for surface lot. These identified areas are easy and quick ways of gaining
parking and having them in place before Christmas. He submitted a package of information
delineating the plan accompanied with pictures, diagrams and cost analysis.
Larry Arzie, 32 N. Santa Cruz Ave., praised the hiring of Tim Ware and the work he has done for
the Town. By laying out all of the options, the Town has been able to identify the needs and offer
solutions for a parking management program. Mr. Ware was not contracted to identify alternatives
or options to paid parking. Mr. Arzie asked for the plan to be activated with no paid parking, and
that additional public meetings be held before implementation of any pay for parking operations.
Linda Brackenbury, 17140 Mill Rise Way, working at a minimum wage and having to pay for
parking in order to go to work was a horrifying thought. As a resident she feels affronted at having
to pay to park when she comes downtown to enjoy her hometown movie theater, shops and
restaurants.
Mike Maiten, 136 Belvue Drive. What’s the goal of paid parking? An economic disincentive to
park thereby making more parking spaces? To raise revenue for a parking structure? It will take 12
years before enough revenue is raised to build a parking structure. We can’t enforce our current
parking laws because they don’t mean anything according to the report. Will the new laws have
more meaning in regards to enforcement? Use the enforcement we now have. Raise the fines to
provide the economic disincentive that is talked about in the report. Strictly enforce current laws,
increase the fines if necessary, and see if that works before trying other untried solutions.
Jim Dunlay, 15360 Francis Oaks Way, asked how this plan helps the holiday parking problem in
the downtown. He noted the great detail in the report outlining the type of hardware needed to
charge for parking, but did not see where all of this activity would create additional parking spaces
or free up existing spaces. Is the issue holiday parking spaces? Establish a short term, holiday only,
employee parking lot, outside the downtown area, with a shuttle service. Parishioners should never
have to pay to park near their church during normal hours of church services.
April Maiten, 136 Belvue Drive, Lunch time, and holiday time are the peak times for parking
downtown, and a plan should address those times specifically. The rest of the times there is always
some parking available within five minutes. When she visits downtown and stops for a dollar
coffee she will now find the coffee is going to cost two dollars. That will make the decision to stop
for coffee downtown, or at Starbuck’s where there is free parking, a fiscal decision rather than one
of choice and ambiance.
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HEARINGS CONTINUED
DOWNTOWN PARKING MANAGEMENT PLAN/IMPLEMENTATION/CONT.
Speakers continued:
Ducky Grabill, 124 Wilder Ave., speaking as a board member of the Family Teen and Counseling
Center, in behalf of the Los Gatos Cinema. Asked for free validated parking for the Cinema
customers. She noted that the Cinema has traditionally held fund raisers for the Center and has
offered support and help for this organization.
Susan Flatness, 107 Andre Court, feels that the specific problem of downtown parking will not be
solved with the global approach offered by the proposed parking management program. She shops
downtown often and almost never finds any difficulty finding a parking space. She finds Friday and
Saturday nights a difficult time to park and also during the holiday shopping season. If she has to
pay to shop downtown she will do her shopping in other locations. She asked that paid parking not
be instituted at the Civic Center as it will make the free children’s program no longer free.
Buff Levine, 62 Ellenwood Ave., believes that paid parking is a form of government harassment.
Aspen has lots of free shuttle buses that run every 15 minutes and one doesn’t have to drive a car
downtown. In the proposed parking management program the full shuttle service offered by Aspen
is not included. The parking solutions are not real solutions because the problem is really a traffic
problem. The traffic problem will continue to grow without alternative transportation. Paid parking
is just harassment.
Judy Wallace, 58 N. Santa Cruz Ave., 68 Ellenwood Ave.,would support paid parking in the
structures and the lots but not on the downtown streets. She also requested specific pay for parking
areas for employees and businesses. She noted that the lower lot was empty most of the time last
holiday season when it was unavailable for employees. Not many customers went down to use it.
Those cities that do use paid for parking have put bags over their meters during holiday season.
Ian Macrae, 246 W. Main St., favored paid parking if it would move transients and loiterers along
leaving room for true shoppers and patrons of the businesses. Opposes paid parking in the
residential districts.
Allie Miano, 55 Tait Ave., does not want paid parking in the residential area. “Town’s” do not have
paid parking. This management program is like prescribing chemotherapy for a cold. Paying to
park in front of your own house is not “favoring residents” as the report claims. In support of the
businesses, she does not believe that paid parking will be a help for them. Find a saner and more
practical solution.
Paul Dubois, 340 University Ave., spoke of the $1,100,000.00 net revenue stream for the Town
after initial start up costs. He challenged that figure and believes that it could actually be a
$500,000.00 loss the first year. Asked Council not to rush into this program to meet an arbitrary
date for the holiday season.
MarLyn Rasmussen, 119 Tait, says we have taken a mole hill and built it into a mountain, Vail,
CA.
Randi Chen, 118 Edelen Ave., is happy with 24 hour parking in her district. Meters up and down
her block will cause undo hardship to mothers with children, and for the elderly. Running back and
forth for tickets will become a chore. She noted that the majority of University Ave. is residential,
and that they have the same rights as Almond Grove and Edelen to protection from the impacts of
open parking.
Steve Glickman, 145 Maricopa Drive, asked that whatever parking management program is
instituted that is be done slowly and incrementally.
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HEARINGS CONTINUED
DOWNTOWN PARKING MANAGEMENT PLAN/IMPLEMENTATION/CONT.
Speakers continued:
Gloria Le Blanc, 240 Montclair Road, realizes the Town has an age old parking problem, but the
parking management program presented is one for Aspen not Los Gatos. We need more time to
review the options and try them out slowly in our community.
Ellie Stern, 17121 Wild Way, if a program of this size is to be adopted it must first go to the voters
of Los Gatos. If it is approved, then we can decide what parts to implement. She has always found
parking when she has come to Town. She sees no reason for paid parking.
Geoff Lamb, 58 Chester St., Town Treasurer, spoke of the 1.5ML for start up costs of shuttles, 85
pay and display machines, 2,000 in car meters, and hardware and software for the permit ticketing
system. Then there will be 1.2ML to operate the program with 6 new employees. By the end of the
first year we have spent 2.7ML and have new parking gear and another level of bureaucracy, but no
new parking spaces. The theory is that the program operates at a surplus because it generates
2.2ML in revenue but that is from fees, passes and permits that are paid by us. The idea of surplus
is a myth. It’s just a parking tax with a different way to collect it. Look for a cost effective program
and other alternatives.
Bob Swiggim, 16164 Bachman Ave. Paid parking is a bad idea. It was tried in the 60's and they
were immediately removed. Build more parking but don’t charge the customer.
Joanne Talesfore, 52 Hernandez Ave., is amazed at the community involvement in this process.
She asked that the “storm trooper” meters not be used and some other plan be considered.
John Leonard, 152 Town Terrace, #5, does not want paid parking in Los Gatos and does not want
the long tall meters up and down his streets.
Debbie Kranefuss, Live Oak Senior Nutrition & Service Center. Stated that it is
counterproductive to encourage services for seniors in our Town and then charge them for parking
when you’ve gotten their interest and attendance.
Sandy Decker, 45 Glen Ridge, noted that the items sold in Los Gatos can be bought in other cities
in close proximity to our Town, and those cities do not charge for parking. She spoke of losing the
fragile charm and character of our Town with the implementation of this program. That ambiance is
what draws our visitors and customers, without that, the tenor of the downtown will suffer and the
economic base could be negatively affected.
Suzun Brackenbury, 17140 Mill Rise Way, spoke of the loss of charm in the downtown with the
implementation of the parking program. She asked for support for the Cinema and easy
accessibility for all to ensure continued success for our vital downtown.
Lauren Swansun, 15910 Rochin Terrace, noted that those on fixed incomes will find the high
charge for parking offensive. He believes that a meeting of this size and importance should have
been held in the High School.
Don Kulin, 420 Alberto Way, asked a question about making room for more visitors in Town, and
alluded to the fact that there were just so many spaces available with or without this program.
These will be the same spaces available whether they are free or they require payment. The use of
those spaces is predicated on meeting needs and enjoying the atmosphere while shopping. He does
not see how the program supplies anymore spaces but does see loss of charm. Asked what the
Council hoped to gain with this program.
Roger Poyner, 190 College Ave. He is not totally against paid parking but was adamant about
protecting the Los Gatos Cinema.
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HEARINGS CONTINUED
DOWNTOWN PARKING MANAGEMENT PLAN/IMPLEMENTATION/CONT.
Speakers continued:
Paul Shepherd, 135 Tait Ave. Do something about employee parking. Continue valet parking, do
more of it on busy days, and continue the shuttle service. Protect the residential districts.
Bill Errico, 236 University Ave. Expressed his opinion of living on our cross town freeway,
University Ave., which is the dumping ground of all the commercial trucks and buses. He does not
want this program implemented but would like the major problem of employee parking addressed.
He favors giving a limited number of free passes to employees for residential district parking. The
rest of the residents and guests can go fish for parking like we’ve always done. It’s a lot of fun.
There were no other speakers on this issue.
Motion by Mr. Attaway, seconded by Mr. Pirzynski to close the public hearing. Carried
unanimously.
Council Comments:
Mayor Blanton asked the Council for a response to the question as to whether or not Council wants
to pursue paid parking any further.
Mr. Hutchins does not want to move forward with paid parking.
Mr. Attaway was glad to see how important an issue this is to the residents and business people of
the Town. He has consistently voted no on paid parking over the years. This proposed parking plan
would permanently alter the character and charm of Los Gatos forever. Small steps should be used
to implement small portions of a parking plan at a time.
Motion by Mr. Attaway, seconded by Mr. Hutchins, that Council not approve paid parking
anywhere downtown.
Continued Council discussion: Mr. Hutchins spoke of trying to buy a garage beyond our means
which has caused us to flounder around with impractical solutions. The Town has 6ML in the
budget for a small modest lot. A lot can be built without any need to look for additional revenues.
Mr. Pirzynski says the community understands what we have, and that the charm we have needs to
be cherished and protected. He commended the Task Force for all of its dedication and work over
the past six months, and commented that some of the issues can be approached more creatively.
We will work together to maintain the character of the Town in all aspects; such as the business
community, the Chamber of Commerce, the churches and with our seniors and youth. As a
community we can work cooperatively to mitigate the problem. Linda Lubeck defined this issue as
one of equity. The reason there is parking downtown now is because the Town bought the Southern
Pacific Railroad right-of-way over time, and the business community paid into parking assessment
districts over the years to develop that parking. She believes that others who use the downtown
should also pay a portion toward parking there. She spoke to adopting the plan and ideas, but
eliminating the paid parking portion. She would like to institute the other options. Mr. Blanton
noted his support for paid parking. He believes that the parking issue can only be approached on a
holistic level with all of the issues monitored at one time.
Motion carried by a vote of 4 ayes. Mr. Blanton voted no.
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Town Council Minutes July 17, 2000
Redevelopment Agency Los Gatos, California
HEARINGS CONTINUED
DOWNTOWN PARKING MANAGEMENT PLAN/IMPLEMENTATION/CONT.
Where we go from here: Mayor Blanton asked that a study session be scheduled as soon as
possible to determine future action for mitigation of the holiday parking problems and
implementation of possible solutions. Those people who spoke will be notified of future meetings.
Staff will organize meeting schedule.
GENERAL PLAN 2000/ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT/RESOLUTION 2000-90 (10.46)
Mayor Blanton announced that this was the time and place so noted for public hearing to consider
adopting resolution certifying the final Environmental Impact Report and to consider adopting the
General Plan 2000.
Community Development Director, Paul Curtis, gave a synopsis of the work, time and effort that
has gone into this plan. He noted the last changes that Council had requested to be made.
The following people from the audience address this issue:
Jeff Major, 16771 Loma Ave., representing Barry Swenson Builder, Green Valley Corp, working
on the development of the property at 484 Woodland Drive, opposed the change of land use for this
property, he noted the change on the General Plan Map. He spoke of upcoming planned meetings
with the neighbors concerning this property and he thinks this change has been done at the last
minute without allowance for input and notification to all interested parties.
John Shenk, representing Sobrato Development Co., spoke of development at Vasona Junction.
They have just purchased the land with a specific designation and find now that the General Plan
will be changing the designation that has been there for many years. He noted that the light rail
may or may not be put through and the company he represents had planned on a large research and
development park consistent with the current General Plan and zoning. Having spoken to the VTA
he found that the station could be committed to if there was sufficient density to supply riders for
the service. He does not want to find the project in the uncomfortable situation of becoming a non-
conforming use in five years. He would like the General Plan to show housing if the Vasona Station
becomes a reality but he would also like the project to be permitted (not excluded) under the current
CM zoning.
Ray Davis, resident, spoke of serving the public interest.
Sandy Decker, 45 Glen Ridge, noted that VTA has $50,000,000 for Highway 17 improvements.
She suggested that be spent on the light rail to Vasona Station. Leave the safeguards in the General
Plan to protect scenic Highway 17. We do not want to see our trees replaced by sound walls. Keep
the language in the General Plan to ensure the light rail to Vasona and the ability to have housing in
that location.
Mike Abkin, 122 El Olivar,spoke against widening Highway 17 and for keeping its scenic beauty.
He spoke about Vasona Junction and the housing to be developed there.
Joanne Rodgers, 15287 Top of the Hill Road, spoke of our small town atmosphere and appreciated
everyone’s participation in the parking hearing. She is pleased with the work from the General Plan
Task Force and its goal to preserve our small town character.
Bill Krause , 484 Woodland Ave. #17, 191 Kimble Ave, asked that the zoning arrived at by the Task
Force be kept as presented to Council.
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Town Council Minutes July 17, 2000
Redevelopment Agency Los Gatos, California
GENERAL PLAN 2000/ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT/RESOLUTION 2000-90
Speakers continued:
Jolie Houston, representing Sobrato Interests, spoke of the project that is consistent with the
present zoning. The property is currently zoned CM. They are asking that the map show a shared
use between CM and high density residential. Town’s high density is 5 to 20 units per acre. VTA’s
requirements are 50 to 60 units per acre for regional serving housing. She asked that the light rail
station be able to take advantage of business in this location as a planned employment center. It
also has Route 85 access and Highway 17.
Doug McNelly, owner of 484 Woodland Ave., spoke of developing a community project by
including the neighborhood in discussions concerning proposed projects. This will be done to try to
reflect the community’s desires. He asked that the zoning on this property not be changed at this
time.
No one else from the audience spoke to this issue.
Motion by Mrs. Lubeck, seconded by Mr. Pirzynski, to close the public hearing. Carried
unanimously.
Council consensus to drop the Downtown Specific Plan since the General Plan includes many of
the same policies and implementation measures.
Council consensus to widen Los Gatos Boulevard north of Lark, mitigating potential traffic
impacts, and remaining consistent with our small town character.
Motion by Mr. Pirzynski, seconded by Mr. Hutchins, to drop the section using open space to
define the boundaries of Los Gatos. Carried unanimously.
Motion by Mr. Hutchins, seconded by Mrs. Lubeck, to include Mobile Home Parks in the legend
of the General Plan Map, but not to delineate any portion of the map as Mobile Home Park zoning.
Carried unanimously.
Motion by Mr. Hutchins, seconded by Mr. Pirzynski, to not change the zoning as delineated in the
new General Plan for the Maxim/A to Z Nursery Site. Carried unanimously.
Council consensus to leave the wording in regarding not widening Highway 17 and not expanding
interchanges.
Council consensus that the designated building height in the downtown be set at 45 feet.
Council consensus to eliminate the words “such as demand management and alternative modes”
from T.P.1.6.
Motion by Mrs. Lubeck, seconded by Mr. Hutchins, that Council adopt Resolution 2000-90
entitled, RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS RECOMMENDING
CERTIFICATION OF THE FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT AND
ADOPTION OF GENERAL PLAN 2000. Carried unanimously
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Town Council Minutes July 17, 2000
Redevelopment Agency Los Gatos, California
HEARINGS CONTINUED
GUM TREE LANE 15690/RESIDENTIAL REMODEL/APPEAL (12.09)
Mayor Blanton announced that this was the time and place so noted for public hearing to consider
appeal of a Planning Commission decision requesting approval to construct an accessory living
quarter and a variance application to exceed the allowable height on property zoned HR-2 ½.
Conditional Use Permit U-00-1. Variance Application V-00-1. Property Location: 15690 Gum
Tree Lane. Property Owner/Applicant/Appellant: Eric Hamilton.
The following person spoke to this item:
Eric Hamilton, 15690 Gum Tree Lane, spoke of his accessory structure to house a table tennis
court being approved in 1996. The permit expired in 1998 due to misinformation from staff, and
when he came in to reapply he found that the rules for hillside development had changed. He has
filed a variance application and requests approval of his project.
No one else addressed this issue.
Motion by Mr. Attaway, seconded by Mr. Hutchins, to close the public hearing. Carried
unanimously.
Motion by Mr. Hutchins, seconded by Mr. Attaway, to grant the appeal as this is an issue of policy
over which the Planning Commission did not have discretion to modify or address, but which is
vested in the Council for decision; to adopt the findings in the Planning Commission report of April
12, 2000; and to note that the location of the accessory unit is on a large site where the structure has
no impact on others. Carried by a vote of 3 ayes. Mrs. Lubeck and Mr. Pirzynski voted no because
they could not identify findings for the variance.
SENIOR TASK FORCE/TOWN FUNDING (13.19)
Motion by Mr. Attaway, seconded by Mr. Hutchins, that Council accept the Community Services
Commission’s recommendation regarding the Senior Task Force Report and refer the Commission’s
recommendations to Staff for alternatives, noting that it is time for the Town to offer continued
support to the Seniors’ efforts. Carried unanimously.
FRANCIS OAKS WAY 15500/NEW RESIDENTIAL/RESOLUTION 2000-95 (09.09)
Mayor Blanton noted that this was the time and place to consider adopting resolution granting an
appeal and remanding a decision of the Planning Commission approving an Architecture and Site
Application to construct a new single family residence on property zoned HR-2½ . Project
Application PRJ-98-113. Property Location: 15500 Francis Oaks Way. Property Owner: Parkside
Limited. Applicant/Appellant: T.H.I.S. Design.
Ray Davis, resident, spoke to this item, expressing his opinion that the process and decision was not
to his liking and was done in some faulty manner.
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Town Council Minutes July 17, 2000
Redevelopment Agency Los Gatos, California
FRANCIS OAKS WAY 15500/NEW RESIDENTIAL/RESOLUTION 2000-95/CONT.
Motion by Mr. Blanton, seconded by Mr. Attaway, that Council adopt Resolution 2000-95 entitled,
RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS GRANTING AN APPEAL AND
REMANDING A DECISION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION APPROVING AN
ARCHITECTURE AND SITE APPLICATION TO CONSTRUCT A NEW SINGLE FAMILY
RESIDENCE ON PROPERTY ZONED HR-2½. Carried unanimously.
COUNCIL REPORTS (14.10)
Mr. Pirzynski, attended the Cities Association Meeting where the transportation issue to be brought
to the November ballot was discussed. There was no consensus from the Cities Directors to have a
common response. It was requested that each representative return to their respective Councils and
ask that each Council Member, if they are so inclined, write a letter to the Board of Supervisors
prior to the Board’s decision, encouraging this measure to be placed on the ballot.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Mr. Attaway, seconded by Mrs. Lubeck, to adjourn this evening's meeting at 11:55 p.m.
Carried unanimously.
ATTEST:
Marian V. Cosgrove
Town Clerk
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