R-6 Staff Report - Plaza Master Planay
MEETING DATE: 5/19/97
ITEM NO. //
Itz.., l0
COUNCIL/AGENCY AGENDA REPORT
DATE: May 8, 1997
TO: MAYOR AND TOWN COUNCIL
CHAIR AND MEMBERS OF THE REDEVELOP ENT AGENCY
FROM: TOWN MANAGER/ EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
SUBJECT: PLAZA MASTER PLAN:
1. ADOPT RESOLUTION APPROVING PLAZA MASTER PLAN
2. CONSIDER INSTALLATION OF NEW TURF AND FOUNTAIN SAFETY
RECOMMENDATION:
1. Consider public input.
2. Adopt resolution approving the Plaza Master Plan (Attachment 1).
BACKGROUND:
The concept of developing a Plaza Master Plan has been actively discussed ever since the Town Council established
the Town Plaza Task Force in February 1995. A chronology of events is summarized below.
• Town Plaza Task Force discusses Town Plaza (March 29, April 26, June 21, August 2)
• Town Council accepts report from Town Plaza Task Force (October 16, 1995)
• Redevelopment Agency approves consultant to prepare Plaza Master Plan (June 21, 1996)
• Redevelopment Agency approves funding for a Plaza Master Plan (July 1, 1996)
• Town staff reviews first draft Plaza Master Plan (September 4, 1996)
• Redevelopment Advisory Committee holds public forum on second draft Plaza Master Plan (October 15, 1996)
• Parks Commission reviews third draft Plaza Master Plan (November 5, 1996)
• Town Council considers third draft Plaza Master Plan (November 18, 1996)
• Redevelopment Advisory Committee reviews third draft Plaza Master Plan (January 14, 1997)
• Town Council holds Study Session at Town Plaza (February 8, 1997)
DISCUSSION:
On March 17, 1997 the Town Council/Redevelopment Agency considered the third draft Plaza Master Plan including
an overlay incorporating the Council's comments received during the February 8, 1997 Study Session. Mr. John Spaur
indicated concern about a note on the Plan that indicated that the Bell and striking mechanism would be relocated to
the Forbes Mill Museum. Mr. Spaur requested that the Plaza Master Plan be continued so that he could evaluate the
Plan in detail and contact other people responsible for installing the bell tower to request their input.
PREPARED BY: LEE E. BOWMA
/PLANNING DIRECTOR/ DEP TY EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Reviewed by:
Continued on Page 2.
Town Attorney/General Counsel
finance Director Revised: 5/8/97 4: 16 pm
Reformatted: 10/23/95
PAGE 2
MAYOR AND TOWN COUNCIL/CHAIR AND MEMBERS OF THE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
SUBJECT: PLAZA MASTER PLAN AND PLAZA IMPROVEMENTS
May 12, 1997
the final draft Plaza Master Plan. The draft Parks Commission minutes are included as Attachment 2 and a letter from the
Parks Commission is included as Attachment 3. The Parks Commission recommended that the Bell Tower remain in the
Plaza, that the concrete by the fountain have curved comers, that the interactive fountain conform to the Plaza, and that
electrical wiring be installed around the perimeter of the Plaza to light the Crepe Myrtle trees. The cost of lighting the trees
will be about $20,500. On May 6, 1997, the Town received a letter from Los Gatos Lions Charities, Inc. requesting the Bell
Tower remain in the Plaza (Attachment 4).
It is important that a Master Plan for the Plaza be approved even though no funding source has been identified for
improvements. From time to time the Plaza is viewed by community groups as a logical depository for a variety of objects
that would detract from the overall character of the Plaza. Without a Master Plan to rely on, requests to locate these objects
result in protracted discussions at Council and no overall plan is available to base decisions on. In addition, when funding
sources are identified or donations are made there is no plan to determine where improvements should be made or donated
items should be located.
The Plaza Master Plan is further justified by the fact that the Council recently requested that two issues be included on the
Council Agenda for discussion. Comments have been received about installing new turf in the Plaza and the safety of the
Plaza fountain. These issues have been placed on the Council Agenda so the community could voice their concerns or
convey their desires that these improvements be funded. These improvements are currently unfunded in the draft 1997-2002
Capital Improvement Program. It is estimated that installing new turf will cost $22,000 and replacement of the fountain
filtration system will cost $6,000. Both of these issues support the need for an approved Plaza Master Plan. Before making
these improvements the Council should consider all other anticipated future improvements. For example, if new turf is to
installed, the existing irrigation system should be upgraded because the sprinklers do not function properly. If the Plaza is
going to be expanded toward South Santa Cruz Avenue or the Plaza is going to be modified in any way, the irrigation system
should be designed to accommodate these changes. In addition, before new turf is installed the Council should decide if new
lights are going to be installed so the conduit for the wiring can be installed at the same time the irrigation system is
upgraded. Finally, any safety improvements to the fountain should be evaluated based on whether an interactive fountain
is planned for the Plaza. For example, if the safety improvements will require replacement of the water pump or filtration
system, these improvements should be considered in light of any plan to replace the fountain in the future.
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT:
Adoption of the draft Plaza Master Plan does not constitute a project as defined under CEQA, and no further action is
required.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The Redevelopment Agency Budget for FY 1996-97 includes funding for the draft Plaza Master Plan. The cost of finishing
the Plaza Master Plan is covered by the current balance in Account 4440-77803 of $4,140. Funding for the implementation
of the draft Plaza Master Plan has not been identified or approved.
Attachments:
1. Resolution approving the Plaza Master Plan.
2. Draft minutes of the May 6, 1997, Parks Commission meeting.
3. Letter dated May 9, 1997 from Des Wytmans, Parks Commission Chairman.
4. Letter dated May 1, 1997 from Clyde Laird, President Elect, Los Gatos Lions Charities, Inc.
Distribution:
Paul Rodrigues, Landscape Architect, 108 Locust Street, No. 2, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
John Lochner, 150 Creifield Heights, Los Gatos, CA 95030
John Spaur, 1184 Longfellow Avenue, Campbell, CA 95008
Nogah Bethalmy, 14668 Golf Links, Los Gatos, CA 95030
Kiwanis Club - Agenda only
PAGE 3
MAYOR AND TOWN COUNCIL/CHAIR AND MEMBERS OF THE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
SUBJECT: PLAZA MASTER PLAN AND PLAZA IMPROVEMENTS
May 12, 1997
Lions Club - Agenda only
Parks Commission - Agenda only
Parking Commission - Agenda only
Plaza Task Force - Agenda only
Downtown Association - Agenda only
Beautification Committee - Agenda only
Chamber of Commerce - Agenda only
Redevelopment Advisory Committee - Agenda only
Planning Commission - Agenda only
LEB:BNL:cher
N:1DEV\RDAIPLAZAPLN.4
RESOLUTION
RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN
OF LOS GATOS APPROVING THE PLAZA MASTER PLAN
WHEREAS, the Town Council has determined that certain improvements are needed at the
Downtown Plaza, and
WHEREAS, the Town Council has determined that a Master Plan is needed to guide future
improvements and prevent installation of features which could detract from the the overall character of
the Plaza.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED:
The Town Council of the Town of Los Gatos does hereby approve the Plaza Master Plan dated April
16 , 1997.
This decision constitutes a final administrative decision pursuant to Code of Civil Procedure
section 1094.6 as adopted by section 1.10.085 of the Town Code of the Town of Los Gatos. Any
application for judicial relief from this decision must be sought within the time limits and pursuant to
the procedures established by Code of Civil Procedure section 1094.6, or such shorter time as required
by state or federal law.
PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the Town Council of the Town of Los Gatos,
California, held on the
COUNCIL MEMBERS:
AYES:
NAYS:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
ATTEST:
day of , 199 by the following vote.
SIGNED:
MAYOR OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS
LOS GATOS, CALIFORNIA
CLERK OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS
LOS GATOS, CALIFORNIA
N:\DEV\BUD\PLAZARES. WPD
ATTACHMENT 1
DRAFT PARKS COMMISSION MINUTES MAY 6, 1997
Town Plaza Master Plan Review:
Michael LaRocca gave a brief overview of the item, indicating that this item has been discussed by
the Commission. Paul Rodriguez, consultant to the Town completed a master plan of the Town park.
There was significant dialogue related to the plan at the November 1996 meeting. Mr. Rodriguez
took the information and submitted another revised plan which is being presented tonight. Some
issues included relocation of the Historic Fire Bell, taking large amounts of open green space. This
item is agendized for public input at the Town Council Meeting of May 19.
John Lochner, 150 Creffield Heights, gave a history of the Fire Bell: The Fire Bell was part of the
fire alarm system in Los Gatos from 1899 to 1949. Mr. Lochner has a complete history of articles
going back to 1899 from the local paper. There were two bell and four towers. The Town leased
the fire alarm system from Hume Company. The first tower, a 60' steel structure was located at Main
Street and Montebello Way and first bell was unsatisfactory and never used. The next tower, a
wooden one holding the present bell was built on Lundy Lane on October 1899. It burned in the
October 13, 1901 fire and was replaced with another wooden tower at the same site. Tower number
four, a steel structure was placed at Lundy Lane late 1926 or 1927. It was deactivated 1949, sold
by P.G.&E., and moved to the property of John Weisman on East Main Street. The tower and bell
were eventually sold to a Mr. Pollard of Lodi. On December 23, 1986, a memo to the Mayor and
Town Council from Deborah Swartfager, Town Manager gave a interim report that staff was working
with Andy Kinyon to determine the feasibility of returning the fire bell to Los Gatos. After contact
with the owner of the Fire Bell, Andy Kinyon, arrangements were made to visit the fire bell. The bell
was then located in Pollardville. The bell was housed in the original bell tower. Inspection of tower
showed the three cracks that were caused when the bell fell during the fire of 1901.
A number of people in the community got involved in attaining and bringing the fire bell back to Los
Gatos. Mr. Lochner was chairman of the Committee to restore the fire bell. Plans were submitted
to the Parks Commission and DRC on May 12, 1987. The Planning Commission, on May 27th and
the Parks Commission in June, 1987, all recommended approval. A conditional use permit was
proposed for the bell tower. Fundraisers were set up and donations were accepted from people, and
service clubs were organized. Lions Club donated $3,000. A community effort brought the fire bell
back. One donation was for $10,000. On July 4, 1988, the grand ringing of the firebell took place.
John Spaur, architect was responsible for the design.
John Spaur, 1184 Longfellow, Campbell introduced himself and reported that he was the architect
on the bell tower. He designed the tower and participated in fundraising for the project. He is still
taking time to work on the bell. There is a minor problem in getting the bell to ring. A simple change
is being made to reverse the striking mechanism. It took a long time to make this design work. He
does not know where the question of moving the bell tower came from. Mr.
ATTACHMENT 2
Spaur distributed photos of the structure to the Commission. Mr. Spaur feels the tower is a draw
to Los Gatos. It is unique. Mr. Spaur spoke to the company that actually made the fog bell machine.
This is only one of five fog bell machines in the United States. When Mr. Spaur gets it working, it
will be the only working fog bell machine in the United States. The location of the fire bell in the
Town Plaza was done to show maximum open space and minimize elements in the park. Mr. Spaur
called for a consensus of the Parks Commission to keep the fire bell. He hopes to have it working
by July 4th. The actual engineering will take a little while.
Commissioner Maiten asked if there was a way to make it work automatically. Mr. Spaur responded
that it will be completely automated. A solid electronic timer and program designed to ring from six
in the morning until nine in the evening which were the original operational hours. It will ring once
each hour and three times at noon.
Mr. Lochner stated that to meet earthquake standards, there are twenty eight yards of concrete
underneath to support the structure.
Clyde Laird, President Lions Club reported that the Board of Directors specifically requested he
attended the meeting in an effort to retain the bell.
Michael LaRocca reported that the revised Town Plaza Master Plan has been brought back to the
Commission for their input before it goes to Council on May l9th.
Commissioner Witt stated that based on the cost the gentlemen have presented, and budget
constraints the Town has, he in favor of leaving it where it is for a while.
Commissioner Maiten made a motion that the bell be repaired so that it automatically rings and that
it remain where it is so everyone can enjoy it. Commissioner Witt seconded the motion.
The motion and the motion was carried by the unanimous vote of the Commission.
Chairman Wytmans called for discussion on the architectural plans.
Mr. Lochner inquired as to the provision being made to provide electrical around the perimeter to the
Crape Myrtle trees so they could be lit.
Michael LaRocca reported that electrical is being considered as part of the overall
modifications/additions to the park.
Chair Wytmans summarized recommendations made by the Commission:
1) To round out corners on the concrete by the fountain. 2) electrical to light Crape Myrtles around
the park 3) that a natural type fountain be installed.
Commissioner Howell made a motion that a letter be written to the Town Council with the
recommendations that: the bell stay, that the cemented area around the fountain be curved, and that
the interactive water conforms to the Town Plaza and that there be electrical provided around the
perimeter of the Town Plaza.
TOWN OF Los GATOS
TOWN OF LOS GATOS PARKS COMMISSION
(408) 399-5770
(fax (408) 354-8529
May 9, 1997
Mayor and Town Council
Town of Los Gatos
110 East Main Street
Los Gatos, CA 95032
CIVIC CENTER
110 E. MAIN STREET
P.O. Box 949
Los GATOS, CA 95031
SUBJECT: Town Plaza Master Plan
Dear Mayor and Councilmembers,
As Chair to the Parks Commission, I was asked to write a letter to you regarding the Town Plaza
Master Plan.
The revised Town Plaza Master Plan was discussed at the May 6, 1997 Parks Commission
meeting. Commissioner Judy Howell made a motion that a letter be written to the Town Council
with the following recommendations: 1)that the fire bell stay, 2)that the cemented area around
the fountain be curved (softened), 3) that the interactive water fountain conform to the Town
Plaza, 4)and that there be electrical provided around the perimeter of the Town Plaza to light the
Crape Myrtle trees. The motion was carried by the unanimous vote of the Commission. All nine
members were present.
Thank you in advance for your consideration. We look forward to working with you.
Sincerely,
Des Wytmans,
Parks Commission Chairman
028aa:\letters\plaza
ATTACHMENT 3
INCORPORATED AUGUST 10, 1887
Cs
1,os Gatos Lions Charities, II,e
P.O. Box 522
Los Gatos, California 95031
(408) 356-1266
Los Gatos Town Council
Los Gatos Town Parks Commissioners
110 E Main St
Los Gatos, Ca 95032
RE: Plaza Park Master Plan - Bell Tower
Honorable Council and Commissioners,
May 1, 1997
Office of the
.\lfiY 6
MAY 6 1997
TOWN MANAGER.,
cc
The Lions Club recently became aware of the Plaza Park master plan and the
inferred possiblility of this plan setting the ground work for the removal of the
historic bell, machinery and tower. We would like to remind the Parks
Commission and Town Council of the assistance rendered by the Lions Club to help
in the reacquisition of the bell, along with its' return and placement in the Town
Plaza Park.
The Lions Club contributed $3,000.00 towards the cost to return the bell to Los
Gatos. Moreover, many Lions Club members provided volunteer labor in securing
its return to the Town. Several of our club members, John Lochner and John Spaur
and others, contributed hundreds of hours on the Bell Committee to ensure the
raising of funds, a suitable location was found for its site and a complimentary
design was developed for its placement in the Town Plaza Park.
It is our understanding that the bell is one of ow examples of the
historic fog bell machinery in the United States and be the only working
example when repaired. It would be highle regretta'. to remove it to a, seemingly,
remote location such as the museum. We consider the bell to be one of the strong
attributes to the Town and strongly endorse its retention and repair and stand ready
to assist.
The Los Gatos Lions Club Board of Directors endorsed the retention of the bell
is its present location and urge your Honorable bodies to do the same.
Si . c - re1
1 �' e Laird
President Elect, Los Gatos Lions Club
cc: John Lochner
John Spaur
ATTACHMENT Li
INTERNAL TRACKING
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DATE
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jake_.Y
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PUBLISH IF REQUIRED - Date of Publication
ORDINANCES ONLY
WHEN SIGNATURE AND /s/ COPY (1 EACH) returned,
LIST ON SIGNATURE TRACKING & SEND TO MAYOR
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MAIL TO DISTRIBUTION LIST
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ENTER INTO ECM ORDINANCE/RESOLUTION
FILE
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clk:d16:\ocbetlordrea2
OFFICE OF THE TOWN CLERK
ORDINANCES & RESOLUTIONS
ORIGINATING DEPT:
COUNCIL AGENDA DATE:
COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM:
SUBJECT:
Number:
Date of Adopt:
IR-(4)
RESOLUTION N
1q97—‘akb
PUBLICATION REQUIRED;
COUNCIL ACTION:
AYES:
NAYS:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Llt61`f-12_ et_f4 ii7e}
COUNCIL MEMBERS NAMES:
Number:
Date of Intro:
Date of Adopt:
ZONE CHANGE:
Randy Attaway, Steven Blanton, Jan Hutchins, Linda Lubeck,
Mayor(or Chairman) JOANNE BENJAMIN
ORDINANCE
ORDINANCES and RESOLUTIONS MUST BE RETURNED TO TOWN CLERK
BY WEDNESDAY AT 12 NOON.
ORDINANCES MUST BE READY FOR IMMEDIATE PUBLICATION
TC:D7:RESO..ORD
RESOLUTION 1997 - 51
RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN
OF LOS GATOS APPROVING THE PLAZA MASTER PLAN
WHEREAS, the Town Council has determined that certain improvements are needed at the
Downtown Plaza, and
WHEREAS, the Town Council has determined that a Master Plan is needed to guide future
improvements and prevent installation of features which could detract from the the overall character of
the Plaza.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED:
The Town Council of the Town of Los Gatos does hereby approve the Plaza Master Plan dated April 16,
1997 (Exhibit A). The Council also determines that the bell tower shall remain in the Plaza.
PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the Town Council of the Town of Los Gatos,
California, held on the 19th day of May, 1997 by the following vote.
COUNCIL MEMBERS:
AYES: Randy Attaway, Jan Hutchins, Linda Lubeck
NAYS: Joanne Benjamin
ABSENT: Steve Blanton
ABSTAIN: None
SIGNED: /s/ Joanne Benjamin
MAYOR OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS
LOS GATOS, CALIFORNIA
ATTEST:
/s/ Marian V. Cosgrove
CLERK OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS
LOS GATOS, CALIFORNIA
RESOLUTION 1997F6RD
RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN
OF LOS GATOS APPROVING THE PLAZA MASTER PLAN
WHEREAS, the Town Council has determined that certain improvements are needed at the
Downtown Plaza, and
WHEREAS, the Town Council has determined that a Master Plan is needed to guide future
improvements and prevent installation of features which could detract from the the overall character of
the Plaza.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED:
The Town Council of the Ton of Los
April 16, 1997y (cLt,L2' A
This decision constitutes a final a
section 1094.6 as
applicati s n for ju
the proce s ures es
by state o
Gatos does hereby approve the Plaza Master Plan d��,a 2
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,'
inistrative decisio .0 uant to Code of Civil Procedure
by section 1 10.0: of the Town ode o the Town of s Gatos Any
cial reh-f from this iecision ust be sou:ht within t e time lim (s and pursut to
al law.
ion 1094.6, or s
ph sh
er time as requ
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PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the Town Council of the Town of Los Gatos,
California, held on the 19th day of May, 1997 by the following vote.
COUNCIL MEMBERS:
AYES:
NAYS:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
ATTEST:
Randy Attaway, Jan Hutchins, Linda Lubeck
Joanne Benjamin
Steve Blanton
None
SIGNED: /s/ Joanne Benjamin
MAYOR OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS
LOS GATOS, CALIFORNIA
/s/ Marian V. Cosgrove
CLERK OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS
LOS GATOS, CALIFORNIA
N:\SHARE\RDA97519.R-6
411
OFFICE OF THE TOWN CLERK
ORDINANCES & RESOLUTIONS
ORIGINATING DEFT:
COUNCIL AGENDA DATE:
COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM:
SUBJECT:
Number:
Date of Adopt:
RESOLUTION
09.77PJ
5)0)97
PUBLICATION REOUIRED:
COUNCIL ACTION:
AYES:
NAYS:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
R—Lc,
,L ()Uti/H4f,
COUNCIL MEMBERS NAMES:
Number:
Date of Intro:
Date of Adopt:
ZONE CHANGE:
Randy Attaway, Steven Blanton, Jan Hutchins, Linda Lubeck,
Mayor(or Chairman) JOANNE BENJAMIN
r/U)
ORDINANCE
\g`
ORDINANCES and RESOLUTIONS MUST BE RETURNED TO TOWN CLERK
BY WEDNESDAY AT 12 NOON.
ORDINANCES MUST BE READY FOR IMMEDIATE PUBLICATION
TC:D7: RESO-ORD
RESOLUTION 1997 — o
RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN
OF LOS GATOS APPROVING THE PLAZA MASTER PLAN
WHEREAS, the Town Council has determined that certain improvements are needed at the
Downtown Plaza, and
WHEREAS, the Town Council has determined that a Master Plan is needed to guide future
improvements and prevent installation of features which could detract from the the overall character of
the Plaza.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED:
The Town Council of the Town of Los Gatos does hereby approve the Plaza Master Plan dated
April 16, 1997 (Exhibit A). The Council also determine; that the bell tower shall remain in the Plaza.
PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the Town Council of the Town of Los Gatos,
California, held on the 19th day of May, 1997 by the following vote.
COUNCIL MEMBERS:
AYES: Randy Attaway, Jan Hutchins, Linda Lubeck
NAYS: Joanne Benjamin
ABSENT: Steve Blanton
ABSTAIN: None
SIGNED: /s/ Joanne Benjamin
MAYOR OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS
LOS GATOS, CALIFORNIA
ATTEST:
/s/ Marian V. Cosgrove
CLERK OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS
LOS GATOS, CALIFORNIA
N:\SHARE\RDA97519.R-6
May 19, 1997
Los Gatos, California
TOWN PLAZA MASTER PLAN/RESOLUTION 1997-51 (06.44)
Mayor Benjamin stated that this was the time and place duly noted to consider adopting
resolution approving the Town Plaza Master Plan; the installation of new turf; and the issue
of fountain safety.
The following people from the audience spoke to this issue:
John Lochner, 150 Creffield Heights, spoke regarding the History of the Fire Bell and noted
that the community had raised $35,000 to place the bell at the Town Plaza. The history of the
bell is with the Lions Club, including all the permits and architectural designs.
John Spaur,1184 Longfellow Avenue, Campbell, passed some pictures to Council, and spoke
of the work being done to keep the bell operational.
No one else from the audience addressed this issue.
Motion by Mr. Attaway, seconded by Mrs. Lubeck, that Council adopt Resolution 1997-51
entitled, RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS APPROVING THE TOWN PLAZA
MASTER PLAN. Carried by a vote of 3 ayes. Mr. Blanton was absent. Mrs. Benjamin voted
no because she would like to see more grass and less hardscape.
Mrs. Lubeck requested a report on the cost of the individual elements of the Plaza Plan. She
would like to identify Town funding or have community fund raisers for the project elements.
She would like to see the trees lighted, the turf replaced and better lighting in the Plaza. Mrs.
Benjamin believes there are higher priorities for the allocation of the Town's funds. She
thinks that PG&E may donate to the tree lighting project. The liability issue of the fountain
should be addressed by the Town and maintenance of the turf is an ongoing Town
responsibility.
Council consensus that the fire bell remain in the plaza.
ADJOURNMENT
Motion by Mr. Attaway, seconded by Mr. Hutchins, that the Council/Agency adjourn this
evening's joint meeting at 9:54 p.m.. Carried by a vote of 4 ayes. Mr. Blanton was absent.
ATTEST:
Marian V. Cosgrove
Town Clerk/Secretary to the Redevelopment Agency
TC:D8:RA051997
3/, V a-c.2 VB
Gatos Lions Charities
Los
P.O. Box 522 , InC,
Los Gatos, California 95031
(408) 356-1266
May 1, 1997
Los Gatos Town Council
110 E Main St
Los Gatos, Ca 95032
RE: Plaza Park Master Plan - Bell Tower
Honorable Mayor and Council Members,
The Lions Club recently became aware of the Plaza Park master plan and the
inferred possiblility of this plan setting the ground work for the removal of the
historic fire bell, machinery and tower. We would like to remind the Parks
Commission and Town Council of the assistance rendered by the Lions Club to help
in the reacquisition of the bell, along with its return and placement in the Town
Plaza Park.
The Lions Club contributed $3,000.00 towards the cost to return the bell to Los
Gatos. Moreover, many Lions Club members provided volunteer labor in securing
its return to the Town. Several of our club members, John Lochner, John Spaur and
others, contributed hundreds of hours on the Bell Committee to ensure the raising
of funds, a suitable location was found for its site and a complimentary design was
developed for its placement in the Town Plaza Park.
It is our understanding that the bell is one of five know examples of the
historic fire bell machinery in the United States and may be the only working
example when repaired. It would be highly regrettable to remove it to a, seemingly,
remote location such as the museum. We consider the bell to be one of the strong
attributes of the Town and strongly endorse its retention and repair and stand ready
to assist.
The Los Gatos Lions Club Board of Directors endorsed the retention of the bell
in its present location and urge your Honorable body to do the same.
Sincerely,
Clyde Laird
President Elect, Los Gatos Lions Club
cc: John Lochner
John Spaur
Gatos Lions Charities T
vos P.O. Box 522 IBC
Los Gatos, California 95031
(408) 356-1266
May 1, 1997
Los Gatos Town Council
Los Gatos Town Parks Commissioners
110 E Main St
Los Gatos, Ca 95032
RE: Plaza Park Master Plan - Bell Tower
Honorable Council and Commissioners,
The Lions Club recently became aware of the Plaza Park master plan and the
inferred possiblility of this plan setting the ground work for the removal of the
historic bell, machinery and tower. We would like to remind the Parks
Commission and Town Council of the assistance rendered by the Lions Club to help
in the reacquisition of the bell, along with its' return and placement in the Town
Plaza Park.
The Lions Club contributed $3,000.00 towards the cost to return the bell to Los
Gatos. Moreover, many Lions Club members provided volunteer labor in securing
its return to the Town. Several of our club members, John Lochner and John Spaur
and others, contributed hundreds of hours on the Bell Committee to ensure the
raising of funds, a suitable location was found for its site and a complimentary
design was developed for its placement in the Town Plaza Park.
It is our understanding that the bell is one of five know examples of the
historic fog bell machinery in the United States and mey be the only working
example when repaired. It would be highle regrettable to remove it to a, seemingly,
remote location such as the museum. We consider the bell to be one of the strong
attributes to the Town and strongly endorse its retention and repair and stand ready
to assist.
The Los Gatos Lions Club Board of Directors endorsed the retention of the bell
is its present location and urge your Honorable bodies to do the same.
Si.c-re1
aird
President Elect, Los Gatos Lions Club
cc: John Lochner
John Spaur