29 Staff Report - Los Gatos Boulevard Olan-Mission, Goals, and Objectives33
TOWN OF LOS GATOS
COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
DATE: June 7, 1995
TO: MAYOR AND TOWN OUNCIL
FROM: TOWN MANAGER
SUBJECT: 1.
COUNCIL AGENDA
DATE: 6/19/95
ITEM NO. c7T:-_,
ADOPT RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING THE LOS GATOS BOULEVARD PLAN -
MISSION, GOALS, AND OBJECTIVES.
2. ADOPT RESOLUTION EXPANDING THE POLICIES FOR DEVELOPMENT
APPLICATIONS ALONG LOS GATOS BOULEVARD FROM SPENCER AVENUE
TO ROUTE 85.
RECOMMENDATION:
1. Adopt resolution establishing the Los Gatos Boulevard Plan - Mission, Goals, and Objectives
(Attachment 1).
2. Adopt resolution expanding the policies for development applications along Los Gatos Boulevard from
Spencer Avenue to Route 85 (Attachment 2).
BACKGROUND:
Over the last several months the General Plan Committee has been evaluating the Boulevard "visions" that
were developed during the Boulevard Charrette Forum and reviewing the public comments received during
the Boulevard Charrette and Post-Charrette Forums. The Committee decided that it should prepare a mission
statement along with goals and objectives as the "first step" in developing the Boulevard Plan. The mission,
goals, and objectives (MGO) are intended to establish the basic framework for the Boulevard Plan and will
(Continued on Page 2)
PREPARED BY: LEE E. BOWMAN
PLANNING DIRECTOR
LEB:BNL:mb
n:\dev\cnclrpts\LGBLVD. MGO
ATTACHMENTS: (See Page 3 for list of Attachments)
DISTRIBUTION: (See Page 3 for Distribution List)
6/7/95 3:02 pm
File #
Reviewed by: Attorney Clerk inance Treasurer
COUNCIL ACTION/ACTION DIRECTED TO:
PAGE 2
MAYOR AND TOWN COUNCIL
SUBJECT: RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING INTERIM POLICIES FOR LOS GATOS BLVD.
June 7, 1995
provide policy direction for the work required to ultimately complete the Plan. The Committee decided that
the draft MGO should be sent to the Planning Commission and Town Council for consideration before
proceeding with the development of the Boulevard Plan. This will ensure that the Committee is headed in the
right direction early in the Plan development process.
DISCUSSION:
On May 10, 1995, the General Plan Committee and representatives of the Boulevard Community Alliance
reviewed the draft MGO. After extensive discussion the group reached consensus on numerous revisions
and the Committee forwarded the draft MGO (including revisions) to the Planning Commission for
consideration. On May 24, 1995, the Planning Commission considered the draft MGO. The Commission
made several nonsubstantive changes to the draft MGO and forwarded it to Council with a recommendation
of approval. The Commission also recommended that Council incorporate the MGO with the policies for
development applications along Los Gatos Boulevard. The Planning Commission minutes are included as
Attachment 3.
It is important to note that the draft MGO, while extremely important, is merely the starting point for developing
the Boulevard Plan. The MGO, when approved by the Town Council, will provide crucial policy direction for
the work that must still be done. As a planning document, the MGO establishes the fundamental vision
concepts for Los Gatos Boulevard and, therefore, does not discuss many of the detail elements that must
ultimately be addressed. The draft MGO was placed on the internet to provide additional opportunity for public
input. People were encouraged to provide comments and suggestions. This is the first time the Planning
Department has had an opportunity to use the Town's new computer equipment to expand and simplify the
public's opportunity to provide input.
PROJECT FUNDING:
Funding will be required to complete the Boulevard Plan. For example, the redesign of the public right-of-way
will require hiring a consultant(s) to evaluate the affect of the proposed changes. If the proposed design will
reduce the number of travel lanes, a traffic report will have to be prepared to evaluate the changes in level -of -
service, potential for cut -through traffic, etc. Before the Boulevard Plan is adopted, it will be necessary to hire
an environmental consultant to prepare an Initial Study / Negative Declaration or Environmental Impact
Report. In addition, the Boulevard Community Alliance has requested that the Town undertake the following
tasks:
1. Hire Michael Freedman to review and comment on the Los Gatos Boulevard Plan - Mission, Goals, and
Objectives. This will bring closure to the first phase of developing the Boulevard Plan and will provide
objective, informed, and experienced input.
2. Survey cities in the United States that have conducted similar planning efforts. The information gathered
will add energy, authority to our decisions, and a sense of professionalism to market and support this strategic
plan.
3. Hire an artist or urban design firm to develop an artists rendering, model , or other visual aid to help people
visualize how the Boulevard will look.
No funding is budgeted for FY 1995-96 for the Boulevard Plan. The cost of each task will be determined by
the committee responsible for completing the task and a report describing the specific costs and possible
funding sources will be forwarded to Council for consideration. Finally, the budget cuts for FY1995-96 will
significantly impact the Planning Department's ability to allocate staff resources to work on the Boulevard Plan.
PAGE 3
MAYOR AND TOWN COUNCIL
SUBJECT: RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING INTERIM POLICIES FOR LOS GATOS BLVD.
June 7, 1995
CONCLUSION:
Council should take the following actions that will provide direction to the various commission and committees
that will be developing the Plan:
1. Adopt the resolution establishing the Los Gatos Boulevard Plan - Mission, Goals, and Objectives
(Attachment 1).
2. Adopt the resolution expanding the policies for development applications along Los Gatos Boulevard from
Spencer Avenue to Route 85 (Attachment 2).
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT:
The adoption of the attached resolutions is not a project as defined under CEQA and no further action is
required.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Council adoption of the attached resolutions will not have a fiscal impact on the Town.
ATTACHMENTS:
Resolution Establishing the Los Gatos Boulevard Plan - Mission, Goals and Objectives
2. Resolution expanding the Interim Policies for Development Applications Along Los Gatos Boulevard
from Spencer Avenue to Route 85.
3. Planning Commission Minutes from meeting of May 24, 1995.
DISTRIBUTION:
1. General Plan Committee
2. Boulevard Community Alliance, c/o Los Gatos Cyclery, 15954 Los Gatos Blvd., Los Gatos, CA 95032
3. Elizabeth Smith, c/o Cilker Orchards, 1631 Willow St., #225, San Jose, CA 95125
and
RESOLUTION
RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE
TOWN OF LOS GATOS ESTABLISHING THE LOS GATOS
BOULEVARD PLAN - MISSION, GOALS, AND OBJECTIVES
WHEREAS, the Town of Los Gatos is involved in a major study of Los Gatos Boulevard;
WHEREAS, it is necessary to establish the Los Gatos Boulevard Plan - Mission, Goals, and
Objectives to provide policy direction to various commissions and committees that will be working
on the Plan.
RESOLVED, the Town Council of the Town of Los Gatos hereby establishes the Los Gatos
Boulevard Plan - Mission, Goals, and Objectives attached hereto as Exhibit A.
PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the Town Council held on the day
of , 1995, by the following vote:
COUNCIL MEMBERS:
AYES:
NAYS:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
SIGNED:
ATTEST:
CLERK OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS
LOS GATOS, CALIFORNIA
n:ldevlresosllgblvd 1.mgo
MAYOR OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS
LOS GATOS, CALIFORNIA
ATTACHMENT T ACHMENT 1
Revised: May 24, 1995
DRAFT
THE LOS GATOS BOULEVARD PLAN
Mission Goals and Ob'ectives
The Mission of the Los Gatos Boulevard Plan is to establish a partnership among residents,
businesses, property owners and the Town government to develop the Boulevard as a distinct place
that enhances the quality of life of the people of Los Gatos through its beauty, economic vitality and
community.
To realize this Mission, the Goals of the Plan are to:
• Preserve and project the essence of Los Gatos' history, individuality, character, and natural
environment.
• Promote commercial activity that complements the whole Town. Provide a dependable
source of income, employment opportunities, goods and services.
• Provide for attractive, easy, and effective access to, from and through the Boulevard.
• Provide effective links and interfaces between neighborhoods and commercial areas.
Obj ectives:
To achieve these goals, the Los Gatos Boulevard Plan has the following objectives:
1. Gateways:
Major entrances to the Boulevard will have special landscaping, architecture, and/or artistic
displays that announce Los Gatos as a distinct area (e.g., Samaritan Drive and Lark Avenue).
2. Land Uses:
Land uses will include the following: open space, community recreation, entertainment, and
sufficient housing to support regional transportation centers. These uses will be
implemented in such a way to keep the transition from the higher density mixed use area in
the north to a mixture of residential and commercial clusters, and then to existing residential
in the south.
3. Streetscape:
The streetscape will be designed to protect and complement both valley and mountain vistas.
Underground utilities are a must. Areas of distinct pedestrian and bicycle amenities (e.g.,
public art, paths, benches, bike racks, streetlights, and transit stops) shall be clustered at key
activity centers, intersections, and crossing points.
EXHIllTA
Draft Los Gatos Boulevard Plan
Mission, Goals ;and Objectives
Revised: May 24, 1995
Page 2
4. Buildings:
Architecture will provide distinctive, pedestrian friendly buildings which protect existing
vistas and open spaces. All buildings must incorporate materials, colors and styles that
reflect the history and character of Los Gatos.
5. Transportation:
To service the Boulevard, downtown and local neighborhoods, attractive bus / shuttle stops
and passenger drops will be located at activity centers. The design of the road will facilitate
access to businesses and increase safety for and encourage use by pedestrians and bicyclists.
Connections to regional transportation to Santa Cruz, San Jose, and the Light Rail will be
concentrated at the gateways.
6. Development Incentives:
Residents, businesses, property owners and the Town government working in partnership
will identify and implement incentive programs for development.
7. Signage:
Signage will complement the streetscape and meet commercial needs.
N:\DEV\BUD\ALLIANCE
and
RESOLUTION
RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE
TOWN OF LOS GATOS EXPANDING THE INTERIM POLICIES
FOR DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS ALONG LOS GATOS
BOULEVARD FROM SPENCER AVENUE TO ROUTE 85
WHEREAS, the Town of Los Gatos is involved in a major study of Los Gatos Boulevard;
WHEREAS, applicants are anxious to move forward with development plans which may
or may not be consistent with the standards and policies that will result from the Los Gatos
Boulevard Design Study.
RESOLVED, the Town Council of the Town of Los Gatos hereby establishes the following
interim policies for development applications along Los Gatos Boulevard from Spencer Avenue to
Route 85.
1. Each applicant shall be responsible for reviewing the proceedings of the Los Gatos
Boulevard Design Charette and determining how those proceedings, the issues outlined during the
Charette, and the concerns of the residents, businesses, and property owners along and behind Los
Gatos Boulevard affect applicant's proposed project.
2. Each application shall include a written description of how the proposed project and the
process that was used to refine the proposal address the issues outlined during the Charette and the
concerns of the residents, businesses, and property owners along and behind Los Gatos Boulevard.
This description should be as detailed as necessary to provide an in-depth explanation, and the Town
expects that each application will be a part of a dynamic study process for the Boulevard.
3. Applicants are encouraged to consider pre -application meetings with residents, businesses,
and property owners along and behind Los Gatos Boulevard, so that they may better understand the
questions and concerns that exist. Results of any such meetings can be included as part of the
description provided under Paragraph 2.
4. Applicants shall be advised of the schedule and status of the Los Gatos Boulevard Design
n:ldevlresosugblvd. mgo
ATTACHMENT 2
Study at the time they file an application, and applicants are encouraged to become active
participants in that study process.
5. Applicants shall incorporate the concepts identified in the Los Gatos Boulevard - Mission,
Goals and Objectives (Exhibit A) into the design of their project.
FURTHER RESOLVED, Resolution 1995-9 is hereby rescinded.
PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the Town Council held on the day
of , 1995, by the following vote:
COUNCIL MEMBERS:
AYES:
NAYS:
AB SENT:
ABSTAIN:
SIGNED:
ATTEST:
CLERK OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS
LOS GATOS, CALIFORNIA
n:ldev\resos\Igblvd. mgo
MAYOR OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS
LOS GATOS, CALIFORNIA
2
Revised: May 24, 1995
DRAFT
THE LOS GATOS BOULEVARD PLAN
Mission Goals and Ob'ectives
The Mission of the Los Gatos Boulevard Plan is to establish a partnership among residents,
businesses, property owners and the Town government to develop the Boulevard as a distinct place
that enhances the quality of life of the people of Los Gatos through its beauty, economic vitality and
community.
To realize this Mission, the Goals of the Plan are to:
• Preserve and project the essence of Los Gatos' history, individuality, character, and natural
environment.
• Promote commercial activity that complements the whole Town. Provide a dependable
source of income, employment opportunities, goods and services.
• Provide for attractive, easy, and effective access to, from and through the Boulevard.
• Provide effective links and interfaces between neighborhoods and commercial areas.
Objectives:
To achieve these goals, the Los Gatos Boulevard Plan has the following objectives:
1. Gateways:
Major entrances to the Boulevard will have special landscaping, architecture, and/or artistic
displays that announce Los Gatos as a distinct area (e.g., Samaritan Drive and Lark Avenue).
2. Land Uses:
Land uses will include the following: open space, community recreation, entertainment, and
sufficient housing to support regional transportation centers. These uses will be
implemented in such a way to keep the transition from the higher density mixed use area in
the north to a mixture of residential and commercial clusters, and then to existing residential
in the south.
3. Streetscape:
The streetscape will be designed to protect and complement both valley and mountain vistas.
Underground utilities are a must. Areas of distinct pedestrian and bicycle amenities (e.g.,
public art, paths, benches, bike racks, streetlights, and transit stops) shall be clustered at key
activity centers, intersections, and crossing points.
EXHIBIT A
Draft Los Gatos Boulevard Plan
Mission, Goals ;and Objectives
Revised: May 24, 1995
Page 2
4. Buildings:
Architecture will provide distinctive, pedestrian friendly buildings which protect existing
vistas and open spaces. All buildings must incorporate materials, colors and styles that
reflect the history and character of Los Gatos.
5. Transportation:
To service the Boulevard, downtown and local neighborhoods, attractive bus / shuttle stops
and passenger drops will be located at activity centers. The design of the road will facilitate
access to businesses and increase safety for and encourage use by pedestrians and bicyclists.
Connections to regional transportation to Santa Cruz, San Jose, and the Light Rail will be
concentrated at the gateways.
6. Development Incentives:
Residents, businesses, property owners and the Town government working in partnership
will identify and implement incentive programs for development.
7. Signage:
Signage will complement the streetscape and meet commercial needs.
N:1DEV\BUDIALLIANCE
PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA -- PAGE 19
MAY 24, 1995
CONTINUED OTHER BUSINESS
ITEM 8
Recommendation from General Plan Committee Concerning Los Gatos Boulevard Plan
a. Refer preparation of development Standards to Architectural Standards Committee.
b. Forward Mission, Goals, and Objectives for Los Gatos Boulevard Plan to Town
Council for approval.
c. Consider request from the Boulevard Community Alliance to have Michael
Freedman review and comment on the Los Gatos Boulevard Plan - Mission, Goals,
and Objectives.
d. Consider request from the Boulevard Community Alliance to survey cities in the
United States that have conducted similar planning efforts.
(Continued from April 12, 1995)
No one in the audience wished to speak on this matter. Public portion of hearing closed.
Comm. Abkin, member of the General Plan Committee, reported the Boulevard Community
Alliance (BCA) reviewed the Los Gatos Boulevard Plan extensively, solicited comments from
business and property owners and residents along Los Gatos Boulevard. The wording was
reworked with the General Plan Committee and the draft Los Gatos Boulevard Plan is a
consensus between the Boulevard community people and General Plan Committee. Abkin
stated the objective was to involve the Los Gatos Boulevard community, noted this does not
represent the whole plan but is only the beginning. Design guidelines, General Plan
changes and whatever is needed to implement the Plan is yet to come.
MOTION Comm. Abkin moves, seconded by Comm. Decker, that the Commission approve the Los
Gatos Boulevard Plan - Mission, Goals and Objectives with the suggested changes, directing
the Architectural Standards Committee to begin preparing design guidelines in keeping with
these objectives and goals, and to recommend the Los Gatos Boulevard Plan - Mission
Goals and Objectives to the Town Council for approval.
Comm. Abkin suggested the word GOALS be in non -caps. Under Objectives, first line,
remove the word "concrete". In Objective #2, instead of saying "The Boulevard will
transition..." say "Land uses will change smoothly along the Boulevard from the higher
density...."
Chair Jensen stated her suggestion for replacing the word "transition" was "These uses will
be implemented in such a way as to create a transition from higher density mixed use area
in the north...."
Consensus of the Commission was Chair Jensen's suggested word changes were
preferable. Comm. Abkin accepted that as part of his motion.
In Objective #5 Comm. Abkin suggested change second sentence to read: "The design of
the road will facilitate access to businesses and increase safety for and encourage use by
pedestrians and bicyclists."
Comm. Pacheco asked what "artistic displays" meant in Objectives #1. Chair Jensen stated
she felt the term had been made deliberately broad so that when applications come with
architecture and site, can narrow down whatever the particularly appropriate artistic display
is for the use.
ATTACHMENT 3
PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA -- PAGE 20
MAY 24, 1995
Comm. Nachison asked what "activity center" in Objective #3 referred to. Comm. Abkin said
that was the "nodes" referred to earlier.
Atty. Anderson stated a shopping center may be a key activity center that may not have an
intersection.
Comm. Abkin concurred that a particular land use could be a key activity center.
Chair Jensen referred to Objective #4 "...pedestrian friendly buildings which protect vistas..."
and suggested inserting "existing" between "...protect" and "vistas...". Maker of motion
concurred.
Planning Director Bowman spoke to wording in Objective #6 stating he felt the wording was
weak and there was no definition of what a partner is. Bowman stated the original idea was
to insure that the Boulevard Community Alliance, or the property owners or merchants on the
Boulevard, are partners in conjunction with the Town and to try to put the major burden of this
study on them and not on the Town. They've been trying to shift it to the Town.
Comm. Abkin stated the meaning of the word "partners" referred back to the Mission
statement "...partnership among residents, businesses, and the Town government to develop
the Boulevard as a distinct place..."
Chair Jensen agreed the sentence was vague and did not say what form the incentive
programs might take; assumed they were some sort of economic or developmental
incentives. Jensen noted the Town could provide some kind of land use or planning
incentive and businesses could provide some kind of commercial incentive.
Abkin stated the Boulevard Community Alliance wanted this plan to be implemented more
through incentives to developers and businesses to do things by providing the right
incentives rather than by developer fees, etc.
Bowman noted the Town could come up with many ideas that it thinks will work but may not
work because the business doesn't consider it an incentive. That's why it has to be a
partnership. Bowman pointed out the property owners are not listed; he considered them a
major part of the partnership.
Comm. Abkin said should add property owners to partnership list.
Chair Jensen suggested list in opening paragraph read "...establish a partnership among
residents, businesses, property owners and the Town government...". Under Objective #6
wording was changed to read "Residents, businesses, property owners and the Town
government, working in partnership, will identify and implement incentive programs for
development."
Comm. Pacheco asked if current guidelines take care of complimenting the streetscape and
meeting commercial needs noting he felt uncomfortable about the interpretation of
commercial needs.
Comm. Rudolph stated the intent was to look at the standards again so that, as come up with
a more defined landscape plan for the entire Boulevard, the signage achieves the objective
of commercial advertising without being obtrusive upon the streetscape.
PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA -- PAGE 21
MAY 24, 1995
Chair Jensen asked should Objective #7 read "...will complement the streetscape and meet
commercial needs and comply with existing Town ordinances", or, "signage will complement
the streetscape and meet commercial needs and existing ordinances will be reviewed to
accomplish this goal."
Comm. Abkin said the proposed verbiage is an implementation measure not an objective.
Commission concurred Objective #7 would remain as written.
Comm. Abkin requested Commission input on the BAC request to bring Michael Friedman
back. Abkin stated he thought it would be a good idea but questioned the proper time to do
that. Concurred with the Boulevard people who think, as this process goes forward, that the
more the community is involved, the better the community understands what is being
proposed and what it is likely to look like, the better we'll be when it comes time to put these
things into zoning ordinances and General Plan amendments. Following preparation of a
visual model might be the right time to have Friedman come back.
Chair Jensen stated she did not think the Town could afford to do that; would be wonderful
if BCA and other people are interested in raising funds to produce the model or hire Mr.
Friedman, but didn't think that was a burden that could be placed on the Town.
Comm. Decker stated, since there are two applications on file, she would like an inquiry
made of the cost involved in having Mr. Friedman review where we are now. Concerned by
the time get to conceptual models will have things built on the Boulevard can't back up on.
Comm. Morgan stated she felt that was the job of the Planning Commission and Town
Council; that we have a good feel for it and the Town has already paid Mr. Friedman once.
As the process evolves the partnership will be the ones who will have to decide. Morgan
noted members of the Historic Preservation Committee volunteered to contact other
communities when they were revising the ordinance pertaining to historic preservation. Felt
members of the BCA would be willing to contact other communities to see if they are
inventing the same wheel or a better wheel.
Comm. Pacheco stated he did not think members of the Planning Commission had the
background or training to come up with the infra -structure requirements; felt needed a
professional person to provide that infra -structure then could start voting on the infill that
supports it. Pacheco said needed a formal or semi -formal plan to move ahead.
Comm. Decker stated the earlier presentation by Mr. Friedman had been a rallying point,
thought would be a real boost to have him back and start again from that rallying point.
Comm. Nachison asked if the Town had a level of comfort with the way things presently
stand and being able to judge applications coming in for conformity to what the Town has set
up versus the need for another meeting with Mr. Friedman.
Chair Jensen stated she agreed with Comm. Morgan. Michael Freedman presents the big
picture; now the Town is going to do the work to get the picture Los Gatos wants. Planning
and land use is hodge podge; unless the Town buys up the Boulevard don't think they can
precisely say what is going to be where, what the infra -structure is going to be. Individual
land owners will come in with individual proposals, then it becomes the Town's job, as it is
with every proposal that comes before us, to try to make it be the best proposal for what the
Town and people of the Town want.
PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA -- PAGE 22
MAY 24, 1995
Atty. Anderson stated Council policy on Los Gatos Boulevard still applies. The applicant is
required to present some sort of written presentation that explains how the application fits
within the charrette goals and visions that were articulated. Neither the Commission or the
Planning Department has been presented with one of those yet. Council's intent was to
make that a pre -condition to approval.
Comm. Abkin asked if would be appropriate as part of the motion to recommend Council
modify or expand on that policy, if Council approves the Missions, Goals and Objectives.
Applicants would have to go beyond the current Los Gatos Boulevard and show how their
plans will meet these.
Chair Jensen stated she would second the motion and accepted that addition to the motion.
Comm. Morgan said armed with that Policy and with the requirement that the applicant show
how its application meets these Missions, Goals and Objectives, that the Commission and
the Council can decide whether applications fit in the same manner that the Commission
instinctively decided the latest Cilker application didn't fit.
Chair Jensen noted Comm. Decker had originally seconded the motion but the motion had
not been complete. Jensen withdrew her second and accepted the second of Comm.
Decker.
Comm. Pacheco withdrew his comments relating to adequate background or training on the
Commission to direct development of the infra -structure on the Boulevard. Comm. Morgan's
comments convinced him the talent is available. This puts the onus on the developer and
leaves the Commission to become the interpreter.
Comm. Abkin stated he shared staffs concern for budget for all this, particularly after hearing
about further cuts in Planning. Abkin recalled Elizabeth Smith commenting in General Plan
Committee meeting that perhaps the Boulevard Community Alliance could pay to have
Michael Friedman return. Also, Abkin said he heard them volunteer a lot of their time to do
the survey of other cities. Concluded that's part of the partnership.
Abkin referenced last paragraph of the staff report and asked if it referred to lack of staff to
do the survey or lack of staff to continue working on the Boulevard Plan. Bowman stated it
was the Boulevard Plan.
Abkin asked how could continue to staff the Architectural Standards Committee to develop
the guidelines. Bowman stated couldn't do it. Abkin asked if that included staff support for
General Plan Committee to continue their work.
Bowman stated staff would still be there for some things but the number of applications were
up and they require more staff time. Development applications have to be processed.
Comm. Decker asked if staff would be reinstated if the utility tax passed. Bowman indicated
not.
Comm. Abkin said because purpose of a utility tax is for the general fund can't earmark it
ahead of time.
Atty. Anderson stated staff had indicated the project was at point now where need to do
PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA -- PAGE 23
MAY 24, 1995
environmental analysis. Everything that has been done has been pretty generic but once
start moving the guidelines for the Boulevard then generally engage a consultant to do the
environmental analysis. Anderson didn't know if that meant an EIR or not but it becomes
expensive because need an alternative analysis in a formalized way rather than sitting
around the table discussing it.
Chair asked if the Town had to bear the cost or could a private party bear the cost.
Anderson stated the Town had to retain the consultant but the fee could be paid by anyone.
Chair stated the motion was in place with modifications to the Plan and the request that the
developer put into any application a statement or summary of how this particular project fit
with the Missions, Goals and Objective statements being voted on tonight.
Motion passes unanimously, 7-0.
AYES: Commissioners Abkin, Decker, Jensen, Morgan, Nachison, Pacheco and
Rudolph
NOES: None
ABSTENTIONS: None
ABSENT: None
ADDITIONAL Comm. Abkin asked if would be appropriate for the Commission to make a consensus motion
COMMENTS to communicate to the Council its deep concern about the status of the Planning Department
and staff coverage to handle just normal projects.
Chair stated the Commission could make a consensus motion to convey their feelings on the
matter as stated by Comm. Abkin and called for a vote.
MOTION Motion passes unanimously, 7-0.
AYES: Commissioners Abkin, Decker, Jensen, Morgan, Nachison, Pacheco and
Rudolph
NOES: None
ABSTENTIONS: None
ABSENT: None
Bowman stated the communication would be forwarded to the Council and noted the budget
hearing was on June 12, he had a copy of the proposed budget should anyone want to read
the budget overview for the Planning Department. Bowman noted since Fiscal Year '91-'92
Planning staff has been reduced by 50 percent.
Anderson noted Council was struggling with what to do about the Code Compliance Officer
position, where to place it and how to fund it. That has an impact on the Planning
Department even though it is perceived as a code enforcement person.
Atty. Anderson noted for record the applicant on Item 7 did appear, brought in the letter and
filed it with the secretary.
NEW OTHER BUSINESS
RESOLUTION 1995-88
RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE
TOWN OF LOS GATOS ESTABLISHING THE LOS GATOS
BOULEVARD PLAN - MISSION, GOALS, AND OBJECTIVES
WHEREAS, the Town of Los Gatos is involved in a major study of Los Gatos Boulevard;
and
WHEREAS, it is necessary to establish the Los Gatos Boulevard Plan - Mission, Goals, and
Objectives to provide policy direction to various commissions and committees that will be working
on the Plan.
RESOLVED, the Town Council of the Town of Los Gatos hereby establishes the Los Gatos
Boulevard Plan - Mission, Goals, and Objectives attached hereto as Exhibit A.
PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the Town Council held on the 19th day
of June, 1995, by the following vote:
COUNCIL MEMBERS:
AYES: Randy Attaway, Joanne Benjamin, Steven Blanton, Linda Lubeck and Mayor
Patrick O'Laughlin
NAYS: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
SIGNED:
ATTEST:
/s/ Marian V. Cosgrove
CLERK OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS
LOS GATOS, CALIFORNIA
n:\dev\resos\lgblvd l .mgo
/s/ Patrick O'Laughlin
MAYOR OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS
LOS GATOS, CALIFORNIA
Revised: May 24, 1995
DRAFT
THE LOS GATOS BOULEVARD PLAN
Mission. Goals and Objectives
The Mission of the Los Gatos Boulevard Plan is to establish a partnership among residents,
businesses, property owners and the Town government to develop the Boulevard as a distinct place
that enhances the quality of life of the people of Los Gatos through its beauty, economic vitality and
community
To realize this Mission, the Goals of the Plan are to:
• Preserve and project the essence of Los Gatos' history, individuality, character, and natural
environment.
• Promote commercial activity that complements the whole Town. Provide a dependable
source of income, employment opportunities, goods and services.
• Provide for attractive, easy, and effective access to, from and through the Boulevard.
• Provide effective links and interfaces between neighborhoods and commercial areas.
Objectives:
To achieve these goals, the Los Gatos Boulevard Plan has the following objectives:
1. Gateways:
Major entrances to the Boulevard will have special landscaping, architecture, and/or artistic
displays that announce Los Gatos as a distinct area (e.g., Samaritan Drive and Lark Avenue).
2. Land Uses:
Land uses will include the following: open space, community recreation, entertainment, and
sufficient housing to support regional transportation centers. These uses will be
implemented in such a way to keep the transition from the higher density mixed use area in
the north to a mixture of residential and commercial clusters, and then to existing residential
in the south.
3. Streetscape:
The streetscape will be designed to protect and complement both valley and mountain vistas.
Underground utilities are a must. Areas of distinct pedestrian and bicycle amenities (e.g.,
public art, paths, benches, bike racks, streetlights, and transit stops) shall be clustered at key
activity centers, intersections, and crossing points.
EXHIBIT A
Draft Los Gatos Boulevard Plan
Mission, Goals ;and Objectives
Revised: May 24, 1995
Page 2
4. Buildings:
Architecture will provide distinctive, pedestrian friendly buildings which protect existing
vistas and open spaces. All buildings must incorporate materials, colors and styles that
reflect the history and character of Los Gatos.
5. Transportation:
To service the Boulevard, downtown and local neighborhoods, attractive bus / shuttle stops
and passenger drops will be located at activity centers. The design of the road will facilitate
access to businesses and increase safety for and encourage use by pedestrians and bicyclists.
Connections to regional transportation to Santa Cruz, San Jose, and the Light Rail will be
concentrated at the gateways.
6. Development Incentives:
Residents, businesses, property owners and the Town government working in partnership
will identify and implement incentive programs for development.
7. Signage:
Signage will complement the streetscape and meet commercial needs.
N:\DEV\BUD\ALLIANCE
June 19, 19c
Los Gatos, Californi
HEARINGS CONTINUED
BLACKWELLDRIVE BENEFIT ZONE CONT.
The following people addressed this issue:
Michael La Rocca, Director of Parks, Forestry and Maintenance, spoke of the increased fees
due to the work performed in the district. He noted that James Maloney, 369 Blackwell Drive,
had registered his protest against the current assessment.
Paul Caplan, 373 Blackwell Drive, spoke of dividing the cost among the other beneficiaries and
finding an alternative method of handling the benefit zone.
No one else from the audience spoke to this item.
Motion by Mr. Blanton, seconded by Mrs. Lubeck, that Council close the public hearing.
Carried unanimously.
Motion by Mr. O'Laughlin, seconded by Mrs. Lubeck, that Council adopt Resolution 1995-86
entitled, RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS CONFIRMING DIAGRAM AND
ASSESSMENT, AND LEVYING AND AUTHORIZING COLLECTION OF ASSESSMENTS
FOR LANDSCAPING AND LIGHTING ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 1 - BLACKWELL
DRIVE BENEFIT ZONE FOR FISCAL YEAR 1995-1996, directing Clerk to submit a certified
copy to the County Tax Collector, and assigning staff to work with the homeowners to explore
other viable options to the assessment district. Carried unanimously.
DOWNTOWN ASSOCIATION/ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT/RESOLUTION 1995-87 (28.33)
Motion by Mrs. Benjamin, seconded by Mr. Blanton, that Council adopt Resolution 1995-87
entitled, RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS AUTHORIZING THE TOWN
MANAGER TO EXECUTE THE FIRST AMENDMENT TO THE DOWNTOWN ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT WITH THE LOS GATOS DOWNTOWN ASSOCIATION.
Carried unanimously.
LOS GATOS BOULEVARD PLAN/MISSION/GOALS/RESOLUTION 1995-88 (29A.33)
Elizabeth Smith, 17551 Vineland Ave., Monte Sereno, representing Cornerstone Shopping
Center and Co -Chair of the Los Gatos Boulevard Alliance. Commended Council for supporting
the Los Gatos Boulevard vision and plan. Spoke in favor of approving the plans, mission, goals
and objectives. Asked that the Boulevard Charette be treated as a fluid guideline and direction
but not as a non flexible, frozen, final conclusion. Use the ideas creatively and allow them to
unfold naturally, please do not take this creativity and use it with constrictive oppressiveness.
Mrs. Benjamin spoke of the last General Plan meeting and the discussion regarding the energy
flow generated from the Community and the Los Gatos Blvd. Alliance interaction. She noted
that the General Plan Committee needed to plan for some agenda topics which would address
implementation regarding the ideas and designs which have been submitted by the charette.
Mrs. Lubeck addressed the need for an implementation discussion and methods of procedure
for acting on the charette designs within the boundaries of the communities resources
Catherine Hoffman, 105 Garden Hill Drive, as a residential member of the Los Gatos Boulevard
Alliance, gave input on the cooperative venture and spoke of the ideas and plans as a beginning
which need more time and thought as the planning progresses.
Mrs. Benjamin noted the variety of people involved in this community planning alliance.
TC:D7:MM061995
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June 19, 19c
Los Gatos, Californi
LOS GATOS BOULEVARD CONT.
Speakers continued
Carl Cilker, 1631 Willow Street, San Jose, spoke in favor of the mission, goals and objective
in Item 29A. Emphasized that there is no plan for the boulevard yet. The plan is under
discussion and being worked on but it is not established in concept at this time. Therefore
asking a developer to conform to a plan that does not exist will create many problems for the
Town and applicant. Applicants may be advised as to the status of the Alliance's work and the
applicants may incorporate the concepts as they are identified and developed in the mission
and objectives of the Alliance.
Mayor O'Laughlin alluded to interim guidelines that could be used. Spoke of flexibility and
parameters of those ideas which have already been expressed. Any developer considering
working on the Boulevard should at a minimum be familiar with the work the Charette has
done so far.
Barbra Toren, 15933 Orange Blossom, as a resident of Blossom Manor, spoke of the benefits
to her community due to the work of the Boulevard Committee.
Mrs. Benjamin discussed saving attachment two, Item 29B, for the General Plan Committee
to give more time to and for Council to consider ways to provide resources for the
implementation of this activity.
Mr. Anderson, Town Attorney, noted that the policy now in effect is only altered by paragraph
five. Paragraphs one through four were adopted by Council six months ago.
Elizabeth Smith, noted the great variety of ideas expressed during the Charette, and the
inappropriateness of trying to take one of these ideas and microscopically review it as the
ultimate resolution for the Boulevard.
Mr. Attaway believes the issue of the development applications should return to the General
Plan Committee for additional consideration.
Motion by Mrs. Benjamin, seconded by Mrs. Lubeck, that Council adopt Resolution 1995-88
entitled, RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS ESTABLISHING THE LOS GATOS
BOULEVARD PLAN - MISSION, GOALS, AND OBJECTIVES, and send back to the July
meeting of the General Plan Committee the Resolution (Attachment 2) expanding policies for
development applications along Los Gatos Boulevard from Spencer Ave. to Route 85. Carried
unanimously.
INDEPENDENCE DAY FESTIVAL/MUSIC IN THE PLAZA (30.23)
Emerald Hathaway -Bush, 174 Villa Ave., Chairman of the Los Gatos Arts Commission, and
Chair of Music in the Plaza, spoke of the Fourth of July, Independence Day Celebration, which
has been planned. She asked for Council's approval and noted the time involved in planning
this event, including the musical groups that are committed.
Barbra Toren, 15933 Orange Blossom, spoke in support of the Music in the Plaza events and
the July 4th concept.
Mayor O'Laughlin suggested that the July 4th concept be celebrated on the 2nd during the
regular Sunday Music in the Plaza event from 5 to 7 pm. If more is planned for the 4th of July
then more of the Town should be involved with the initial planning, such as clubs, schools and
businesses.
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