10-22-25 Packet - HPCPage 1
HOW TO PARTICIPATE
The Town of Los Gatos strongly encourages your active participation in the public process. If
you are interested in providing oral comments during the meeting, you must attend in-
person, complete a speaker’s card, and return it to the staff. If you wish to speak to an item
on the agenda, please list the item number on the speaker card. The time allocated to
speakers may change to better facilitate the meeting. If you are unable to attend the meeting
in-person, you are welcome to submit written comments via email to
planning@losgatosca.gov.
Public Comment During the Meeting:
When called to speak, please limit your comments to three (3) minutes, or such other time as
the Chair may decide, consistent with the time limit for speakers at a Town meeting.
Speakers at public meetings may be asked to provide their name and to state whether they
are a resident of the Town of Los Gatos. Providing this information is not required.
Deadlines to Submit Written Comments:
If you are unable to participate in person, you may email planning@losgatosca.gov with the
subject line “Public Comment Item #_” (insert the item number relevant to your comment).
Persons wishing to submit written comments to be included in the materials provided to the
Commission must provide the comments as follows:
For inclusion in the agenda packet: by 11:00 a.m. the Friday before the Committee
meeting.
For inclusion in the agenda packet supplemental materials: by 11:00 a.m. on the
day of the Committee meeting.
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TOWN OF LOS GATOS
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
OCTOBER 22, 2025
110 EAST MAIN STREET
TOWN COUNCIL CHAMBERS
4:00 PM
Lee Quintana, Chair
Martha Queiroz, Vice Chair
Susan Burnett, Planning Commissioner
Emily Thomas, Planning Commissioner
Alan Feinberg, Committee Member
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CALL MEETING TO ORDER
ROLL CALL
VERBAL COMMUNICATIONS (Members of the public are welcome to address the Historic
Preservation Committee on any matter that is not listed on the agenda and is within the subject
matter jurisdiction of the Committee. To ensure all agenda items are heard, this portion of the
agenda is limited to 30 minutes. In the event additional speakers were not able to be heard during
the initial Verbal Communications portion of the agenda, an additional Verbal Communications will
be opened prior to adjournment. Each speaker is limited to three minutes or such time as authorized
by the Chair.)
VERBAL COMMUNICATIONS (Members of the public are welcome to address the Historic
Preservation Committee on any matter that is not listed on the agenda and is within the subject
matter jurisdiction of the Committee. To ensure all agenda items are heard, this portion of the
agenda is limited to 30 minutes. In the event additional speakers were not able to be heard during
the initial Verbal Communications portion of the agenda, an additional Verbal Communications will
be opened prior to adjournment. Each speaker is limited to three minutes or such time as authorized
by the Chair.)
1. Draft Minutes of the September 24, 2025, Historic Preservation Committee Meeting
PUBLIC HEARINGS (Applicants and their representatives may be allotted up to a total of five
minutes maximum for opening statements. Members of the public may be allotted up to three
minutes to comment on any public hearing item. Applicants and their representatives may be
allotted up to a total of three minutes maximum for closing statements. Items
requested/recommended for continuance are subject to the Committee’s consent at the meeting.)
2. Consider a Request for Approval to Construct Exterior Modifications (Siding Replacement)
on an Existing Pre-1941 Single-Family Residence on Property Zoned R-1:8. Located at 155
Hernandez Avenue. APN 510-40-152. Request for Review Application PHST-25-020.
Exempt Pursuant to CEQA Guidelines, Section 15301: Existing Facilities. Property Owner:
Catherine Nadeau. Applicant: Marcie Macdonough. Project Planner: Ryan Safty.
3. Consider a Request for Approval to Construct Exterior Alterations (Window Replacement)
to an Existing Pre-1941 Single-Family Residence on Property Zoned R-1:8. Located at 69
Hernandez Avenue. APN 510-41-015. Request for Review PHST-25-019. Exempt Pursuant
to CEQA Guidelines, Section 15061 (b)(3). Property Owner: Phil Rolla. Applicant: Mike
Tinsley. Project Planner: Suray Nathan.
OTHER BUSINESS (Up to three minutes may be allotted to each speaker on any of the following
items.)
4. Consider Providing Staff with Direction on Window Materials. Project Location: Town
Wide. Project Planner: Sean Mullin.
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REPORT FROM THE DIRECTOR OF THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
COMMITTEE MATTERS
ADJOURNMENT
ADA NOTICE In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance
to participate in this meeting, please contact the Clerk’s Office at (408) 354-6834. Notification at
least two (2) business days prior to the meeting date will enable the Town to make reasonable
arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting [28 CFR §35.102-35.104].
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110 E. Main Street Los Gatos, CA 95030 ● 408-354-6874
www.losgatosca.gov
TOWN OF LOS GATOS
HISTORIC PRESERVATION
COMMITTEE REPORT
MEETING DATE: 10/22/2025 ITEM: 1
DRAFT
MINUTES OF THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MEETING
SEPTEMBER 24, 2025
The Historic Preservation Committee of the Town of Los Gatos conducted a regular meeting on
September 24, 2025 at 4:00 p.m.
MEETING CALLED TO ORDER AT 4:00 PM
ROLL CALL Present: Chair Lee Quintana, Vice Chair Martha Queiroz, Commissioner Susan Burnett,
Commissioner Emily Thomas and Committee Member Alan Feinberg.
Absent: None.
VERBAL COMMUNICATIONS
None.
CONSENT ITEMS (TO BE ACTED UPON BY A SINGLE MOTION)
1. Approval of Minutes – August 27, 2024 MOTION: Motion by Committee Member Thomas to approve the Consent
Calendar. Seconded by Commissioner Burnett.
VOTE: Motion passed 4-0 with Chair Quintana abstaining
PUBLIC HEARINGS 2. 333 Los Gatos Boulevard
Consider a Request for Approval to Construct an Addition to an Existing Pre1941 Single-
Family Residence on Property Zoned R-1D. APN 529-22-021. Exempt Pursuant to CEQA
Section 15301: Existing Facilities. Request for Review Application PHST-25-018. Property
Owner/Applicant: Nichola Palmer. Project Planner: Sean Mullin.
Sean Mullin, Project Planner, presented the staff report.
Opened and Closed Public Comment.
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PAGE 2 OF 7 MINUTES OF THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 24, 2025
Committee members discussed the matter.
MOTION: Motion by Commissioner Burnett to Recommend Approval to the
Community Development Director for a Request for Approval to
Construct an Addition to an Existing Pre1941 Single-Family Residence on
Property Zoned R-1D. APN 529-22-021. Seconded by Vice Chair Queiroz.
VOTE: Motion passed unanimously.
3. 16488 Bonnie Lane
Consider a Request for Approval to Construct an Addition and Exterior Alterations to an
Existing Pre-1941 Single-Family Residence on Property Zoned R-1:8. Located at 16488
Bonnie Lane. APN 532-02-014. Request for Review Application PHST-25-017.
Categorically Exempt Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
Guidelines, Section 15301: Existing Facilities. Property Owner: Mai of Tran 2020 Trust.
Applicant: Vu-Ngan Tran. Project Planner: Maria Chavarin.
Maria Chavarin, Project Planner, presented the staff report.
Committee members asked questions of staff.
Opened Public Comment.
Applicant presented the project.
Vu-Ngan Tran, Owner
Their plans to add a master bathroom on the second floor were previously approved.
This creates an open space below. They want to extend the family room to use that space.
Committee members asked questions of the applicant.
Closed the public comment.
Committee members discussed the matter.
MOTION: Motion by Committee Member Feinberg to Recommend that the
Applicant Return with Revised Plans that the Doors on the First and
Second Floors to Incorporate Divided Lites Across the Doors. The Doors
Would Remain with Sidelites. Seconded by Commissioner Burnett.
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PAGE 3 OF 7 MINUTES OF THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 24, 2025
Motion was discussed.
MOTION: Alternative Motion by Commissioner Thomas to recommend approval
with the condition that the upstairs porch doors and side panels have
divided lites. Either all across the top or on just on the side panels. On the
bottom also have divided lites or all across the glass panels.
Alternative Motion failed due to lack of a second.
Committee members discussed the matter.
MOTION: Alternative Motion by Commissioner Burnett to Recommend Approval
to the Community Development Director for a Request to Construct an
Addition to an Existing Pre1941 Single-Family Residence on Property
Zoned R-1D. APN 529-22-021, with the Following Conditions:
1. Modify the proposed French doors and side light windows located on
the second story of the east elevation as follows:
a. Side light windows shall include full divided lights; and
b. The two doors shall remain without divided lights or incorporate
divided lights on the top portions of the doors.
2. Modify the glass folding doors located on the first story of the east
elevation with the following design by removing one or two of the
folding glass door panels and incorporate full length divided lights on
the remaining panels.
Seconded by Vice Chair Queiroz
VOTE: Motion passed 3-2 with Commissioner Thomas and Chair Quintana
dissenting.
4. 446 San Benito Avenue
Consider a Preliminary Review of a Request to Construct a New Second-Story Addition
and Exterior Alterations to an Existing Pre-1941 Single-Family Residence on Property
Zoned R-1D. APN 410-16-051. Request for Review Application PHST-25-015. Exempt
Pursuant to CEQA Guidelines, Section 15301: Existing Facilities. Property
Owner/Applicant: Devendra Deshwal. Project Planner: Maria Chavarin.
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PAGE 4 OF 7 MINUTES OF THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 24, 2025
Maria Chavarin, Project Planner, presented the staff report.
Opened Public Comment.
Applicant presented the project.
Devendra Deshwal, Owner/Applicant
They are retaining the front elevation. But they want to change a window into a door.
The second story will be similar to what exists. The former owner changed the windows to flat
vinyl windows without sills. The current owners propose to replace the windows but with sills
as seen in older photos of the home. Other houses in the neighborhood have the same sills.
Commissioner Thomas
Wood shingle siding is proposed for the front and side elevations with stucco in the rear.
Why the two different materials?
Devendra Deshwal, Owner/Applicant
The existing elevation has stucco. It is not visible from the street.
Vice Chair Queiroz
What is the material of the garage doors?
Devendra Deshwal, Owner/Applicant
It is wood.
Chair Quintana
Please respond to the staff comments on
• Appropriateness of the location and scale of the proposed addition.
• Appropriateness of an attached garage.
• Apparent aluminum roll-up garage door.
• Proportion of the attached garage to the front façade.
• Compatibility of contemporary front doors.
• Use of vinyl windows and vinyl siding is discouraged.
• Appropriateness of the use of stucco on only one elevation.
• Use of the belly band on the side elevations.
Vice Chair Queiroz
The existing windows are vinyl. The owner is proposing vinyl windows.
Commissioner Thomas
Good that the addition is in the back.
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PAGE 5 OF 7 MINUTES OF THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 24, 2025
Vice Chair Queiroz
The addition looks like a box attached to a small house. It looks too boxy. It could be
broken up with some portions moved forward.
Committee Member Feinberg
Concerned about the attached garage. Prefer to see a detached garage in the back of
the house.
Chair Quintana
The addition is out of scale to the house and the surrounding homes. The garage should
be detached and located towards the back of the house. The façade of the garage is over fifty
percent of the front façade and dominates the front.
Chair Quintana
The Committee is trying to discourage vinyl windows. The applicant is encouraged to be
consistent with the use of materials. The stucco siding is not consistent.
Sean Mullin, Planning Manager
The belly band is used to break up the mass. But staff are concerned that it appears
slapped on and terminates at the outside corners. Staff will work with the applicant about a
technical demo. The shingles may need to be replaced due to age and termite damage. Items
raised in the staff report will be addressed. Staff will also cover options on how to reduce mass
and scale.
Chair Quintana
Locating the garage in the back of the house allows more room on the side for the
addition.
Committee Member Feinberg
It is helpful having the list for the Committee to focus on.
Sean Mullin, Planning Manager
There are two-story homes across the street. There are strategies to reduce the mass.
Commissioner Burnett
When doing an addition, you go back to the original windows of wood and not vinyl.
Erin Walters, Senior Planner
The Design guidelines have a section n on transitioning for a one to two story structure.
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PAGE 6 OF 7 MINUTES OF THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 24, 2025
Neighbor
They are concerned about fire danger in the area. The wood used on the first floor can
be treated with a fire protective covering. There are aluminum doors that have the look of
wood. Please consider fire safety as a criteria.
Chair Quintana
Check with your insurance company if the materials need to be fireproof.
Commissioner Thomas
These windows should align. One way to make an attached garage less prominent is to
not have a second story.
Sean Mullin, Planning Manager
The Design Guidelines describe strategies such as a trellis, pushing back the second story
over the garage, etc. The staff can work with the applicant.
Commissioner Thomas
Having wood sills under the windows restores the character to the home.
OTHER BUSINESS (Up to three minutes may be allotted to each speaker on any of the following
items.)
5. Discussion of Potential Historic Preservation Topics to be Included in a Letter to the
Town Council Regarding Future Historic Preservation Committee Workplan Items.
Committee members discussed the matter.
Sean Mullin, Planning Manager
Propose that the item be discussed at a special meeting of two hours on this one topic.
Staff will poll the Committee for a date and time. Keep it high level. It does not need to be
written as a code.
Chair Quintana
There are three main areas to cover: Demolition code, Historic Overlay code and Design
Guidelines. The Committee can have a separate meeting regarding Glenridge.
Alan Fienberg
Would like to see a map of the Glenridge area.
Commissioner Burnett
There is a lot of information available. It could be discussed as a separate topic.
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PAGE 7 OF 7 MINUTES OF THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMITTEE MEETING OF SEPTEMBER 24, 2025
REPORT FROM THE DIRECTOR OF THE COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
None.
COMMITTEE MATTERS
None.
ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 5:58 p.m.
This is to certify that the foregoing is a true
and correct copy of the minutes of the
September 24, 2025 meeting as approved by the
Historic Preservation Committee.
Sean Mullin, AICP, Planning Manager
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PREPARED BY: Ryan Safty
Associate Planner
TOWN OF LOS GATOS
HISTORIC PRESERVATION
COMMITTEE REPORT
MEETING DATE: 10/22/2025
ITEM NO: 2
DATE: October 17, 2025
TO: Historic Preservation Committee
FROM: Joel Paulson, Community Development Director
SUBJECT: Consider a Request for Approval to Construct Exterior Modifications (Siding
Replacement) on an Existing Pre-1941 Single-Family Residence on Property
Zoned R-1:8. Located at 155 Hernandez Avenue. APN 510-40-152. Request
for Review Application PHST-25-020. Exempt Pursuant to CEQA Guidelines,
Section 15301: Existing Facilities. Property Owner: Catherine Nadeau.
Applicant: Marcie Macdonough. Project Planner: Ryan Safty.
RECOMMENDATION:
Consider a request for approval to construct exterior modifications (siding replacement) on an
existing pre-1941 single-family residence on property zoned R-1:8, located at 155 Hernandez
Avenue.
PROPERTY DETAILS:
1. Date primary structure was built: 1917 (effective year built 1950) per County Assessor’s
Database; 1910s per Anne Bloomfield Survey
2. Town of Los Gatos Historic Status Code: +, historic and intact or worthy of special note
3. Does property have an LHP Overlay? No
4. Is structure in a historic district? N/A
5. If yes, is it a contributor? N/A
6. Findings required? No
7. Considerations required? Yes
BACKGROUND:
The County Assessor indicates that the residence located at 155 Hernandez Avenue was
constructed in 1917, with an effective year built of 1950, which usually reflects significant
alterations or additions occurred after the original construction date. The 1991 Bloomfield
Survey describes the residence as being built in the Colonial Revival style with an estimated
construction date of the 1910s (Attachment 1). The Bloomfield Survey rates the residence as
historic and intact or worthy of special note. The Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps show that the
footprint of the residence remained consistent between 1928 and 1956 (Attachment 2).
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PAGE 2 OF 4
SUBJECT: 155 Hernandez Avenue/PHST-25-020
DATE: October 17, 2025
On January 22, 2025, the Historic Preservation Committee (Committee) reviewed and approved
a request for exterior alterations to this residence, including raising the height of roof, changing
the roof pitch, and replacing existing windows with new dual-pane fiberglass windows. Any
needed replacement siding was required to match the existing siding. The project plans
approved by the Committee are included as Attachment 3.
In the process of construction, the applicant has returned to the Committee due to concerns
with the existing exterior siding.
DISCUSSION:
In late August, during construction, the applicant contacted Town staff to request an inspection
of the existing exterior siding. Their concerns were related to the deteriorated condition of the
existing wood siding, the lack of a vapor barrier, and fire hardening of the existing residence.
Planning staff and the Building Official visited the property with the contractor and determined
the following:
1. The existing exterior siding is not deteriorated to the point that the Building Official can
approve of the “repair” demolition exemption pursuant to Town Code Section 20.10.020
(copied below), and therefore, further demolition or siding removal would need Committee
approval;
2. The installation of a vapor barrier would require the removal and replacement of the
existing siding, which constitutes demolition unless Committee approval is obtained; and
3. The replacement of wood siding with Hardie board siding is not a kind-for-kind replacement
and therefore requires Committee approval.
On September 18, 2025, the applicant submitted for additional Committee review (Attachment
5). The applicant is requesting that the Committee approve replacement of all existing wood
siding on the residence with Hardie board siding. As noted in Attachment 5, the reason for this
request is to ensure longevity of the existing historic residence. In addition to the deteriorated
condition of the existing wood siding, the applicant desires to ensure the residence is weather
resistant and more fire resistant.
To make the house more weather resistant, a weather-resistant barrier must be installed on
the exterior of the studs, under the existing wood siding. Removing the existing wood siding
and replacing it with the existing wood siding would be challenging due to the condition of the
existing wood siding. The applicant is requesting Hardie board siding as a replacement and feels
that the new Hardie board siding would be consistent with the appearance of the original
materials and that a lay person would be unlikely to discern the difference pursuant to
Residential Design Guideline 4.8.2 (Attachment 6). Pictures of the existing wood, new wood,
and Hardie board siding are shown next to each other in Attachment 5.
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PAGE 3 OF 4
SUBJECT: 155 Hernandez Avenue/PHST-25-020
DATE: October 17, 2025
Additionally, the property at 155 Hernandez is located within the Very High Fire Severity Area
and therefore must follow Wildland Urban Interface guidelines and requirements. One option
for compliance with these requirements is installation of non-combustible siding, such as
Hardie board material.
The size and profile of the proposed Hardie board siding would be the same and would be
installed horizontally to match the existing wood siding. The existing wood shingle siding on the
front porch and lower portion of the west elevation would remain (Attachment 5).
Town Code Section 29.10.020 clarifies that demolition of a historic structure means removal of
more than twenty-five percent of the wall(s) facing a public street or fifty percent of all exterior
walls. When approved by the deciding body, the following is exempt from the demolition
definition:
a. Replacement. The exterior wall covering may be removed if the covering is not
original to the structure.
b. Repair. The removal and replacement of in kind non-repairable exterior wall covering
(siding) resulting in no change to its exterior appearance or historic character if approved by
the deciding body.
c. Removal. The removal of an addition(s) that is not part of the original structure and which
has no historic significance, as determined by the Historic Preservation Committee.
Demolition shall be determined by subsections (1) and (2) above for the original structure,
where walls enclosed by additions shall be considered as exterior walls.
Based on the applicant’s description of the existing condition of the residence, it is likely that
exemption (b)-Repair is applicable to this request.
The applicant is seeking a determination from the Committee that the removal and
replacement of the siding is appropriate and therefore exempt from the demolition definition.
Should the Committee find merit in the request, a recommendation would be forwarded to the
Community Development Director. Once approved, Building Permit revisions could be
approved by the Town and the project would not return to the Committee.
FINDINGS AND CONSIDERATIONS:
A. Findings
Sec. 29.10.020. Demolition (historic structures)
All remaining exterior walls must be contiguous and must retain the existing exterior wall
covering. No new exterior wall covering shall be permitted over the existing exterior wall
covering. The following are exempt from this definition:
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PAGE 4 OF 4
SUBJECT: 155 Hernandez Avenue/PHST-25-020
DATE: October 17, 2025
b. Repair. The removal and replacement of in kind non-repairable exterior wall
covering (siding) resulting in no change to its exterior appearance or historic
character if approved by the deciding body.
B. Considerations
Sec. 29.80.290. Standards for review.
In evaluating applications, the deciding body shall consider the architectural style, design,
arrangement, texture, materials and color, and any other pertinent factors. Applications
shall not be granted unless:
For pre-1941 structures, the proposed work will neither adversely affect the exterior
architectural characteristics or other features of the property which is the subject of
the application.
C. Residential Design Guidelines
Section 4.8.2 of the Town’s Residential Design Guidelines offers recommendations for
exterior building materials on historic resources (Attachment 6).
CONCLUSION:
Should the Committee find merit in the request, a recommendation of approval would be
forwarded to the Community Development Director. The proposed work would be completed
with a Building Permit and would not return to the Committee for further review.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. 1990 Anne Bloomfield Survey
2. Sanborn Map Exhibit
3. Project Plans
4. Property Pictures
5. Project Description
6. Section 4.8.2, Residential Design Guidelines
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Page 48
PREPARED BY: Suray Nathan
Assistant Planner
110 E. Main Street Los Gatos, CA 95030 ● 408-354-6874
www.losgatosca.gov
TOWN OF LOS GATOS
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMITTEE
REPORT
MEETING DATE: 10/22/2025
ITEM NO: 3
DATE: October 17, 2025
TO: Historic Preservation Committee
FROM: Joel Paulson, Community Development Director
SUBJECT: Consider a Request for Approval to Construct Exterior Alterations (Window
Replacement) to an Existing Pre-1941 Single-Family Residence on Property
Zoned R-1:8. Located at 69 Hernandez Ave. APN 510-41-015. Request for
Review PHST-25-019. Exempt Pursuant to CEQA Guidelines, Section 15061
(b)(3). Property Owner: Phil Rolla. Applicant: Mike Tinsley. Project Planner:
Suray Nathan.
RECOMMENDATION:
Consider a request for approval to construct exterior alterations (window replacement) to an
existing pre-1941 single-family residence on property zoned R-1:8, located at 69 Hernandez
Avenue.
PROPERTY DETAILS:
1. Date primary structure was built: 1900 per County Assessor; 1910 (estimated) per
Bloomfield Survey
2. Bloomfield Preliminary Rating: , historic & some altered, but still a contributor to the
district if there is one
3. Does property have an LHP Overlay? No
4. Is structure in a historic district? No
5. If yes, is it a contributor? N/A
6. Findings required? N/A
7. Considerations required? Yes
BACKGROUND:
The County Assessor indicates that the residence located at 69 Hernandez Ave was constructed
in 1900, and the 1990 Bloomfield Survey estimates the construction date to be 1910
(Attachment 1). The residence appears on the Sanborn Fire Insurance Map in 1908, and the
residence's footprint remained consistent between 1928 and 1956 (Attachment 2).
Page 49
PAGE 2 OF 4
SUBJECT: 69 Hernandez Ave/ PHST-25-019
DATE: October 17, 2025
DISCUSSION:
The applicant is requesting approval to replace all existing windows, which vary in material
(wood and vinyl) and style (fixed, casement, and double hung). The proposed window
replacement is one component of Building Permit for an interior remodel currently under
review by the Town. The project includes modification of some windows and the addition of
one new window. The proposal also includes the removal of a chimney (non-historic, according
to the applicant’s research), replacement of a wood door with a wood-framed glass door at the
street-facing rear entrance, and removal of one bay window along the street-facing west
elevation (Attachments 3 and 7). There are 32 existing windows, and the applicant proposes to
remove and reconfigure 15 of the windows, replace 17 windows, and add one new window,
resulting in a total of 33 new windows, featuring Marvin Ultimate aluminum-clad wood
windows in ebony (Attachments 3 and 7).
The applicant’s Letter of Justification states that the subject house has undergone significant
modifications over time, including the enclosure of the front porches that wrap around to the
side and the construction of a second floor (Attachments 3 and 5). The applicant notes further
that the window replacement would also provide a more cohesive look by correcting the
window proportions to match the original historic proportions.
The Residential Design Guidelines provides the following recommendations related to window
materials:
3.7.2 Match window types and proportions to the architectural style and to the
surrounding neighborhood
• Select window types to complement the style of the house. Each architectural style
generally has one or two window types that are traditional to the style. Double hung
windows, for example, are common features of Victorian and Craftsman Styles while
casement windows are seen frequently in Mission and Spanish Eclectic styles
3.7.3 Match window materials to the architectural style and to the surrounding
neighborhood
• Wood windows are common in Los Gatos. Wood is still the desired choice for styles that
traditionally used wood. However, today there are some window materials, such as vinyl
clad wood windows that are not noticeably different from wood at a short distance.
Page 50
PAGE 3 OF 4
SUBJECT: 69 Hernandez Ave/ PHST-25-019
DATE: October 17, 2025
3.7.4 Design the windows with attention to matching the traditional details of the
architectural style
• Divided lights (i.e., larger window panes broken up into smaller pieces) are common in
many home styles found in Los Gatos. Use either vertical or square proportions for the
smaller window elements. Be consistent in the proportions (i.e., the ratio of the
horizontal to the vertical dimension) of the smaller panes. Do not use snap in flat grids
to simulate divided lights. Use either true divided lights or one of the newer window
systems that have dimensional muntins on both the exterior and interior of the glass
along with a spacer muntin between the panes of glass. Use consistently for windows on
all sides of the house.
4.8.2 Building Materials
• Composite, synthetic, metal, vinyl, plastic or fabricated/ imitation wood products,
painted brick or imitation used brick will generally not be approved. However, some
exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis when the decision-making body
determines that the replacement is consistent with the appearance of the original
material and that a layperson would be unlikely to discern the difference. The burden of
proof will reside with the applicant. Material samples, photographs, and specific
locations where the material may be seen in use will all assist in the evaluation of
alternative materials.
4.8.4 Windows and Glass in doors
• Windows should be constructed of real glass, and window frames should be constructed
of real wood - not vinyl, metal, or plastic. Wood sashes may be vinyl or metal clad if the
window frame and dressing is designed consistent with the historic context of the
building.
CONSIDERATIONS:
A. Considerations
Sec. 29.80.290. Standards for review.
In evaluating applications, the deciding body shall consider the architectural style, design,
arrangement, texture, materials and color, and any other pertinent factors. Applications
shall not be granted unless:
For pre-1941 structures, the proposed work will neither adversely affect the exterior
architectural characteristics or other features of the property which is the subject of
the application, nor adversely affect its relationship, in terms of harmony and
Page 51
PAGE 4 OF 4
SUBJECT: 69 Hernandez Ave/ PHST-25-019
DATE: October 17, 2025
appropriateness, with its surroundings, including neighboring structures, nor adversely
affect the character, or the historical, architectural or aesthetic interest or value of the
district.
CONCLUSION:
The applicant is requesting approval to replace 32 existing windows, which vary in material
(wood and vinyl). The project includes modification of some windows and the addition of one
new window. All new windows would be Marvin Ultimate aluminum-clad wood windows in
ebony. Should the Committee find merit in the request, a recommendation of approval would
be forwarded to the Community Development Director, and the project would be completed
with a Building Permit. The project would not return to the Committee.
FINDINGS:
B. Findings - related to a request for a determination that a pre-1941 primary structure has no
historic significance or architectural merit.
In evaluating a request for a determination of historic significance or architectural merit,
the Historic Preservation Committee shall consider the following:
1. The structure is not associated with events that have made a significant contribution
to the Town;
2. No Significant persons are associated with the site;
3. There are no distinctive characteristics of type, period or method of construction or
representation of work of a master;
4. The structure does not yield information to Town history; or
5. The integrity has been compromised such that the structure no longer has the
potential to convey significance.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. 1990 Anne Bloomfield Survey
2. Sanborn Fire Maps
3. Letter of Justification
4. Town Permit Records
5. Town Records - Provided by Applicant
6. Section 3.9, Residential Design Guidelines
7. Development Plans
Page 52
dlniU !Bfoom{utd
A.RCHITB<:~~~-SURVBY
RAM!: RBSBARCH
ARCHITECTURAL HISTORY
(415) 922-1063
2229 WEBSTER STREET
SAN FRANCISCO. CA 94 1 1 5
.... (penon, buUcl:l.n9, or9&ftiaation, etcl ___ ....,.-----------------------------
ddreaaea aaaociated with ~~~~~~L~~~~~~~~~~~~---------------------------~
-levant dateaz conatr~_ction._ ___ • birth. ___ • cSeath._ ___ • other: __________ _
I. DIRBC'l'ORY SEARCH (City Direetoriee, COUDty Dlieetod.ee, 'felaphone aoou, eociety direetodea, etc:. l
Yea Book ttaae/C.la••i~i•d "--"' .,, ,_, ... ,.,,. ft!ftr>v ant:i!NI .... -,;, •• •howt .. u•• • ~Dr br>l<'lfa,...l
f~ I
A
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'l.~ .,... ... dlf 4Pd~ t:x---1. .rs-<t~--/t::~ I ..., ,
fiD'Sjill! dtt.l
BIOGRAPHICAL SSARCR, indeX•• • other alphabetical liatinqe. Mrk 'X' (infd.or 'J' (nothiftq founc!) •t each aource you try. Liet fJ.ndbcJe below.
·Los Gatos Library:
City directories (name & street index)
---Historic Collection Index (green boxes)
---Thompson & West, 1876 (bio index)
---Pen Pictures, 1888 (bio index)
California History Center,
___ Biographical file
Photo collection
De Anza College:
---Sunshine Fruit & Flowers, 1895 (bio index)
---Guinn, 1904 (bio index)
---Sawyer, 1922 (bio index)
Bruntz, Hist'y of LG, 1971 (bio index)
Extended index to Bruntz
San Jose Historical Museum:
__ Great Regis_ters (of voters)
Indexes
Photo collection
Bio index of Nunroe Frazer , 1881
Photo collection (2 boxes)
(Survey box)
Other sources:
Los Gatos Museum (Forbes Mill):
__ Indexes, California Historical ~uarterly
___ State Library Information Index (fiche)
Death records by year
Funeral records (index
Photo collection
State Library-S. F. Newspaper Inde:x .:( ")
cards to big books_) __
111. LIST ALL REFERENCES FROM ABOVE. Find them. Copy qood material 6 attach. Or copy below if only a few worda . or explain why not relevant (aa, wronq peraon).
L:7 Continued on Reverae
Page 54
This Page
Intentionally
Left Blank
Page 56
1908
69 Hernandez Ave
ATTACHMENT 2Page 57
1928
69 Hernandez Ave
Page 58
1944
69 Hernandez Ave
Page 59
1956
69 Hernandez Ave
Page 60
105 Locust St., ste. D
Santa Cruz, CA. 95060
408/705.6763
4 OCTOBER 2025
Town of Los Gatos Planning Dept.
Suray Nathan
110 E. Main St.
Los Gatos, CA. 95030
Re: Response to Comments Dated October 1, 2025 – 69 Hernandez Avenue
Dear Mr. Nathan,
Pursuant to your comments dated October 1, 2025, please find attached photos
of 69 Hernandez Avenue for your review.
As noted in the historic evaluation prepared by Archaeological Resource
Management, the home has been heavily modified over time—both on the
exterior and interior—resulting in a non-cohesive floor plan. We are proposing
revisions to the interior layout to restore a more functional and cohesive plan. As
part of these revisions, several window locations will need to be adjusted, as
shown on the submitted Floor Plans and Exterior Elevations.
In addition, we propose to correct the window proportions to a more historically
appropriate vertical orientation. Due to past modifications, the existing windows
vary in style, operation, and material. To achieve a unified and consistent design,
we are proposing to replace all existing windows with Marvin Ultimate aluminum
clad wood windows in Ebony. A manufacturer photo is attached for reference.
The new windows will have no grids.
Thank you for your consideration. Please let us know if any additional information
is needed.
Sincerely,
Mike Tinsley, Architect
License #: C-30944
ATTACHMENT 3
Page 61
Current street view from Hernandez Ave. Page 15 of the Historic Evaluation prepared by Archeological Resource
Management, shows what the original home looked like (dated circa 1970). Since then, the Entry has been relocated,
the porch has been enclosed, and a new porch with a new roof constructed. We are proposing to replace these
windows with properly proportioned windows.
Circa 1970 showing original porch
Page 62
Current street view from Walnut Ave. We are proposing to remove the existing chimney, noted as non-historic. All
windows appear to be replacement windows along this side of the home. We are proposing to remove the striped
canvas awnings, remove bay windows in the center of the home and replace all windows with appropriate
proportioned windows.
Current view from above existing garage. We are proposing to relocate the 2nd story window, and remove the
striped awning. We are proposing to replace the existing wood casement windows.
Page 63
Marvin Ultimate Casement
Proposed Color: Ebony (Black)
Page 64
Archaeological Resource Management
Robert R. Cartier, Ph.D.
496 North 5th Street
San Jose, CA 95112
Telephone (408) 295-1373
Fax (408) 286-2040
email: armcartier@netscape.net
Mr. Phil Rolla July 10, 2025
69 Hernandez Ave
Los Gatos, CA. 95030
RE: HISTORIC EVALUATION OF THE RESIDENCE AT 69 HERNANDEZ AVENUE IN
LOS GATOS
Dear Mr. Rolla:
As per your request our firm is submitting the enclosed historical evaluation of the residence at
69 Hernandez Avenue in Los Gatos. Based upon the requirements of the Town of Los Gatos, a
methodology was designed which included the following services:
- an evaluation of the structures based on the criteria of the NRHP and CRHR
- an evaluation of the structures using the criteria of the Town of Los Gatos Historic
Preservation Ordinance
- State Historic Resources Evaluation forms (DPR 523) for the structures
The current proposed plans for the property include expansion of the 2nd floor addition,
demolition of the detached garage, and construction of a new garage with an ADU above.
The residence at 69 Hernandez Avenue is not currently listed in the California Register of
Historic Resources (CRHR), or the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). In addition, it
does not appear to be eligible for listing in either of these registers.
Page 65
The structure at 69 Hernandez Avenue is not located within a recognized historic district for the
Town of Los Gatos and is not currently listed within the LHP overlay. The structure was
constructed Circa 1900, and thus before 1941. However, the residence is lacking in historic
association and architectural interest and has been heavily modified from its original form.
Thus the structure at 69 Hernandez Avenue does not appear to be historically significant, and no
further recommendations are being made.
Sincerely,
Robert Cartier, Ph.D.
Principal Investigator
RC/dj
Page 66
DPR 523A (1/95) *Required Information
State of California - The Resources Agency Primary # ______________________________
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI # _______________________________
PRIMARY RECORD Trinomial ______________________________
NRHP Status Code ______________________
Other Listings ________________________________________
Review Code ________ Reviewer __________ Date ________
Page _1_ of 13 Resource Name or # ___69 Hernandez Avenue___
P1. Other Identifier: ______Speedee Mart Building_________________________________
P2. Location: ____ Not for Publication _x__ Unrestricted *a. County __Santa Clara__
and (P2b and P2c or P2d. Attach a Location Map as necessary.)
*b. USGS 7.5' Quad: Los Gatos,CA Date: 2021 T ; R ; 1/4 of 1/4 of Sec ; BM
c. Address: 69 Hernandez Avenue City: Los Gatos Zip: 95030
d. UTM: 10S 5 89 480mE/41 20 405mN
e. Other Locational Data: (e.g., parcel #, directions to resource, elevation, etc., as appropriate)
APN: 510-41-015
*P3a. Description: (Describe resource and its major elements. Include design, materials, condition, alterations, size, setting, and boundaries.)
The structure at 69 Hernandez Avenue is a two story vernacular residence in fair condition. The structure is roughly
rectangular in form, oriented lengthwise off of Hernandez Avenue, at the southeast corner of Hernandez and Walnut
Avenues. The primary roof is hipped and moderately pitched, surfaced with composition shingles. A front-gabled
wing extends from the front façade. A slightly lowered hipped roof of shallower pitch extends over the enclosed porch
addition to the eastern façade. The second story addition also features a hipped roof of moderate pitch. The eaves
are somewhat broad and open, with exposed rafters.
See Continuation Sheet Page 4
*P3b. Resource Attributes:HP06 (commercial 1-3 stories)
*P4. Resources Present: x_Building __Structure __Object __District __Element of District __Site __Other
P5a. Photo or drawing (Photo required for buildings, structures, objects.) P5b. Description of Photo: (View, date, accession #)
View of the front façade of 69 Hernandez Avenue
*P6. Date Constructed/Age and Sources
Historic x Prehistoric Both
Constructed Circa 1900 based on County of Santa
Clara Appraiser’s property records
*P7. Owner and Address:
Phillip & Gwynne Rolla
69 Hernandez Avenue
Los Gatos, CA 95030
*P8. Recorded by:
Robert Cartier
Archaeological Resource Management
496 North 5th Street
San Jose, CA 95112
*P9. Date Recorded: 7/10/2025
*P10. Survey Type: Intensive
*P11. Report Citation: (Cite Survey Report and other sources, or enter "none.")
None
* Attachments: __None x_Location Map __Sketch Map x_Continuation Sheet x_Building, Structure, and Object Record
__Archaeological Record __District Record __Linear Feature Record __Milling Station Record __Rock Art Record __Artifact
Record __Photographic Record __Other (List):
Page 67
DPR 523A (1/95) *Required Information
State of California - The Resources Agency Primary # ________________________________
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI # ________________________________
BUILDING, STRUCTURE, AND OBJECT RECORD
Page _2_ of 13 *NRHP Status Code ___ __
*Resource Name or # (Assigned by recorder) 69 Hernandez Avenue
B1. Historic Name: ________________________________________
B2. Common Name: ______69 Hernandez Avenue_____________________________________________
B3. Original Use: ___Residential B4. Present Use: ____Residential________
*B5. Architectural Style: _____Vernacular_____________
*B6. Construction History: (Construction date, alterations, and date of alterations)
Based upon visual evaluation and available documentation, the residence at 69 Hernandez Avenue was constructed
Circa 1900. Numerous modifications and additions to the home have been made including the enclosing of the original
wrap around porch and entry, relocation of the porch and entry to the western side of the front façade, a rear addition
and the addition of the second story in 1981 (BP# 9441), reroofing in 1992 (BP# 24863), replacement of the original
chimney, and replacement of many of the original windows.
*B7. Moved? _x_ No ___ Yes ___ Unknown Date: _______ Original Location: __________________
*B8. Related Features:
Also present on the property is a detached garage, which appears to be of late 20th Century construction.
B9a. Architect: ____unknown__________ b. Builder: ____unknown______________
*B10. Significance: Theme ____ architecture & shelter_______ Area _____Santa Clara, CA______
Period of Significance ___1900-___ Property Type __private residential__ Applicable Criteria ___N/A_____
The land on which the subject structure now stands consists of a portion of the Rancho Rinconada De Los Gatos. In
1876, the subject property made up a portion of the lands of W. McCormick (Thompson & West 1876). By 1890 the
property was owned by the S. and L.G. Real Estate Association (Official Map of Santa Clara County, 1890). The
subject property consists of a portion of Lots 9 & 10 of Block 2, as shown on the “Map of Glen Ridge Park” dated April
11, 1891 (Book E of Maps, Page 97). Based upon County of Santa Clara Appraiser’s records, the residence at 69
Hernandez Avenue was constructed Circa 1900. The earliest known owners of the home were George and Elizabeth
Miller. George was born in 1862 in Ireland, and emigrated to the United States with his family in 1880. George and
Elizabeth are listed as residing on Hernandez Avenue in the US Census of 1920, where George is noted to be
employed as a farmer/orchardist.
See Continuation Sheet, Page 4
B11. Additional Resource Attributes: (List attributes and codes) ___________N/A_______________________
*B12. References:
See Continuation Sheet, Page 7
B13. Remarks:
*B14. Evaluator: ___Robert R. Cartier____________
*Date of Evaluation: _______7/10/2025________
(This space reserved for official comments.)
Page 68
DPR 523A (1/95) *Required Information
State of California - The Resources Agency Primary # ________________________________
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI # ________________________________
LOCATION MAP Trinomial ________________________________
Page _3_ of 13 Resource Name or # (Assigned by recorder) _______69 Hernandez Avenue ____________________
*Map Name: ____Los Gatos, CA____ *Scale: ___7.5 Minute__ *Date of Map: ___2021__
Page 69
DPR 523A (1/95) *Required Information
State of California - The Resources Agency Primary # ______________________________
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI # _______________________________
CONTINUATION SHEET Trinomial ______________________________
Page _4_ of 13 *Resource Name or # (Assigned by recorder) 69 Hernandez Avenue_________
*Recorded by Archaeological Resource Management Date 7/10/2025 Continuation x Update
Continued from P3a:
Exterior walls are surfaced with narrow horizontal wooden siding on the first floor, with wood shingle siding on the
second story addition. The original fenestration is wooden framed and primarily in a double-hung sash configuration,
however the majority of the windows appear to be non-original. The front façade features a recessed porch accessed
via a brick stairway, both of which appear to be non-original.
Continued from B10:
George Miller retained ownership of the property until his death on March 26, 1938. On September 27, 1938 the
property was granted by his estate to Bertha Goldstein (Book 899 OR, Page 231). Bertha Goldstein (later Bertha
Passavoy) owned the property until her death in 1979. On November 9, 1979 the property was granted by her estate
to Lillian Varadi and Eboly Frankel (Book E973 OR, Page 490). On May 22 of 1980 they granted the property to Brian
and Christina Barnett and Robert and Carol Palmer (Book F340 OR, Pages 82-84). The 2nd story was added to the
residence during their ownership of the property, in 1981. On October 22, 1981 the property was granted to Norman
and Nancy Nason (Book G405 OR, Page 747). On October 5, 1982 they granted the property to Dennis and Jocelyn
Penner (Book H063 OR, Page 739). Jocelyn Penner retained ownership of the property until April 24, 2025, when it
was granted to Phillip and Gwynne Rolla, who are the current owners (Assessor’s Doc#25803591).
Los Gatos Historic Building Inventory
The Los Gatos Town Code (Sec. 29.80.215) states that “The purpose of historic preservation is to promote the health,
safety and general welfare of the public through:
(1)The protection, enhancement, perpetuation and use of structures, sites and areas that are reminders of past
eras, events and persons important in local, State, or National history, or which provide significant examples of
architectural styles of the past or are landmarks in the history of architecture, or which are unique and \
irreplaceable assets to the Town and its neighborhoods, or which provide for this and future generations
examples of the physical surroundings in which past generations lived.
(2)The development and maintenance of appropriate settings and environment for such structures.
(3)The enhancement of property values, the stabilization of neighborhood and areas of the Town, the increase of
economic and financial benefits to the Town and its inhabitants, and the promotion of tourist trade and interest.
(4)The enrichment of human life in its educational and cultural dimensions by serving aesthetic as well as material
needs and fostering knowledge of the living heritage of the past.
(Ord. No. 1316, § 4.86.010, 6-7-76; Ord. No. 1328, 8-2-76; Ord. No. 2041, § IV, 2-2-98)
The Town of Los Gatos recognizes a structure as historic if any one of the following apply:
1. Any structure / site that is located within an historic district
2. Any structure / site that is historically designated within the LHP (Landmark Historic Preservation) overlay
3. Any primary structure constructed prior to 1941, unless the town has specifically determined the structure has
no historic significance or architectural merit
The structure at 69 Hernandez Avenue is not located within a recognized historic district and is not currently listed
within the LHP overlay. The structure was constructed Circa 1900, and thus before 1941. However, the residence is
lacking in historic association and architectural interest and has been heavily modified from its original form.
Page 70
DPR 523A (1/95) *Required Information
State of California - The Resources Agency Primary # ______________________________
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI # _______________________________
CONTINUATION SHEET Trinomial ______________________________
Page 5 of 13 *Resource Name or # (Assigned by recorder) __69 Hernandez Avenue_______
*Recorded by Archaeological Resource Management Date 7/10/2025 Continuation x Update
California Register of Historic Resources Criteria
A cultural resource is considered “significant” if it qualifies as eligible for listing in the California Register of Historic
Resources (CRHR). Properties that are eligible for listing in the CRHR must meet one or more of the following criteria:
1. Association with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of local or regional
history or the cultural heritage of California or the United States;
2. Association with the lives of persons important to local, California, or
national history;
3. Embodying the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, region, or method
of construction, or representing the work of a master, or possessing high artistic values; or
4. Has yielded, or has the potential to yield, information important to the
prehistory or history of the local area, California, or the nation.
A property may be automatically listed in the CRHR if it is formally determined eligible for the National Register of
Historic Places. Properties that are formally determined eligible for the NRHP are those that are designated as such
through one of the federal preservation programs administered by the California Office of Historic Preservation (i.e.,
the National Register, Tax Certification, and Section 106 review of federal undertakings).
The CRHR interprets the integrity of a cultural resource based upon its physical authenticity. An historic cultural
resource must retain its historic character or appearance and thus be recognizable as an historic resource. Integrity is
evaluated by examining the subject’s location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association. If the
subject has retained these qualities, it may be said to have integrity. It is possible that a cultural resource may not
retain sufficient integrity to be listed in the National Register of Historic Places yet still be eligible for listing in the
CRHR. If a cultural resource retains the potential to convey significant historical/scientific data, it may be said to retain
sufficient integrity for potential listing in the CRHR.
The property at 69 Hernandez Avenue is not currently listed on the CRHR. In addition the structure does not appear
to be eligible for inclusion in this register. The structure is not associated with significant events and thus it does not
appear to be eligible for listing under Criterion 1. The structure is not associated with the lives of historically significant
people, thus it does not appear to be eligible for inclusion under Criterion 2. The structure is an example of vernacular
architecture, however it is not a notable example of this style. Thus it does not appear to be eligible for listing under
Criterion 3. The structure does not appear to have the potential to yield information important to history, and thus
does not appear to be potentially eligible for listing under Criterion 4.
Page 71
DPR 523A (1/95) *Required Information
State of California - The Resources Agency Primary # ______________________________
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI # _______________________________
CONTINUATION SHEET Trinomial ______________________________
Page 6 of 13 *Resource Name or # (Assigned by recorder) __69 Hernandez Avenue_______
*Recorded by Archaeological Resource Management Date 7/10/2025 Continuation x Update
National Register Criteria
The National Register of Historic Places was first established in 1966, with major revisions in 1976. The register is set
forth in 36 CFR 60 which establishes the responsibilities of the State Historic Preservation Officers (SHPO), standards
for their staffs and review boards, and describes the statewide survey and planning process for historic preservation.
Within this regulation guidelines are set forth concerning the National Register of Historic Places (36 CFR 60.6). In
addition, further regulations are found in 36 CFR 63-66, 800, and Bulletin 15 which define procedures for determination
of eligibility, identification of historic properties, recovery, reporting, and protection procedures. The National Register
of Historic Places was established to recognize resources associated with the accomplishments of all peoples who
have contributed to the country’s history and heritage. Guidelines were designed for Federal and State agencies in
nominating cultural resources to the National Register. These guidelines are based upon integrity and significance of
the resource. Integrity applies to specific items such as location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, and
association. Quality of significance in American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering and culture is present
in resources that possess integrity of location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association, and
meet at least one of the following criteria:
A. that are associated with events that have made a significant contribution to broad patterns of our history;
B. that are associated with the lives of persons significant in our past;
C. that embody distinctive characteristics of type, period, or method of
construction, or that represent the work of master, or that possess high artistic values, or that
represent a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual
distinction;
D.that have yielded, or are likely to yield, information important in prehistory or history.
Integrity is defined in Bulletin 15: How to Apply the National Register Criteria for Evaluation, (U.S. Department of the
Interior, National Park Service 1982) as:
the authenticity of a property’s historic identity, evidenced by the survival of physical characteristics that existed during
the property’s historic or prehistoric period. If a property retains the physical characteristics it possessed in the past
then it has the capacity to convey association with historical patterns or persons, architectural or engineering design
and technology, or information about a culture or peoples.
There are also seven aspects of integrity which are used. These aspects are:
1. location 5. Workmanship
2. design 6. Feeling
3. setting 7. Association
4. materials
The residence at 69 Hernandez Avenue is not currently listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In addition
the structure does not appear to be eligible for inclusion in this register. The property is not associated with any known
significant historical events, thus it does not appear to be eligible under Criterion A. The structure is not associated
with historically significant persons, thus it does not appear to be eligible for inclusion in the NRHP under Criterion B.
Although an example of vernacular architecture, it is not a notable example of this style and does not appear to be
eligible for inclusion under Criterion C. The structure does not appear likely to yield important historical information,
thus it does not appear eligible for inclusion under Criterion D.
Page 72
DPR 523A (1/95) *Required Information
State of California - The Resources Agency Primary # ______________________________
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI # _______________________________
CONTINUATION SHEET Trinomial ______________________________
Page 7 of 13 *Resource Name or # (Assigned by recorder) __69 Hernandez Avenue_______
*Recorded by Archaeological Resource Management Date 7/10/2025 Continuation x Update
Continued from B12:
Appraiser’s Office, County of Santa Clara
2025 Appraiser’s records for 69 Hernandez Avenue.
Assessor’s Office, County of Santa Clara
2025 Record search of assessed value and associated taxes for 69 Hernandez Avenue.
Calloway, S. and E. Cromley
1996 The Elements of Style: A Practical Encyclopedia of Interior Architectural Details from 1485 to the
Present, Revised Edition. Simon & Schuster, New York.
Hoover, M. et al
1966 Historic Spots in California. Stanford University Press, Stanford California.
McAlester, V. and L. McAlester
1997 A Field Guide to American Houses. Alfred A. Knopf, New York.
Recorder’s Office, County of Santa Clara
2025 Record search of recorded information for 69 Hernandez Avenue.
US Department of the Interior
1990 The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation and Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic
Buildings
US Department of the Interior
1982 Bulletin 15 – “How to Apply the National Register Criteria for Evaluation.”
Whiffen, M.
1992 American Architecture since 1780, Revised Edition. The MIT Press, Cambridge, MA.
Page 73
DPR 523A (1/95) *Required Information
State of California - The Resources Agency Primary # ______________________________
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI # _______________________________
CONTINUATION SHEET Trinomial ______________________________
Page 8 of 13 *Resource Name or # (Assigned by recorder) __69 Hernandez Avenue_______
*Recorded by Archaeological Resource Management Date 7/10/2025 Continuation x Update
Photo 1: View of the front façade of 69 Hernandez Avenue.
Photo 2: View of the front gabled wing on the front façade.
Page 74
DPR 523A (1/95) *Required Information
State of California - The Resources Agency Primary # ______________________________
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI # _______________________________
CONTINUATION SHEET Trinomial ______________________________
Page 9 of 13 *Resource Name or # (Assigned by recorder) __69 Hernandez Avenue_______
*Recorded by Archaeological Resource Management Date 7/10/2025 Continuation x Update
Photo 3: View of the enclosed porch addition to the eastern façade.
Photo 4: View of the (non-original) front porch and entry to the residence.
Page 75
DPR 523A (1/95) *Required Information
State of California - The Resources Agency Primary # ______________________________
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI # _______________________________
CONTINUATION SHEET Trinomial ______________________________
Page 10 of 13 *Resource Name or # (Assigned by recorder) __69 Hernandez Avenue_______
*Recorded by Archaeological Resource Management Date 7/10/2025 Continuation x Update
State of California - The Resources Agency Primary # ______________________________
Photo 5: An oblique view of the front façade from the northwest.
Photo 6: View of bay window along the western facade
Page 76
DPR 523A (1/95) *Required Information
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI # _______________________________
CONTINUATION SHEET Trinomial ______________________________
Page 11 of 13 *Resource Name or # (Assigned by recorder) __69 Hernandez Avenue_______
*Recorded by Archaeological Resource Management Date 7/10/2025 Continuation x Update
State of California - The Resources Agency Primary # ______________________________
Photo 7: Detail of the (non-original) chimney.
Photo 8: View of the rear entry to the residence.
Page 77
DPR 523A (1/95) *Required Information
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI # _______________________________
CONTINUATION SHEET Trinomial ______________________________
Page 12_ of 13 *Resource Name or # (Assigned by recorder) __69 Hernandez Avenue_______
*Recorded by Archaeological Resource Management Date 7/10/2025 Continuation x Update
Photo 9: View of the 1st floor of the rear façade.
Photo 10: View of the 2nd story, rear façade.
Page 78
DPR 523A (1/95) *Required Information
State of California - The Resources Agency Primary # ______________________________
DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI # _______________________________
CONTINUATION SHEET Trinomial ______________________________
Page 13_ of 13 *Resource Name or # (Assigned by recorder) __69 Hernandez Avenue_______
*Recorded by Archaeological Resource Management Date 7/10/2025 Continuation x Update
Photo 11: Image from the County of Santa Clara Appraiser’s Property Record for
69 Hernandez Avenue showing the residence prior to the porch enclosure, entry relocation,
and 2nd story addition (Circa 1970’s).
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Residential Design Guidelines 33
Town of Los Gatos BUILDING DESIGN3
3.8.3 Use traditional detailing
•Treat openings in walls as though they were constructed of
the traditional material for the style. For example, be sure to
provide substantial wall space above arches in stucco and
stone walls. Traditionally, wall space above the arch would
have been necessary to structurally span the opening, and
to make the space too small is inconsistent with the archi-
tectural style.
•Openings in walls faced with stone, real or synthetic, should
have defined lintels above the opening except in Mission or
Spanish Eclectic styles. Lintels may be stone, brick or wood
as suits the style of the house.
•Treat synthetic materials as though they were authentic.
For example, select synthetic stone patterns that place the
individual stones in a horizontal plane as they would have
been in a load bearing masonry wall.
•Select roof materials that are consistent with the traditional
architectural style (e.g., avoid concrete roof tiles on a Crafts-
man Style house.)
3.8.4 Materials changes
•Make materials and color changes at inside corners rather
than outside corners to avoid a pasted on look.
3.9 ADDITIONS/ACCESSORY BUILDINGS/SECONDARY
UNITS
•Site additions in the least conspicuous place. In many cases
this is a rear or side elevation - only rarely is it a rooftop.
•The existing built forms, components and materials should
be reinforced. Heights and proportions of additions and
alterations should be consistent with and continue the
original architectural style and design.
•Additions should be subordinate, and compatible in scale
and proportion to the historically significant portions of
the existing structure.
•When an addition or remodel requires the use of newly
constructed exterior elements, they should be identical in
size, dimension, shape and location as the original, and
Use stone or wood lintels over
openings in stone walls
Additions, accessory buildings and secondary
units should match the form, architectural
style, and details of the original house
ATTACHMENT 6
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Residential Design Guidelines34
Town of Los Gatos
BUILDING DESIGN3
should utilize the same materials as the existing protected
exterior elements.
•When an addition necessitates the removal of architectural
materials, such as siding, windows, doors, and decorative
elements, they should be carefully removed and reused in
the addition where possible.
•The introduction of window and door openings not char-
acteristic in proportion, scale, or style with the original
architecture is strongly discouraged (e.g., sliding windows or
doors in a structure characterized by double hung windows
and swinging doors).
•The character of any addition or alteration should be in
keeping with and subordinate to the integrity of the original
structure.
•The amount of foundation exposed on the addition should
match that of the original building.
•Do not add roof top additions where the roof is of historic
significance.
•Second floor additions are discouraged in neighborhoods
with largely one story homes. If horizontal expansion of
the house is not possible, consider incorporating a second
floor addition within the roof form as shown in the example
to the left.
•Second floor additions which are not embedded within the
roof form should be located to the rear of the structure.
•The height and proportion of an addition or a second story
should not dominate the original structure.
•Deck additions should be placed to the rear of the struc-
ture only, and should be subordinate in terms of scale and
detailing.
•New outbuildings, such as garages, should be clearly subor-
dinate to the main structure in massing, and should utilize
forms, materials and details which are similar to the main
structure.
•Garages should generally be located to the rear of the lot
behind the rear wall of the residence. One car wide access
driveways should be utilized.
Original structure
Addition incorporated into the roof
successfully adds space while respecting the
integrity of the existing house and the scale of
the neighborhood
Placing a two story addition to the rear can minimize its impact on the historic resource and the scale of the neighborhood
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PREPARED BY: Sean Mullin, AICP
Planning Manager
TOWN OF LOS GATOS
HISTORIC PRESERVATION
COMMITTEE REPORT
MEETING DATE: 10/22/2025
ITEM NO: 4
DATE: October 17, 2025
TO: Historic Preservation Committee
FROM: Joel Paulson, Community Development Director
SUBJECT: Consider Providing Staff with Direction on Window Materials. Project
Location: Town Wide. Project Planner: Sean Mullin.
RECOMMENDATION:
Consider providing staff with direction on window materials.
DISCUSSION:
Window replacement is a common request discussed with property owners of historic homes.
When replacement is necessary, staff works with property owners to encourage like-for-like
replacement with either wood windows or metal-clad wood windows. When details are
provided ensuring that the window replacement will match the existing windows or be
historically appropriate for the residence, the work is completed through the Building Permit
process and is not referred to the Committee for review. Staff reviews proposals for window
replacements using the Residential Design Guidelines, which provides the following
recommendations related to window materials:
3.7.3 Match window materials to the architectural style and to the surrounding
neighborhood
• Wood windows are common in Los Gatos. Wood is still the desired choice for styles that
traditionally used wood. However, today there are some window materials, such as vinyl
clad wood windows that are not noticeably different from wood at a short distance.
4.8.2 Building Materials
• Composite, synthetic, metal, vinyl, plastic or fabricated/ imitation wood products,
painted brick or imitation used brick will generally not be approved. However, some ex-
ceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis when the decision-making body
determines that the replacement is consistent with the appearance of the original
material, and that a lay person would be unlikely to discern the difference. The burden
of proof will reside with the applicant. Material samples, photographs, and specific
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PAGE 2 OF 3
SUBJECT: Window Materials
DATE: October 17, 2025
locations where the material may be seen in use will all assist in the evaluation of
alternative materials.
4.8.4 Windows and Glass in doors
• Windows should be constructed of real glass, and window frames should be constructed
of real wood - not vinyl, metal, or plastic. Wood sashes may be vinyl or metal clad if the
window frame and dressing is designed consistent with the historic context of the
building.
The Guidelines emphasize the use of wood windows but allows exceptions for alternative
materials when they are not noticeably different from wood at a short distance, found to be
consistent with the historic context, and consistent with the appearance of the original material
where it would be unlikely to discern the difference.
Property owners are often looking to replace windows with alternative materials that are more
durable than wood, often wood-clad products with a metal or vinyl exterior. These materials
are more resilient to weather and require less maintenance than wood. The potential drawback
of these alternate materials is a less-than-authentic appearance.
Fiberglass-wood composite windows have been presented to the Committee many times over
the last five years. While there were initial concerns with the product, evidence has been
presented showing the benefits of the material, such as its genuine wood-like appearance,
paintable surface, historic profiles, and easy maintenance. Because the Residential Design
Guidelines predates this material and is therefore silent on its use, staff has referred projects
involving the composite to the Committee for review. The Committee generally confirms that
the profile, detailing, and look of the window will match the existing window or the historically
correct window and recommends approval.
In staff’s review of like-for-like window replacements on historic homes, the same evaluation
criteria are used, albeit for wood or metal-clad wood products. Given the frequency of the
request and the merits of the product, staff recommends that the Committee consider
providing direction to staff to utilize the same evaluation criteria for window replacements and
include consideration of fiberglass-wood composite materials without referral to the
Committee. As is the current practice, window replacements that would result in a change in
exterior appearance that does not align with the evaluation criteria would continue to be
referred to the Committee for review.
CONCLUSION:
Staff recommends that the Committee consider providing direction to staff to utilize the
evaluation criteria consistent with the Guidelines for window replacements and include
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PAGE 3 OF 3
SUBJECT: Window Materials
DATE: October 17, 2025
consideration of fiberglass-wood composite materials without referral to the Committee. Staff-
level approval of fiberglass-composite wood windows would reduce the Committee’s and
staff’s workload, free up agendas, and allow residents to proceed through the permit process
more efficiently.
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