2010110107 - Consideration and Approval of the Human Services Element for the 2020 General Plan�pW N OF
I!
g COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
DATE: OCTOBER 27, 2010
MEETING DATE: 11 /1 /10
ITEM NO: r]
TO: MAYOR AND TOWN COUNCIL
FROM: GREG LARSON, TOWN MANAGI!t '
SUBJECT: TOWN COUNCIL CONSIDERATION AND APPROVAL OF THE
HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT FOR THE 2020 GENERAL PLAN
UPDATE
RECOMMENDATION:
Review and approve the modified Human Services Element for the 2020 General Plan Update
BACKGROUND
On September 20 the Town Council approved the environmental documentation and all aspects
of the 2020 General Plan Update, as pteviously directed by Council and recommended by the
Planning Commission, except for the Housing Element and the Human Services Element.
At that meeting, the Mayor requested additional time to submit and incorporate many editorial
and substantive suggestions for the Human Services Element which otherwise would have taken
considerable time to review individually during the course of the meeting. Staff concurred with
the continuance of the Human Services Element given the priority direction provided by Council
to focus on Youth and Senior Services as part of the General Plan Update.
The Housing Element is being considered separately on this agenda.
PREPARED BY : GREG LARSON
Town Manager
Reviewed by: Assistant Town Manage{ 11 � F Town Attorney
Clerk Administrator Finance _Community Development
NAMGRWdminWorkFiles\2010 Council ReporiMuman services Element 11 -1 -10 TC Report (2).docx
PAGE
MAYOR AND TOWN COUNCIL
SUBJECT: 2020 General Plan Human Services Element
October 27, 2010
ANALYSIS
Town staff has reviewed the suggested modifications submitted by the Mayor and others, as well
as other potential changes and opportunities. The most substantive of these changes address the
following issues:
• Fostering the health and well -being of Los Gatos
• Strengthening and clarifying desirable youth services and programs, including civic
engagement
• Strengthening and clarifying desirable senior services and programs, including senior
housing, social engagement and safety
• Strengthening and clarifying desirable artistic and cultural opportunities, including the
literary arts, performing arts facilities, and artistic collaborations and partnerships.
Staff concurs with all of the recommended changes as incorporated in the attached documents.
The first document is a next -to -final draft including all prior and new modifications, except for
final formatting, numbering and technical edits. The second document is a "red- line" version
showing both previously recommended modifications as well as the new recommended changes.
The final document provides the recommended addition of two additional goals and associated
policies which could not be included in the other documents without extensive re- numbering and
editing in advance prior to Council approval.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
At this time, the Town has not received any new public comments on the Human Services
Element.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
None of the new edits and changes have any impact on the previously approved EIR.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Adoption of the Human Services Element does not require any specific budgetary changes or
fiscal impacts, but will inform future strategic priorities and budgetary decisions.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Recommended 2020 General Plan Human Services Element, pending final Council
modifications, direction and incorporation of final edits, numbering and formatting.
2. Recommended 2020 General Plan Human Services Element in a "red- line" format.
3. Recommended addition of two goals and associated polices to the Human Services
Element.
12 HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT
A. Introducdon
Major land use and development decisions have important physical, economic,
social, and environmental implications that must be considered by public officials
during any planning process. A Human Services Element in the General Plan
provides a venue for bringing human concerns into the physical planning process.
Human Services are those services in the community, both public and private,
designed especially to meet the social, health, safety, communication, education and
artistic needs of people.
This Element expands upon the Town's role and responsibilities pertaining to the
broad areas of human services and assessing needs for available resources.
Through an effective Human Services Element the Town will be better able to
assist individuals and families in achieving and maintaining high levels of social
well- being, leading to a more positive and satisfied community.
The Town should be involved in meeting human needs, but may not necessarily be
responsible for directly delivering all services. The Town recognizes the value of
public and private agencies working together to effectively deliver services. The
Town can be a leader in bringing agencies together and encouraging long -range
planning. For services not directly provided by the Town, the Town may assume
any of the following four roles to assist in developing more effective delivery of
Human Services in Los Gatos: resource coordinator; educator; advocate;
facilitator, and evaluator.
This Element is divided into the following sections:
♦ Public Health ♦ Schools
♦ Youth Services ♦ Libraries
♦ Senior Services ♦ .-arts & Culture
Each of these components is divided into the following sections:
♦ Background Information: Provides background information about the
various resources within Los Gatos.
♦ Goals, Policies and Actions: Provides guidance to the Town related to
decisions affecting the resources addressed in this Element.
HS -1
ATTACHMENT
TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN
HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT
B. Pub/rcHealth
The Town of Los Gatos wants to help ensure a healthy community through
planning efforts that can directly enhance the wellness of the community.
1. Background
Public health and planning professionals now recognize that increasing individuals'
physical activity is paramount to - healthy populations, and that the built
environment greatly influences lifestyle choices that promote such activity. Los
Gatos strives to be an active, inclusive and responsive community, where healthy
habits are encouraged rather than discouraged by the environments we build.
Goals, policies, and actions that promote active healthy lifestyles are also found in
the Land Use Element and Transportation Element.
Policies related to community health are also addressed in other sections of this
General Plan, including:
♦ Emergency preparedness in the Safety Element.
♦ Parks and recreational opportunities in the Open Space Element.
♦ Water and air quality in the Environment and Sustainability Element.
♦ Fire and Police services in this Human Services Element.
2. Goals, Policies and Actions
Goal HS -1 To ensure resources and programs are available for
the health needs of the entire community, including
youth and seniors.
Policies
Policy HS -1.1 Encourage the retention of three nearby
hospitals: El Camino Hospital Los
Gatos, Good Samaritan Hospital, and its
\fission Oaks Campus.
Policy HS -1.2 Promote health services provided by
other agencies to local residents.
HS -2
TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT
Policy HS -13 Encourage a full array of health care
professionals to locate their practices in
Los Gatos.
Action
Action HS -1.1 Annually review programs the Town
supports to assure they meet the health needs
of target groups.
Action HS -1.2 Identify health services that are not readily
available in Los Gatos and add them to the
Town's economic vitality efforts.
C. Youth Services
Having community activities and services catering to young persons 18 years of age
or younger is important for families in Los Gatos. The Town of Los Gatos strives
to be a youth - friendly community and recognizes that youth services must be
identified and developed to foster a healthy and active environment for youth
growing up in Los Gatos.
1. Background Information
Almost 30 percent of all households in Los Gatos have at least one youth under the
age of 18. Young persons under the age of 18 represent approximately 20 percent
of the total population in Los Gatos. Youth represent the future of Los Gatos, and
providing and maintaining services for youth continues to be an important issue to
the Town.
Information on youth organizations, library services, family and community events
and Town policies for youth can be found on the Town's website in the Youth and
Teen Resources section. The Town of Los Gatos provides the following youth
services.
a. Youth Commission
Formed in 2004, the Los Gatos Youth Commission includes 20 young persons
who live in Los Gatos and go to schools throughout Santa Clara County. Youth
on this Commission are in grades 8 through 12 and are formally appointed by the
Town Council. The Youth Commission represents the youth community of Los
Gatos and is supported by the Los Gatos /bfonte Sereno Police Department. The
purpose of this Commission is to increase communication between adults and
HS -3
TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
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F I C SI A ] S E R N I C E S E L E M E] "t
youth in Los Gatos, to give youth an avenue for expressing their voice in Town
affairs and on issues related to youth in Los Gatos, and to encourage them to make
civic engagement part of their adult lives.
b. Community Services Commission
Two of the nine members appointed to the Community Services Commission in
Los Gatos are high school youth. The Community Services Commission advises
the Town Council on housing and community development issues in Los Gatos.
This Commission develops partnerships With public and private agencies that can
help support various housing and community programs.
c. Parks Commission
Two of the nine members of the Parks Commission are youth. The Parks
Commission advises the Town Council on issues related to public parks, trails,
grounds, street trees and Town beautification.
d. Los Gatos Library
The Los Gatos Library provides collections and services specifically oriented to-
ward children and teens. The new library opening in 2010 will have expanded seat-
ing and study areas specifically for Los Gatos youth
e. Community Unity
The Town's volunteer recruitment and coordination service provides targeted op-
portunities for youth and family volunteer projects, internships and other services
in Town parks, trails, government offices and other agencies and programs.
2. Goals, Policies and Actions
Goal HS -2 To meet the needs of Los Gatos youth.
Policies
Policy HS -2.1 The Town shall interact with applicable
agencies and entities that provide youth
services to ensure that the needs of
children and teens are met.
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TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT
Policy HS -2.2 The Town shall encourage a broad array
of child care facilities and services to
meet the economic, geographic and
demographic diversity of Los Gatos.
Actions
Action HS -2.1 Towm staff shall meet with agencies as
needed to identify the needs of children in
the community.
Goal HS -3 To offer a wide range of youth programs and services
within the Town.
Policies
Policy HS -3.1 Continue to support organizations that
offer recreational activities and events
for youth.
Policy HS -3.2 Coordinate with public and private
schools, local non - profits , service clubs
and other agencies to provide
oppormnities for youth to explore and
enjoy sports, creative and performing
arts, and future career paths.
Policy HS -3.3 Coordinate with local organizations to
support and encourage youth and multi-
generational volunteer opportunities.
Actions
Action HS -3.1 Coordinate with community partners to
conduct a needs assessment for youth
facilities, activities, employment opportunities
and programs, prioritize results and
implement as feasible.
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TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN
H U M A N S E R\'7C ES ELEMENT
:Action HS -3.2 Encourage youth art by periodically display-
ing youth artwork in gallery space in the
Town Council Chambers, Library, and the
Civic Center.
:fiction HS -3.3 Continue to utilize traditional communication
tools and new media and technology to pro-
mote youth programs and services
Goal HS -4 To encourage civic involvement of all youth in the
community.
Policies
Policy HS -4.1 Continue to encourage the Youth
Commission to explore youth concerns
and opportunities, facilitate community
forums, and undertake special projects.
Pohcy HS -4.2 Continue to challenge the Youth
Commission to develop new youth -
oriented initiatives such as the Youth -
Friendly Business Program.
Policy HS -4.3 Continue to work with community
partners to_provide a variety of programs
and events for Town youth.
Policy HS -4.4 Encourage students and families to
attend Council, Commission and other
public agency meetings.
Policy HS -4.5 Recognize exemplar- youth who are
actively involved in civic and community'
activities, events, services and programs.
HS -6
TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
HUMAN S E R V I C E S ELEMENT
Policy HS -4.6 Engage youth in Town beautification
and other civic improvement efforts.
Actions
Action HSA.1 Create additional opportunities to involve the
Youth Commission with other Commissions.
Action HSA.2 Continue the Community Unity program to
encourage youth volunteer opportunities and
resources.
Goal HS -5 To promote safe, youth - friendly environments within
the Town.
Actions
Action HS -5.1 Work with the Town of Los Gatos Library,
Police Department, and_Los Gatos- Saratoga
Recreation District to create a program to
educate youth about intemet use safety.
Action HS-5.2 Work with local schools and other
community organizations to educate and
encourage positive behavioral choices.
Action HS -5.3 Support continuation of positive parenting
and family relationship courses and programs
provided by regional agencies and other
resources.
Goal HS -6 To ensure that bicycling and wallcing is safe for youth
throughout the Town.
HS -7
TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
HUMAN S E R V I C E S ELEMENT
Policies
Policy HS -6.1 Promote educational programs for youth
that encourage safe and fun bicycle
t
commuting and recreational riding and
pedestrian safety.
Policy HS -6.2 Promote the Safe Routes to School
program, which supports safety
,L. improvements that encourage safe
walking and bicycling to school.
Policy HS -6.3 Coordinate with local businesses,
r , organizations and school districts to
develop innovative programs, such as
'Walking School Buses" and `Bicycle
Trains" that encourage youth to
commute to and from school in groups.
Actions
Action HS -6.1 Coordinate with local organizations and
school districts to develop a program to offer
bicycle and pedestrian safety and education
classes for youth.
Action HS -6.2 Identify safety improvements that will allow
for safe walking and bicycling to schools.
Action HS -6.3 Coordinate with schools and the police
department to develop and implement a teen
driver safety program.
D. Senior Services
Seniors, or persons identified as age 65 and older, are a significant and growing
population group in Los Gatos. In Santa Clara County, seniors are the fastest
growing population segment, expected to number more than 300,000 by 2020. The
Town of Los Gatos strives to be a senior friendly community and recognizes that,
HS -8
TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT
as this population group continues to grow and age, services must be identified and
developed to accommodate the needs of older adults.
1. Background Information
The Los Gatos population is growing older. In 2010, the median age of the Los
Gatos population is estimated to be 45 years, while in 1970 it was estimated to be
30 years. The older population is evidenced by the increasing proportion of the
Los Gatos population who are age 65 and older. According to the 2000 U.S.
Census, the number of seniors in Los Gatos has increased from 11 percent of the
total population in Los Gatos in 1970 to 15 percent by 2000. Currently, it is
estimated that seniors represent 17 percent of the total population in Los Gatos
and could be at 20 percent by 2020.
The Town of Los Gatos contracts with the Los Gatos - Saratoga Recreation District
for services, information and activities for seniors living in Los Gatos. Many of
these services are provided at the Los Gatos Adult Recreation Center at 208 E.
Main Street in Los Gatos.
a. Healthcare and Social Services
Los Gatos provides a majority of its healthcare and social service programs for
seniors through the Los Gatos Adult Recreation Center. The Los Gatos Monte
Serene, Police Department also offers a daily senior check in program called
Operation C. A.R.E.
i. Los Gatos Adult Recreation Center
The Adult Recreation Center is a gathering place for seniors in Los Gatos and
provides several senior healthcare and social services. The Center provides case
management services to seniors. This service includes advice and referrals to social
service agencies, and assistance in completing applications for social services. The
location of the Center is shown on Figure HS -1.
Through the Adult Recreation Center, volunteer counselors give assistance to
seniors interested in drawing up a "durable power of attorney," or health care
power of attorney. Volunteer counselors also provide other services such as
neutral healthcare insurance advice and information and income tax assistance.
ii. Operation CARE. Program
Operation C. A.R.E., or Caring About Resident Elders, is a program run by the Los
Gatos /Monte Sereno Police Department that offers a free, daily phone call to
check -in on the welfare of seniors who may be living alone. A Police Dispatcher
HS -9
TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN
HUMAN S E R C I C E S E L E M E N I '
will call at an agreed -upon time with the senior and if unable to reach the senior or
any of the senior's emergency contacts, a Police Officer will be sent to the home to
check on his /her welfare. Seniors can register for this free sen -ice through the Los
Gatos /i\•Ionte Sereno Police Department.
Figure HS -1 Youth and Senior Public Facilities
HS -10
TOWN OF LOS GATOS
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
HUMAN S E R N I C E S E L E M E N T
b. Housing
The Town of Los Gatos strives to provide a variety of housing alternatives to allow
seniors to live independently and age in place as they so choose. These housing
types include not only single family homes, town homes, condominiums and
apartments, but also life care communities, affordable housing, shared housing and
below market rate properties.
Villa Vasona, Blossom Hill and Anne Way offer affordable senior units to Los
Gatos residents, while the Terraces of Los Gatos, a senior residential care facility
run by American Baptist Homes of the West, offers 59 beds and has independent
living, assisted living and skilled nursing programs on -site. Twenty -nine of the
senior units at the Terraces of Los Gatos are Below Market Price (BbfP) units
under the Town's BN1P program.
Los Gatos also has Los Gatos Meadows Life Care Retirement, nm by Episcopal
Senior Communities, which has 170 units of studios, apartments and cottages that
house approsimately 200 residents.
The Town also supports a Housing Conservation Program which offers no- interest
and low- interest loans to income - eligible Los Gatos residents, including seniors, for
home rehabilitation projects. The program is adm by the Santa Clara
County Housing and Community Development Department and makes home
rehabilitation loans available to qualified Los Gatos renters and owners.
c. Transportation
The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) operates up to sic public
transit bus lines that run through the Town and several park -and -ride lots. The
community relies primarily on non -profit organizations to provide transportation
services and education for seniors in Los Gatos. The OUTREACH Senior
Transportation Program provides public pamtransit services as an alternative for
seniors who are unable to access or use fixed -route public transit. The :-American
Association of Retired People (.CARP) hosts a quarterly senior driver safety course
called the 55 Alive Driver Safety Program.
The Los Gatos Adult Recreation Center in Los Gatos offers information on the
OUTREACH Senior Transportation Program. The Center also provides
discounted BART tickets for seniors in Los Gatos.
HS -11
TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
HUMAN SER \'ICES ELEMENT
d. Recreational and Social Activities
The Los Gatos Adult Recreation Center is a central gathering place that often hosts
local activities for seniors. The Center also publishes a free bi- monthly newsletter
with information on local events, programs and announcements geared toward
seniors.
The Center hosts a number of events for seniors in Los Gatos, including:
♦ A weekly Town- sponsored walking group to promote exercise;
♦ A weekly bingo night, sponsored by Live Oak Senior Nutrition and Services;
♦ A Live Oak Nutrition Lunch, followed by a free movie, every month;
♦ A weekly board games and table games event, sponsored by the Los Gatos -
Saratoga Recreation District's 55 (and over) Program; -
♦ An annual Senior Thanksgiving dinner with food from local restaurants; and
♦ Senior picnics at local parks.
The Los Gatos - Saratoga Recreation District offers several classes geared toward
seniors, ranging from dance and exercise to writing, language and technology
education. The Los Gatos- Saratoga Recreation District publishes a monthly
newsletter and also organizes day and extended day trips for seniors. Information
on such trips offered through other senior centers can also be obtained through the
Los Gatos Adult Recreation Center in Los Gatos.
The Los Gatos Public Library offers several programs and services for seniors,
seven days a week. A monthly book club, Internet classes, a weekly knitting group
and quarterly evening programs featuring special guests are among the many free
programs offered to all. The Library offers a variety of materials including a
magnified and large type section.
Several non -profit agencies also provide assistance and support for seniors in Los
Gatos. Senior programs managed by non -profit agencies include:
♦ Live Oak Adult Day Services
♦ Long -Tenn Care Ombudsman
♦ Operation Brown Bag
♦ The Health Place, San Jose State University's School of Nursing
♦ Aleals On Wheels
HS -12
TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
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HUMAN S E R V I C E S ELEMENT
2. Goals, Policies and Actions
Goal HS -7 To ensure programs for social interaction for senior
c
Policies
Policy HS -7.1 The Town shall act as a clearinghouse
for social programs provided by other
agencies and groups that provide aid for
social problems.
Policy HS -7.2 Regularly consult with older adults and
seniors on the services and programs
they desire and need.
Policy HS -7.3 Encourage the Los Gatos - Saratoga
Recreation District and other service
providers to provide a wide variety of
senior services and programs, including
daily opportunities for seniors to have
physical activity, social interaction and
mental stimulation.
Policy HS -7.4 Coordinate with local organizations to
support opportunities for seniors to
interact with youth in Los Gatos.
Policy HS -7.5 Encourage new development to include
intergenerational spaces, such as cafes or
family- oriented outdoor spaces.
Action
Action HS -7.1 Annually review social programs offered by
the Town and other agencies to determine if
they meet the needs of seniors.
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TOWN O F LOS G A T O S
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Action HS -7.2 Collaborate with the Los Gatos - Saratoga
Recreation District and other local
organizations to develop a program to
provide additional recreational and fitness
programs for seniors.
Action HS -7.3 Explore ways to increase the focus on senior
needs in existing commissions and consider
establishing a separate or broader
commission focusing on senior issues.
Action HS -7.4 Develop or identify an existing facility for a
full service senior center.
Action HS -7.5 Connect seniors with existing resources in
the community.
Action HS -7.6 Annually set funding priorities which include
funds for senior needs.
Action HS -7.7 Continue to utilize traditional communication
tools and new media and technology to
promote senior' programs as best suited to
meet their needs (e.g., larger type for ease of
reading).
Goal HS -8 To improve mobility and access to care and services
for seniors.
Policies
Policy HS -8.1 The Town shall coordinate with senior
service providers who provide or
support senior shuttle services so that
seniors have convenient access to social
services, commercial areas, medical
services and transportation.
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TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
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Policy HS -8.2 Encourage all new senior housing
developments to provide transportation
services.
Policy HS -8.3 Encourage businesses and health care
providers that serve seniors to locate in
Town.
Actions
Action HS -8.1 Seek funding and coordinate with Santa Clara
Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) to
provide lower, subsidized public transit fares
for seniors.
Goal HS -9 To encourage a wide variety of types of senior
housing, including independent living, residential
care facilities, and affordable housing within the
Town.
Policies
Policy HS -9.1 Encourage new development or
substantial remodels to incorporate
barrier -free design principles to ensure
access for people of all ages and abilities.
Actions
Action HS -9.1 Identify incentives for the development of a
variety of types of senior housing, including
independent living and residential care
facilities.
E. Schools
Quality education is important to the residents of the Town. However, while local
land use and development decisions may impact school facilities, mitigation for
HS -15
TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
HCMA\ 5ERt'10ES ELEMENT
school impacts required of developers may be limited by State legislation or other
factors.
1. Background Information
Sir different school districts serve the residents of the Town of Los Gatos. These
are the Los Gatos Union School District, the Los Gatos - Saratoga Joint Union High
School District, the Campbell Union School District, the Campbell Union High
School District and the Cambrian Union Elementary District. In addition, nearby
West Valley Community College, located in the City- of Saratoga, offers academic
and career programs. The location of the elementary and high schools that serve
Los Gatos students is shown on Figure HS -1. Elementary and high school district
boundaries are shown in Figures HS -2 and HS -3, respectively.
a. Los Gatos Union School District
The Los Gatos Union School District has four elementary schools and one middle
school providing educational services to the children of Los Gatos:
• Blossom Hill Elementary School (16400 Blossom Hill Road)
• Daves Avenue Elementary School (17770 Daves Avenue)
• Le. i- gton Elementary School (19700 Old Santa Cruz Highway)
• Van Meter Elementary School (16445 Los Gatos Boulevard)
• Raymond J. Fisher Middle School (19195 Fisher Avenue)
All the elementary schools serve kindergarten through grade 5. Raymond J. Fisher
Middle School serves Los Gatos students in grades 6 through 8.
b. Los Gatos - Saratoga Joint Union High School District
The Los Gatos - Saratoga Union High School District has two high schools, Los
Gatos High and Saratoga High, which serve over 3,100 students from
unincorporated Santa Clara County as well as the communities of Los Gatos,
Monte Sereno and Saratoga. Each school offers grades 9 through 12. Campbell
Union School District
c. Campbell Union School District
More than 7,300 students from the communities of Campbell, Los Gatos, Monte
Sereno, San Jose, Santa Clara and Saratoga attend the 12 schools within the
Campbell Union School District. The four schools within the District that serve
the Town of Los Gatos me Capri, Forest Hill and Marshall Lane Elementary
Schools, all of which offer kindergarten through grade 5, and Rolling Hills Muddle
School, which offers grades 5 through 8.
HS -16
TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
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HUMAN SERVICES ELE V ENT
The only one of these schools located within the Town of Los Gatos is Rolling
Hills Middle School. AD the other schools are located neat the northwest border of
the Town in different cities.
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DRAFT 2020 G E N E R A L PLAN
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Figure HS-2 Elementary Schools and School Districts
HS -18
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HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT
Figure HS -3 High School and School Districts
HS -19
TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
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d. Campbell Union High School District
Campbell Union High School District serves over 7,700 students at five campuses:
Branham, Del afar, Leigh, Prospect and Westmont High Schools. Both Leigh and
Westmont High Schools serve the residents of-Town of Los Gatos.
e. Union Elementary School District
Union Elementary School District serves approximately 4,400 students enrolled in
eight elementary schools (K -5 grades) and two middle schools (serving 6 -8 grades).
The Alta Vista Elementary School serves Los Gatos students.
f Cambrian Elementary School District
Cambrian Elementary School District serves approximately 3,142 students enrolled
in four elementary schools (KS grades) and one middle school (serving 6 -8
grades). The Famham Elementary School is the only school in this district that
serves Los Gatos students.
g. West Valley Community College
Located within the City of Saratoga and serving Los Gatos residents, West Valley
Community College offers career programs, professional certificates and degree
programs with preparation for transfer to four -pear colleges and universities.
2. Goals, Policies and Actions
Goal HS -10 To maintain a system of open communications
between the Town, school districts and the
development community in order to coordinate the
activities of each to achieve the highest quality of
education for all public schools students.
Policies
Policy HS -10.1 Encourage developers to engage in early
discussions with the Town and school
districts regarding a project, its potential
impacts on schools and the potential to
reduce impacts. These discussions
should occur as early as possible in the
project planning stage, preferably
preceding land acquisition.
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DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
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Policy HS -10.2 Cooperate with school districts in
identifying and evaluating population
and demographic changes that may
impact schools.
Policy HS -10.3 Allow alternative uses of the sites and
facilities of schools, subject to
conditions that will protect the
surrounding neighborhood.
Action
Action HS -10.1 Amend Town development applications to
require applicants for residential projects—to
contact the affected school districts to
discuss the impacts of the proposed
development.
R Libraries
The Town of Los Gatos has one public library located within the Town's Civic
Center complex, which was built in 1964 when the population of the Town was
approximately 9,000. Since that time, the population of the Town has grown to
just over 30,000, with approximately 20,000 registered library card holders and
material borrowers. The Los Gatos library provides a variety of services for people
of all ages.
1. Background Information
To meet the community's growing library needs, the Town of Los Gatos is building
a new, larger library that will be located on the southeast comer of the Civic Center
complex. The new library is expected to open in early 2012. The new two-story
library will be approximately 30,000 square feet and will include: a separate space
for children's story- telling programs; a separate teen room; reading and study areas
for users of all ages; computer areas for research, Internet access and technology-
education; laptop areas; additional self -check out machines; and space for the
Town's extensive history collection. The new library- wdll also have more seating
and added space for adult and youth book collections and multi-media collections.
The current library collection consists of books, audiobooks, magazines and
periodicals, newspapers, DVDs, CDs, CD ROMs, video cassettes, microfilm and
reference materials. A current collection of Los Gatos High School textbooks is
HS -21
TOWN OF LOS GATOS
DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN
HUMAN S E R V I C E S ELEMENT
also available for in -house use. The library also subscribes to computerized
databases which provide access to thousands of archived newspapers, periodicals,
primary source documents, reference works and media files. These databases are
accessible on library computers and remotely using a library card number.
The library also holds an extensive collection of historical artifacts and information,
with emphasis on the Town of Los Gatos and surrounding areas. Original
photographs and newspapers are available, along with copies of death certificates
and profiles of historic homes. The library provides access to research on the
original `Rancho Rinconada de Los Gatos," the Hernandez and Peralta families,
grantees of the land, the John Lyndon family, and other early settlers who were
important in the founding of the Town.
The library's History Collection includes information on local authors, such as
Colonel Charles Erskine Scott Wood, Sara Bard Field and Ruth Comfort 'Mitchell.
The library also owns signed fast editions of many local authors.
The digitized collection of nearly 4,000 historic photographs includes the Hamsher
Collection, donated to the library in the mid- 1950s, the entire photo collection of
the Museum of Los Gatos, and many other images donated by long -time Los
Gatos families.
In addition to reference and checkout services, the library offers story- times; after
school programs; volunteer reading programs; book discussion groups; knitting
groups; computer and internet access; wireless internet access; internet classes;
summer reading programs, and Friends of the Library programs, featuring special
speakers, artists and performers. Reference Librarians are also available to assist in
locating materials in the Library. _U programs are open to the public and are free
of charge.
HS -22
TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
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HUMAN S E R V I C E S ELEMENT
2. Goals, Policies and Actions
Goal HS -11 To provide a library facility that will accommodate
library services to meet the educational and
informational needs of the community.
Policies
Policy HS -11.1 Ensure that all residents have access to
library services, including access to
technology resources.
Policy HS -11.2 Maintain the library as an important
activity center within the community.
Actions
Action HS -11.1 Investigate various funding mechanisms for
ongoing operation and expansion of the
library facility, services and programs.
G. Arts and Cultural Enrichment
The Town of Los Gatos has a rich history as a center of arts and literature and the
home to both historical and contemporary artists of renown. And today, Los
Gatos maintains a thriving arts community that is invaluable to people of all ages in
the Town. The Town has committed to protecting and promoting its cultural
resources, including theaters, museums, art galleries and public art. The Town also
strives to further attract and encourage performing arts in Los Gatos, including live
theater, music and dance, as well as the literary arts, including author events and
poetry.
1. Programs and Facilities
Los Gatos's Arts and Culture Commission is actively involved in promoting
cultural events and public art displays in the Town. The Arts and Culture
Commission is an advisory group to the Town Council and works to encourage the
development of music, drama, art and other cultural and creative activities in Town.
HS -23
TOWN O F LOS G A T O S
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
H C \I \S SERyIC ES ELEMENT
The Town supports the Music in the Park Summer Concert Series, the annual July
Fourth musical celebration, and public art in the Council Chambers and
throughout the community.
Los Gatos has two museums — the Art Museum of Los Gatos, located in a historic
former firehouse on Tait .-Avenue, and the History 5luseum of Los Gatos, located
in the Forbes Mill annex. AGhile the Town owns these two buildings, collections
and operations of these museums are managed by a non - profit organization.
The Town also supports art- related_non- profit organizations which host various
music and arts programming. In addition, the Town appointed a Los Gatos Poet
Laureate for the construction and opening of the new library, a new tradition which
will likely continue to support the literary arts in Los Gatos.
2. Goals, Policies and Actions
Goal HS -12 To enrich the Town by making visual arts, the
performing arts, literary arts and other cultural
amenities more accessible to the Town's residents.
Policies
Policy HS -12.1 Encourage public art in all new
commercial development.
Policy HS -12.2 Encourage art related uses (theaters,
museums, art galleries) in new and
remodeled retail development.
Policy HS -12.3 Limit the conversion of museums and
theaters to non -art related uses.
Policy HS -12.4 Continue to support community -based
and outdoor musical and other arts
programs.
Policy HS -12.5 Encourage new or expanded public and
private facilities to host performing arts
events for youth and the broader
community.
HS -24
TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
HUMAN SERVICES ELEME' T
Policy HS -12.6 Encourage private /public funding,
development and operation of cultural
amenities, activities, and centers
consistent with the small town character
of Los Gatos.
Policy HS -12.7 Encourage all local arts groups and
artists to collaborate and partner across
disciplines, mediums and venues for a
richer and more diverse cultural
expenence.
Actions
Action HS -12.1 Develop design guidelines to encourage
incorporation of art and art related uses in
new and remodel developments.
Action HS -12.2 Study the feasibility of a performing arts
center for the Town, including options for
location and financing.
HS -25
TOWN OF LOS GATOS
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT
City of
Campbell
�1 r
VV
-
I�
�^�.� : - ♦ � °� ° j � Aft av�.ri1 ♦I ���j =d \�1 /Ili'
5y' •8 i♦ ilP� na IIIttM \�t� 71
will
° �' ap•' � Q ^L
.r
foume loin 01 Los Udw% u.
Los Gatos Public Library - Blossom Mill Elementary - Van Meter Elementary - Leigh High School
• -
The Venue Teen Center Daves Avenue Elementary A Rolling Hills Middle School . Los Gatos High School
• Los Gatos Adult Recreation Center FIGURE HS -1
YOUTH AND SENIOR SERVICES
TOWN OF LOS GATOS
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT
Soc¢eTow of Los Gato, 2008
Elementary School Districts Public Schools
Cambrian School District - = Raymond J. Fisher Middle
Blossom Hill Elementary
Campbell Union School-District
Los Gatos Union School District Van Meter Elementary
FIGURE HS -?
Union School District
ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS AND SCHOOL DISTRICTS
'FOA N OF LOS GATOS
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT
City of
cSIM.Sl Campbell
F �■1
C%
t jyY
S � _ - _ � �� 'aj • � v m
t
l _,&Z`
�� r �� � m •itgh ai�i {���r w �
i t, r �♦.' jam.•►:- ..
—v
FOR q
Lexington
Reservoir
Unincorporated __j
Santa Clara County
Ile C.r�
High School Districts School
Campbell Union High School District r
M Los Gatos High
Los Gatos - Saratoga Joint Union High School Disnrict
FIGURE HS -3
HIGH SCHOOL AND SCHOOL DISTRICTS
12 HumAN SERVICES ELEMENT
A. .Introduction
Major land use and development decisions have important physical, economic,
social, and environmental implications that must be considered by public officials
during any planning process. A Human Services Element in the General Plan
provides a. venue for bringing human concerns into the physical planning process.
Human Services are those services in the community, both public and private,
designed especially to meet the social, health, safety, communication, education and
artistic needs of people.
This Element expands upon the Towels role and responsibilities pertaining to the
broad areas of human services and assessing needs for available resources.
Through an effective Human Services Element the Town will be better able to
assist individuals and families in achieving and main high levels of social
well- being, leading to a more positive and satisfied community.
The Town should be involved in xesakiag- me�tixt� human needs, but may not
necessarily be responsible for directly delivering all services. The Town recognizes
the value of public and private agencies working together to effectively deliver
services —sad. The Town can be a leadr[ in 6 'ngipg�a�ncies toge�er and
encoura Lg also recognizes '_ benefits of long - range planning. For services not
directly provided by the Town, the Town may assume any of the following four
roles to assist in developing more effective delivery of Human Services in Los
Gatos: resource coordinator; educator-an& advocate; facilitator; and evaluator.
This Element is divided into the following sections
♦ Youth Services
♦ Fire- Preteetiea
♦ Senior Services
♦ Police 8eniiee
♦ Schools
♦ Water Servie
♦ Libraries
♦ � - asteostet
♦ Town Arts
♦ Srermvstez
♦ Public Health
Each of these components is divided into the following sections:
♦ Background Information: Provides background information about the
various resources within Los Gatos.
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TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
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I I C ]I \ ] S E R X I C E S E L E N I E N I '
(
♦ Goals, Policies and Actions: Provides guidance to the Town related to
decisions affecting the resources addressed in this Element.
B. Public Health
The Town of Los Gatos wants to help ensure a healthy community through
planning efforts that can directly enhance the wellness of the community.
1. Background
Public health and planning professionals now recognize that increasing individuals'
physical activity is paramount to healthy populations, and that the built
environment greatly influences lifestyle choices that promote such activity.
Go�ftkies which are ee t ac enodes of t iftmpmrat i on m d access
recreation allow " ph piftemed ' ---
stratees can _[c_ _.
:_1_: i_d:__d._1 _..al L __LL_ access D
populfttiew in Los . 1 Ga tos strives to be an active inclusive and
r�,no is o In 'ty where healthy habits are n o aged rather thin
discouraged by the em-ironments We build Goals, policies, and actions that
promote active raodes of lifestyks are also found in the Land
Use Element and Transportation Element. Land use piftruting 63 feccndrl�eeome
foods and access to health Care. inereasing A— ftenurf r access t-5
quality eare and diet am not only vital _ l orIg i ty, C effft 3
significantly redme the frequency of the le-acig causes of death in Santa Clara
Gounty: Cancer, eorornry heart disease and Stroke.
Policies related to community health are also addressed in other sections of this
General Plan, including
♦ Emergency preparedness in the Safety Element.
• Parks and recreational opportunities in the Open Space Element.
♦ \Water and au quality in the Environment and Sustainabilin• Element.
♦ Fire and Police services in this Human Services Element.
HS
TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT
2. Goals, Policies and Actions -
Goal HS -1 To ensure resources and programs are available for
the health needs of the entire community, including
youth and seniors.
Policies
Policy HS -1.1 Encourage the retention of three nearby
hospitals: El Camino Hosotial Los
(3atg-%— Samaritan Hospital, El
fie-- Hespitsl —and om bLssion
Oaks Campus 4 ^- -' °- --=- --
Mospi
Policy HS -12 Promote health
services provided by other agencies and
to local
residents. of targetgreups.
Poole _Yolicc I fS - I 3 Encourage a full aaay of
health care professionals to locate their
practices in Los Gatos.
Action
Action HS -1.1 Annually review programs the Town
supports to assure they meet the health needs
of target groups.
Action HS -la Identify health services that are eidh not
readily available
in Los Gatos and add them to the
Town's economic citabW efforts.
HS -3
TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
H C \f v\ SF:Rv10ES ELEMENT
1
C. Youth Services
Havingcommunity activities and services catering to young persons 18 years of age
or younger is important for families in Los Gatos. The Town of Los Gatos strives
to be a much- friendly community and recognizes that youth services must be
identified and developed to foster a healthy and active environment for youth
growing up in Los Gatos.
1. Background Information
iJouseholds, almost 30 percent of all households in Los Gatos have at
least one youth under the age of 18. Young persons under the age of 18 represent
approximately 20 percent of the total population in Los Gatos. Youth represent
the future of Los Gatos, and providing and maintaining services for youth
continues to be an important issue to the Town.
Information on youth organizations, library services, family and community events .`
and Town policies for youth can be found on the Town's website in the Youth and
i
Teen Resources section. The Town of Los Gatos provides the following youth
services.
a. Youth Commission
Fowled in 2001, the Los Gatos Youth Conunission includes 20 young persons
who live in Los Gatos and go to schools throughout Santa Clara County. Youth
on this Commission are in grades 8 through 12 and are formally appointed by the
Town Council. The Youth Commission represents the youth community of Los
Gatos and is supported by the Los Gatos /hfonte Sereno Police Department. The
purpose of this Commission is to increase communication between adults and
youth in Los Gatos -and. to give youth an avenue for expressing their voice in
Town affairs and on issues related to youth in Los Gatos and to encourage them
to engagement part of their adult lives
b. Community Services Commission
Two of the nine members appointed to the Community Services Commission in
Los Gatos are high school youth. The Communing Services Commission advises
the Town Council on housing and communit. development issues in Los Gatos.
This Commission develops partnerships with public and private agencies that can
help support various housing and community programs. The two
C__ _ l` .. L_ L _I_ ._L__I ....'�1 h ave
HS-4
TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
HUMAN SER VICES ELEMENT
c. Parks Commission
TT of the
nine members of the Parks Commission are youth. Youth tnembets of the Parks
Genunission also adhere to the sa� requirements as oudi�ed above f�r youth
rnembers of the Gemnftwity Services . The Parks Commission advises
the Town Council on issues related to public parks, trails, grounds, street trees and
Town beautification.
War children and • 1 mill have e4
• study areas specifically for Ga
e. Community Units
The Town's volunteer recruitment
and coordination
service
Provides targsted op_
nortunities for youth and family volunteer
Projects intern
-hips and other service
in Town parks trails- government offices
and
other =ncies
and proorams
2. Goals, Policies and Actions
Goal HS -2 To reeve — meet the sgeeial —needs of e�ildlea
sad Gatos youth.
Policies
Pohcy HS-2.1 The Town shall interact with applicable
agencies and entities that provide
ekildren =r ou services to ensure that
1hh�iteeds of children and
Sure met.
HS -5
TORN OF LOS G A T O S
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
JI CM %S SERl'ICES EI.E)1EST
f
Actions
Action H Town staff shall meet with agencies as
nee ded to identifc the needs of children in
the community.
1
Goal HS -3 To etpsad -offer a wide range of youth programs and
services offered-within the Town.
Policies
Policy HS -3.1 Continue to support oonanuations avha
that offer t--., - 41-timp sad '2 hfHrHe
recreational acti6ties and events for
youth. srnms�-i- P-lse�Ta:e
and other sirrmlar-��
OF` ng both diy6me—and—tighttirne
HS -6
TOWN OF LOS GATOS
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT
Policy HS -3.2 Coordinate with rntblic and private
schools. local non - profits service clubs
and other agencies seep -mss-- the --hes
Gates S=teg* Recreation Distfiet to
provide opportunities for sad
h to
explore and enJ4y sports creative and
performing arts and future career paths
{S -3 1 Coordinate with local
organizations to support and encourage
youth and multi- generational volunteer
opportunities at the S Gent-- - -'
seftief housing fiteilities, so that you
Actions
Action HS -3.1 Coordinate with community partners to
conduct a needs assessment for youth
facilities activities employment opportunities
and programs prioritize results and
implement as feasible Develop- ItImegraarte,
eff�r T� sponsored events geared toward
HS -7
TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN
HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT
Cl
Ac tion HS-32 Fn o ragnyouth art by periodicallyy displar-
ing' ouch artwork in gallery space in the
Town Council Chambers librar and the
Civic Center.
Action H� 3 3 Continue to utilize itio d commucication tools and new
media and technology to promote youth programs
Action HS -3.4 `' ------ - -' -- -�-- ._c. .t -- -
ItI cc - ' to - see i ft tthe T — rv
Goal HS To eontintie to work %%ith the Youth Gemmission and
encourage civic eemmunihy involvement of all youth
in the community.
Policies
Policy HS -0.1 Continue to encourage the You
Commission to eepsore youth concerns
and opportunities. facilitate community
fomms and undertake special projects.
Policy FIS-43 Continue to challenge the Youth
Commission to develop new youth -
oriented initiatives such as the lbuth
Friendly_ Business Program
Potty HS-4.3 Continue to work with commun y
partners to proside a variety of programs
and events for Town Youth-
HS-8
TOWN OF LOS GATOS
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT
policy HS4.4 Encourage students and families to
attend oun 1. Commission and other
public agency meetinQS.
Pont- iS Polig 1 -IS -4 3 Recognize exempla youth
Who are actively involved in civic and
community activities events services
and progt — arcs.
1-nlie.r 4-4- 4 L(,lic 1 -1S -46 Engage youth in Town
/may beautification and other civic
sIJ improvement efforts. -
Actions
Action HS -0.1 Create additional opportunities to involve the
Youth Commission with other Cotumissions.
Action HS-42 Continue •- - -V ert -the Community Unity
Bevelep a program oF encoutW youth
volunteer and repleg�ea pportunities
and resources. in ee�etion with programs
and services pfei'dedby the To%n.
reset - enter or an -- li ne resourc
Goal HS -5 To promote safe, youth - friendly environments within
the Town.
Actions
i s Eneoura '
for el-Adrea and Emilies.
HS -9
TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
11L\IXN SLRI'[CRS LLL11L \'r
1
.action HS -i.l
- d teem. k with the ToW
of
Los
Gatos library Police
Department-
and
Los
Gatos-Saratoga Recreation
District
er-s
2imA=
create a
prog a5
m to
educate youth about
intemet use
safety
Acdon HS-52 Work With local
schools
and
other
ommuni�c organiz
dons to
educate
and
ncouragc positive behavioral
choices
� cai,m liS -5 ort continuation
of positive
parenting and familc
relationship
courses
and
programs provided by
regional
agencies
and
other resources.
a t estre ceaue—
Pezi.
epeeifte
to yetie
h
Goal HS -6 To ensure that bicycling and walking is safe for youth
throughout the Town.
Policies
Policy HS -6.1 Promote educational programs for youth
that encourage safe and fun bicycle
G commuting and recreadoml riding and
pedestrian safety
Polio HS -6? Promote the Safe Routes to School
program, which supports safety
improvements that encourage safe
walking and bicycling to school.
HS -10
TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT
Policy HS -6.3 Coordinate with local businesses,
organizations. and school districts to
develop innovative programs, such as
"Walking School Buses" and `Bicycle
Trains" that encourage youth to
commute to and from school in groups.
Actions
Action HS -6.1 Coordinate with local organizations and
school districts to develop a program to offer
bicycle and pedestrian safety and education
classes for youth.
Action HS -6.2 Identify safety improvements that will allow
for safe walking and bicycling to schools.
Action HS -6.3 Coordinate with schools and the police
department to develop and implement a teen
driver safety program.
D. Senior Services
Seniors, or persons identified as age 65 and older, are a significant and growing
population group in Los Gatos. In Santa Clare County seniors are the fastest
growing population segment eepected to number more than 300 000 by 2020 The
Town of Los Gatos strives to be a senior friendly, community and recognizes that,
as this population group continues to grow- senior - services must be
identified and developed to accommodate jtLth EHeirneeds of older adults
1. Background Information
The Los Gatos population is growing older. In ?010 t he eosent median age of the
Los Gatos population is estimated to be 45 years, while in 1970 it was estimated to
be 30 years. The older population is evidenced by the increasing proportion of the
Los Gatos population who are age Owa O-5 and older. According to the 2000 U.S.
Census, the number of seniors in Los Gatos has increased from 11 percent of the
total population in Los Gatos in 1970 to 15 percent by 2000. Currently, it is
estimated that seniors represent 17 percent of the total population in Los Gatos
and could be at 20 by, 20 1 _0. .
HS -11
T O W N OF LOS G A T O S
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It C M i� 5 F. R N I C E> E L F 4 E N r
The Town of Los Gatos contracts with the Los Gatos- Saratoga Recreation District
for services, information and activities for Serums living in Los Gatos. Many of
these services are provided at the Los Gatos adult Recreation Center at 203 E.
Main Street in Los Gatos.
a. Healthcare and Social Services
Los Gatos provides a majority of its healthcare and social Serice programs for
seniors through the Los Gatos Adult Recreation Center. The Los Gatos -Monte
Sereno Police Department also offers a daily senior check -in program called
Operation C._-1.R.E.
i. Lor Galoy Adidt Recreation Ceuirr
The Adult Recreation Center is a gathering place for seniors in Los Gatos and
provides several senior healthcare and social services. The Center provides case
management services to seniors. This service includes advice and referrals to social
service agencies, and assistance in completing applications for social serices. The
location of the Center is shown on Figure HS -1.
Through the Adult Recreation Center, volunteer counselors give assistance to
seniors interested in drawing up a "durable power of attomey," or health care
power of attorne Volunteer counselors also provide other services such as
neutral healthcare insurance advice and information and income tax assistance.
ii. Operalion GA.RE. Aogram
Operation C.A.R.E., or Caring About Resident Elders, is a program run by the Los
Gatos- \lonte Sereno Police Department that offers a free, daily phone call to
check -in on the welfare of seniors who may be living alone. A Police Dispatcher
will call at an agreed -upon time with the senior and if
HS-1'
TOWN OF LOS GATOS
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
HUMAN S E R V I C E S ELEMENT
Figure HS -1 Youth and Senior&vviees Facilities
HS -13
TOWN O F LOS G A T O S
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
OE \I %x SERI "ICES ELEMENT
unable to reach the senior or any of the senior's emergency contacts, a Police
Officer will be sent to the home to check on his /her welfare. Seniors can register
for tivs free service through the Los Gatos /Jlonte Sereno Police Department.
b. Housing
The Town of Los Gatos
seniors --ie des- 6stes strices to gro
ide a varietc
of housng alternatives to allow
se niors to live inde
npe dentle andaag
in place as
thec so choose These housing
tXpes include not
only sinok
family homes
town homes condiminums and
apartments but also
life care communites affordable
housing shared housing and
below market rate
imlud&
6 ViEft Vase[
opooerties
_
l
Blossom
c�
Villa Vasona, Blossom Hill and Anne `Gay offer affordable senior units to Los \
Gatos residents, while the Terraces of Los Gatos, a senior residential care facility
mn by American Baptist Homes of the West, offers 59 beds and has independent
living, assisted living and skilled nursing programs on -site. Twenty-nine of the
senior units at the Terraces of Los Gato are Below Market Price BXIPI units
under the Town's B\IP proera
Los Gatos also has Los Gatos Meadows Life Care
Retirement, ma by Episcopal Senior Communities, which has 170 units of studios,
apartments and cottages that house approximately 200 residents.
The Town ni2ifftait s s a Housing Conservation Program which offers
no- interest and low- interest loans to me I
Los Gatos residents. including- seniors. for home rehabilitation projects. The
program is administered be the Santa Clara County Housing and Community
Development Department and makes home rehabilitation loans available to
qualified Los Gatos renters and owners.
c. Transportation
The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (V`l'A) operates tin to six public
transit bus lines that run through the Town and several park - and -ride lots. The
Tema communiM elies primarily on tare -non-profit organizations to provide
aleem nave - transportation services and education for seniors in Los Gatos. The
HS -1 4 �>
TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
HUMAN SERVICES ELE \IE \T
OUTREACH Senior Transportation Program provides public paratransit services
as an alternative for seniors who are unable to access or use fixed -route public
transit. The American Association of Retired People (A ARP) hosts a quarterly
senior driver safety course called the 55 _dive Driver Safety Program.
The Los Gatos Adult Recreation Center in Los Gatos offers information on the
OUTREACH Senior Transportation Program. The Center also provides
discounted BART tickets for seniors in Los Gatos.
d. Recreational and social Activities
The Los Gatos Adult Recreation Center is a central gathering place that often hosts
local activities for seniors. The Center also publishes a free bi- monthly newsletter
with information on local events, programs and announcements geared toward
seniors.
The Center hosts a number of events for seniors in Los Gatos, including
♦ A weekly Town - sponsored walking group sg-promote exercise
♦ A weekly bingo night, sponsored by the Live Oak Senior Nutrition and Service
Center;
♦ A Live Oak Nutrition Lunch, followed by a free movie, held on the fourth
Wednesday of every- month;
♦ A weekly board games and table games event, sponsored by the Los Gatos -
Saratoga Recreation District's 55 (and over) Program; a d
♦ An annual Senior Thanksgiving dinner with food from local restaurants; and
♦ Senior picnics at local parks
The Los Gatos - Saratoga Recreation District offers several classes geared toward
seniors, ranging from dance and exercise to writing, language and technology
education. The Los Gatos - Saratoga Recreation District publishes a monthly
newsletter and also organizes day and extended day trips for seniors. Information
on such trips offered through other senior centers can also be obtained through the
Los Gatos Adult Recreation Center in Los Gatos.
The Los Gatos Public Library offers several programs and services for seniors,
seven days a week. A monthly book club, Internet classes, a weekly knitting group
and quarterly evening programs featuring special guests are among the many free
HS-15
TOWN O F LOS G A T O S
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
HUMAN 5I[R\ ICES F LEMEST
programs offered to all. The Library offers a variety of materials including a
magnified and large type section.
Several non- profit agencies also provide assistance and support for seniors in Los
Gatos. Senior programs managed by non -profit agencies include:
♦ Live Oak adult Day Services
♦ Long -Term Care Ombudsman
♦ Operation Brown Bag
♦ The Health Place, San Jose State University's School of Nursing
♦ Meals On Wheels
2. Goals, Policies and Actions
Goal HS -7 To coordinate 2nd providern&urt programs for social
interaction for senior citizens.
Policies
Policy HS 7.l The Town shall act as a clearinghouse
for social programs provided by other
agencies and groups that provide aid for
social problems.
_ii`_.._ - - -- - R da v consult with
older adults and seniors on the services
and mey desire and need
desire and need
C
l �
HS -16
TOWN OF LOS GATOS
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
HUMAN S E R V I C E S ELEMENT
Policy HS -7.3 Encourage the Los Gatos- Saratoga
Recreation District and other service
providers to provide a wide variety of
senior services and programs includi
daiL,v opportunities for seniors to have
124sical activity social interaction and
mental stimulation:
Policy HS -7.4 Coordinate with local organizations to
support opportunities for seniors to
interact with youth in Los Gatos.
Policy HS -7.5 Encourage new development to include
intergenerational spaces, such as cafes or
family- oriented outdoor spaces.
Action
Action HS -7.1 Annually review social programs offered by
the Town and other agencies to determine if
they meet the needs of seniors.
Action HS -7.2 Collaborate with the Los Gatos- Saratoga
Recreation District and other local
organizations to develop a program to
provide additional recreational and fitness
programs for seniors.
1cu::n I iElore ways to increase the focus
on senior needs in emsting commissions and
consider establishing a separate or broader
commission focusi= on senior issues.
- . -e -•r. 1 . =.? \ rr_ �i f ±Develop or identify an existing
facility for a full service senior center.
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TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN
II L ' \I % \ S F R P I C E S E L E \I I- N "r
Action HS -7.6 annually set funding priorities which include
funds for senior needs.
- ._.,•,.; FtH- a. \cri „n I i� - - . - Continue to utilize traditional
communication tools and new media and
technology
--- -"-'---- to promote senior m
best suited to meet their needs (gg. larger
type for ease of reading).
Goal HS -8 To improve mobility and access to care and services
for seniors.
Policies
Policy HS -8.1 The Town shall coordinate with senior
service providers who provide or
support senior shuttle services so that
seniors have convenient access to social
services, commercial areas, medical
services and transportation.
Police HS-82 Encourage all new senior housing
developments to provide transportation
slmttle services.
-- -- -- _: Encounge businesses and
health care providers that serve seniors
to locate in Town.
r
HC_ 18 �—
i
f. -, — Connect
seniors with
existing
resources
in the
cornmunitv.
an
including
infortnation
lees
direetery
on
events.
a nd
sertier
Action HS -7.6 annually set funding priorities which include
funds for senior needs.
- ._.,•,.; FtH- a. \cri „n I i� - - . - Continue to utilize traditional
communication tools and new media and
technology
--- -"-'---- to promote senior m
best suited to meet their needs (gg. larger
type for ease of reading).
Goal HS -8 To improve mobility and access to care and services
for seniors.
Policies
Policy HS -8.1 The Town shall coordinate with senior
service providers who provide or
support senior shuttle services so that
seniors have convenient access to social
services, commercial areas, medical
services and transportation.
Police HS-82 Encourage all new senior housing
developments to provide transportation
slmttle services.
-- -- -- _: Encounge businesses and
health care providers that serve seniors
to locate in Town.
r
HC_ 18 �—
TOWN OF LOS GATOS
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
HUMAN S E R V I C E S ELEMENT
Actions
Action HS -8.1 Seek funding and coordinate with Santa Clara
Valley Transportation authority (VTA) to
provide lower, subsidized public transit fares
for seniors.
Action HS -8.2 Study the feasibility ef requiring all ne
senior housing developments to pro%itle
Goal HS -9 To encourage a wide variety of types of senior
housing, including independent living,
residential care facilities and affordable housing
within the Town.
Policies
Policy HS -9.1 Encourage new development or
substantial remodels to incorporate
barrier-free design principles to ensure
access for people of all ages and abilities.
Actions
Action HS -9.1 dend
incentives for the development of a variety of
types of senior housing, including
independent living and residential care
facilities.
E. Schools
Quality education is important to the residents of the Town. However, while local
land use and development decisions may impact school facilities, mitigation for
school impacts required of developers may be limited by State legislation or other
factors.
HS-19
TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
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11 L%1 \\ SI[R a'IC EC EL E V F.\ t
1. Background Information
Sic different school districts sere the residents of the Town of Los Gatos. These
are the Los Gatos Union School District, the Los Gatos - Saratoga Joint Union High
School District, the Campbell Union School District, the Campbell Union High
School District and the Cambrian Union Elementan District. In addition, nearby
West Valley Community College, located in the City of Saratoga, offers academic
and career programs. The location of the elementan' and high schools that serve
Los Gams students is shown on Figure HS -1. Elementary and high school district
boundaries are shown in Figures HS -2 and HS -3, respectively.
a. Los Gatos Union School District
The Los Gatos Union School District has four elementary schools and one middle
school prodding educational services to the children of Los Gatos:
• Blossom Hill Elementan- School (16400 Blossom Hill Road)
♦ Dives Avenue Elementary School (1 -" -0 Dives Avenue)
♦ Lexington Elementary School (19 - 00 Old Santa Cruz Highway)
♦ Van Meter Elementary School (16145 Los Gams Boulevard)
♦ Raymond )_ Fisher Middle School (19193 Fisher Avenue)
All the elementary schools serve kindergarten through grade 5. Raymond J. Fisher
Middle School serves Los Gatos students in grades 6 through 8.
b. Los Gatos - Saratoga Joint Union High School District
The Los Gatos - Saratoga Union High School District has two high schools, Los
Gatos High and Saratoga High, which serve over 3,100 students from
HS -_'0
TOWN OF LOS G A T O 5
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
H C V A N S E R C I C E S ELEMENT
Figure HS -2 Elementary Schools and School Districts
HS-21
TO\C N OF LOS GAT OS
DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN
H L \I \\ S F R c I C F S F L F M E\ T
Figure HS -3 Hie h School and School Districts
FIS -22
TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
H C M%\ SERVICES E L E M E. \ T
unincorporated Santa Clara County as well as the communities of Los Gatos, Mon-
te Sereno and Saratoga. Each school offers grades 9 through 12.
C. Campbell Union School District
More than 7,300 students from the communities of Campbell, Los Gatos, Monte
Sereno, San Jose, Santa Clara and Saratoga attend the 12 schools within the
Campbell Union School District. The four schools within the District that serve
the Town of Los Gatos are Capri, Forest Hill and Marshall Lane Elementary
Schools, all of which offer kindergarten through grade 5, and Rolling Hills \fiddle
School, which offers grades 5 through 8.
The only one of these schools located within the Town of Los Gatos is Rolling
Hills 3fiddle School. - II the other schools are located near the northwest border of
the Town in different cities.
d. Campbell Union High School District
Campbell Union High School District serves over 7,700 students at five campuses:
Branham, Del Mar, Leigh, Prospect and Westmont High Schools. Both Leigh and
Westmont High Schools serve the residents of Town of Los Gatos.
e. Union Elementary School District
Union Elementary School District serves approximately 4,400 students enrolled in
eight elementary schools (1: -5 grades) and two middle schools ( sening 6 -8 grades).
The -Mta Vista Elementary School serves Los Gatos students.
L Cambrian Elementary School District
Cambrian Elementary School District serves approximately 3,142 students enrolled
in four elementary schools (K -5 grades) and one middle school ( sening 6 -8
grades). The Farnham Elementary School is the only school in this district that
serves Los Gatos students.
g. West Valley Community College
Located within the City of Saratoga and serving Los Gatos residents, West Valley
Communit College offers career programs, professional certificates and degree
programs with preparation for transfer to four -,year colleges and universities.
EIS -23
TOWN O F LOS G A T O S
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nL NI \\ SER%ICES ELENIL� T
2. Goals, Policies and Actions
Goal HS -10 To maintain a system of open communications
between the Town, school districts and the
development community in order to coordinate the
activities of each to achieve the highest quality of
education for all public schools students.
Policies
Policy HS -10.1 Encourage developers to engage in early
discussions with the Town and school
districts regarding a project, its potential
impacts on schools and the potential to
reduce impacts. These discussions
should occur as early as possible in the
project planning stage, preferably
preceding land acquisition.
Policv HS -10.2 Cooperate with school districts in
identifying and evaluating population
and demographic changes that may
impact schools.
Polio• HS -10.3 .Allow alternative uses of the sites and
facilities of schools, subject to
conditions that will protect the
surrounding neighborhood.
Action
Action HS -10.1 -Amend Town development applications to
require applicants for residential proects to
contact the affected school districts to
discuss the impacts of the proposed
development.
F. Libranes
The Town of Los Gatos has one public hbran located within the Town's Civic
Center complex, which ryas built in 1964 when the population of the Town was
I [S -24
TOWN OF LOS GATOS
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT
approximately 9,000. Since that time, the population of the Town has grown to its
28-, over 30.000 with approximately
20,000 registered beuewe hb_ raja card holders The Los Gatos library provides a
variety of services for people of all ages.
1. Background Information
To meet the community's growing library needs, the Town of Los Gatos is in the
preeess -eEis-budding planning for a new, larger library that will be located on the
southeast comer of the Civic Center complex. The new library is expected to open
in earl ^ ^" ' 012. The new two-_ story libra will be approximately 30,000
square feet, ef It suffieierte size to previde the and will include a separate
space for children's story- telling programs; a separate teen room; reading and study
areas for users of all ages; computer areas for research, Internet access and
technology education; laptop areas; additional self-check out machines; and space
for the Town's extensive history collection. The new library will also have more
seating and added space for adult and youth book collections and multi-media
collections. -
The current library collection consists of books, audiobooks, magazines and
periodicals, newspapers, DVDs, CDs, CD ROMs, video cassettes, microfilm and
reference materials. A current collection of Los Gatos High School textbooks is
also available for in -house use. The library also subscribes to computerized
databases which provide access to thousands of archived newspapers, periodicals,
primary source documents, reference works and media files. These databases are
accessible on library computers and remotely using a library cud number.
The library also holds an extensive collection of historical artifacts and information,
with emphasis on the Town of Los Gatos and surrounding areas. Original
photographs and newspapers are available, along with copies of death certificates
and profiles of historic homes. The library provides access to research on the
original `Rancho Rincomda de Los Gatos," the Hernandez and Peralta families,
grantees of the land, the John Lyndon family, and other early settlers who were
important in the founding of the Tow L
The library's History Collection includes information on local authors, such as
Colonel Charles Erskine Scott Wood, Sara Bard Field and Ruth Comfort bfttchell.
The library also owns signed fast editions of many local authors.
The digitized collection of nearly 4,000 historic photographs includes the Hamsher
Collection, donated to the library in the mid- 1950s, the entire photo collection of
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TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
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H C M A S S E R V I C E S ELEMENT
the Museum of Los Gatos, and many other images donated by long -time Los
Gatos families.
In addition to reference and checkout services, the library offers feur story-times
each wee! weekly after-school programs; volunteer reading programs; book
discussion groups; knitting groups; computer and internet access; wireless internet
access; internet classes; summer reading programs, and Friends of the Library
programs, featuring special speakers, artists and performers. Reference Librarians
are also available to assist in locating materials in the Library. ill programs are
open to the public and are free of charge.
2. Goals, Policies and Actions
Goal HS -11 To provide a library facility that will accommodate
library services to meet the educational and
inf needs of the community.
Policies
Policy HS -11.1 Ensure that all residents have access to
library services, including access to
computers and technology
resources
Policy HS -11.2 Maintain the library as an important
activity center within the community.
Actions
.kction HS -11.1 Investigate various funding mechanisms for
ongoing operation and expansion of the
library facility, services and programs.
C
HS -26
TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
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HUMAN S E R V I C E S ELEMENT
G. Arts and Cultural Enrichment
The Town of Los Gatos has a rich histoty as a center of arts and literature and the
home to both historical and contemooraW artist=_ of re nowrL And t g- os
Gatos hs njaintains a thriving arts community that is invaluable to people of all
ages in the Town- The Town has committed to protecting and promoting its
cultural resources, including theaters, museums, art galleries and public art. The
Town also strives to further attract and encourage performing arts in Los Gatos,
including live theater, music and dance as well as the literary arts including author
events and poe
1. Programs and Facilities
Los Gatos's .Arts and Culnue Commission and Art Seleetion 1 i.S actively
involved in promoting cultural events and public art displays in the Town. The
Arts and Culture Commission is an advisory group to the Town Council and works
to encourage the development of music, drama, art and other cultural and creative
activities in Town-
The Arts- (;eniniiision pha4 supports lbeNfusic in the Park _Summer Concert
en s
hosted attnuaRy at die Civie Center park sad —the annual July Fourth Gemert
t i 6debrstiea public
artwe& in the Council Chambers and
Gentertb oughout the community Many of these efforts supported or led bvaa
a Council- appointed Arts Commission-
Gemnissiert
Los Gatos alse -has two museums - the Art Museum of Los Gatos, located in a
hismric former firehouse on histeee -Tait Avenue, and the History Museum of Los
Gatos, located in the Forbes Mill annex. Wrile the Town owns these two
buildings. collections and op erations of these museums are managed by a non-
rofit organization
The Town also supports art - related non -profit organizations rat% the Le
G_._- Are . --__ - -_ t . P fat Teem which host various music and arts
programming. In addition- the Town appointed a Los Gatos Poet Laureate for the
HS -27
TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
Fl L \I %N SE RC ICES E LE AEN T
C
I con traction and opening of the new librip- a new tradition which Will likely
continue to aupoort the literap- arts in Los Gatoe.
2. Goals, Policies and Actions
Goal HS -12 To enrich the Town by malting visual arts, the
performing arts literary arts and other cultural
amenities more accessible to the Town's residents.
Policies
Policy HS -12.1 Encourage public art in all new
commercial development.
Policy HS -122 Encourage art related uses (theaters,
museums, art galleries) in new and
remodeled retail development. /
Policy HS -12.3 Limit the conversion of museums and
theaters to non -art related uses.
Policy HS -124 Continue to support Musie -in- the
otnmunitv�-tsed
and outdoor musical and other arts
urognms
Policy HS -125 Encourage new or c2Tanded o ublic and
private facilities to host performing arta
events for youth and the broader
community
Poh�HS -12.6 -12.6 Encourage private /public funding,
development and operation of cultural
amenities, activities, and centers
consistent With the small town character
of Los Gatos.
HS -28
TOWN OF LOS G A T O S
DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN
HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT
i i ; a
�—.�,I ulia_� f [ti -1 _.: Encourage X11 local art
+
pups and artists to collaborate and
partner across disdnLnes mediums and
venues for a richer and more diverse
cultural experience.
Actions
.Action HS -12.1 Develop design guidelines to encourage
incorporation of art and art- related uses in
new and remodel developments.
Action HS -12.2 Study the feasibility of a performing arts
center for the Town, including options for
location and financing.
HS -29
Recommended Additions to the Human Services Element:
Recommended additions to be inserted where designated and all appropriate re- numbering and re-
formatting to follow:
To be inserted in Section B. Public Health (pages HS -3 and HS -4)
Goal HS -2 To Foster all residents' health and well- being.
Policies
Policy HS -2.1 Encourage safe and attractive places for recreational exercise within a half mile of every residence.
Policy HS -2.2 Encourage the continuation of a farmers market in Town and community gardens in appropriate
locations.
Policy HS -2.3 Encourage pedestrian routes and sidewalks to be integrated into continuous networks.
Policy HS -2.4 Provide safe and convenient access to disposal sites for expired and unused pharmaceuticals,
needles and related items.
To be inserted in Section D. Senior Services (approximately page HS -18)
Goal HS -10 To ensure safe environments for Los Gatos seniors.
Policies
Policy HS -10.1 Identify isolated seniors who may need assistance in natural disasters such as earthquakes or floods.
Policy HS -10.2 Continue daily public safety outreach and communications to seniors and their families requesting
such support.
ATTACHMENT3