16212 LG Blvd - Desk Item & Exhibit 12TOWN OF LOS GATOS
PLANNING COMMISSION STAFF REPORT
Meeting Date: February 24, 2016
PREPARED BY: Mami Moseley, AICP, Associate Planner
mmo se ley@lo sgato sca.gov
APPLICATION NO: Planned Development Application PD-14-00 I
Negative Declaration ND-14-002
ITEM NO: 6
DESK ITEM
LOCATION : 16212 Los Gatos Boulevard (northeast comer of Los Gatos
Boulevard and Shannon Road)
APPLICANT: Stem Development
CONTACT PERSON: Scott Plautz
PROPERTY OWNER: 16212 Los Gatos Blvd ., LLC
APPLICATION SUMMARY: Requesting approval to change the zone from CH to CH:PD to
demolish an existing commercial building, and construct 11
single-family residences on property zoned CH. A Mitigated
Negative Declaration has been prepared. APNs 523-06-010 and
523-06-011 .
EXHIBITS: Previously received under separate cover:
R EMARKS:
Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration (received
January 22, 2016)
1-10. Previously received with February 24 ,20 16 staffreport
11. Previously received with February 24, 2016 addendum
Received with Desk Item :
12. Comments received from 11:01 a.m. on February 22,2016 to
11:00 a.m. on February 24, 2016
The attached public comments (Exhibit 12) were received after completion of the addendum
report.
Prepared by:
Mami Moseley, AICP
Associate Planner
JP :MFM:cg
A proved by:
el Paul so n, AICP
Community Development Director
N :\DE V\PC REPORTS\2 0 16\LGB 16212.2-24-16 . PD-DESK.docx
RECEIVED
FEB 2 2 2016
Planning Department
110 E . Main St. TOWN OF LOS GATOS
PLANNI NG DIVISION Los Gatos, CA 95030
Subject: Letter to Refute Applicant's Proposals and Justifications
Dear Planning Commission,
My family and I live in the Laurel Mews community directly across the 16212 Los Gatos Blvd
site. I have read the Staff Report I Exhibits (2/19/16). In the applicant's 'project overview' and
'letter of justification ', a common theme is that II Vicianto has "comparable" measurements to
nearby developments, such as Laurel Mews. I am writing this letter to show the Planning
Commissioners that this is a huge misconception that needs to be corrected, along with other
concerns about accuracies and statements that the proposal contains.
Project Overview
• Claims that the location cannot support commercial business have been proven false
by the large number of successful businesses directly adjacent and nearby which
the applicant fails to mention (see attached figure 1). Claims that a fair market lease
cannot be obtained is similarly contradicted by the nearby businesses unless the
applicant can argue for all of the nearby businesses.
• Applicant is well aware of the popularity of nearby businesses as he is renting over % of
the available parking to YogaSource - a very successful business.
• The Applicant makes reference several times to the only non -residential property being
the "vacant LG Food Store"-there are many, many businesses immediately nearby
(see attached figure 1) and the LG Food Store has been an Orange Theory Fitness
location for 7 months (Note-applicant's letter of justification was dated January 21 ,
2016). This seems extremely misleading by the applicant as he ALSO has signage on
his property preventing parking by Orange Theory Fitness (see attached figure 2).
• Applicant picks and chooses parts of Los Gatos Blvd Plan -the Planning Commission
staff report (Page 9 Section H) highlights many aspects of the Los Gatos Blvd Plan and
General plan that the applicant has failed to meet. The applicant only mentions two
aspects:
o II Vicinato's buildings will be distinctive and "pedestrian friendly" -II Vicianto's
designs are distinctive alright, but not in a manner that blends harmoniously with
the nearby residential homes. My family and I frequently walk in front of the lot.
We find the applicant's idea of a giant wall of 30 foot high row homes built right
up to the sidewalk, obscuring views of the town, cedar trees, and mountain is an
extreme contrast to the existing Craftsman-style homes nearby with far more gap
between each housing unit.
EXHIBIT 1 a
Compared to nearby homes, the 11 II Vicinato units exceeds their heights and
offers far less setbacks and landscaping
II Vicinato
Homes facing LGB 29.8' to 29'11 ', have <1 ' gap
between units
Other homes not facing LGB 28. 7" to 29.2"
Laurel Mews
20.6' to 25' with 14-16' gaps
between units
22' to 24 '
Setback on LGB Setback is a mere 2 ' 1" for the Setback is 15-20' of
row home styles , front doors landscaping , front doors can't
are very close to the sidewalk be viewed from LGB
o For example, the 7 Laurel Mews homes directly across the site range in height
from 20 .6' to 25'. The two end units are 20.6 ' and the units in between are 25' at
the highest point of the Craftsman-style homes with triangular shaped roofs . In
addition , each of the Laurel Mews units have 14-16 feet gap between each unit
that serves as the residences' private courtyards . In contrast, II Vicinato homes
are taller than any other residential home nearby -the row homes fronting LGB
are 30' and the other homes range from 28.7' to 29.2', with much shorter gaps
and significantly reduced landscaping between all the units. (see the table above)
o It is on a bus route -this is true but so is everything on Los Gatos Blvd and the
bus stops were pre-existing .
• Applicant makes frequent reference that his development is "comparab le" to Laurel
Mews directly across the street (e.g . "We have modelled our zoning and setbacks to
comparable to these [Laurel Mews I Montecito I Bluebird lane] projects to meet the
unique characteristics and challenges of the site . 'J . My family would like to ask the
Planning Commission to make note of the many differences in the developments:
o The setback of homes in Laurel Mews along Los Gatos Blvd complies with town
guidelines -there is a 20 ft break with maintained trees I bushes between the
sidewalk and the homes. II Vincanto homes have a series of walls built right to
the sidewalk with minimal vegetation-see attached Figure 2 . Because of the
raised nature of the homes it's hard to tell where the actual setback begins.
o Gap between homes ranges from 14-16' for the Laurel Mews homes along Los
Gatos Blvd -the corresponding homes in II Vincanto have a gap less than 1 ft
between units (see attached Figure , and Page 7 of the Staff Report). This space
is completely unusable and will be a gap for rodents I mold and garbage -there is
2
a real danger that small children and pets could become trapped in the gaps.
Why have a gap for what are essentially attached homes?
o Given all this, how can it possibly be that the units I acre is slightly higher at
Laurel Mews? As it happens, much more (24%) of II Vicinato 's site is given over
to private streets I parking spaces-the FAR for the row homes fronting LGB is
far beyond Laurel Mews I Montecito given the super dense design in this section .
• Applicant said that PD Overlay to Residential makes sense "since surrounding properties
except the vacant LG Food Store , are residential."-the applicant's justification here is
based on inaccurate facts .
o LG Food Store was replaced by OrangeTheory Fitness since July 2015 --7
months and is a thriving business . Parking often overflows into the parking at
16212 Los Gatos Blvd. There is even a sign on the wine shop's parking lot
stating "no Orange Theory parking " on their site (see attached figure 2)
o There are many surrounding properties (OrangeTheory Fitness , Edward
Jones on each side of 16212 LGB -see figure 1 for all of the businesses) so
there is no basis for this sweeping generalization that commercial businesses
cannot thrive in this stretch of LGB .
• Applicant claims "Residential use with a Planned Development Overlay is consistent with
the general plan" -page 9 in the Exhibits. This is untrue as well. See Section I of the
Planning Commission Staff Report that highlights the many cases where the application
does NOT match the general plan.
• Applicant claims "We received positive feedback from the large majority of neighbours
and community members"
o Applicant provides no factual basis (names of residents , who are the majority of
neighbors and where are they located?)
o Feedback published in Ex hibits 9-10 (received by 1 pm 02118) consisted of 68
responses representing many families and individuals. The largest number of
responses came from the Shannon Rd area but there was representation from
both side of Los Gatos Blvd. All but 1 of them was strongly against the proposal
and the remaining was ambiguous-none of the respondents seemed positive
about t he project.
Refuting the App li ca nt's Letter of Justifi cations
• Applicant claims that setbacks are "consistent" with Laurel Mews property across Los
Gatos Blvd -"We have modelled our zoning and setbacks to comparable to these [Laurel
Me w s I Montecito I Bluebird lane] projects to meet the unique characteristics and
c hallenges of the site."
o The applicant provides no factual information to support th is claim
o The setbacks are in no way comparable (see attached Figure 3)-the II Vicinato
row homes along Los Gatos Blvd are (debatably) 7' 4 " of hardscape to raise the
3
building height whereas the setback for the corresponding homes in Laurel Mews
are 20 feet of trees I bushes.
• Applicant claims that the density of the project is lower than Laurel Mews. However at
the same t ime the applicant is asking for exceptions for setbacks, FAR and the gap
between buildings far in excess of the homes at Laurel Mews or Montecito. The reality is
24% of II Vicinato's land used is for private streets I parking spaces making it necessary
for the homes to be very close together.
• Applicant justification for reduced setbacks is based on adjacent neighbours, but there is
very little supporting documentation for this claim. The buildings along Los Gatos Blvd
are substantially set back (typically 20 feet) and it's unclear why an exception should be
made in this case just becase the developer wants to cram in as many homes as
possible.
• Applicant claims FAR of other developments are "comparable" yet they provide no
documentation for any of these claims. The FAR for Laurel Mews cannot be the same
given the homes are significantly less dense -there is a far larger setback, gap between
homes and many ( 10 of 22) of the homes do not have basements.
• Applicant claims building homes so close together is justified based on their "experience"
building commercial/ residential homes.
o There is very little evidence of previous STEM Sustainable Development projects
-what is this experience? Only development I could find was a
5,393-square-foot , one-story commercial building at 2135 Winchester Blvd .
o Minimal website I office is a post office box -compare this to Robson Homes and
DR Horton that are both seasoned developers in the area with significant housing
projects in their portfolios
• Applicant claims that the "Brownstone" concept homes makes more sense than other
developments.
o Montecito has some attached row homes-why is the applicant putting a <1 feet
gap between the II Vicinato row homes to avoid it here? Planners note that a
multi-family structure would require ADA requirements and likely will be sold for
more than a town home is.
o Laurel Mews has almost exactly the same location (directly across the street) and
houses have a gap of 14-16 feet between them with 20' setback.
o Laurel Mews designs have pointy I slanted roofs that allow sun to shine through
and doesn't form a towering , solid wall overshadowing Los Gatos Boulevard
• Applicant claims that comments from consulting architects were addressed but just says
to see planning document. No substantive changes were made and the mitigation
document ( 12/15) says that they will somehow address these comments.
STEM Sustainable Development's Portfolio?
The applicant claims STEM Development is comprised of a team who has "knowledge of the
local community and high quality attention to detail (Staff Report page 50), but there does not
4
seem to be a ny public inf ormation about STEM Deve lopment's past resident ial project s in Lo s
G atos, let alone in the Bay A re a, for t he publ ic to review.
In contrast, there is plenty of public information on the Internet showing the reside ntial portfol ios
for othe r local developers whom t he applica nt has c ompa red II Vicinato to -Robson Homes
(with office and onsite staff located in S an Jose) and D R Ho rton (a 3 0 year-old publicly traded
company). What I c an find -the II Vicinato architects from Studio S Squared (ba s ed in S a n
Jose) have posted on Houzz.com the de signs submitted to the Planning Department and
describe d t he ir efforts as "Los Gatos Urban Villa ge, and "a variety of architectural styles w ill help
the proj ect blend into the eclectic surroundings ." (source :
http://www.houzz.com/projects/610587/los-gatos-urban-village-il-vicinato)
STEM De velopment architects' narrative only serves to highlight how incompatible II Vicinato's urban
vi ll age vibe is to Los Gatos ' small town charm. What I see is a wall of high brownstones (that ar e
more common for Manhattan), and other towering sing le family homes that disregard the Los Gatos
Boulev ard Plan , and a development that will atrociously block existing hills ide views . What I see is a
proposal from a team that lacks understanding of the unique Los Gatos character as there is no
continuity with the nea rby residences and commercial units . Furthe r, the zoning request also
threatens to erode any potential commerci al viab ility to an intersection that does have ex isting
popular and successful businesses .
Thank you fo r your time and consideratio ns to reject the rezoning request and development
proposal.
Regards ,
Barnab y Ja mes and Linda Yung
16500 Gra nt Bishop Lane , Los Gatos CA
5
F igure 1
Acura Dealership
A & M Motoring Supply
YogaSource
Keller Williams
Autobahn LLC
NC Boardshop
AJ Tutoring
Law Offices
16212 Los Gatos Boulevard
Lunardi's
Wells Fargo
Taco Bell
Edward Jones
orangeTheory Fitness
Akyumen
Calvary Church
Figure 2
" ... vacant LG Food Store ... "
The applicant's justification letter
explains that commercial business are
not successful in this area, naming the
Los Gatos Food Store as an example.
The fact is a very popular Orange
Theory occupies the former LG Food
Store building . There is even a sign in
the wine shop parking lot preventing
Orange Theory customers from parking
there.
Commercial businesses are viable in
this section of LGB.
Figure 3
Lack of Setback
II Vicinato-short setback, minimal landscaping , no other
residential or commercia l building has thi s little setback
Laurel Mews -20 ' w / ple nty of la ndscaping, designed in harmony
with nearby residences and in-line with town character
Figure 4
Building Heights
STRUCTUR E
ACROSS THE
STR EET
Laurel Mews
II V1c1nato Laurel Mews
Homes facing LGB 29.8 ' to 29 '11' with gaps 20.6' to 25' with 14-16'
<1 ' between units gaps between units
Other homes not facing
LGB
Setback on LGB
28.7" to 29.2"
Setback is a mere 2'1"
for the row home styles
w ith doors facing close
to the sidewalk
LOS GATOS
BOULEVARD
20.6', 22', 24', 25'
Setback is 15-20' of
landscaping, front doors
can 't be viewed from
LGB
IIVicinato
Figure 5
(Lack of) Building Separation
Figure 6
Mismatched Design
Marni Moseley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Hello Ms Moseley,
Avery Kaufman <avery.kaufman@gmail.com>
Monday, February 22, 2016 11:48 AM
Marni Moseley
proposed development on Shannon & LG Blvd
I would like to express my deep concern for the proposed development where the Artisan Wine Depot is
located.
It is not acceptable to go forward with this project. The housing density, traffic, views and overall quality of
life in LG will be unappealing if thi s goes through.
Please do NOT allow this project to move forward.
Yours Truly,
A very Kaufinan
125 Worcester Loop
408 624 6169
1
Marni Moseley
From: bobl@enviroroof.com
Sent:
To:
Monday, February 22, 2016 12:59 PM
Marni Moseley
Subject: 16212 Los Gatos Blvd.
Ms. Moseley,
I would like to register my protest against this development.
I have lived in LG for close to 40 years. My children have attended all of the schools and now my gran children.
This development will not only impact our schools with more children (in conjunction with North Forty there
could be over 600 kids entering LG Schools) but the traffic at that comer will be outrageous not to mention
dangerous.
I employ you to not allow this major intrusion to Los Gatos to continue. Small town, quaint Los Gatos had been
destroyed by these ridiculous projects just like the one across the street!!
I would also like you to sit on the comer of this site during normal AM and PM school hours and see how our
children will be subjected to such dangerous traffic.
My wife and I hope to see you at the Town Meeting.
Thank You
Robert F. Laubach
President
Environmental Roofing & Waterproofing Inc.
1157 Dell A venue
Campbell, CA 95008
408-871-1540 (office)
408-871-1585 (fax)
1
Marni Moseley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Hello Ms. Moseley,
Nicole Dennon <ndennon@gmail.com >
Monday, February 22 , 2016 2:28 PM
Marni Moseley
Shannon and LG BLVD
I wanted to express my concern with the new development that is storyboarded on the corner of Shannon and LGBLVD.
Those buildings are way to close to the street and do not allow for proper planting and beautification of the Los Gatos
Blvd that should be a requirement to build in our lovely town! Lets put this development through the same scrutiny as
the North 40.
I hope you will protect are changing TOWN! Or at least have a plan for Los Gatos Blvd that new developments will have
abide and help pay for.
Respectfully,
Nicole Dennon
1
Marni Moseley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Hello LG Planning,
Tim Christ <tchrist@mac.com>
Monday, February 22 , 2016 3:06 PM
Marni Moseley; Planning
LG Blvd I Shannon II Vicinato development
I've noticed a lot of communication lately in our neighborhood about the upcoming meeting on 2/24, and the II Vicinato
project.
Surprisingly much of the discussion is about the number of students that will be added, the crowded conditions of our
schools, and the accuracy of the estimates of number of students based on past projects.
Frankly I find that all irrelevant. Last year's downtown traffic and road closing saga, the traffic every single weekend and
workday evening, and the traffic every morning and afternoon anywhere near Fisher, Van Meter, or the high school, is
ample evidence that we are already at emergency levels of traffic in our community.
Adding any additional housing units in our community is completely irresponsible .
The current High School traffic is a significant safety issue on a daily basis. If you haven't witnessed a near miss situation
of a walking, riding, or driving student, you haven't been near the High School in the last 2 years.
This community needs a reduction in housing in the area, not an increase , and a serious look at transportation
alternatives. The number of students is a secondary issue to the number of cars (and I say that as a parent with a
student who is in our overcrowded school district).
Citizen safety, student safety, has to come before development.
Thank you for your time,
Tim Christ
408-823-3463
1
From: Bonnie Westman [mailto:b2westman@gmail.com]
Sent: Monday, February 22, 2016 3:22PM
To: Planning
Subject: Proposed Project at 16212 Los Gatos Boulevard-11 Vicinato
To Whom it May Concern,
We are completely opposed to the development of 16212 Los Gatos Boulevard as proposed.
We live at 16516 Shannon Road , two blocks from the proposed development. We deal with the
incredible amounts of car, bike and pedestrian traffic multiple times a day on Shannon Road as
parents and children drive , walk and ride to and from Blossom Hill , Van Meter, Fisher Middle
School and Los Gatos High School. We've dealt with this for ten years and think the situation
will only get worse if you approve 11 more tightly packed hou ses all flowing from one driveway
onto Shannon Road and into this intersection .
The mitigation reports do not mention that the proposed development is in the absolute
middle of the "Bermuda Triangle" of school traffic in Los Gatos. We feel that adding 11
more homes would not only increase the traffic levels in this super busy intersection, but that it
would increase the risk of pedestrian travel as hundreds of children cross at this intersection
several times a day.
We are completely surprised that this proposal has moved forward to this point. The renderings
depict a real estate development that looks as if it would be much more well-suited for DeAnza
Boulevard in Cupertino, certainly not in Los Gatos. The development is modern, angular and
devoid of the kind of charm we have all come to expect in our town's architecture.
Also, I did not see any mention in the mitigation report about the number school age children this
development would produce. Los Gatos schools have been at peak capacity for years. Adding
more children, as most certainly a development like this would, will exacerbate an already
overcrowded condition in our schools. The only person who will benefit from such a
development is the developer. Please vote NO.
Bonnie & Dean Westman
16516 Shannon Rd
Los Gatos, CA 95032
( 408)540-9600
Marni Moseley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Hello Mami,
Linda Ellett <linda.ellett@gmail.com >
Monday, February 22 , 2016 3:37 PM
Marni Moseley
Input for 16212 Los Gatos Boulevard (Wine Depot) project
I understand the development review meeting for the housing project on Shannon/Los Gatos Blvd is this week,
so I'd like to throw out a concern .
I live at 16688 Magneson Loop which circles around and behind this planned development. My concern is
resident and guest parking. With so many homes sandwiched together in that small space, there is truly no
place for residents or their visitors to park. Since you cannot currently park on the road at the comers of either
Shannon or Los Gatos Blvd, cars will be looking for the next closest place to park which means they'll be
turning onto Magneson Loop either off Los Gatos Blvd or off Shannon (that way they won't have to cross any
streets to visit those homes). Given that most families own 2 cars, that's a minimum of22 cars needing a
parking space in that development.
During evening and weekends, there are lots of cars parked on Magneson Loop up and down the street
belonging to current residents. We own 2 cars and occasionally park one in the street in front of our house on
weekends. Although most of the homes on this street have garages, lots of people use the garage for storage
and park cars in the driveway or street. Since each of those proposed homes are pretty small, my sense is that
their garages will not be just used for cars only.
I'm all for additional homes being built in the town as long as they are self supporting within their own
lots. Perhaps having a smaller number ofhomes of that small site might allow for more parking. But as the
project currently is drawn, I don't support that many homes crammed into such a small space.
Thank you for listening.
Linda Ellett
16688 Magneson Loop
1
Marni M ose ley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Planning Commission,
Maureen <outdoorgal01@yahoo.com >
Monda y, February 22, 2016 4:49 PM
Marni Moseley
Feedback on proposed II Vincanto development at 1621 2 Los Gatos Blvd (cu rrent ly
Artisan Wine Depot)
The design of the proposed II Vincanto development is completely out of character for Los Gatos . Homes
that are three stories high and one foot apart are found in Manhattan, not Los Gatos. These are massive
brownstones that will dwarf the other homes on the street. Not to mention all the agreements you will
have to make for these units to 'fit' on the lot.
The bigger question is how can a development be considered when the Developer's Traffic Report is based
on data collected when there was a Honda car lot at LGB and Roberts Rd . We need new stats, based on
today's conditions. Developer is taking NO responsibility -his report finds that the project is too small and
will have "insignificant" impacts on traffic (Mitigation Declaration Study, Dec 2015). STEM Development
construction will start at Sam weekdays -that's also rush hour for work commuters and families going to
the nearby schools. We can all imagine what impacts this will have for all the families going to not only
Van Meter and Fisher, but also Greenhills, Hillbrook, Shir Hadash, Shannon Parent Nursery, Growing
Footprints, Grace Preschool/United Methodist Church, Mariposa Montessori, Cavalry Preschool and Jr. K,
on top of the work commuters, cyclists.
Last I checked, Shannon Rd has a soft shoulder with barely any sidewalk to safely walk as it is now.
Where will the construction machines park? Surely, not at Roberts/George/Mitchell which is already busy
enough as these are used heavily by Yoga Source, Green Hills and Fishers, plus the customers of Orange
Theory and AJ Tutoring and residents . Keep in mind none of these businesses were in place with the
traffic reference the developer is providing of the 'empty' Honda Car lot (from years ago).
The traffic problems we already have (especially on warm weekends with Hwy 17 traffic) should not allow
Los Gatos to add any additional traffic concerns until the current problem is addressed. We can't get
in/out of our homes as it is when the weather is nice. Why would you want to make it any worse? This
development should NOT proceed.
Maureen
1
Marni Moseley
From: Joe Carroll <joe@quintex.co m >
Monday, February 2 2, 2016 5:23 PM
Marni Moseley
Sent:
To:
Subject: New development proposed at Shannon Rd . and Lo s Gatos Blvd.
Ms. Moseley:
I am 100% opposed to allowing the proposed high density residential project at
Shannon Road/Los Gatos Blvd. A few quick thoughts:
1. Zoning ........ Los Gatos has a long term plan, and zoning code in place. Please
stick to that plan, or the Town carries that burden for the next 3+
generations.
2. Schools ........... The only people that buy homes like the ones being proposed,
do so for one reason: free admission to the wonderful LG school
system. And some of these families will buy the property WITH a second
family, just to get their kids in. Our schools are already heavily over
populated. You can't keep adding housing and expect this not to have a
hugely negative effect on our schools. These 14 homes could easily add 30-
40 kids to our already over-run public school system. Honestly, most people
have NO IDEA the shenanigans being played by some to keep their kids in LG
Schools. In my opinion, the proposed project is the quickest way to turn Los
Gatos into Milpitas. Not at all where I believe this Town wants to go.
3. Traffic ......... lf travelling on Shannon road, one can wait up to THREE {3) red
lights before getting the green light {left turn), trying to get to the high
school. Adding 14 homes RIGHT THERE will make this a complete mess. Not
to mention all of our other recently new traffic issues in town. I heard this is
the same developer who built the single family homes across the street {that
may have changed) ........ and I'm guessing they are attempting to utilize the
same traffic mitigation studies as they did 4 years back?? If so, those old
studies will paint a rosy picture that is NOTHING like today.
4. UGLY ......... If you truly want to see what is being proposed on this site, go
stack cargo containers three (3) high, 5 feet off the street ......... across
all the Shannon and LG Blvd frontage. I own cargo container yards. That
proposed project will be so darn ugly, it will be discussed for the next 20
1
years. It makes absolutely no sense! Seriously ........ go stack sh i pping
containers on that site three high, and see if anyone calls . Those story po les
ar e the thinnest I've seen yet. Putting them up during the kid's sk i week
(break from school with half the town gone) was a crafty move on the
developer's part, designed only to minimize oppos ition. I know the
individuals that were originally pushing this project ...... it's their job to get
these things approved , so you can 't knock them for that .......... but, if really
pushed, they would say this is nothing more than an attempt to make fast
cash with a project that really makes zero sense.
5. Danger o u s ......... Why put 14+ families living on a busy corner of a commercia l
district? Why build such tall bui l dings right up against a street, where maki ng
a turn is very difficult already. There will be no way to see around the
corner.
Being in commercial real estate myselt and having developed a few sites ........... l
feel strongly that a land owner should have rights to profit off their investment,
meaning, the right to build a well thought out project that falls within the zoning of
the Town's master plan . To me, this particular project appears to be nothing but a
quick and easy money grab that adds no real value to the Town .
Final thoughts : Why do these sorts of projects only seem to come up in the
eastern end of town? I can't image this project getting past a preliminary
conversation if it were say up on Tait and North Santa Cruz ........ just an
observation. As Los Gatos gets older and more ma t ure, there are less pieces to
the puzzle to be placed ........... Your job becomes increasingly more difficult, AND
important. To me that is the time to stick to the general plan that encompassed
town wide thi nking and long-term appeal. To deviate from the general plan for
the benefit of one small parcel, at this mature point i n Los Gatos' development,
would be (in my opinion) very, very costly.
Thanks for your time.
Joe Carroll
Resource One
(408} 314-7262
2
Marni Moseley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Mark Townsend <mtownsend95030@gmail.com >
Monday, February 22, 20 16 5:47 PM
Marni Moseley; Counci l; Planning; Chanda Townsend
Proposed Construction at Artisan Wine Depot Location
Dear Ms. Moseley, the Town Council, and the Planning Commission,
I understand you are the right individuals and groups to reach out to in regards to the proposed construction on
the comer of Shannon and Los Gatos Blvd. (current site of Artisan Wine Depot).
As a Los Gatos resident for the last 15 years I've come to love the town of Los Gatos and feel fortunate to be
able to live in a neighborhood in which I can walk to school with my kids. I'm especially fortunate to be able to
walk to school as I often pass the cars that are stuck on Los Gatos Blvd. on their way to drop off/pick up kids at
Van Meter Elementary.
In conversations I've had with other parents on these walks there are four consistent things that come up:
1. The density of the housing proposed on this site. 11 new residences in less than one acre is not consistent
with the rest of the town.
2. Traffic. The insistence from the Developer that this will have little to no impact is really just an indicator of
how bad we're letting the traffic get on Los Gatos Blvd . This is especially true during "peak" hours.
3. Overcrowding of schools. Every real estate add I read in regards to Los Gatos mentions "award winning
schools". The fact that the "Project Narrative" calls out, "We anticipate single and married executives without
children, as well as young, active "empty nesters"" is insulting. Who would want to move into a house near
award winning schools? Do we have data on the demographics of recent developments in Los Gatos?
4 . The Zoning. This has been a commercial property for as long as anyone can remember. Other than a pure
profit grab, is there another reason?
For these reasons, I object to this development and ask that the project be rejected.
Sincerely,
Mark Townsend
134 Harding Ave.
Los Gatos, CA 95030
cc: Chanda Kreps-Townsend
1
From: needom dani [mailto:bronco60@comcast.net]
Sent: Monday, February 22, 2016 6:29 PM
To: Planning
Subject: II Vicinato proposed development
Dear Planning Commission,
If the Town wants a development that looks exactly like Race Street south of San Carlos Street, this
project is perfect. If, on the other hand, the Town wants to preserve some of its character, this
development is a disaster.
Frankly, the artistic renderings of the finished product make me sick to my stomach. The manner in
which the developer has jammed together six townhouses that belly right up to the Boulevard while
stuffing in an additional five houses and ten guest parking spaces on this 0.94 acre lot would astonish
the most talented contortionist. Without adding a word about traffic, parking and school impact, this
bloated project deserves to be torpedoed; and quickly.
Sadly, Los Gatos has, with recent developments, surrendered its uniqueness and charm to numbing
density and, in doing so is losing its soul. The Town now has the opportunity to get back to who it is and
what its citizens want it to be.
Very sincerely submitted,
Woody Nedom
16280 Azalea Way
Los Gatos, CA 95032
408 356-7956
Marni Moseley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Hello,
Barry & Elina Wong <bnewong@verizon.net>
Monday, February 22, 2016 7:55 PM
Marni Moseley
New Housing Development Feedback.
I'm a resident of the Blossom Manor neighborhood. My kids have gone to Los Gatos schools. We've seen the huge
increases in student enrollments, especially at Fisher and Los Gatos High . Those schools are bursting at the seams! We
ca n 't accommodate any more additional kids without losing the quality of the education . As the quality of the education
is what draws people to Los Gatos schools, this continued uncontrolled enrollment is not sustainable. It will certainly
detract from the main draw as well as impact the housing value. Certainly important considerations to all of Los Gatos
home owners.
Please stop these new housing developments that also increase student enrollments! Furthermore, the new proposed
development at Shannon and Los Gatos Blvd doesn't allow for sufficient parking space. Additional traffic onto Los Gatos
Blvd will also be a huge issue, which is already a huge issue when Van Meter lets out and Fisher lets out at around the
same time. Getting through town during school let out time is already very congested . We don't need additional
congestion with no mitigation in sight.
Thank you for giving serious consideration to our concerns.
Elina & Barry Wong
1
This Page
Intentionally
Left Blank
Marni Moseley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Melissa Splaine <mhsplaine@gma il.com >
Monday, February 22, 2016 8:04 PM
Marni Moseley
Project Proposed on LG Blvd & Shannon .. .II Vicinato
Too Whom It May Concern,
I am writing to voice my concern about the projected new development on
the comer of Shannon & LG Blvd. I am a neighbor on Mitchell A venue
and I have a huge concern about the fact that Mitchell A venue will
become even more of a pass through street for all of those new
homeowners and their guests. Mitchell Avenue at certain times is a pass
through street because there is no traffic light and I guarantee a ticket
could be written every hour for excessive speeding! As it resides now the
residential parking in my neighborhood is being utilized by the overflow
of Yoga Source customers, AJ tutoring customers and parents of the three
neigh~oring schools.
In fairness to the lot owner I understand their desire to get the town to
allow them to rezone the land for residential use; however, having three
zero lot line developments less than half a mile from each other does not
feel representative of the town of Los Gatos. I visited this town as a child
and adored it charm and natural beauty. I think growth is positive but
when it is at the expense of the safety of its people and it loses what drew
many of its residents in the first place it is a detriment.
Please consider the safety concerns with the additional traffic of many
new residents in a congested area as well as the large number of customers
of the businesses that will be displaced to the neighboring streets. These
neighboring streets all reside near a preschool, elementary school and
middle school.
1
I hope you will take into consideration my thoughts and every other
neighbor that writes to you with the same concerns.
Many Thanks,
Melissa Splaine
Melissa Splaine
408 529 5862
2
Marni Moseley
From: Donald C Wimberly <dwi mberly@aimscorp.com >
Monday, February 22, 2016 8:56 PM Sent:
To: Marni Moseley
Subject: 16212 Los Gatos Blvd; PD -14-001
Dear Ms. Moseley
Please include the following comments with materials provided to members of the Planning Commission for their
hearing on this project.
This project is out of character with and will be inappropriate in this area . The row houses will be a detriment to the
area . The project should not be approved as proposed for the following reasons :
• The row house buildings are too close to the back of sidewalk. The fortress effect is not, in our opinion, a
welcome addition to the area . The residential development across LG Blvd takes density far enough for this
area .
• Row house structures located along the sidewalk are too tall for their position on the property. At 2+ stories
above sidewalk grade along the Blvd., they loom over pedestrians .
• The sol id wall of structure (no space between the units) along the LG Blvd perimeter is imposing on the public
space, out of character in this area .
• Views of the hills to the east are blocked by the project along the even the westerly side of LG Blvd and from a
distance up Roberts Road . The renderings are accurate-the hills above Short Road will no longer visible from
LG Blvd.
• Parking in the area around the project is already a significant problem (due to Orange Theory Fitness+ Yoga
Source that have insufficient parking). Overflow and guest parking from this project with its excess of units and
a lack of adequate on-site parking will add to that problem . Eight guest spaces are insufficient and will be used
by residents (note parking in the Cilker Ct project). Where will service and delivery vehicles access residences &
park? How will vehicles turn around at the north end of the private drive without a cul-de-sac . Too many units
on too little land ! !
• Traffic in the LG-Shannon-Roberts intersection is already a problem and will be significantly worsened by this
high density development:
o The split phase signal with no right turn on red for east-west movements creates serious inefficiency,
delays and confusion in movements. We suggest from our daily use that the level of service analysis is
inconsistent with the actual conditions for two legs of the intersection-WB Shannon and SB LG Blvd .
where peak hour delays do exceed cycle green time.
o A high volume of middle school children use the inte rsection at least two times each week day. Young
peds and bicyclists create delays for all vehicle movements . Students are, in turn, put at risk by
impatient drivers and those ignoring the no-turn-on-red restrictions. This project will add to these
problems.
o A high volume of vehicles delivering children to Fischer and Van Meter and returning to the east adds to
commute trips and high school traffic from a significant portion of east Los Gatos . Decisions on
circulation for hillside property made in the 1980's have added traffic to Shannon Road .
o A lack of sidewalks on both sides of Shannon Road east of the project expose s students to traffic
hazards. Cars are periodically parked along Shannon forcing students to walk & ride in the travel lane .
No -parking signs have been removed and are ignored . Increased que lengths caused by the project will
worsen this exposure.
o Traffic from this development will have to cross the Shannon's north-side sidewalk and w ill conflict with
the significant number of student pedestrians and bicyclists at the point where the short section of
1
sidewalk close to the intersection ends. At the same time as they need to watch for students,
development traffic will have to compete for space on Shannon Rd with vehicles que'd by the
signal. This puts students at increased risk.
o Southbound LG Blvd traffic frequently backs up through Shannon/Roberts intersection to Blossom Hill
Rd . Because of the off-set legs of Shannon/Roberts, the delayed traffic on LG Blvd often blocks traffic
from Shannon WB and Roberts EB as it attempts to traverse the intersection and to turn onto LG Blvd
SB . This project will add to that problem. During impacted hours, east-bound to south-bound
movements are often held through more than one signal cycle as SB Blvd. traffic fails to clear the
intersection.
o The traffic consultant's use of standard traffic generation rates from a San Diego used car dealership for
the property as a before-project traffic bench mark is inappropriate. This lot has been a supplemental
car sales/showing lot and has not generated traffic volumes as represented in the traffic
analysis. Service/repair, sales, and business offices for the dealerships that owned this lot (Dodge,
Chevrolet, then Honda} were on the west side of LG Blvd . In fact, this lot had almost no peak hour
traffic.
o The traffic consultant does not address delays to the Shannon Rd WB right turn when it is delayed by
student traffic crossi ng the right turn lane and standing on the pork chop, even when that movement
has a green light . This results in multiple cycle delay for WB Shannon . This condition will also impact
the project driveway and affects the theoretical que analysis.
o The traffic consultant's que analysis is long on statistical and study data, and short on actual
observations, counts and measurements. Visual, in-person observations and counts should be
performed to replace the theories in the traffic report. Armed with real data, the project impacts should
be reconsidered.
o The traffic consultant states the Shannon/Roberts signal is "coordinated". The signal phases may be
coordinated, but signals on LG Blvd do not, unfortunately, operate in a coordinated manner.
o Starting before 6:00am, the over-used driveway to Orange Theory Fitness creates conflicting
movements; cars that are unable to enter the full parking lot block Shannon traffic in both directions.
While the five detached homes on the easterly portion of the property are, in and of themselves, acceptable for the
area , we believe the row houses along LG Blvd . are not. This property should remain a low-traffic commerc ial use that
will have traffic patterns that will not coincide with commute peaks and school traffic. Probably the best use for the LG
Blvd. frontage would be an attractive parking lot to serve the many fit Los Gatos residents now f r equenting the area.
Don & Cheryl Wimberly
Residents of East Los Gatos
P.O. Box 800
Los Gatos, CA 95031
2
From: Mary Patterson [mailto:mmpmitzi@co mcast.net]
Sent : Monday, February 22, 2016 9:47PM
To: Council
Subject: 11 Houses on Los Gatos Blvd.
Dear Council Members,
Please don't allow this horrible development to proceed. There are too many houses, they are too
tall, the design doesn't fit Los Gatos, they will further impact our schools and of course create more
traffic. They completely hide our beautiful mountains and driving down the Blvd. will be like driving in a
tunnel with the Robson homes across the street. Please, please do not allow this construction!! Los
Gatos will no longer be the wonderful town that it once was.
Thank you,
Mary Patterson
Resident
Sent from my iPad
Marni Moseley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Gretchen Alarcon <gretchenalarcon@gmail.com >
Monday, February 22 , 2016 9:50 PM
Marni Moseley
Re : 16212 LG Blvd
I am writing to express my concern over the proposed project at this location. When the story poles went up last week,
my hope was that there might be an addition of retail/commercial space similar to YogaSource across the blvd, or the
building with OrangeTheory across Shannon . I was quite disappointed to learn that the plan is for 11 houses instead.
After researching further, I see no argument for rezoning this parcel, aside from developer greed. Additionally, I see no
need for such density of housing on the parcel besides developer greed.
I urge the planning commission to deny the rezoning, or failing that, insist that the developer redesign the houses to be
line with the Town's Residential Design Guidelines. The current designs are not meeting those guidelines as to set-backs,
height, or sensitivity to the surrounding neighborhood.
Thank you,
Gretchen Alarxon
1
Marni Moseley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Ms. Moseley,
Vernon Rogers <vernonirogers@yahoo.com >
Monday, February 22, 2016 10:40 PM
Marni Mo seley
IL Vicinato Development -Shannon Road & Los Gatos Blvd .
writing to inquire about the impact study completed and the conclusion that the project
is a MND. Based on the report there are several items referenced from previous
development projects which have not been verified.
In addition the report shows no additional traffic but as this project is being reviewed
the Los Gatos city is reviewing and studying traffic at New York Ave. I Pleasant St. The
planning process clearly has the visibility and data to show the increased traffic and
only want to use previous data with estimations versus real data a couple of blocks away
from Town Hall.
The new student projection of 12 students across 11 residence is clearly a underestimate
if you simply watch the number of kids that emerge from the relatively new housing
development at the old Acura dealership .
The current site provides a business service and much needed parking for the local area
businesses. Past development was allowed in the area without any consideration for
parking and pedestrian traffic. If one spends a few minutes in the mornin~ or afternoon
in the area you can see the congestion that clearly demonstrates an oppos1te view to MND
presented for this development project.
If the property is considered for development the home density of this property should be
at the level of 8,000 to 10,000 similar to homes along shannon Road. The story poles
along Los Gatos Blvd show the enormity of this project as they intrude onto the sidewalk.
Strongly urge a thorough and accurate data collection and review of this project's impact
on local traffic and schools.
Regards,
vernon Rogers
LO S Gatos
1
From: Mindy Wellington [mailto:wellingtonfamily@verizon.net]
Sent: Monday, February 22, 2016 11 :10 PM
To: Planning
Subject: II Vicinato
I am extremely disturbed by the story poles on the corner of Los Gatos Blvd, and Shannon Rd . What is
most disturbing is that you are considering allowing yet ANOTHER commercial property to be converted
to high density housing! The boulevard is NOT the place for housing. We need restaurants and non-
chain businesses that will add character and much needed services to our end of town . I cite Viva! as an
example, again, as the only family friend ly upscale restaurant on this side of town. The patio is crowded
most nights, and the restaurant is crammed with neighbors and families, enjoying a night out. They
have live music, wine tasting, and the patio seating is ideal on a nice day/evening. We need more of
these types of places. Visit Danville, or San Ramon and look at all of the non-chain offerings that they
have . Danville actually has a no-chain policy. If you don't start considering disallowing chains, their
deep pockets will continue to drive out all of the mom/pop businesses and creative offerings that we are
looking for.
We need to stop converting the business properties and allowing high density housing. A one acre lot is
not a place for a planned development! I live in Blossom Manor. Should I be allowed to raze my home
and build 4 in its place? Not to mention the fact that this development feels claustrophobic, and looks
like a bunch of NYC brownstones teetering on the edge of that incredibly busy section of Los Gatos Blvd .
This is where the traffic backs up every morning, and every afternoon, as people drive their kids to
school. TOO MANY kids for our school district. Our schools were all rebuilt less than 10 years ago, and
now we have already run out of all of the extra space that was planned. Now what? Keep building?
Keep allowing the madness of 11 houses/acre?!? It's sheer lunacy, frankly. Go and visit some other
small towns with character, before you permanently allow greedy developers to ruin ours . There are no
second chances.
Thank you for your time and consideration, Melinda Wellington
Marni Moseley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Dear Ms. Moseley,
Mitzi <mitziand@aol.com >
Monday, February 22, 2016 11:21 PM
Marni Moseley
II Vicinato Development
I'm writing to express my concern over the II Vicinato housing development on LG Blvd and Shannon Road.
My main concerns are:
1. Changing the zoning from commercia l to residential. Why have guidelines if we keep changing them on a situational
basis? We need to preserve commercial property on LG Blvd to maintain services for our town in the future. There is no
benefit to the town to change the zoning except for the property owner and 11 future home owners.
2 . Design does not fit with the architecture character of Los Gatos. It is a design fitting Santana Row or El Camino Real.
The height is taller than the surrounding housing and blocks the mountain views that the town has tried hard to
maintain. The building has reduced set backs which doesn't fit with the neighborhood and makes for a jarring structure.
Nothing about this development enhances the site. We have enough high density housing in that area with The Mews
and the Swanson Ford developments.
3 . Traffic . There are already issues with traffic in that area between school , commute and beach traffic. Eleven homes
may be advertised as "insignificant", but it all adds up to the mess we currently have .
4. School Overcro wding. Prime school location will draw more families with students to the overcrowded schoo ls.
I'm asking the Planning Commi ss ion to deny the request for zo ning change. Do not let another high density, urban
sprawl design project further erode the beauty of our town. We must follow and p rese rve our building zoning. It
shouldn't be chipped away little by little. We do not need this project.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Mitzi Anderson
Los Gatos Resident
Sent from my iPhone
1
Marni Moseley
From :
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Importance:
Dear Mr. Moseley,
Jim Fox <jfox152@comcast.net >
Tuesday, February 23, 2016 8:14 AM
Marn i Moseley
IL Vicinato Development
High
After reviewing the plans of the proposed "IL Vicinato " Housing Development, my w ife & I strongly oppose it.
I do not understand how out of touch the Planning Commission is to the problems we are currently facing .
This will add a second new mass housing project right across the street of another at this intersection. All within 1/2 mile
of at least 3 schools .
On top it that, there currently is a major water shortage here in California that requ ires the current res idents to ration
our water usage down to the bare minimum or face heavy penalties.
Don't you bureaucrats understand that increasing residents increases the water, energy & congestion requirements .
Before you even consider increasing the residential population here, start by first fi xing the water problems, fi xing the
energy problems and fi xing the congestion problems.
After that, we can talk.
You can't have it both ways.
Don't allow this insanity to continue.
Sincerely, Jim and Missy Fox
1
From : Lauri Pastrone [mailto:lmpa stro ne@ goo glema i l.c om ]
Sent: Tuesday, February 23 , 2016 8:53AM
To : Town Manager
Cc : Marico Sayoc
Subj ect : II Vicinato Development
To the Planning Commission:
"It's starting to look like Fremont around here" is what I overheard someone saying yesterday about the
continuou s development in Los Gatos .
Fortunately, I th ink we are a long way from looking li ke Fremont. We still have so much character and a
unique quality of life in our town. But the expansion feels out of control. Please please say "no" to this
development at the corner of Shannon and Lo s Gatos Blvd -II Vicinato .
If you have a child at the middle school you know that it can take 15 minutes to get from the corner of
Nino Avenue to the other side of Fisher at 8 :15 in the morning or 2 :45 in the afternoon . It is too much
and why do we need to keep building more cluster housing so close to our schools where the traffic is
already unbearable. It puts our children who are walking and biking to school and cros sing streets at
risk . Drivers are frustrated and mad and not paying proper attention.
Say NO to II Vicinato.
Than k you,
Lauri Pastrone
17651 Dishman Drive
Los Gatos
Sent from Lauri's iPhone
Marni Moseley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Hi,
Veronica Felix <veronicafelix@gmail.com>
Tuesday, February 23, 2016 9:25 AM
Marni Moseley
Against New houses
I am writing in behalf the people who live in the Oleander Street at the Mannor, los Gatos.
We don't support the construction of the houses, not only damages the look of the town (with this ugly looking
houses) for which we already pay so much money in taxes. Also creates much more traffic, the schools are very
packed, and many other reasons.
The developers are the only ones getting a huge benefit of this .
We are preparing a document with signatures, where and to whom should we submit this.
Veronica Felix
Oleander Av
1
M a rni M ose l ey
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
De ar Ms Mosley,
sandy jordan <blesstx4@yahoo.com >
Tuesday, February 23, 2016 9:58 AM
Marni Moseley
New Housing Project on Shannon & LG
Please don't tell me that LG is actually considering residential building on this lot (which , from my understanding, is zoned for
commercial building ONLY)
You cannot possibly live here in LG yourself or you would know what a nightmare that particular section of LG Blvd is like, during rush
hours, during the summer to get to the beach , during school pick-up and drop-offs-just about any time other than 10 in the morning .
Oh , yes and let's talk about the proximity of two schools and the issues and traffic, safety and
WHAT EXACTLY DO YOU HAVE AGAINST LG THAT YOU AND YOUR PLANNING BOARD SEEM TO BE HELL-BENT ON RUINING
WHAT'S LEFT OF this UTILE TOWN????
This is an outrage and you should be ashamed for even considering it.
Someone must be getting paid big bucks to look the other way to get what they want as far as building around this town. There ought
to be an investigation.
You and your board are single handedly ruining this town and the school district, the likes of which are filled to the brim without relief in
site.
Please reconsider. This reeks of greed.
Sandy Jordan
Long time Resident , Los Gatos
1
Marni Moseley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Hello,
Audrey Webb <audrey.webb@verizon.net>
Tuesday, February 23, 2016 10:41 AM
Marni Moseley
ll Vicinato
As a homeowner and parent with two children in the LG Schools, I am extremely disturbed by the story poles
on the corner of Los Gatos Blvd, and Shannon Rd. What is most disturbing is that you are considering allowing
yet ANOTHER commercial property to be converted to high density housing! The boulevard is NOT the place
for housing . We need family oriented businesses, NOT more housing developments. Have you walked into our
local schools? Have you seen how impacted they are? Have you experienced the horrendous morning or
afternoon traffic trying to get to the grocery store, doctors appointment or even just home? What was once
considered a desirable area to live is quickly becoming an over-populated and over developed nightmare of a
town. Its impossible to get downtown on the weekends which drives local residents to shop elsewhere for
groceries, household supplies and goods. The schools are so crowded that people are taking kids out of the
local schools and putting them into private schools because they can't get the education they should be
receiving. And the crime has more than tripled in the past 15 years that my family has l ived here. By
continuing to allow these housing developments to go up you are destroying the charm of Los Gatos which
was once a desirable place to live
We need t o stop convert ing the bu sin ess properties and allowing high density hou sing. A one acre lot is not a place for a
planned development! Spend some time driving around the town and visiting the schools and you will see how you are
destroying this co mmunity. I hope that you t ake into consideration the damage you are doing to our culture and how you are
driving aw ay f amilies fro m living this are a becau se of your over developed proj ects yo u continue to all o w .
Best regard s,
Audrey Webb
aud rey. webb @veri zon . net
408-472-2603
1
Marni Moseley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Dear Ms. Moseley,
Angie Smith <angiecolemansmith@gmail.com>
Tuesday, February 23, 2016 2:15 PM
Marni Moseley
II Vicinato
Firstly, thank you for serving on the Town of Los Gatos Planning Commission. I am sure in many ways it is a
thankless task with lots of complaints! And I do realize the town is under pressure from the state to increase the
available units of affordable housing in town.
However, with that said, as a resident of Los Gatos, I'd like to weigh in on the proposed "II Vicinato"
development on Shannon Rd. at Los Gatos Blvd.
I am greatly opposed to the development as shown by story poles right now because the buildings are too close
to the sidewalk and road. The buildings should be at least as far away from the sidewalk as at the housing
development immediately across Los Gatos Blvd from II Vicinato. The Planning Commission often requires
single family home remodels to match the size and setback to those homes around them ... this development
should be no different.
I also strongly disagree with the assessment you've used to estimate the number of students this development
will bring to the town. Those estimates have been inaccurate for years now , with the developers consistently
underestimating the number of new students a development like ll Vicinato will bring to our crowded school
districts. Please be reasonable and work with the school districts to determine a more likely estimate of
increased students, then ask the developer to provide additional financial support to the school districts
accordingly (yes, in addition to the property taxes to be generated from new owners of houses/condos).
Finally, it is simply poor judgment on the part of whomever determined a new traffic study was unnecessary for
this new development. One only has to drive around that block once on a weekday morning, and again on a
weekday afternoon to understand that property is currently heavily used as a safe drop off and pick up point for
Fisher Middle School students. Add to that the fact that both Orange Theory and Yoga Source currently share
that parking lot with the wine shop, and you've got a recipe for worsened traffic and parking problems all day
long on that comer if you develop II Vicinato as proposed. It makes no sense, and the mitigations in the ll
Vicinato document (pasted below) do not satisfactorily address these problems at all:
>» L Page 25 . To mitigate the probable increased queuing to travel east or make a right turn , "The applicant shall re-
stripe a portion of Shannon Road at the driveway access point for the proposed project to add a two-way turn lane to
provide storage space for vehicles intending to turn left from eastbound Shannon Road into the project driveway."
>>>
>» L Page 26 . "The weekday morning commute and school drop-off peak hours both typically fall within the 7:00 to 9:00
AM period and need not be studied separately." The afternoon peak period also will not be considered separately.
>>>
>» L Page 26 . "Because the net trip generation association with the proposed project is a slight reduction in the number
of AM and PM peak-hour trips these cumulative levels of service would not be expected to change as a result of the
proposed project."
Truly doesn't make sense to me , driving those routes each weekday, getting my 3 children to their various public schools
on time.
Thanks for your time. Please count my husba nd and I as opposed to this project as currently planned .
Kind regards ,
Angie Smith
1
Marni Moseley
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Hi Marni,
Richard Rouse <rouse.richard@gmail.com>
Tuesday, February 23, 2016 2:52 PM
Marni Moseley
scottplautz@gmail.com
16212 LG Blvd@Shannon project
My property at 16760 Magneson borders the proposed project. I strongly favor a residential development for
this lot. Our street is currently a residential peninsula, so having this lot converted to residents would make the
neighborhood more contiguous. I do have some concerns about light and privacy but I have talked with Scott
and I believe we can work together to mitigate these issues. Currently, we have a cinderblock wall that separates
the two properties . I hope we can retain this wall since it is more durable and has better sound proofing
properties than a wood fence.
Best regards,
Richard Rouse
1
Marni Moseley
From:
Sent:
To :
Subject:
HiMarni,
Debbie Parsons <debbieparsonsS@gmail.com>
Tuesday, February 23, 2016 3:06 PM
Marni Moseley
Please block development on Shannon road
Please do not approve the new housing development on Shannon Road.
The development does not conform to the residential zoning on Shannon or the nearby streets. Traffic , views
and safety will be compromised . The small town feel of Los Gatos will be further undermined.
Thank you.
Debbie Parsons
1
Marni Moseley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Hello Ms. Moseley,
Valerie Bredemeier <valeriebee1933@gmail.com>
Tuesday, February 23, 2016 3:28 PM
Marni Moseley
Council Mtg. Feb. 24 Agenda
We talked at your office today. This message would not send to the Town's address from my computer.
"I am a resident of the Terraces of Los Gatos and walk the neighborhood.
Imagine my surprise and chagrin to the see the story poles on the comer of Los Gatos Blvd. and Shannon Rd.
I fervently protest this yet another crowding in our town . I would hope, if this building happens , that the
architecture would be modified to honor the traffic patterns and integrity of the neighborhood .
Thank you,
Valerie Bredemeier" Tel. 408-358-5758"
Could you please deliver this message to be added to the agenda tomorrow?
Many thanks .
1
Marni Moseley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Ms Moseley,
Bruce Botto <bruce.botto@gmail.com >
Tuesday, February 23 , 2016 3:44 PM
Marni Moseley
Concerns, new development @ LG Blvd and Shannon
I am writing to voice my objection and concern of there pending approval for the proposed High Density
housing development at the comer ofLG Blvd and Shannon.
Los Gatos as a variety of standards and codes for new housing and remodeling that are designed to preserve the
town character and look. I think many residents are already alarmed that the high density development across
the street was allowed be built.
The proximity of the houses to the lot lines and the steet are very uncharacteristic of Los Gatos and should NOT
be repeated.
Other concerns are the poor/ inaccurate track record of the projection of new students to the school
system. Lets face it one of the single greatest drivers for families to live in Los Gatos is our amazing schools,
you have to have a more realistic projection of school impact for what is a series of family houses .
The other is parking, for dwellings that will have 2 -4 bed rooms, the planning assumption has to b e there will
need to be off street parking for at least 2 cars per dwelling.
Lastly why in the world w ere the story poles only up for 1 week, seemingly coincidently during a school break
when many residents were out of town. What could possibly be the motive for such a short showing if not to
minimize negative re action?? Seems suspect at best.
Please take a step back and do not let this development proceed, without it being revised to meet with the towns
guidelines
Thank you.
Bruce Botto
832 Lilac Way
Los Gatos
1
Marni Moseley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Regarding New Development:
Kathy Winkelman <kathywinkelman@hotmail.com >
Tuesday, February 23, 2016 5:18 PM
Marni Moseley
Irresponsible
The student numbers have always co nsis tently exceeded what the Town staff/developer have stated. Please produce an
updated "new student generation" track reco rd. I have lived in this community over 40 years and I am appalled at the lack
of proper pl a nning for expanding the r es idential co mmunity in our town. Our schools are impacted, our roadways
becoming dangero us fo r pedestrians and bicycles, and parking is prohibitive. Fix all that and then add reside nts to our
community. Otherwise the building is irresponsible.
Kathy Winkelman
Gi oia Italian Art and Products
408.640.6628
"Joy for Those Who Give and Those Who Receive"
https://gioiacompany.com/home
http://www.yelp .com/biz/gioia-company-los-gatos-2?osq=gioia+italian+art+and+products
https://www.facebook .com/gioiaitalianartandproducts
1
From: kerryl @enviroroof.com [mailto :kerryl @enviroroof.com]
Sent: Tuesday, February 23, 2016 4 :08 PM
To: Council; BSpector; Marice Sayoc
Subject: NO to Vicinato development
Dear Mayor, council and planning members,
I am vehemently against the proposed Ill Vicinato dense housing development at the corner of
Shannon and 16212 Los Gatos Blvd. This style of stacked, crowded , obtuse housing does not
harmonize with the aura of our town. Traffic congestion on the corner of Shannon and Los
Gatos Blvd . is already very heavy and dangerous for children crossing on bikes or foot to go to
Van Meter School and Fisher Middle School.
Please do not allow this project to go fourth .
Sincerely,
Kerry Laubach
Topping Way Resident
From: jcleve3@comcast. net [mail to :jcleve3 @com cast. net]
Sent: Tuesday, February 23, 2016 4:45 PM
To: Council
Subject: 16212 Los Gatos Blvd Development
All,
As a long time resident of Los Gatos I frequent the intersection of Shannon and Los Gatos
Blvd . The orange fencing and po les clearly demonstrate that the density of the proposed
homes is too great adding to traffic at peak hours when the local schools are having children
dropped off and picked up creating more traffic and safety concerns . Additionally the bui ldings
will restrict visibility around the Shannon to Los Gatos intersection potentially creating an
additional safety concern .
The construction will also directly impact the current business on the site as well as indirectly
the other local business who utilize the parking area . The density will most likely add to parking
concerns in the surrounding neighborhoods.
In summary I am not in favor and I recommend you not change the zoning from commercial:
• increased traffic
• increased safety of the school children
• safety concerns for visibility turning from Shannon to LG Blvd
• impact on local business (Los Gatos needs to be more business friendly in my opinion)
• increased parking problems in surrounding neighborhoods
Regards,
John Cleveland
238 Lorna Alta Ave
Los Gatos, Ca 95030
( 408) 395-7 464
RECEIVED
FEB 21 ?016
TG.WN OF LOS-GATOS
To : LG Community I Planning Commission 1 City Council PLANNING DIVISION
From: Artisan Wine Depot Los Gatos (AWDLG)
Subject: Development at 1621 2 Los Gatos Blvd with STEM 1 Scott Plautz
Hello and a sincere thank you to our several thousand customers who have
helped us establish our Artisan Wine Depot-Los Gatos store over the past two
years. You are a wonderful and supportive group of people, and we so enjoy
meeting your artisan wine, spirits, and beer needs and developing such
enjoyable relationships through our tastings and events. This letter is to
recognize the cooperative efforts of STEM and Scott Plautz regarding AWDLG
and the community regarding the development of 16212 Los Gatos Boulevard.
-Scott I STEM has supported AWDLG from both a landlord and customer
perspective.
-Scott 1 STEM has supported the community by working with AWDLG to
allow and organize parking access for the local school parents twice a
day for the entire time of our lease .
-Scott, AWDLG , and Yoga Source worked collaboratively with the city to
arrange a "story pole" setup that had less impact on the community due
to shorter duration (1 0 days vs 40) and optimal timing (Winter break vs
December holidays).
-Scott I STEM worked with AWDLG to organize the "story pole " setup
taking place in our parking lot to allow limited 1 controlled employee
access so inventory could be accomplished during this time period.
As retailers, we are simply not qualified to try to express the full merits of any
plan for the property beyond our current use, we can certainly say that Scott
and STEM work cooperatively with the lessee (AWDLG) and the community in
planning the short and long term development of the property.
Sincerely-the Artisan Wine Depot Team
I
I
i
i
l
I
i
I
!
I __ j
Marni Moseley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Dear Marni,
Karen Bean <losgatosbeans@gmail.com >
Tuesday, February 23, 2016 5:51 PM
Marn i Moseley
Opposition to residential building at Shannon/LG Blvd corner
This email is to express my concern over the story poles at the corner of Shannon Boulevard and Los Gatos Blvd. I
strongly disapprove of residential housing being built on this corner. I disapprove of the number of housing units that
are to be built on this corner as well as the look and feel of the units. The number of housing units be ing proposed is too
many for this size of a lot and the height and look of the residential units don't fit with the neighboring housing units. I
think this corner should be kept as a commercial real estate opportunity.
Thank you .
--Karen Bean
Concerned Los Gatos Resident
1
From: w james silva [mailto:wjsilvamd@qmail.com]
Sent: Tuesday, February 23, 2016 6 :11 PM
To: Council
Subject: Shannon LGB development aka Artisan Wine Depot
I would like to express my families strong opposition to the conversion of the Shannon/LGB aka Artisan
Wine Depot property conversion to hyperdense single family residences .
This project is inconsistent with current Los Gatos residences and seems to be a blatant attempt at
maximizing developer profit by putting quasi-condos bordering on our sidewalks to maximize their
profit. This is a key intersection serving Fisher and Van Meter and also a crucial auxiliary parking area for
families picking up their kids from Fisher, Van Meter and the several other businesses in the area
including Orange Theory and Yoga Source.
Please say no and sustain the quality of Los Gatos living.
Thanks
w j silva md 100 Stonybrook
From: Gail Boddy [mailto :s .and .s@verizon .net]
Sent: Tuesday, February 23, 2016 7:57PM
To: Council
Subject: Fw : II Vincanto development at 16212 Los Gatos Blvd
Good evening Town Council;
The below note I believe was sent in time for submission with the rest of the notes but just in case I
want to make our views clear. Please see below. Thank you
Best,
Gail & Martin Boddy
Nino Ave .
LG
On Wednesday, February 17, 2016 6:38PM, Gail Boddy <s.and .s@verizon .net> wrote :
Mr. Moseley;
Please do not approve this high density housing development. We see that life in Los Gatos has
been deteriorating with each new development. The impact to the schools is never what the
developers state, the traffic is unbearable and dangerous for emergency vehicles to get to folks in
time. With two schools so close to the development and one already high density housing
development there I don't know how any one in their right mind can approve this unless they don't
care about injuries or death to children . I won't be voting in future elections for anyone associated
with this approval in future elections. Our property values will decline as again quality of life is
declining in our lovely city. Please do not approve . Two homes on this lot should be plenty, no
more.
Best,
Martin & Gail Boddy
512 Nino Ave
LG
Marni Moseley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Hi ,
Hamid khazaei <hrk389@yahoo.com >
Tuesday, February 23, 2016 9:46 PM
Marni Moseley
High density homes on Lo s Gatos bid
My name is Hamid, living on Shannon Rd in Los gatos. I strongly oppose change in zoning of this property to
develop high density homes (11 HOMES). there has been a couple of these development in recent years on Los
gatos bold that has significantly impacted the quality oflife in our small town as well as school s.
Thanks
Hamid
Sent from Yahoo Mail on Android
Marni Moseley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Marni,
Russell Sheehan <russ@thesheehan.net>
Wednesday, February 24, 2016 8:36AM
Marni Moseley
16212 Los Gatos Blvd
I live on a 9300 sq foot plot on Kennedy Road. I am cursed with a single car garage for my re-modelled home
as planning regulators rigidly stipulated that the set back with my neighbor needed to be a minimum of 6 feet.
I am therefore very puzzled as to how 11 homes can conceivably be bui1t on a plot that is less than a acre? I can
only assume that building regulations are conveniently being relaxed? If this is the case then I am even more
concerned about the dangers of siting so many homes on a dangerous and busy junction and one that is a
thoroughfare for hundreds of school children during rush hour.
If approved, this is an accident waiting to happen and therefore the demands of the construction company need
to be balanced with the demands of the residents who insist on safety first. Let good sense and sanity prevail.
Allow the land to be converted from commercial to private use, allow the construction company to profit from
their venture and allow them to build 3 new homes in keeping with the neighborhood and everyone is happy.
11 homes is excessive, extreme and quite ridiculous .
Russ Sheehan
Kennedy Road
1
M arn i M ose ley
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Tina Lally <Tina .Lally@sli -systems.com >
Wednesday, February 24 , 2016 8:50 AM
Marni Moseley
Tina Lally
Growth and new development Los Gatos Blvd and Shannon Rd.
To Ms. Moseley & Whom it May Concern at the Town of Los Gatos,
I have lived in Los Gatos for 40 years and never have I been less proud and more disappointed with our very special
town . I am not 100% clear {I plan to hear both arguments and become fully educated on this topic) but I believe the
recent development plans of the North 40 and current development on the corner of Shannon and Los Gatos Blvd. have
mostly to do with the rights of land owners to build and develop and the need for lower income housing for teachers
and service people to live in our town. I am sure the need is there. However, it is simply una cc eptable that it can take 30
minutes to go 2.6 miles on a school day to drop my children off at St . Mary's School in Los Gatos. The traffic in, out,
around Los Gatos is absolutely an abomination. It isn't just Santa Cruz commute,rs or beach traffic on Highway 17. I too
lived in the 70s, 80s, and 90s in Los Gatos-we always had beach traffic and our town was never grid locked . This is da i ly
traffic in the mornings and afternoons when our children are walking and biking to school or we are driving them to
school -it is simply overpopulation and local traffic. I currently live on the corner of Shannon Rd . and Hilow Rd . and have
for 14 years. Shannon Rd is bumper to bumper at Bam and looks like Highway 85. I personally plan and time when I
leave my house, where I go and what I do based on the hour of the day and our traffic. I work in Downtown San Jose and
leave after 9:30 to avoid los Gatos gridlock. I avoid going downtown to shop and run errands and go outside of Los
Gatos to avoid our horrible congestion . What are we doing about this? An extra lane on Highway 17 does not solve this
problem. It i s unsafe for my children to play on our street due to the amount of cross traffic zooming down Hilow to
Topping, Marchmont, Englewood, and Kennedy trying to avoid Los Gatos Blvd. Adding 11 homes to barely 1 acre parcel
seems ridiculous . It takes 15 minutes to get through the light on Shannon and Los Gatos Blvd or the light on Kennedy
and Los Gatos Blvd with angry, road rage drivers trying to cut through Gem , Filmer and Harding nearly taking out
precious young students and families making their way by foot to Van Meter and Fisher . I'm fairly confident that the
two new large home developments on Los Gatos Blvd . and Roberts and Los Gatos Blvd. and Kennedy have had
significant impact on our traffic. I don't know anything about the enrollment numbers at our local schools but have
friends and family that are teachers or have/are students at our local schools-All whom complain about the over
enrollment in our schools. I need to understand what is going on. I need to understand why that when I was the
appointed Vice President and Board Member at Mariposa Montessori school on Ferris we were blocked from adding 9
students to our precious preschool by the Town of los Gatos and how that the same body of elected officials could
possibly approve this level of housing development. Why not put a new business at this location with ample parking and
realistic hours of operation 10am-6pm to avoid unnecessary morning and evening traffic? Why more housing and more
people? How many people can realistically live in this town. What happens if there is a natural disaster and we all need
to get out? What then? Something is terribly wrong and I have to understand the common sense logic behind it-not the
town ordinances or number of affordable housing units we must have etc. I need the town to really understand the
impact and come up with other solutions to meet the local, state, and federal town requirements and laws for land
owners. Can't we look at exist ing structures and turn some of those into more affordable housing solutions vs building
new ones on postage stamps in already heavily trafficked areas?
I appreciate your time and for receiving my email. I hope to attend tonight's council meeting.
Sincerely,
Tina Lally
Long time 40 yr resident
St . Mary's Parent
1
Marni Moseley
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Hi Marni,
Jeff Fiedler <jfiedler@core-competence.com >
Wednesday, February 24, 2016 9:25 AM
Marni Moseley; Planning
'Hong bi (halinabi@yahoo.com)'; 'Sanjeev Agrawal (sanjeev1969@gmail.com)'; Bryan
Isaacs; 'einmalig (Einmalig@aol.com)'; diane.wade@comcast.net
Opposition to Proposed development on the corner of Shannon Road and Los Gatos
Blvd
I want to express my strong disapproval of the proposed development on the corner of Shannon Road and Los Gatos
Blvd .
I have been a resident at 16711 Magneson Loop since 1999. I have an 11 year old son who attends Van Meter and we
have always feared for his safety crossing through that poorly designed intersection. Current traffic is already bad
enough but with a new development on that corner bringing even more traffic and more children I fear that a serious
accident will occur. My son and I have had numerous experiences where we were nearly run over by drivers running the
light while making a right turn off Shannon onto LG Blvd.
Everyone whom I have spoken with on Magneson Loop and in the greater area strongly opposes this project.
Sincerely,
Jeff Fiedler
Magneson Loop Resident
+1408 455 2323
jfiedler@core-competence.com
1
Marni Moseley
From:
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Hello Ms. Moselely,
Erica Barney <ericabarney@gmail.com >
Wednesday, February 24, 2016 10:01 AM
Marni Moseley
Shannon/LG Blvd Project
My name is Erica Barney, a local resident and parent. I wanted to write in and express my simple thoughts as to
the proposed housing project with the story poles a the Artisan center, plus add alternative ideas. Great wine
shop btw!
My feedback is that the cramped housing an eyesore, blocking the lovely mountain views that we all love. One
of the things that makes Los Gatos so appealing is its natural beauty, and township feel. Condensed housing,
while making the owner and developer some money, isn't what this community needs. The traffic there in the
am getting the kids safely to school, at Van Meter, is already at a standstill often. Adding more people instead
of a nice business, like an outdoor seated restaurant, would be more appealing to us locals. The few places we
can sit and eat outdoors is limited, and we end up migrating to towns like Campbell and Willow Glen. Those
towns have really catered to families and younger people by providing high end foods, without the cost of
Nicks, Manresa, Cin Cin, or Forbes Mill. I love all these great spots, but they aren'd designed for families, and
Willow Street/Main Street, while good, is often repeated too often.
I hear these complaints from tons of families, as we head to Campbell for fresh ideas on outdoor eateries. Please
consider these options, over packed tall housing for that plot of land. We sure want to keep out lovely town a
draw for locals as well as tourists ...
Thank you for your time,
Erica Barney
1
Marni Moseley
From :
Sent:
To:
Subject:
Importance:
Seandel, Suzy < Suzy.Seandel@caviumnetworks.com >
Wednesday, February 24, 2016 10:16 AM
Marni Moseley
housing development -II Vicinato
High
I'm writing to voice my concerns with the housing development -II Vicinato at the comer of Shannon Road and
Los Gatos Blvd.
The lot itself is 0 .94 acres. I believe putting 11 single family residences-6 townhouses with very little frontage
facing Los Gatos Boulevard plus 2 free standing homes facing Shannon plus 3 free standi ng homes in the
interior of the lot is considered high density living. There needs to be a
traffic study done to help understand the impact to the flow of traffic on Los Gatos Blvd. due to this additional
housing. We have been feeling the effects of the project that was built across the street in our overcrowded
schools, more traffic, less parking.
Please keep Los Gatos from becoming a town with all these issues.
I'm concerned it will be changed forever with these types of housing developments goi ng up including
upcoming developments such as the North 40 and the Los Gatos Lodge.
Suzy Seandel
1
From: Don Wood [mailto:donwood @aba x is.co m]
Sent: Wednesday, February 24, 2016 8:13AM
To: Council
Cc: james@ artisanwin edepot.com
Subject: Artisan Wine Depot
Dear LG Council,
I am writing to you regarding the Artisan Wine Group and their ability to be a value added member of
your business community on their existing lot. I live down the road on Blossom Hill in San Jose and I feel
they have added to the attractiveness of Los Gatos business. I enjoy that they are not selling their high
end products in your busy downtown area as parking is such a premium and quite frankly very
frustrating when we come into town . So kids are not passing in front of a wine store by being where
they are and they have plenty of parking so I have taken my business to them vs. going and spending my
money in Redwood City and Mountain View and their competitors. This is new business for Los Gatos
and I am sure your upper crust hard working community find their high end wine very appropriate for
your town.
Artisan allows me to stop on the way and buy a good bottle of wine (they carry premiums wines) that
then allows me to go have dinner in Los Gatos and bring my own bottle. This is a great little store with
personal service and again their incredible wine tasting are not being observed by kids wishing they
were tasting too . I always admired that they closed by 7:00pm so they are a good neighbor to their local
community in Los Gatos.
Lo s Gatos is a beautiful town and I always admired your look and feel. But more sprawl is only adding
distraction to your beautiful town. More condominiums and homes will only contribute more to turning
this beautiful town into another San Jose that has turned what was a beautiful Blossom Hill Road into a
concrete jungle.
The simplicity of this busine ss proving high end wines to a high end town and plenty of space for parking
along with clo sing neighborly early can only enhance Los Gator for years to come. It's another reason
why I want to leave San Jose and move to your community in the future.
Sincerely and all my best,
Don W ood
Pres ident & Chief Operatin g Offi cer
This Page
Intentionally
Left Blank