Item 2 - Exhibit 05 - September 1, 2020 Development Review Committee public commentsFrom: Karen Kurtz <kurtzk@comcast.net>
Sent: Tuesday, May 26, 2020 9:49 AM
To: Planning Comment <PlanningComment@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: Public comment item # 5
Regarding 101 Broadway.
My name is Karen Kurtz
I have been a resident of Los Gatos since 1967 and residing at my present home at
107 Broadway since 1988. My home was built approximately 132 years ago.
I agree that 101 Broadway should be demolished soon. It is presently a fire &
safety hazard as well as a health issue for our neighborhood. While I am happy
to know a new home will be built on the property, I am saddened to see the
present home plans which I do not believe blend in with our historic
neighborhood or with the Victorian style homes on either side of it and
throughout the neighborhood. I do not believe 101 Broadway should be 3 levels
in the front or have flat or straight roof lines as again there are no other homes in
the immediate area with that kind of architecture. I realize that the current trend
is contemporary but our neighborhood is not contemporary.
I also am very concerned about the impact on my views which have been
available & enjoyed at this property for over 100 years. Those views were
certainly a consideration when I purchased this property and have added value on
appraisals that I have had throughout the years. It will also block the light from
the east except for maybe the 3 months when the sun is at its highest. The east is
my only source of sun light because of the mountains & trees to the south and
west. Except for those few longer days I need to turn on my lights in the house
around 1:30 PM and all day in some rooms of my home on the lower
level. Taking away my light and views will devalue my property. This is my
retirement nest egg that I have fought to create and save for the last 32
years. Since I am in my 80’s this is a major concern for me now as I have no other
way to make up that lost value. I never considered or imagined that I would lose
those views and light source.
I really want to work with the owner of 101 Broadway to create something that
can satisfy both of our needs which I believe is possible. We have long but narrow
EXHIBIT 5
lots so the height issue along with window placement becomes more prominent
when we are so close to one another. I am concerned about the neighbor on the
other side at 98 Broadway whose owner passed away suddenly a few months
ago. I’m not sure anyone is around to speak up about the privacy that they will
lose with all the windows that will look into that backyard & their skylights.
My wish is to create a pleasant living experience for all. Yes, demo the present
home but may we work together on the plans for the new replacement home so
that they are more compatible for all regarding our privacy, views and natural
light. I request that anyone who has a part in making the decision about the new
house plans visit my property to see for themselves the negative impact the
present plans will have on my property and the neighbor on the other side at 98
Broadway.
Thank you for your consideration and time,
Karen Kurtz
107 Broadway Ext
From: Karen Kurtz <kurtzk@comcast.net>
Sent: Monday, June 15, 2020 1:00 PM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: RE: 101 Broadway Ext. Los Gatos
Sean,
I am attaching the letter that I wrote to accompany the project at 101 Broadway. I hope it was received
for the meeting with the Historical committee & is attached to the project file, if not, please include it.
It appears there is a new owner of this project. I hope I get to meet & work with them sometime in the
near future to get a project that we can both be happy with. You are welcomed to pass on my name,
phone number or email to them.
Thank you very much for getting back to me. It is much appreciated.
Karen Kurtz
From: Jay Plett <jay@plett-arc.com>
Sent: Monday, June 15, 2020 3:50 PM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: Re: 101 Broadway Ext. Los Gatos
Hi Sean - Mark and I met with her prior to her writing the letter. She seemed ok with project and we
were stunned
by her letter. The 3d shadow study submitted to you was prepared in response to her letter. Mark and I
plan to
reach out to her again and will keep you posted. My comments for planning, building, fire are ready -
just waiting
on Terry with the civil.
What are Planning's thoughts on the project?
Thanks, Jay
From: Jay Plett <jay@plett-arc.com>
Sent: Thursday, June 18, 2020 4:07 PM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>; Sally Zarnowitz <SZarnowitz@losgatosca.gov>; Mark De
Mattei <markd@demattei.com>
Subject: !01 Broadway Neighbor meeting
Hi Sean, Sally - Mark and I met with Mrs. Kurtz at her home today to review plans. We discussed the
shadow study
and how the shadows cast will behave, we removed one upper window and minimized another that
faces her.
Overall, a good meeting - and now for the storeypoles....
Plans were resubmitted to you earlier today through the portal. We would appreciate a quick review by
you to make
sure nothing is missing - if so, we want to provide it promptly. We are also ready with storeypole plan
for your review
and approval - just let us know when we can submit.
Thanks, Jay
--
JAY PLETT ARCHITECT
jay@plett-arc.com
office 408 354 4551
mobile 408 585 8787
From: Karen Kurtz <kurtzk@comcast.net>
Sent: Friday, July 3, 2020 3:54 PM
To: Sally Zarnowitz <SZarnowitz@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: Need assistance
Sally,
I hope you can help me or point me to someone who can.
My name is Karen Kurtz,
I am a long time resident of Los Gatos. I currently reside at 107 Broadway, Los Gatos where I have lived
since 1987. I lived in the Alta Vista area for 22 years before than. I am a single lady in my 80’s.
There is a major re-building project going on next door to me at 101 Broadway. The current plans have
a large negative impact on my property concerning views, light, devalue of my property and privacy. I
am looking for some support from someone from the town who can direct and help me in
understanding what my rights are, what the plan drawings really mean and are the builders telling me
the truth. After the story poles went up, it appears they did not tell me the truth about the height. I
know you provide help to the builders so I hope you also provide help to those affected by the builders.
My adult children all live out of the area so as an elder I am feeling quite alone and concerned about
being taken advantage of. I would just like a planner or someone with the knowledge to help walk me
through this project, similar to how you walk a builder through it. I would be so grateful if you could
provide me with some help and support with this project.
Thank you so much,
Karen Kurtz
408-691-1373
From: Karen Kurtz <kurtzk@comcast.net>
Sent: Thursday, July 9, 2020 8:45 AM
To: Sally Zarnowitz <SZarnowitz@losgatosca.gov>; Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: photos of story poles at 101 Broadway
Here are a couple of photo’s of the story poles for 101 Broadway. They might help for our conversation
this morning since you are not coming to the property. Note what happens for the neighbors below,
(most likely 3 neighbors below), besides my property.
Thank you for your time,
Karen
From: Karen Kurtz <kurtzk@comcast.net>
Sent: Monday, July 13, 2020 1:31 PM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>; Sally Zarnowitz <SZarnowitz@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: Questions/concerns for 101 Broadway plans
Sean,
I have some additional questions with the concerns to ask about the proposed plans at 101
Broadway. Joel said I should email you the questions and these would be kept in the file
1. Why are story poles not extending to show the rest of the proposed plans. The front of the
house plans propose putting an additional story on the front & also the present story poles are
higher than the tallest peak on the small addition to the present structure.. So it most likely will
cover additional views to the NE from my property. There is also suppose to be some kind of
break in between roofs that Mark & Jay have mentioned that the present story poles on the
back do not show that I can see. I would like to see complete story poles so that I and the
neighbors can really see all of the height that is proposed for that property.
2 What do you use to determine the natural level of a hill side property to be in order to measure
that 30’ height. Is it the same for all hillside & sloped properties?
2. How are coordinates determined and plugged into the program to create shadows. I am quite
certain I will not see sunlight except during the 3 or 4 summer months. If the building were set
back further maybe a little sun but it is set right on the edge of the property line very near to my
buildings that I don’t think I will get any of the morning sunlight. I barely got any in the past
with virtually no buildings. My teak patio furniture gets mildew during the winter
months. When Mark cut some trees down near my cottage in the back than I got some of the
later morning sunlight for a short time just before it hits the other trees to the East & never
from the South except in the few long summer months. The shadow program they showed me
doesn’t match my experience of actually living on the property for 32 years. Maybe my roof
would get light but not the ground level off my back door, which is up several feet from the
street level.
I will have more questions but these are my immediate questions. We have another meeting set for
Thursday between myself, my son, Brad, Mark and Jay. If you have time to answer these before
Thursday, that would be very helpful. I know you are working from home & life is a little crazy for all of
us.
I very much appreciate your help,
Karen
408-691-1373
From: Larry Brandhorst <lbrandhorst@thearchitectsalliance.com>
Sent: Wednesday, July 29, 2020 5:04 PM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>
Cc: Joel Paulson <jpaulson@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: 101 Broadway, Los Gatos
Sean,
My family are the Owners of the House at 93 Broadway, Los Gatos, CA and we have just
recently found out that someone applied for permits to build a house next door at 101
Broadway.
Apparently, we have learned that there has already been a Historic Preservation Committee
meeting to review the proposed house, however, we were never notified or new about this
meeting and apparently none of the neighbors new about it either. We would like to request the
minutes of the Historic Preservation Committee meeting and the process to file an appeal of the
Historic Preservation Committees decision, that apparently was held without public impute.
We have been reviewing the plans available at the City’s website and have seen the Story
Poles on the site and very strongly oppose this proposed house that they are planning to build
at 101 Broadway.
The proposed house extends way back behind the back of our house and the owner/contractor
is proposing practically full walls of windows on the East side of the house, looking directly into
our back yard.
Since this house is two stories high and one-story above the main floor level of our house it
greatly infringes and completely eliminates all privacy in our backyard and patio areas.
We are working on a more formal letter of objection to this proposed house design and also
some photo/drawings showing what the view would be like at the back of our house, with the
proposed new house at 101 Broadway. These photo/drawings should be very helpful to the City
in the decision to reject the proposed house plans.
Just wanted to give you a heads up of our objections and that we will be sending additional
information and want to be notified of any public committee meetings to review or approve these
house plans.
Please contact us if you have any question or need any specific information from us.
Thanks,
Larry D Brandhorst, AIA
From: Mark De Mattei <markd@demattei.com>
Sent: Monday, August 3, 2020 1:47 PM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>; Jay Plett <jay@plett-arc.com>
Cc: Joel Paulson <jpaulson@losgatosca.gov>; Sally Zarnowitz <SZarnowitz@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: RE: 101 Broadway, Los Gatos
Hi Sean,
Thank you for forwarding this e mail. So you are aware, I would like to convey my communications with
the neighbors. Lynn Brandhorst, now deceased, was the owner of the home at 93 Broadway; We
communicated with him when I purchased this property. He was looking forward to the new home to be
built; he was tired of looking at the dilapidated structure. He communicated with us about some site
specifics, which I looked into and have addressed.
Unfortunately, Lynn passed away several months ago leaving the home to his heirs who live in the mid-
west. A few weeks ago, the heirs called me and I met with them. They were here visiting from the mid-
west cleaning out the house and getting it ready for sale. They were asking me if I wanted to purchase
their property, as well as looking for a local Realtor referral. I gave them a referral and they will be
putting on the market very soon.
When I met with the heirs (sister-in-law Cathy, as well as Diane married to Larry) and we were discussing
realtors…, I showed them my plans and they seemed positive about the design. As such, this letter is out
of left field. It is unfortunate and unprofessional for an out of state architect to comment on the work of
Jay Plett, a well-established local architect who has followed all the Town’s guidelines and designed a very
fitting home.
Now fast forward, I have been told by other neighbors the reality is that the heirs of 93 are concerned our
story poles will discourage their potential buyers; so very self-serving.
As you are also aware, Jay and I met with Karen Kurtz at 107 four times. She is doing a good job of getting
ears, no matter what concessions I make for her.
I have met with other neighbors, Ilona Merli at 89 Broadway, as well as apartment owners. We have been
very accommodating, patient and respectful to all.
I have been to HPC twice and have been approved.
I just want to make it clear to the staff that we have designed and planned a home with the utmost
respect for the Site, the immediate neighbors, the Town, and the Town's residents.
I realize that anything I have said in this e mail to you means nothing in the big picture, as we have all
seen this many times. I just felt I want you to all to know the facts.
Kind Regards
Mark
Mark De Mattei
President
1794 The Alameda
San Jose, CA 95126
408.350.4200 p
website | facebook | Houzz
From: Larry Brandhorst <lbrandhorst@thearchitectsalliance.com>
Sent: Friday, August 7, 2020 1:10 PM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>
Cc: Joel Paulson <jpaulson@losgatosca.gov>; Sally Zarnowitz <SZarnowitz@losgatosca.gov>; Gayl
Henson <gayl@morganlawoffices.com>
Subject: RE: 101 Broadway, Los Gatos
Sean,
We are hereby forwarding some additional attached information relating to our objection of the
proposed House development at 101 Broadway, West of our property at 93 Broadway, as follows:
1. Town of Los Gatos, Hillside Development Standards and Guidelines.
Please refer to the highlighted items in the Architectural Design, Design objectives, standards and
guidelines and Design to be neighbor friendly Guidelines.
2.Photo from the center of the back Patio at 93 Broadway House with East Elevation (facing
93 Broadway) of the new proposed House development at 101 Broadway inserted into
photo. (Thanks to the story poles in the photo, we were able to accurately locate the new House
into the photo.)
As you can plainly see the new proposed House and all the East windows would extremely
infringe on the privacy of our back yard/patio area. However, what the elevation doesn’t show is
the fact that the new east elevation of the main part of the house is also only 5 feet from our
property line.
Another thing that doesn’t clearly show in the elevation is the large upper level terrace / outdoor
roof balcony area facing east and directly overlooking our patio area.
Therefore, I am also trying to work on sketch drawing section through our back patio area and the
House at 101 Broadway to show their direct view onto our patio, especially from the upper level
terrace / outdoor balcony.
WOULD YOU WANT THIS HOUSE BUILT ADJACENT AND 5 FEET FROM YOUR BACK
YARD ???
I hope to forward additional information and comments in the future.
Please contact me if you have any question or need any specific information from us.
Thanks,
Larry D Brandhorst, AIA
Re: 93 Broadway, Los Gatos, CA
From: Jay Plett <jay@plett-arc.com>
Sent: Wednesday, August 12, 2020 1:01 PM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: 101 Broadway letter
From: Mark De Mattei <markd@demattei.com>
Sent: Wednesday, August 12, 2020 8:10 AM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>
Cc: 'Jay Plett' <jay@plett-arc.com>; Sally Zarnowitz <SZarnowitz@losgatosca.gov>; Joel Paulson
<jpaulson@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: Broadway neighbor 4 doors down across the street
Hello Mark,
It was great chatting with you today.
This house looks great and hopefully there is no pushback from the neighbors. If you need us to do
anything in support of this project, just let us know.
It was great to meet your son.
Thanks,
Nicole
Mark De Mattei
President
1794 The Alameda
San Jose, CA 95126
408.350.4200 p
website | facebook | Houzz
From: Elisa Morgan <elisamorgan@att.net>
Sent: Tuesday, August 11, 2020 8:51 PM
To: Mark De Mattei <markd@demattei.com>
Subject: Re: Thank you
Hello Mark,
Wonderful talking with you yesterday. You’re usually on the run when I see you, so it was nice having a
few minutes to chat. Thank you for letting me know about your new build planned on Broadway. The
design looks great! Maybe Joline and I will stop by sometime on a walk. You and your family stay well
and happy!
Take care,
Elisa
Sent from my iPhone
From: Bill Gorman <bill.gorman@gmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, August 11, 2020 11:10 PM
To: markd@demattei.com
Subject: Broadway Project
Good morning Mark,
Thank you for sharing your new house plans for 101 Broadway. I own 98 Broadway
across the street. The improvements you will make to this property are fantastic and
long overdue. You have put great effort into the plans and I look forward to seeing
this come to fruition.
Bill Gorman
From: Gregory Howell <gregory@howelldevel.com>
Sent: Thursday, August 6, 2020 10:49 AM
To: markd@demattei.com
Subject: New Broadway house plans
Mark, thank you for reaching out to us today regarding your new house plans for 101 Broadway. We
own the 2 apartment buildings directly across the street from your project as we discussed. We also live
up the street on Glen Ridge Avenue and have been walking and driving past 101 Broadway for many
years. 101 Broadway has been an eye sore for far too long and this was even before it burnt
down. Thank you for putting the time, effort and money into such a well thought out plan. We look
forward to seeing your house plans built.
What a great addition to the neighborhood!
Regards,
Gregory and Diana Howell
125 Glen Ridge Avenue
Los Gatos,Ca. 95030
From: Ilona Merli <ilonamerli@gmail.com>
Sent: Saturday, August 15, 2020 2:32 PM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>; Joel Paulson <jpaulson@losgatosca.gov>; Sally Zarnowitz
<SZarnowitz@losgatosca.gov>
Cc: Karen Kurtz <KurtzK@comcast.net>; Larry Brandhorst <lbrandhorst@thearchitectsalliance.com>;
dianne.brandhorst <dianne.brandhorst@gmail.com>
Subject: 101 Broadway proposed project
Dear Mr. Mueller and Team,
I am writing to ask that the September 1st 101 Broadway discussion with the DRC be moved DIRECTLY to
the Planning Commission in an effort to save time and money. Regardless of the outcome of that
meeting, immediate neighbors (myself included) will use all channels available to protect our interests.
I am deeply concerned about the project at 101 Broadway; surrounding neighbors held a meeting last
evening on the subject and we jointly agreed to do whatever possible to preserve the integrity of our
homes and neighborhood, as well as protect our own home values. While the overall home value in
surrounding neighborhoods may ultimately increase based on sheer calculations of square footage and
perceived “prestige,” no one in their right mind would buy either of the neighboring properties were
this project to move forward as is — unless the price were significantly reduced.
Sadly, the proposed project beyond “impacts” the neighboring homes, privacy, light, space, overall
livability, as well as the integrity of the neighborhood, altogether. Additionally, it is essential that
decision-makers regarding this project (EACH of them) actually come out to the site and see for
themselves the invasive and inappropriate nature of the design with regard to impact on the neighbors.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
Ilona
Ilona Merli
89 Broadway
Los Gatos, 95030
408-839-6965
From: Mark De Mattei <markd@demattei.com>
Sent: Monday, August 17, 2020 12:29 PM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>; Jay Plett <jay@plett-arc.com>
Cc: Joel Paulson <jpaulson@losgatosca.gov>; Sally Zarnowitz <SZarnowitz@losgatosca.gov>; Robert
Schultz <RSchultz@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: RE: 101 Broadway proposed project
Dear Sean,
Thank you for your communication. Jay is on vacation this week . Although we have previously
addressed all of the points and provided detailed studies to demonstrate the neighbors alleged
accusations are unfounded. Jay however will respond to this neighbor e mail upon his return early next
week. By the way she mentions values decreasing. This is also not accurate as a nicely done home with
Jays thoughtful fitting architecture will increase immediate neighbors values and desirability.
Kind Regards,
Mark
Mark De Mattei
President
1794 The Alameda
San Jose, CA 95126
408.350.4200 p
website | facebook | Houzz
From: Jay Plett <jay@plett-arc.com>
Sent: Monday, August 24, 2020 11:47 AM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>
Cc: Mark De Mattei <markd@demattei.com>; Joel Paulson <jpaulson@losgatosca.gov>; Sally Zarnowitz
<SZarnowitz@losgatosca.gov>; Robert Schultz <RSchultz@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: Re: FW: 101 Broadway proposed project
Hi Sean -
I believe we have designed a home that not only meets the Town guideline criteria in technical aspects,
but
also in the spirit and intent of the design guidelines. We urge the DRC to approve the project as
designed with the agreed modifications per our conversations with Karen Kurtz.
Thanks, Jay
From: Irving MITSUNAGA <mitsunaga@comcast.net>
Sent: Wednesday, August 26, 2020 10:07 AM
To: Planning Comment <PlanningComment@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: Comment re 101 Broadway
Planning Review Committee and Planning Commission --
We are unable to attend the September 1 teleconference regarding rebuilding 101
Broadway, but we go on record in opposition to the structure as currently
designed. The planned structure is too tall and too close to the property line between
101 and 107. The planned structure blocks the sun and the view of the residence at
107. Moreover, the house at 107 is historically designated and its property value will be
decreased with this new structure.
We have lived in our house on Broadway since 1974 and we support the resident at 107
Broadway in her opposition to the designed structure. It is possible to build a one-story
structure at 101 that will fit better with the neighboring houses and will preserve the
value of the historical homes, and that should be required. Thank you for the
opportunity to send an email.
Irving and Evelyn Mitsunaga
130 Broadway
Los Gatos, CA 95030
From: Jay Plett <jay@plett-arc.com>
Sent: Wednesday, August 26, 2020 3:44 PM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>; Mark De Mattei <markd@demattei.com>
Subject: Re: FW: Comment re 101 Broadway
Thanks Sean, communication received. We would like to reiterate our project does not block 107's
sunlight per the shadow studies provided. We have demonstrated in multiple ways with drawings,
model studies, and verbal
communication that our design is wholly compatible with the surrounding houses, Town design
guidelines and
the historic character of the district as found by unanimous decision of the HPC committee.
Regards, Jay
From: Karen Kurtz <kurtzk@comcast.net>
Sent: Thursday, August 27, 2020 5:24 PM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>; Sally Zarnowitz <SZarnowitz@losgatosca.gov>; Joel Paulson
<jpaulson@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: 101 Broadway project question
Sean,
I have a question about the ADU regarding 101 Broadway that I haven’t figured out or gotten
any answer to yet.
On the front page of the plans it says “ADU future proposal 665sf” but, there is an ADU
included in the drawings. Is there another ADU proposed or what does all of that mean and
also how does it all fit in to FAR? It looks like they are up to their FAR limit. I once asked Mark
if he could build a separate ADU in the back so he could lower the house and it was an
emphatic “no”. I thought ADU’s were to be separate rentals to create affordable living
quarters. This ADU does not appear to be a separate rental but instead incorporated into the
main living quarters. We need a little explanation as to what all of this means.
I would ask Mark but it has been a challenge trying to get straight answers from Mark or
Jay. We have had 3 meetings and basically no real changes and a lot of untruths or skirting
around a real answer. I was very disappointed to learn that he told neighbors that I was old,
could barely walk and was planning to move so I didn’t care what the plans for the project
looked like. This is totally untrue except I’m old. A situation like this in my occupation would be
elder abuse and I would lose my license. I learned this through mutual acquaintances. This is a
small town! He told me, that a lot of neighbors were happy with the plans when in fact I’ve
learned that is not true, or when I asked how many square feet the home at 89 Broadway, that
he built, was he said around 2500sf when it is actually 1270sf. At every meeting when I asked
about the height of the project each time it was something different and when the story poles
went up it was once again different and higher than they ever told me in the meetings. I have
never learned about the shade cover figures which I had asked you about except that it was all
“scientific”. How will I ever know if the correct correspondents were plugged in or exactly what
is done to get that information is correct? This is only a sample of my experiences. How can
someone actually work with anyone who can’t be up front and honest or agree to make real
changes. (To be fair, I got 6” lowered on the height and a couple of windows shortened, very
minor changes. Also no deck to be built on the flat roof in the very back of the ADU. That is
important since that is at fence height.) I’m so very disappointed and this behavior has got to
stop! It will never get us to any kind of an agreement or working “together” condition. We
have a lot of neighbor work to complete.
Sorry to mention this to you but everyone needs to know that I and neighbors have listened
and tried to work with Mark and Jay but so far it hasn’t worked. We all want a home built on
that lot but we want something reasonable that will be in harmony, enhance and improve our
important Broadway Historic District. Not devalue our properties and invade our privacy or
hide the sun and nature. A home built like this would forever change the profile of this
neighborhood. I or the next owner will want to build a taller structure in my backyard to re-
capture the light and the views. The owners below may want to build something tall to create
some privacy. Will 93 Broadway ever sell for the price that it is really worth with a tall structure
like this being built next door? The only other house nearby on our side of the street that is
2500+sf is 115 Broadway on a wider and approximately ½ acre lot and that addition is only one
story, like 93 Broadway. Our lots may be long but very narrow and sloped uphill.
I will be sending more pictures since no one from the DRC or planning has been out to my
property to see the actual impact that this project will have on our properties, except Joel
Paulson. Even pictures cannot capture the real affect. Anyone is welcomed to come by. I just
need a phone call so I can open the side gate. Thank you to Joel!
Thank you for your assistance with any information about the ADU.
Regards,
Karen Kurtz
107 Broadway
408-691-1373
From: Karen Kurtz <kurtzk@comcast.net>
Sent: Friday, August 28, 2020 9:21 AM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>; Sally Zarnowitz <SZarnowitz@losgatosca.gov>; Joel Paulson
<jpaulson@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: 101 Broadway
Sean,
I’m attaching a few more pictures regarding the proposed project of 101 Broadway to attempt
to show what affect it will have on my home at 107 Broadway which is next door & up the hill
from 101. I ask, how would you like the proposed house in your vision every time you stood at
your kitchen window or sat on your patio? A vision that will block all that nature has to offer,
the trees, the hills, the clouds, the birds flying around and landing in the water fountain and
including your morning sunlight? It not only includes the loss of the views of nature and the
sunlight but even the light that reflects off of the hills when the sun is setting. Please note in
the proposed picture #2 that the green temporary fencing sits back onto my property by over 3’
in the center so the house would actually be much closer than the picture shows. The
3rd picture is from my upper patio that is 8 steps above my main living area & patio, sky line
totally blocked, the 4th picture is before the story poles from that upper patio, the 5th is from
the upper patio at sunset. My kitchen window is totally blocked from seeing any sky unless I
lean over & look up, I am short so it would be even worse for someone average height or
taller. Keep in mind that these current scenes have been this way since before my house was
built, around 1887, 133 years ago.
I purchased this home 32 years ago after searching for over 3 years to find a Victorian that I
could restore and live in. It was a goal of mine for 20 years. The main priority besides finding
one in my price range was to have enough windows for light and the East morning sun in my
kitchen and bedroom This is not something I am making up just now because of the fact that
this project will block all of that. It is something that has been important to me for many years,
my agent was getting quit impatient with me. It is also important to point out that this is the
only source of sunlight for my property except for summer time when the sun is higher, as the
south has the mountains and tall trees and the west has the higher level home and tall
trees. Presently, with that space entirely open, I have to turn on my lights inside the house
about 1:30pm the majority of the time. My roof, patio furniture, walk ways, and rock walls get
covered in mildew each year once summer is over. I hope you see how important that Eastern
sunlight is to my property. Plus the negative affect on my mental and physical health as we all
need to have some sunlight or we suffer from depression. I haven’t even mentioned the
negative affect on the value of my property, a large chuck of my retirement equity.
My privacy also will be gone with only a 5’ set back. The overhang of the eaves and the
windows when opened will make that space even less. All of this right over the patio area
where I spend a great deal of time each and every day. It’s my backdoor area. I will hear
everything and so will they. We both lose our privacy and this is actually true for all sides of the
project because of the height & length of the house running up a slope, short setbacks, the
patios, the upper level terrace and all the windows. It’s obvious they are trying to capture the
views. I’ve seen the client standing over there several times pointing them out. Why would
they be allowed to block all the views and light from a property that has been here for over a
hundred years?
Something very nice could be built there without taking away everyone’s privacy and light and
truly be in harmony, blend in and enhance all of our properties, not devalue the properties next
door. I have worked two jobs the majority of the time I have lived here until the last 3 years in
order to keep this home in good condition and the Historic integrity. I’m proud to own a home
on the Bell Ringer list. I know the owner of 93 Broadway spent over 3 years when he re-built
his home, trying to satisfy the Historical guide lines of the town requirements. It became a
great addition to the neighborhood. The 101 property was sadly taken out of the Historical
status just because it had some changes made years ago.
This project is just way too tall & too big! It needs to be lowered in order to blend in with the
surrounding properties on the same side of the street. Help save our Historical neighborhood.
Please come see it for yourself. I am very disappointed that I have not seen anyone from the
town come to view the project from my backyard except Joel Paulson. There is no way you can
tell the true negative affect it will have on our Broadway Historical homes and neighborhood by
just looking at plans on paper. It may fit within your Design guide lines but the lot & the
neighborhood are not your average lot and neighborhood.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
Karen Kurtz
107 Broadway
408-691-1373
CURRENT PHOTO VIEW FROM PATIO DECK AT 107 BROADWAY
PHOTO VIEW FROM 107 BROADWAY WITH PROPOSED HOUSE AT 101
BROADWAY
From: Mark De Mattei <markd@demattei.com>
Sent: Friday, August 28, 2020 11:08 AM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>; Jay Plett <jay@plett-arc.com>
Subject: RE: 101 Broadway project question
Hi Sean , thank you for sending. I do have to say this is all nonsense and not true . I have never told
anyone that Karen can’t walk and all of the rest of the allegations.
Jay and I have been most gracious , accurate and honest. It’s sad they do not understand the design as
well as the architecture.
Mark De Mattei
President
1794 The Alameda
San Jose, CA 95126
408.350.4200 p
website | facebook | Houzz
From: Larry Brandhorst <lbrandhorst@thearchitectsalliance.com>
Sent: Friday, August 28, 2020 11:11 AM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>
Cc: Joel Paulson <jpaulson@losgatosca.gov>; Sally Zarnowitz <SZarnowitz@losgatosca.gov>; Robert
Schultz <RSchultz@losgatosca.gov>; Gayl Henson <gayl@morganlawoffices.com>
Subject: RE: 101 Broadway, Los Gatos
Sean,
Forwarding attached letter with attachments addressing our Objection to the Proposed House
at 101 Broadway.
We look forward to the opportunity to speak to the Development Review Committee Meeting on
September 1, 2020.
Thanks,
Larry D Brandhorst, AIA
From: Karen Kurtz <kurtzk@comcast.net>
Sent: Saturday, August 29, 2020 8:33 PM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>; Sally Zarnowitz <SZarnowitz@losgatosca.gov>; Joel Paulson
<jpaulson@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: 101 Broadway
Yes, me again with another concern/question.
I’ve been looking at Jay’s letter of justification drawings, I note that his drawings on page 3 and page 7
show that my ADU is taller than the proposed house. The real fact is, the story poles are taller than my
ADU. Are the story poles wrong or are his drawings incorrect? Who overs sees these kind of
situations? I don’t know how important these drawings are but the real fact is, it presents an inaccurate
scenario. I am so sorry and do appreciate your time on getting back to me. I am not a professional on
builder/architect plans. I need assistance on helping me understand what really is proposed now, not
before I’m suddenly surprised when the building begins. It’s because of these kind of situations that I
am questioning how accurate the shadow study is. Who checks these details for accuracy? This is a
serious project for me and the other nearby neighbors. It looks much different in person than on paper.
This morning at 8:00 the shadow of my ADU was extending out beyond my vegetable garden on my
upper patio area. If 101 was built as proposed, it would have blocked my house of the morning
sun. This on August 29th. That shadow lasted until at least 10:30 in the area of my house and back door
patio. That means artificial light beginning mid-August or earlier and lasting until June? So much for
energy saving. And gone is the possibility of my own small vegetable garden?
I would appreciate you checking into the drawings on Jay’s report and get back to me.
Thank you once again, your help is appreciated,
Karen Kurtz
107 Broadway
From: Karen Kurtz <kurtzk@comcast.net>
Sent: Sunday, August 30, 2020 12:23 PM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>; Sally Zarnowitz <SZarnowitz@losgatosca.gov>; Joel Paulson
<jpaulson@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: FW: Shadow at noon August. 30
This is to add to the file to show the true effects of the proposed house blocking the sunlight. My house
is in line with the right side of those steps leading to my upper patio so my house would still be in the
shade at 12:00pm at the end of August. You can see the shade still covering the entire upper level due
to 101 trees and upper level. Remember the story
poles are taller than my ADU. Note: ADU has no plumbing.
Thanks again,
Karen
From: Paul Clark <p_clark@hotmail.com>
Sent: Monday, August 31, 2020 8:53 AM
To: Planning Comment <PlanningComment@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: Comments on 101 Broadway pending planning project
Hello
Since I am unable to attend the Zoom meeting this week to discuss 101 Broadway, I would like
to share some comments ahead of time.
First, I would like to say that I support having a new home on the site of 101 Broadway, and am
looking forward to welcoming new neighbors.
That said, I have two, related objections to the plans as they stand today. The first is the so-
called “future ADU.” While explicitly excluded from the current application, the so-called ADU is
clearly an integral part of the structure, fully connected to the rest of the house. Not only is it
structurally integrated, sitting underneath the master bedroom and master bathroom, but it is
also directly accessible from the kitchen. These plans represent a 3,100 square foot house
masquerading as a 2,450 square foot house. The second objection is caused by that same so-
called ADU. Its presence within the main house forces the master bedroom and bathroom up a
level, which in turn blocks the view of the long-time resident next door. This directly contradicts
a claim in the letter of justification that states that “THE PROPOSED HOME WAS PLANNED AND
DESIGNED WITH THE UTMOST RESPECT FOR THE SITE, IMMEDIATE NEIGHBORS AND TOWN'S
RESIDENTS” and that “WE HAVE MET NUMEROUS TIMES WITH KAREN KURTZ OF 107
BROADWAY AND MADE ACCOMMODATIONS FOR HER CONCERNS.” If those claims were true,
then the proposed structure would not remove the view that Karen Kurtz has had for several
decades.
Best regards
Paul Clark
117 Broadway
From: Jay Plett <jay@plett-arc.com>
Sent: Monday, August 31, 2020 10:00 AM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>; Sally Zarnowitz <SZarnowitz@losgatosca.gov>; Joel Paulson
<jpaulson@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: Broadway neighbor sections 9.1.20 | 1of2
Hi Sean - we prepared this neighbor comparison over the weekend. All data is derived from civil
engineer and the Town's GIS information.
We are prepared to make the concessions shown in orange if those concessions ensure the approval of
the project.
This further shows we are trying to accommodate concerns of neighbors.
From: Jay Plett <jay@plett-arc.com>
Sent: Monday, August 31, 2020 10:03 AM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>; Sally Zarnowitz <SZarnowitz@losgatosca.gov>; Joel Paulson
<jpaulson@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: 101 Broadway - Section | 2of2
Sean - this is the info provided by T/S that the Section just sent was based on.
Best regards, Terry
Terence J. Szewczyk. P.E.
TS/Civil Engineering, Inc
1776 Technology Drive
San Jose, CA 95110
(408) 316-2696 cell (BEST NUMBER)
(408) 452-9300 ext 220 office (RINGS THRU TO CELL)
From: Maria Ristow <ristows@comcast.net>
Sent: Monday, August 31, 2020 10:21 AM
To: Planning Comment <PlanningComment@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: Public Comment Item #1 (101 Broadway)
The proposed house at 101 Broadway looks great on paper, but it doesn't work on the lot. I
attended the January meeting of the Historic Preservation Committee where these plans were
discussed and was supportive. The burnt-out remains of the old house need to be replaced,
and I know Mark DeMattei builds beautiful homes.
That said, once the story poles went up and we visited the adjacent properties, we were
dismayed. Looking at the plans is one thing, and seeing the impact on the neighboring
properties is another. The topography of the land is lost when looking on paper. With a 2-story
home built back into the deep property, the uphill property will be hemmed in, losing light and
visual space. The two downhill properties will have serious loss of privacy.
While these plans might meet at the objective criteria in terms of FAR, height,
setbacks....sometimes this is not enough. No set of rules can take all conditions into
account. With the tight lots and steep slope of upper Broadway, what works in one part of town
doesn't work here.
There has got to be another way to build here without such severe impacts on the neighbors.
Thank you,
Warren and Maria Ristow
85 Broadway
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