Exhibit 13 - Public comments received by 1100 a.m., Friday, December 4, 2020From: Judy Wallace <judeswallace@yahoo.com>
Sent: Friday, November 6, 2020 3:15 PM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: 62 Ellenwood Avenue
Dear Mr, Mullin,
I have lived at 68 Ellenwood Avenue for close to 50 years. I have seen projects come and go in the
neighborhood….some good and a few not so good. Fortunately, over the years ,I've had the great
advice and guidance from Leonard Pacheco. If he had see the proposed plans for the Swenson project,
my phone would have been ringing off the hook from the first day the plans were presented.!!!!!
This house is way too big for our neighborhood!!!! It looks like a hotel. I just drove by the story poles
with my sister in the car and her first response was OMG !!!! what are they’d thinking….will the city
really allow this to be built? I must say, my feelings exactly.
I have always felt that the planning department pretty much looked out for the historical
neighborhoods.. When I have been given a headsup about a proposed project, I’ve made it a point to
get involved to preserve what we have on this street and so far so good. The Pinckles as 66 Ellenwood
have a large house however 1/3 of the house is basically under ground. Their roofline does not exceed
what was there before…….you should have seen the plans we denied before we accepted the present
house!!!!!...thanks to Leonard.
The new house is not only massive and way too tall, the design is so uncharacteristic of the architecture
on Ellenwood..The idea of removing the oak tree is so unbelievable. I just can’t believe the city allowed
it!!!. We had to reduce the back of our house by 3 feet because of an oak branch being in the
way…..kept the tree and the branch to comply with the city regulations…..could have paid the fine and
had 3 more feet but nooo.
I feel the tree should not be allowed to be removed. If we could not remove a branch how do they get
to remove the tree. The plans should be adjusted to comply with the towns tree policy. If the present
owners cannot work with the tree and reduce the scale of their proposed house they should consider
alternative options.
Please take into consideration my concerns. Make sure everyone on the planning commission does a
driveby of our neighborhood. Most of the homes have maintained a historical aspect to some degree.
The current project does not seem to comply with the nature of the neighborhood. Thank you for your
time and consideration of my request.
Sincerely
Judy Wallace
EXHIBIT 13
From: Catherine Chimenti <kbchimenti@yahoo.com>
Sent: Monday, November 16, 2020 12:17 PM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: 62 Ellenwood project
November 16, 2020
To Whom it May Concern,
We live at 67 Ellenwood, directly across from the proposed construction at 62 Ellenwood. We ask for the
serious consideration of the following objections before approval is given to the plans.
1)The overall size of the home is massive for the lot size; both in height and square feet.
2)The architecture is too contemporary and clearly does not blend at all with the quaint historical homes
in the neighborhood. Additionally, the rendering posted on the fence does not match the recently
updated changes of modern materials to be used.
While an impressive statement is made, it is a statement of not belonging or having regard for the
traditional architecture of Los Gatos homes; particularly of the Glen Ridge area.
3)The proposed removal of the healthy, mature oak is not in compliance of protecting oak trees. Many
homes have altered plans in order to remain in compliance as directed by the town.
Thank you for your attention to these objections.
Regards, Kate and Bob Chimenti
From: ndeanmft@aol.com <ndeanmft@aol.com>
Sent: Monday, November 16, 2020 8:20 PM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: Remodel planned at 62 Ellenwood Avenue, Los Gatos
Mr. Mullins:
As a Los Gatos resident who walks Ellenwood Ave. frequently, I want to register my
consternation and dismay over the plans to remove the venerable live oak tree that
must be 100+ years old on the property at 62 Ellenwood. How can the loss of this
magnificent tree be justified when removing even minor trees in town is met with denial?
The approval for this carnage smacks of special privilege for this family at great cost to
the neighborhood.
Very sincerely,
Nancy Dean
Fairview Plaza
From: Raquel Connolly <raquelconnolly@yahoo.com>
Sent: Wednesday, November 18, 2020 7:49 PM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>
Cc: jpc3md@yahoo.com
Subject: 62 Ellenwood Avenue Project
Dear Member of the Los Gatos Planning Commission,
We are writing in regards to the proposed project on 62 Ellenwood Avenue in Los Gatos.
The purpose of this letter is to let the commission know of our support of this project and the reasons
for it.
We live on 1 Massol Court in Los Gatos and have lived in the Almond Grove area for 15 years.
We have known Case and Lisa Swenson for many years. They have lived in Los Gatos for most of their
lives and have deep appreciation for our town. They have not only been respectful in response to the all
their neighbors’ concerns but also accommodating in changing the design of their home to better suit
the community. We have reviewed the new plans and feel the house not only fits with the aesthetic of
the lot, but it will enhance the beauty of the neighborhood. We are aware some of the neighbors have
expressed concern over losing an Oak tree, however this decision was not taken lightly and was
recommended by the towns Historical Committee in lieu of shifting the proposed home’s footprint
much closer to the street. We feel this decision would have had a much greater impact to the feel of the
neighborhood than the current proposed design.
The Swenson’s purchased this home because they loved the lot, town and community. Their plan was
always to raise their children here. We have been inside their current home and it’s small with a poor
floor plan. The Swenson’s have been great neighbors and an asset to the community and we believe
they should be allowed to improve their home to meet the needs of their family.
Respectfully,
Raquel and John Connoly
1 Massol Court
From: Stuart and Nancy Lee <sd88lee@yahoo.com>
Sent: Wednesday, November 18, 2020 3:00 PM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: Project on Ellenwood
Dear Mr. Mullin,
I am a resident of Los Gatos, who frequently walks in the Glen Ridge area. I am worried about the
proposed construction on Ellenwood. I have noticed the story poles up at 62 Ellenwood and I am
concerned that the town is allowing this construction. First, there is a beautiful oak tree that will be
destroyed if this house is built. I live across from a large oak on Massol Avenue that the town is diligently
trying its best to save. I don't understand why we would allow this oak, which is gorgeous, to be torn
down. Second, the house will be enormous, and not in keeping with the vast majority of the other houses
on the street. Lastly, looking at the picture provided, the house does not appear to fit with the traditional
architecture of the Almond Grove and Glen Ridge areas.
Please consider my concerns.
Sincerely,
Nancy Lee
219 Massol Avenue
Los Gatos, CA
From: Filice, Michael @ San Jose <Mike.Filice@cbre.com>
Sent: Thursday, November 19, 2020 10:03 AM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>
Cc: jenfilice@me.com
Subject: 62 Ellenwood Avenue Application S-20-008 - Letter of Support
November 19, 2020
Sean Mullin
Associate Planner / Community Development Department
110 E. Main Street
Los Gatos CA 95030
RE: 62 Ellenwood Avenue Application S-20-008
Dear Sean,
Hope you are well and healthy. We are writing to voice our support for Lisa and Case Swenson’s
proposed new home at 62 Ellenwood Avenue. We have been family friends of the Swenson’s for many
years and know they have been working on their house plans with their architect for several
years. They have always been committed in making sure their new home will fit in with the “look and
feel” of neighborhood.
We have reviewed the renderings of the house and believe they have spent much time in the natural
design finishes which will result in the home fitting beautifully in the surrounding neighborhood.
The Swenson’s have been long time Los Gatos residents and wonderful members of the our community.
As such they are committed to maintaining harmony with their neighbors as demonstrated by their
facilitation of many meetings between their architect, landscape architect and neighbors to try to
address and consider all of their concerns.
We really hope the commission will approve the Swenson’s new home at 62 Ellenwood Avenue.
Sincerely,
Jennifer and Michael Filice
361 Pennsylvania Avenue
Los Gatos, CA 90530
From: Sarah Zweng <zwengsarah@gmail.com>
Sent: Thursday, November 19, 2020 3:53 PM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: 62 Ellenwood objection
It has come to my attention on my daily walks through the neighborhood that the lovely home on 62
Ellenwood is planning to be torn down and replaced with a monster home changing the landscape of the
neighborhood. This has always been one of my favorite homes with the beautiful front lawn, elegant
and mature oak trees, and stunning setback from the street. I can only imagine how the neighbors must
feel as their views are either going to be altered or soon to be dominated by that massive new home.
This home does not reflect the character or scale of the other homes on the street, giving an
ostentatious appearance rather than the charming and friendly vibe of the neighborhood. Lastly, the
elegant oaks should be protected and not cut down, they add character and native California flair that
can not be replaced.
Thank you for your time
Best regards
Sarah Zweng
36 Glen Ridge Ave
Los Gatos CA 95030
-----Original Message-----
From: Corky Griffith <look4wind@aol.com>
Sent: Thursday, November 19, 2020 10:52 PM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: 62 ellenwood
it has come to our attention that the oak trees on the property will be disturbed. i believe they are
protected and should be left in place
From: Joan Evans <joan@aktransactions.com>
Sent: Friday, November 20, 2020 6:47 PM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: 62 Ellenwood
Dear Sean,
First and foremost, thank you for your diligent work overseeing the integrity of our beautiful town, and
the “future look” of our town. I believe the residents of Los Gatos choose to live here because of their
love for the downtown, for nature, culture, along with the beautiful architecture of the historic
buildings, and magnificent homes.
I grew up in San Jose, attended St Martin of Tours 1-8, Del Mar High School, then SJSU. In high school, I
traveled on bus to compete at LG high School. It was always the highlight of our season. To come to such
a beautiful high school, play a game or run a race, and then to have dinner in town. It was an all day
affair my family looked forward to.
Now, after being an 18 year resident here in Los Gatos, our daughter is a sophomore at the high school,
our son is at Fisher, he will attend LGHS next year.
I am fortunate enough to be a daily walker and hiker of most neighborhoods in Los Gatos. I hike the
dam, St Joes, Cypress, Blackberry Hill, Overlook, Foster, Sheldon Rd….I try to cover it all! Today, I walked
past --- Ellenwood and Alexander… it is one of my favorite streets. Two Beautiful houses, with enormous
lots, set way back. I saw story poles on one of the properties and was so grateful that the poles were set
so far back, almost exactly to what the house currently has, in height and dimension. The entire front
lawn was left “as-is” – preserving the integrity of the open space. Clearly, it is refreshing that they are
not building a “Mini-Mansion”. I was also amazed at the ability to add so much space without going too
high and obstructing neighbors views of the trees, sky, and mountains.
The reason I brought up the high school earlier, is that in 1908, when the high school was built, the
popular architecture was the grand neoclassical style. When it came time to keep up with the increase in
student population, an add-on was necessary. The new architecture toward the back of the school
reflects our current times. It is more modern and definately reflects our current times, not only in terms
of the style but the sustainability. I am quite sure that if the front of the school had to be rebuilt for any
reason that we would not be using the same products that the current face of the school is made of, and
probably not the same style.
I believe that the property at 62 Ellenwood is running into the same problems the high school had. Their
home was built in 1925, the architecture was different then, and they have doubled their family size. I
have heard peoples objections to their story poles... change is hard for people. A lot of times, people
fight change, but once it has happened, compliments come forward and people forget what the old
house looked like. More times than not, the additional square footage, the updated heating system,
appliances, windows, materials used to build the home are not only better for our environment, but also
increase the property value of the homes around it.
As neighbors, my husband Doug and I are 100% in favor of the renovation of 62 Ellenwood. I can not
imagine a neighbor who would object to anyone increasing their property value without having to spend
any money on their own home.
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to voice our opinion,
Joan and Doug Evans
120 Griffith Place
From: P & C Horan <horans@me.com>
Sent: Saturday, November 21, 2020 12:27 PM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: Swenson - demo/rebuild - 62 Ellenwood - APN 510-20-068
Dear Mr. Mullin,
I am contacting your office as a neighbor to the proposed demo/rebuild at 62 Ellenwood. My wife
and I live at 54 Ellenwood Ave. We have have been residents at our address for the last 30 years. We walk
our dogs by this address almost every day. We know many of the neighbors to this address as well.
I’ll preface my comments by stating there are always folks who have more money, live in a bigger
house and drive a fancier car. My wife and I understand that. No problem, that’s life. We are not used to
many changes around our neighborhood. As we look at the story poles for the property, this rebuild is so big.
it changes the character of the street dramatically. I know the Swensons have met the FAR requirements but
why can’t it be moved further back from the street? Ellenwood Avenue has curves at this point and we have
been accustomed to the visibility (what little you can get) around the corner. In our opinion, the garage
proximity to the road with greater height profile doesn’t improve safety.
Additionally, if the large Oak tree is to be removed we would request the garage be moved further
back on the property. Also with the tree removal, The Swensons should be required to replace the Oak with
another, not jus a small sapling. The replacement tree should be at least the a 30 gallon Oak or larger. It’s
our opinion that with the size of this rebuilt house, a second large tree should also be required for removal of
the existing old yet healthy oak.
Regards,
Peter and Corlene Horan
54 Ellenwood Ave
From: Shannon Burnett <shannonburnett@mac.com>
Sent: Saturday, November 21, 2020 6:47 PM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: Burnett Support Letter for Swenson Project
Los Gatos Planning Commission,
My name is Dr. Gregory Burnett. My wife, Shannon Burnett, and I speak in strong favor of the proposed
Swenson family project at 62 Ellenwood Avenue. Case & Lisa are two of our dearest friends. We have known
Case for 37 years and his wife, Lisa, for more than 25 years.
Our current address is 54 Hernandez Avenue. We have lived at this address for 20 years. Prior to that, we
lived at 235 Glenridge Avenue. Moreover, 85 Ellenwood Avenue is my childhood home and continues to be
the home of my mother, Susan (Burnett) Novick. I have lived in this neighborhood for 52 years. My wife has
lived in Los Gatos for more than 45 years. Her parents, Joe & Joanne Rodgers, are also dear friends of the
Swenson family, enthusiastic contributors to our community and have been residents for 45 years. We both,
as well as our daughter, attended all Los Gatos schools. We are merely mentioning this because we cherish
our town and it's history.
We are confident that the Swenson family values Los Gatos and has shown this in a multitude of ways, for
many years. They have proven to be unyielding supporters of our community and devoted Los Gatos
residents. We believe that their proposed project is appropriate for their property & our neighborhood. The
house will, undoubtably be of the highest quality. There is simple no reason for this project not to be
approved.
Please consider their commitment, history and devotion to this town. It should weigh heavily on the final
decision.
Sincerely,
Dr. Gregory Burnett & Mrs. Shannon Burnett
From: Sandy O'Gorman <sandy.ogorman@gmail.com>
Sent: Sunday, November 22, 2020 4:14 PM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: 62 Ellenwood tear down
Hi Sean,
I have lived in Los Gatos more than 30 years and most of that was at 123 University Ave, Los Gatos, CA
95030...that's where I live now.
I walk the neighborhoods every day and came across the proposal to tear down and build a monster
6,000 sqft home at this residence.
In looking at the architectural rendering, I find the design to be totally out of context for the ellenwood
neighborhood. Removing the protected tree should absolutely NOT be allowed and building a house
that large is just ridiculous.
To summarize, the scale and design are not in neighborhood context and removing the tree is
ridiculous. The home there was clearly built around the tree which is an important factor and what we
Los Gatans do...we work with nature, not tear is down. eg. my neighbor completely remodeled and
grew his home while leaving the enormous redwood in place.
I am hoping other neighbors have spoken up and this doesn't get ram-rodded through the
planning process.
Thank you for taking input and acting on it.
Sincerely,
Sandy O'Gorman
123 University Avenue
408-888-5956
p.s. I see they are from a developers family and no doubt used to getting their way so whatever
community support you need, just ask for it.
--
Sandy O'Gorman
From: Catherine Chimenti <kbchimenti@yahoo.com>
Sent: Monday, November 23, 2020 11:28 AM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: 62 Ellenwood
Dear Mr. Mullin,
I live at 67 Ellenwood, directly across the street from 62 Ellenwood. I object to the size and architecture
of the proposed house. The structure is in direct conflict with the concerted effort of the Town’s elected
officials and appointed boards to maintain a strong sense of neighborhood community. In the Town’s
Residential Guidelines under Community Expectations this proposed project does does not comply with:
1) Homes will respect the scale and character of the immediate neighborhoods
2) Homes will maintain a friendly presence to the street
3) Mature landscaping will be preserved whenever possible This project has failed on these items.
Los Gatos’ attraction is the historical quaintness of neighborhoods like Almond Grove and Glen Ridge,
where this home is located. The approval of construction would set a precedence for future design
projects that would drastically change the character of the Glen Ridge neighborhood and of Los Gatos.
I request that my letter be put in the Planning Commission Packet.
- Bob Chimenti
-----Original Message-----
From: Catherine Chimenti <kbchimenti@yahoo.com>
Sent: Monday, November 23, 2020 11:40 AM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: 62 Ellenwood
The new rendering of the proposed project at 62 Ellenwood has been posted since my last letter. The
new plan is even more modern and is in no way keeping with the neighborhood architecture and the
Town’s Residential Guidelines. The materials used are almost commercial in style with an entrance that
looks like an office building. It definitely does not maintain a “friendly presence” as required.
Please include this letter be put in the Planning Commission Packet.
- Kate Chimenti
From: Randy Attaway <randy@agcinc.com>
Sent: Monday, November 23, 2020 9:34 AM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: 62 Ellenwood
Dear Mr. Mullin,
I live at 207 Alexander Avenue, just three houses from the above planned remodel at 62 Ellenwood. In
my mind it is very clear that the planned remodel does not meet the Character and Charm that Los
Gatos Councils and Planning Commissioners have always tried to maintain. It is out of place and is too
large. The project may meet the floor area ratio, but it is clearly too large for our area. In the past,
Councils have allowed larger square footages of house’s, but have allowed it, by going underground to
keep the character of the neighborhood. This should be one of those cases. People today may need or
believe they need that large of a house and by going underground allows them to enjoy that, without
sacrificing the look of our neighborhood. I request that my letter be put in the Planning Commission
packet. My neighbors and I request that we maintain the character and charm of the Glenridge area!
Randy Attaway, Sr. Project Manager
AGC Incorporated
745-B Camden Avenue, Campbell, CA 95008
From: Maria Gemassmer Ramirez <mariagemassmer@gmail.com>
Sent: Monday, November 23, 2020 10:30 PM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: New Construction Project 62 Ellenwood, Los Gatos 95030
November 20, 2020
To Whom it May Concern:
My name is Maria Gemassmer Ramirez, I reside at 73 Ellenwood Ave., kitty-corner from the proposed
New Construction, #62 Ellenwood Ave., Los Gatos
Although the proposed new house is architecturally and in size impressive, it does not at all fit into this
Glen Ridge/ Almond Grove neighborhood
of traditional, older homes……it is too contemporary and too large. I concur with my neighbors and
object to Project #62 Ellenwood as proposed. It would also set a precedence for
Futur Remodels in this lovely old neighborhood of Los Gatos.
I hope the Planning Commission will give the above Project Proposal some more thought.
Thank You for your attention and consideration…!
Sincerely,
Maria Gemassmer Ramirez
73 Ellenwood Ave. Los Gatos, Ca 95030
Mr. Sean Mullin
Planning Department
Town of Los Gatos
110 E. Main Street
Los Gatos, CA 95031
November 24, 2020
RE: 62 Ellenwood Avenue
Dear Mr. Mullin:
After reviewing Revision 2 of the submitted architectural plans for 62 Ellenwood Avenue, I have the
following objections:
1. Per Revision 2, the height of 26’ 8” to the plywood ridge per sheet A0.6 East Elevation, is
still too high. Combined with the 3481 square foot first and second floor footprint, this
creates a very large volume and dominating building.
1) In addition to Revision 2 lowering the second floor, this makes the second
floor appear squatty compared to the first floor and visually awkward.
2) The first floor should be lowered to reduce height further and be
proportionate to the second floor. The first floor has 11’6” ceiling height per
sheet A0.8 South Elevation/Section which is quite high and should be in the
range of 9’6” ceiling height each the first and second floors.
3) Many of the homes in the Glen Ridge neighborhood have the second floor
built into the attic with vaulted ceilings for height. The second story exterior
is often visually taller than the first floor when the roof is included. Because
this is a California ag-industrial look or modern rustic, those adjustments
should follow the desired exterior proportions while keeping the overall
exterior height lower than shown on Revision 2 to keep the volume from
dominating.
2. Per Revision 2, sheet A1.1 East Overlay (which shows the envelope of the existing
garage to the proposed), the size of the garage has been bulked out by the 31’7” x 2’6”
bump out and the scabbed-on 4”1” x 23’2” shed.
1) As one drives up Ellenwood, the proposed garage will be prominent and
interfere with the scenic view. Too much is being asked of this corner of the
property and it looks squeezed in.
2) The existing garage is detached, giving a margin of airy space between it and
the house. The proposed, enclosed, enlarged connector/breezeway provides
no relief from the wide, filled-in, sprawling mass of building.
3) The scabbed-on shed is not shown to be dimensioned or included in any way
on the plans. However, when one drives down Ellenwood the shed will be an
obviously permanent bulky feature.
4) When the square footage is added up, the garage comes to 918.6 sq. footage
which will permanently exist…regardless of allowable calculation deductions.
5) The roof material is different from the house and other structures. I realize
it’s popular architecturally to design with an organic look (evolved over time)
however, this is a new build and would be visually more organized and
pleasing to keep the same roofing material throughout.
3. The large driveway combined with:
(3) parking bays in the garage
(5) designated parking spots inside the yard
(1 oversize) exterior off-street parking spot in front of the garage
lends a commercial feel to project streetscape and which is compounded by the
industrial architectural look of the building. Personally, I understand the modern rustic
look and like a mix of architectural styles in the Glen Ridge neighborhood, but the
current practice of a fortress like compound with very durable materials likely will not
be a lasting timeless style.
Sincerely,
Beth Jendricks
119 Hernandez Ave
Los Gatos, CA
(408) 761-6330
bbjendric@comcast.n et
Further comment on Item #1:
While I realize technically there is a 30’ height limit, when my Chris Spaulding
designed/Dave Flick built plans for 119 Hernandez Avenue were submitted, I asked Chris
why a 30’ height is allowed. His response is that the limit is to accommodate existing
gable-and-ell Victorian architecture. He said the Town prefers a much lower roofline to
suit the neighborhood. My home is 21’ high and the garage is 13’ high. When the home
was 7 years old, the historical society asked if the home could be put on tour and I
explained that it was a new house. Chris and Dave’s thoughtful work were a solid
addition to the neighborhood not an “impact” as suggested by the Arcanum Letter
which admits the smaller scale neighboring homes and hopes their project will “reduce
its impact on the neighbors.” Thus, I think this project can be further improved to speak
the “dialect” of the Glen Ridge neighborhood.
From: KATEY MCCOLLAM <kmccollam@comcast.net>
Sent: Tuesday, November 24, 2020 2:46 PM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: Swenson home- 62 Ellenwood
Dear Los Gatos Planning Commission,
We are writing in support of the planned new home at 62 Ellenwood Avenue. I have
known Case for over 50 years and his wife Lisa for over 20 years. Case was born and
raised in Los Gatos and is one of my closest friends. He and his family have always
exemplified small town family values as well as a commitment to keeping Los Gatos’
unique charm intact.
The existing home is very old with antiquated plumbing, a bad layout and has been
fused together with 3 different foundations over the years.
Katey and I have reviewed the proposed plans and believe the home is not only
appropriate for the lot, but it will enhance the beauty of the neighborhood.
Case and Lisa have always been involved members of the community and devoted Los
Gatos residents. This has been demonstrated by their facilitation of many meetings
between their architect, landscape architect and neighbors to try to address and
consider all of the concerns. They have adjusted the plans and story poles three times
in an effort to maintain neighborhood harmony. It is also our understanding that the
proposed dimensions are within the city’s guidelines.
We really hope the commission will take all of these factors into account and approve
the Swenson’s new home at 62 Ellenwood Avenue.
Thank you,
Bryan and Katey McCollam
17650 Daves Avenue
Monte Sereno
Mr. Sean Mullin,
Community Development Department,
110 E. Main Street,
Los Gatos CA 95030
28 November, 2020
Dear Mr. Mullin,
RE: Proposed New House at 62 Ellenwood Ave
We are the owners of 66 Ellenwood Ave. We live next door to the proposed new house at 62 Ellenwood
Ave.
We appreciate that the owners of 62 Ellenwood Ave would like to build a house of their dreams. However,
we are concerned with the proposed house as designed for the following reasons and based upon the
town’s own residential guidelines, in particular in relation to scale, character and views.
(1) Out of Scale
Ellenwood Ave has four addresses with large lot sizes. The houses at 60, 66 and 68 Ellenwood Ave are all
in proportion to their lot sizes and are all unobtrusive. We appreciate that the owners at 62 Ellenwood
are constrained by the shape of their lot. However, the proposed two story house is out of scale and does
not appear to maintain a friendly presence to the street and neighborhood. The proposed house and
garage, as currently designed, will sit on an elevation above the street, resulting in a structure that will
loom large over the street and the houses across from it.
(2) Out of Character
Styles of houses are a personal preference. The proposed new house is out of character to the rest of
Ellenwood Ave and the surrounding areas. Although we appreciate that the architect has attempted to
create a “cottage like” look, the proposed style and size does not achieve the look and feel of the
Glenridge/Almond Grove area.
(3) Views
Based on the current design, the proposed home is a 30ft two story house (excluding the basement). We
understand that the owners are legally permitted to have a 30ft high two story house. But this proposed
two story house will no longer allow us the open and airy view we currently have from our dining and
living room, even though our property is at a higher elevation than 62 Ellenwood Ave.
We appreciate that the owners have attempted to limit the impact of their proposed two story house by
positioning the second story a reasonable distance from our house and have lowered their garage roofline
in order to restore our existing view of the Blossom Hill mountain in the distance. However, the fact is,
we will lose our open and airy view from our dining and living room where a long balcony spans the length
of that side of the house facing 62 Ellenwood Ave. Having a higher elevation than 62 Ellenwood Ave, we
believe the original architects of our house designed the living areas, where we spend most of our time,
in such a way as to take advantage of these views.
Our home at 66 Ellenwood Ave is our dream home. When we decided to purchase our house, we never
imagined that 62 Ellenwood Ave would be demolished and replaced with a two story house that
fundamentally changes our views.
For the reasons above, we believe the owners of 62 Ellenwood Ave should reconsider their design so that
it would fit within the scale and character of the neighborhood and preserve our views.
Best regards,
Susan Pinkel
66 Ellenwood Ave,
Los Gatos
From: Janice Benjamin <benjaminjanice04@gmail.com>
Sent: Saturday, November 28, 2020 1:42 PM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>
Subject: 62 Ellenwood
Dear Sean,
I have lived on Alexander Ave. for 40 years and never have I see such blatant disregard for the
neighbors.
The plans for 62 Ellenwood surely can be reworked to accommodate the concerns of the neighbors most
directly affected.
I sincerely hope this plan will be revised in placement and scale to maintain the open feeling of
this neighborhood.
Thank you,
Janice Benjamin
211 Alexander Ave.
From: Diane Siemens <siemedian@comcast.net>
Sent: Sunday, November 29, 2020 3:34 PM
To: Sean Mullin <SMullin@losgatosca.gov>
Cc: schwinkel66@gmail.com; kvchimenti@yahoo.com
Subject: 62 Ellenwood Planning. Application
Importance: High
To: Sean Mullin, Los Gatos Planning Department
We live at 69 Ellenwood Ave. across the street and uphill from the proposed structure at
62 Ellenwood Ave. It would be the view from the front of our home and deck. Our house
was built in 1912.
Case and Lisa Swenson did invite the neighbors to view their plans outdoors on the
porch of their current home. We attended that meeting and are aware that they are
trying to communicate their plans in an open way.
However, the building they are proposing is massive and has the appearance of an
upscale office building. The size and architecture do not fit in this historic, residential
neighborhood. It is over 1K square feet larger than the largest house in the area. It does
not "respect the scale and character of the neighborhood." We don't understand why a
6000 square foot building is needed for just residential use. Is there any other planned
use of the office wing? We object to this overpowering structure being built as
proposed.
We are also sad to see that the plan calls for removing a large, apparently healthy oak
tree. Those are supposed to be protected in Los Gatos.
Please include a copy of this letter with Planning Commission and Town Council
packets on this issue. We plan to attend the December 9 Zoom meeting.
Thank you
Peter and Diane Siemens
69 Ellenwood Ave.
Los Gatos