Study SessionMEETING DATE: 03/18/13
STUDY SESSION
COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT
DATE: MARCH 13, 2013
TO: MAYOR AND TOWN COUNCIL
-AK:!
FROM: GREG LARSON, TOWN MANAGER
SUBJECT: DISCUSSION OF CODE ENFORCEMENT ABATEMENT FOR THE
WOODSHED AT KEITH HOLLAND GUITARS (16905 ROBERTS ROAD)
RECOMMENDATION:
Authorize staff to temporarily abate the code compliance enforcement action for The Woodshed
at Keith Holland Guitar subject to the applicant taking one or more of the following actions:
• Submit and pursue a Conditional Use Permit; and /or
• Submit a Certificate of Use and Occupancy with business description for retail and repair
with small instructional classes held in conjunction with a retail use.
BACKGROUND:
Members of the Council requested a Council discussion regarding the code compliance
enforcement action for The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars. This report and the Council
agenda item scheduled for March 18, 2013, fulfill that request.
This Background section identifies the status of The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars, while
the following Discussion section identifies alternatives for Council consideration.
On May 7, 2010, the Town approved a Certificate of Use and Occupancy Application to permit
King Amplification, a musical instrument retail and repair use, at 16905 Roberts Road
(Attachment 1). Also on May 7, 2010, the Town approved a new business license for King
Amplification at 16905 Roberts Road. Keith Holland Guitars did not require a separate
Certificate of Use and Occupancy because they were sharing space with the primary use, King
Amplification. It should be noted that Keith Holland Guitars was previously located at 326
-- CAQ-140
PREPARED BY: Todd Capurso, Acting Director of Community Development
Reviewed by: Assistant Town Manager Town Attorney Finance
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PAGE 2
MAYOR AND TOWN COUNCIL
SUBJECT: The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars /16905 Roberts Road
March 13, 2013
Village Lane under the business name Keith Holland's Guitar Hospital and has operated at
various locations in the Town of Los Gatos for several years. On May 7, 2010, the Town
changed the address on the business license for Keith Holland's Guitar Hospital to 16905
Roberts Road.
Also on May 7, 2010, the Town received building permit plans for tenant improvements for King
Amplification and Keith Holland Guitars. During the review of the building permit, staff worked
closely with the applicant to ensure that the retail and repair use met Town Code parking
requirements. In order to meet the parking requirements for 1,264 square feet of retail and 2,988
square feet of repair, the applicant was required to add parking spaces at the rear of the building.
The rear parking spaces are accessed from Los Gatos Boulevard by an access easement.
In September 2012, it came to the Town's attention, by way of a resident complaint, that Keith
Holland Guitars was offering classes and hosting performances (Attachment 2). These activities
were taking place under the venue name "The Woodshed." Staff informed the business that the
classes and performances were not permitted because these uses either require a CUP or are not
allowed under that zoning. The owner, Keith Holland, is actively working with staff to submit a
CUP application for classes. In the interim, the business is no longer holding performances at
16905 Roberts Road. Pursuant to prior Council direction, staff could not abate code compliance
enforcement action pending consideration of land use or other policy remedies to the violations.
Additionally, staff has provided an alternative to the CUP to the applicant. The applicant may be
able to provide music instruction within the limits of the Town's policy for small instructional
classes held in conjunction with a retail use (Attachment 3). The applicant would be required to
submit a Certificate of Use and Occupancy along with a business description and floor plan
showing that they comply with the small class policy. The applicant is also actively researching
this option and may pursue the small classes in the interim while going through the process of
obtaining a CUP.
DISCUSSION:
Last year, Council directed staff to enforce code compliance action and require unpermitted uses
to cease unless and until the use obtained the appropriate permits. However, the Town Council
may choose to direct staff to abate code compliance enforcement action.
If Council chooses to provide this direction, there are two aspects of the business that Council
should consider — group classes and performances.
Group Classes
The applicant may pursue a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) or Certificate of Use and Occupancy
(CUO) to permit small instructional classes.
PAGE 3
MAYOR AND TOWN COUNCIL
SUBJECT: The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars /16905 Roberts Road
March 13, 2013
The subject property, 16905 Roberts Road, is zoned CH (Highway Commercial). Group classes
are permitted in the CH zone subject to a CUP. Although the business does not currently have a
CUP, the applicant may apply for a CUP to conduct group classes.
The applicant may be able to conduct small classes pursuant to the Town's policy for small
classes held in conjunction with a retail use. The applicant may be able to create a business
model that would allow the business to operate within the requirements of this policy. The group
classes were being held in a portion of the commercial space previously approved as repair
space. The applicant would be required to submit a Certificate of Use and Occupancy (for a
change in use, namely adding small instructional classes to a retail and repair use). Along with
the Certificate of Use and Occupancy, the applicant would be required to submit a floor plan and
business description showing that the revised business model would indeed meet the small class
requirements, including conducting classes in the retail space but only up to 10% of that retail
space.
Alternatively, if enforcement is abated while the applicant is actively pursuing a CUP, the
Council may wish to require the following conditions:
HOURS OF GROUP INSTRUCTION: Group instruction is permitted only when the
retail and repair business is not operating to meet parking requirements.
NUMBER OF STUDENTS AND STAFF: The maximum number of students and staff
allowed on site at any given time shall not exceed the limits based on available parking.
The business is allotted 15 parking spaces. Required parking is one space for every three
students plus one space for each staff member. An example of permitted student /staff
participation is three staff members (three parking spaces) and 36 students (12 parking
spaces). These limits must be calculated in conjunction with other uses, including facility
use by community groups.
HOURS OF COMMUNITY GROUP USE: Use of the facilities for community groups is
permitted only when the retail and repair business is not operating, to meet parking
requirements.
NUMBER OF COMMUNITY GROUP MEMBERS: The maximum number of
community group members allowed on site at any given time shall not exceed the limits
based on available parking. The business is allotted 15 parking spaces. Required parking
shall be one space for every three group members. An example of permitted community
group member participation is 45 participants (15 parking spaces). These limits must be
calculated in conjunction with other uses, including group instruction.
CERTIFICATE OF USE AND OCCUPANCY: A Certificate of Use and Occupancy is
required prior to commencement of use and will be subject to temporary conditions
deemed appropriate by Town Council.
PAGE 4
MAYOR AND TOWN COUNCIL
SUBJECT: The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars /16905 Roberts Road
March 13, 2013
It should be noted that a Certificate of Use and Occupancy is recommended as an interim
condition so that there is a Town issued permit to apply the conditions to.
Performances
Performances are considered live entertainment. Performances are not currently permitted by
Town Code but may be permitted in the future pursuant to an entertainment policy, ordinance, or
permitting process, if adopted by the Town later this year.
The business would also like to allow a charity, the Julian Rock Memorial, to hold an annual
event. The event consists of a silent auction and live performances (with some amplification).
The event would be held from approximately 12 :00 pm to 5:00 pm on May 19, 2013.
Approximately 250 people are expected to attend over the five -hour period. The applicant can
pursue a special event permit from the Los Gatos -Monte Sereno Police Department for this
year's event.
If enforcement is abated pending Council consideration of the new entertainment ordinance or
policy, the Council may wish to require some or all of these interim conditions based on the
business owner's prior representations:
HOURS OF PERFORMANCES: Use of the facilities for performances is permitted only
when the retail and repair business is not operating and must end by 10:00 p.m.
NUMBER OF PERFORMANCES: The maximum number of performances per month is
six (6).
NUMBER OF ATTENDEES: The maximum number of performance attendees shall not
exceed 80.
AMPLIFICATION: Amplification of instrument(s), voice(s), or both is not permitted.
Performances shall be acoustical.
FOOD AND BEVERAGES: No alcoholic beverages are permitted onsite.
CONCLUSION:
If Council directs staff to temporarily abate the code enforcement action, then Council should
consider whether group classes, performances, including events, or a combination of these,
should be allowed to continue while the applicant pursues appropriate permits. Pending Council
direction, staff will continue to work with the applicant to issue and /or process the appropriate
permits,
PAGE 5
MAYOR AND TOWN COUNCIL
SUBJECT: The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars /16905 Roberts Road
March 13, 2013
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT:
This action is not a project defined under CEQA, and no further action is required.
FISCAL IMPACT:
None.
Attachments-
1. Approved Certificate of Use and Occupancy
2. Code Compliance Complaint
3. Policy for Small Instructional Classes Held in Conjunction with a Retail Use
4. Public comments received through 12:00 p.m. Thursday, March 14, 2013
Distribution:
cc Keith Holland, 16905 Roberts Road, Los Gatos, CA 95032
TC:JS:ct
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i
CERTIFICATE OF USE & OCCUPANCY APPLICATION
TOWN OF LOS GATOS ® COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
2. APPLICANT REQUEST:
Present or last known use:
Date of last known use: ;z'
Proposed use: o s i`e ' l �--, <A-r- L21:2 e .-� f` — `c i i ��� ► E
TYPE F REQUEST (check only one):
Change of Use, (e.g. retail to office) (Fee #1), or,
Change of Occupancy (excluding change of proprietor of a continuing business enterprise)
(retail to retail, excluding chain stores) (Fee #2), or
Use /occupancy Clearance if Conditional Use Permit is required or occupancy of a new secondary
dwelling unit (no fee)
3. PROPERTY OWNER:
City:
State:.—. °—
ZIP
Phone: 5-S- —
l hereby certify that as the property owner I authorize the filing of this application. I understand that pursuant to the Town of Los
Gatos Municipal Code, conditions of app val -9 binding upon both the applicant and property owner(s).
SIGNATURE OF PROPERTY OWNER DATE:
4. APPLICANT: (If same aabove, check here
Name: lfe;,..� jj Phone:
Address: 6 - V e - nt2
City: 7Y22L <=_ State: ZIP 25—/ 'V
SIGNATURE OF APPLICANT DATE: .y1
FOR-DEPARTMENT USE ONLY:
( Planning Please recommend approval or denial for the proposed
( ) Building use. If you should deny the application, Indicate the
( ) Engineering reason(s) In the comment section below. Return the
( ) Fire Marshall application to the Counter Technician, CASHIER'S VALIDATION
Environmental Health Services PLPERMIT r$229.00
Other Change of Use PLTRACK 16
(/f APPROVED ( ) DENIED
COMMENTS: �2—tc�� Ke% nay' Char p�Occupar
Signat re Date � Y ?010
i� F LUS CA` TOS
PLANAP
22.90
TOTAL FEE
$261.06
PLPERMIT
Address:
PLTRACK
4.48
PLANAP
11.20
City:
State:.—. °—
ZIP
Phone: 5-S- —
l hereby certify that as the property owner I authorize the filing of this application. I understand that pursuant to the Town of Los
Gatos Municipal Code, conditions of app val -9 binding upon both the applicant and property owner(s).
SIGNATURE OF PROPERTY OWNER DATE:
4. APPLICANT: (If same aabove, check here
Name: lfe;,..� jj Phone:
Address: 6 - V e - nt2
City: 7Y22L <=_ State: ZIP 25—/ 'V
SIGNATURE OF APPLICANT DATE: .y1
FOR-DEPARTMENT USE ONLY:
( Planning Please recommend approval or denial for the proposed
( ) Building use. If you should deny the application, Indicate the
( ) Engineering reason(s) In the comment section below. Return the
( ) Fire Marshall application to the Counter Technician, CASHIER'S VALIDATION
Environmental Health Services PLPERMIT r$229.00
Other Change of Use PLTRACK 16
(/f APPROVED ( ) DENIED
COMMENTS: �2—tc�� Ke% nay' Char p�Occupar
Signat re Date � Y ?010
i� F LUS CA` TOS
PLANAP
22.90
TOTAL FEE
$261.06
PLPERMIT
PLTRACK
4.48
PLANAP
11.20
TOTAL FEE
I
$127.68
TTACK-%EKl' 1
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From:
Sent: Friday, September 28, 2012 3:23 PM
To: Sandy Bally
Subject: Code Compliance - 16905 Roberts Road
Hello,
The people at the guitar store are boasting that they are about to begin constriction in converting that building
into a music school and performance venue. I am concerned that traffic and parking will only grow worse in the
neighborhood.
I certainly hope that this is consistent with city planning and that the neighborhood is not adversely impacted.
Thank you,
rTACIgR4ENT 2
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COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT ADMINISTRATIVE POLICY
TOWN OF LOS GATOS
Subject: Small Instructional Classes Held in Conjunction with a Retail Use
Approved:
Bud Loitz, hector of Coininui7ity Development
PURPOSE
Effective Date: March 9, 2006
To provide an administrative policy for small classes that offer instruction associated with goods
sold at an allowed retail use and limited to the conditions set forth in this policy. Small
instructional classes are differentiated from schools which require a Conditional Use Permit as
set forth in Section 29.20.185 of the Zoning Ordinance.
SCOPE
This policy applies to retail stores that offer instructional classes in all zones where retail uses are
allowed.
POLICY
A small instructional class shall be limited to the following conditions:
1. Classes must operate in conjunction with an allowed retail use. The retail use must be the
predominant use.
2. Class size is limited to one (1) instructor and five (5) or fewer students.
3. No more than three (3) hours of instruction per day.
4. No separately partitioned area for classes. The area of class meetings shall be a multi -use
space that is part of the retail space and must not occupy more than 10% of the total square
footage of the store.
5. Classes shall not take place during peals traffic hours: 7 -9 AM or 4 -6 PM.
6. Classes that involve animals require a conditional use permit.
PROCESS
1. A business proposing to operate under this policy shall provide a written statement to the
Community Development Department which documents the applicant's understanding of
the policy, states the proposed uses with a floor plan of the retail space and state how they
will comply with this policy.
2. The Director of Comiziunity Development shall review the applicant's letter of
justification and detemaine if the proposed use is consistent with this policy.
3. If the proposed use is consistent with this policy, a business license and certificate of use
and occupancy can be issued subject to the conditions stated in this policy.
4. If the proposed use is not consistent with this policy, a conditional use permit is required,
5. Operation in a manner inconsistent with this policy shall constitute a violation of Section
29.20,185(4)(h) of the Zoning Ordinance.
N:\DEV \Judie \Outbox \2006\Policy - Small Classesmpd ATTACHMENT 3
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From:
Neil Wright <neilwright @mac.com>
Sent:
Wednesday, February 13, 2013 5:25 PM
To:
Town Manager; Council; BSpector; Diane McNutt; Steve Leonardis; Joe Pirzynski; Marcia
Jensen
Cc:
dsparrer @community- newspapers.com
Subject:
The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Dear Council Members,
I'd like to add my voice of support to the work The Woodshed is doing to keep music alive in the community. At a time
when there is less and less social activity available to adults and children other than bars and restaurants, the Woodshed
offers a real cultural alternative. My own story is that my son, who is 13, takes lessons there with a group of other kids;
he very much enjoys a mentored session where he can play guitar and interact with other kids doing something other
than sport or video gaming. Without avenue in which he can play to an audience, practicing and learning is pretty futile.
Music is extremely important to people - for many it is their greatest joy. However, the opportunity to see it played live
is already almost non - existent and we are possibly going to leave the next generation with nowhere to play or see live
performance other than bars and stadia. The type of music played at the Woodshed, especially, is not rebel- rousing,
loud and unsocial - quite the opposite - it is thoughtful, sincere and played to small, appreciative audiences.
If we take away small, safe, non - alcohol - fuelled venues like the Woodshed then it is a real missed opportunity to
improve our community, get people out of their homes, away from TV and games and involved in something that adds
value to the town of Los Gatos.
Regards,
Neil Wright
Campbell.
ATrAC MMEN'T 4
From: Marcia Farnady <mlfarnady @gmail.com>
Sent: Wednesday, February 13, 2013 5:36 PM
To: Town Manager; +council @losgatosca.gov; +bspector @losgatosca.gov;
+dmcnutt @losgatosca.gov; +sleonardis @losgatosca.gov; +jpirzynski @losgatosca.gov;
+mjensen @losgatosca.gov
Subject: The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Dear Ladies and Gentlemen:
I am writing you in support of The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars to let you know what a wonderful venue
they have become in a very short time. We saw some amazing performers there in a small, comfortable
community setting. No alcohol. No loud noise - just acoustic fun. There is nothing like it in Los Gatos. As a
matter of fact, there is no other venue in Los Gatos that we have even attended in recent years.
I urge you to decide quickly on the permitting that will be required of them so that the concerts may resume as
soon as possible. It is such a shame to have it taken away from us just when it was getting going.
Thank you for your consideration. I know it is a busy time for you.
Sincerely,
Marcia Farnady
mlfarnadymnail.com
From: njplumb @aol.com
Sent: Wednesday, February 13, 2013 5:36 PM
To: Town Manager; Council; BSpector; Diane McNutt; Steve Leonardis; Joe Pirzynski; Marcia
Jensen
Subject: The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
I am writing in support of the concerts at The Woodshed- they provide a wonderful alcohol free, affordable, convenient,
over by 10 pm space for wonderful musicians. I am very sad you have found it necessary to suspend the concerts and
hope you will reinstate them ASAP.
Respectfully,
Nancie Plumb
From: Rick Merritt <rick.merritt @ubm.com>
Sent: Wednesday, February 13, 2013 5:43 PM
To: Town Manager; Council; BSpector; Diane McNutt; Steve Leonardis; Joe Pirzynski; Marcia
Jensen
Cc: dsparrer @community- newspapers.com; bev @truewindmusic.com
Subject: In support of The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Dear City Officials,
I respectfully request you allow The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars to resume its quality music program at the
earliest possible date. It is a wonderful asset to your town and to the folk music community in and around the South
Bay.
I have known the organizers of The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars for 12 years and deeply respect the hard work
and contribution they are trying to make to live folk music in the South Bay. I was an early supporter of their efforts
along with dozens of other local residents who know their work as musicians and organizers of top - flight folk music
events at the former Espresso Garden in San Jose, Mission City Coffee Roasters in Santa Clara and in house concerts in
their own home in Campbell. They also are well known for numerous benefits for local charities.
I have attended several events in the short time the Woodshed has been open, including the very first event there. Each
was a well organized event with polished performers and a respectful audience. I never saw alcohol consumed, loud
behavior or any inappropriate behavior before, during or after those events.
I am sure you have many serious problems to deal with in your responsibilities, but I can assure you that live music at
The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars is not one of them. It is, in fact a great asset to your community. If you research
the matter I am confident you will come to the same conclusion.
I would welcome any contact from any of you on this matter now or in the future.
Rick Merritt
Silicon Valley Bureau Chief, EE Times
(and amateur singer /songwriter)
rick.merrittQubm. corn
Cell 408.930.7372
Twitter: @rickbmerritt
3200 Payne Ave. #727
San Jose, Calif. 95117
Note: A full list of The Woodshed's supporters can be found at htto: / /www.woodshed.org/about/
From: DJFUNK1234 @aol.com
Sent: Wednesday, February 13, 2013 5:49 PM
To: Town Manager; Council; BSpector; Diane McNutt; Steve Leonardis; Joe Pirzynski; Marcia
Jensen
Subject: The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Please don't end this fabulous music endeavor. It's a wonderful asset to any community! Thank you.
Abbe Funk
From: Jack Hardin <jhardin22 @comcast,net>
Sent: Wednesday, February 13, 2013 7:08 PM
To: Town Manager
Subject: Fwd: Update on Woodshed Concerts
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
As a 25 year resident of Los Gatos, a former Los Gatos mailman, Vietnam veteran, professional geologist,
member of the Los Gatos Chamber of Commerce, and a person who enjoys listening to music (e.g., jazz, folk,
classical), I was truly saddened to hear that the Town of Los Gatos has temporarily suspended The Woodshed's
ability to provide family oriented, alcohol free concerts until further consideration by the Planning Commission.
This music venue is a breath of fresh air, and an asset to the community. I implore the Planning Commission to
work closely with Keith Holland Guitars to resolve this suspension of heart warming entertainment, so that
children of all ages, young and old adults, musicians, and non - musicians can enjoy the variety of quality
entertainment that resonates from The Woodshed.
Sincerely,
Jack Hardin
Begin forwarded message:
From: The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars <info woodshed.org>
Date: February 13, 2013 5:08:40 PM PST
To: Jack <jhardin22 ,comcast.net>
Subject: Update on Woodshed Concerts
Reply-To: The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars <info ,woodshed.org.>
From: Lynlee Bischoff <lynlee365 @gmail.com>
Sent: Wednesday, February 13, 2013 7:19 PM
To: Town Manager; +council @Iosgatosca.gov; +bspector @losgatosca.gov;
+dmcnutt @losgatosca.gov; +sleonardis @losgatosca.gov; +jpirzynski @losgatosca.gov;
+mjensen @losgatosca.gov
Subject: The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Good evening,
I am writing to you in regard to The Woodshed @ Keith Holland guitars. I was
very sad (and disappointed) to hear that the town has called a halt to concerts
at this venue. Not only is this NOT a bar or night club N it is a wonderful,
family oriented establishment that gives those of us wanting to hear music
WITHOUT having to worry about drunks, downtown traffic or rowdy crowds, a
much needed place to go.
I urge you to reconsider your decision to lump this unique place with "less
desirable" venues in the down town area. It would be a shame to throw out
the peach because of a few bad apples-
Peace,
Lynlee Bischoff
(408) 402 -5257
From: Bob Steingraber < bobsteingraber @aol.com>
Sent: Wednesday, February 13, 2013 8;15 PM
To: Town Manager; Council; BSpector; Diane McNutt; Steve Leonardis; Joe Pirzynski; Marcia
Jensen
Cc: info @woodshed.org
Subject: The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Dear town manger, and town council members,
Please reconsider the suspension of concerts at the Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars until the end of March, and
please be sure to grant them an entertainment license.
As an alcohol -free, family- oriented, music listening venue & teaching facility with events ending by 10pm, the Woodshed,
is an asset to the community. This venue is an
anomaly: The Woodshed should not be classified with venues with loud music rowdy, & drunken
patrons disrupting the neighborhood well past midnight. I wish the region had
more venues like the woodshed, and do not object to having such a venue in the neighborhood.
Many thanks,
Robert C. Steingraber
San Jose, Ca.
bobsteingraber a(.,aol,com
From: Randy Martin <randyemartin @gmail.com>
Sent: Wednesday, February 13, 2013 9:09 PM
To: Council; Spector @losgatosca.gov; Steve Leonardis; Diane McNutt;
jpirzynsk @losgatosca.gov; Marcia Jensen; Town Manager
Cc: dsparrer @community- newspapers.com; info @woodshed,org
Subject: Pls. Keep the Woodshed Open for Town - Friendly and Polite concerts and music
activities
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
To Our Beloved Town of Los Gatos,
As Los Gatos residents we are thrilled to have the very worthwhile, and very considerate music concerts,
workshops, classes and generally beneficial cultural activities that Keith Holland Guitars' new location of
a very respected and long time Los Gatos concern has brought to us in their new and appropriate
location.
We strongly urge you to make it possible for the Woodshed to continue offering their full menu of added
value to our Town at their current location. As you go through the process of evaluating what is good for
our Town, please consider the fact that Keith Rolland Guitars is filling a much - needed gap here. We'd
hate to see these wonderful offerings being taken up, instead, by a neighboring town.
A concerned resident,
Randy Martin
From: Allan Molho <amsail @cruzio.com>
Sent: Wednesday, February 13, 2013 9;20 PM
To: Town Manager; Council; BSpector; Diane McNutt; Steve Leonardis; Joe Pirzynski; Marcia
Jensen
Subject: The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
The Woodshed concerts are a great addition to your town, I personally have attended three times there were
no noisy entrances or exits . No alcohol is served the crowds are respectful of the musicians, and I doubt if
anyone in the neighborhood even realizes they are taking place.
I have to drive one hour to attend and each time we had dinner in your town and spent moderate sums
supporting the business community in your town. Without the Woodshed concerts, I would have no reason to
visit your town.
I hope you will write your regulations to allow venues like the Woodshed to continue, and not lump them in
with the loud bars that do cause problems.
Respectfully yours,
Allan Molho
Santa Cruz county
Emmoamm-
From:
Barbara Bird <bbeautday @yahoo.com>
Sent:
Wednesday, February 13, 2013 10:31 PM
To:
Town Manager, Council; BSpector; Diane McNutt; Steve Leonardis; Joe Pirzynski; Marcia
Jensen
Subject:
The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
To all, the Woodshed is the best place I know now with great nonalcohol space for live music, and great musicians
to sample in Los Gatos or San Jose. And it is for all ages and reasonable priced, plus they offer great ukulele lessons.
It is just the best place to hang out for good community and live music of all sorts. Please reopen as soon as
possible. And I am supporting a small family owned business at the same time.
Blessings,Barbara
Barbara Bird, LMFF, RScP
Licensed Psychotherapist
Licensed Spiritual Counselor
Life is so good!
From: Michael S. Thompson <mike @thompsonaccounting,net>
Sent: Thursday, February 14, 2013 8:31 AM
To: Town Manager; +council @losgatosca.gov; +bspector @losgatosca,gov;
+dmcnutt @losgatosca.gov; +sleonardis @losgatosca.gov; +jpirzynski @losgatosca,gov;
+mjensen @losgatosca.gov
Subject: The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Ladies and gentlemen
I recently attended an open mic concert at the Woodshed. It was a relaxing evening with camaraderie and good acoustic
music.
Before the concert my wife and I patronized one of your local restaurants. But for the concert, I would not have found a
reason to be in the Los Gatos area.
If you're looking to promote Los Gatos business you should promote the Woodshed.
Michael Thompson CPA
Michael S. Thompson CPA/ABV, CVA, CFFA
Valuation and Forensic Accounting
Please note our new address.
1783 Hester Avenue
San Jose, CA 95128
408- 247 -5253 Phone
408 -247 -5795 Fax
IRS Circular 230 Notice: To ensure compliance with 31 Code of Federal Regulations section 10,35, I must
inform you that any federal tax advice contained in this communication (including any attachments) is not
intended or written to be used; and cannot be used, for the purpose of (i) avoiding penalties under the
internal Revenue Code or (ii) promoting, marketing or recommending to another party any transaction or
matter addressed herein.
From:
Gary Shapiro <gary@elementsbeauty.com>
Sent:
Thursday, February 14, 2013 8:45 AM
To:
Town Manager
Cc:
Spector @losgatosca.gov; Steve Leonardis; Diane McNutt; Joe Pirzynski; Marcia Jensen;
dsparrer @community- newspapers.com
Subject:
brief note in favor of The Woodshed
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
To Town Managers and Council Members,
Please note my support of continuing the small venue concerts at The Woodshed. I have attended two
already, with my kids. I've found it difficult to find an alcohol free, kid- friendly atmosphere in which to enjoy
live music. Please allow them to continue.
Sincerely,
Gary Shapiro
107 Sebastian Ct.
Los Gatos, Ca. 95032
From:
Sent:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Follow Up Flag:
Flag Status:
im
les @les- thomas.com
Thursday, February 14, 2013 9:08 AM
Town Manager; Council; BSpector; Diane McNutt; Steve Leonardis; Joe Pirzynski; Marcia
Jensen
Les Thomas
The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars
Follow up
Completed
I am writing this letter to provide my support for allowing The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars to
continue their wonderful concerts, workshops and group classes. I have attended several of these events
and they have always been well very well organized and executed. This venue provides a great
community service to people who love music, attending live performances, workshops, and learning how
to play music in a group situation. In my opinion, this is a great asset to our wonderful Los Gatos
community!
I feel it is a real shame that the Town has decided that somehow this isn't in the best interest of the
community. The Woodshed has gone out of their way to ensure that neighbors and adjacent business
aren't negatively impacted by these wonderful concerts and group lessons. I strongly urge the Los Gatos
Town Council to reconsider their position and allow The Woodshed to continue their concerts, workshops
and group lessons.
6TW, I live around the corner from Roberts Road on Magneson Loop, and I haven't experience any parking
or traffic related issues from the Woodshed. The Yoga Source, is a business that generates far more
traffic and parking issues, from my vantage point.
Thanks for listening,
Les Thomas
16730 Magneson Loop
Los Gatos, CA 95032
From: bradd67 @comcast.net
Sent: Thursday, February 14, 2013 9:32 AM
To: Town Manager; Diane McNutt
Cc: Spector @losgatosca,gov; Steve Leonardis; Marcia Jensen
Subject: Woodshed
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
I would like to take the council to the woodshed, literally. And not the
music venue you just shut down. Preventing a quiet,
respected music venue from operating is Outrageous! This venue is practically
an in home living room concert series. Very small, non disruptive to neighbors and
there are VERY few acoustic music venues in the south bay area.
The Woodshed is one of the best, because of its size and quality of performers.
The council needs to re- imburse the Woodshed for expenses it incurred advertising
and promoting canceled shows. I will be at the next council meeting to DEMAND
the immediate resumption of the business.
Brad Daniel
117 i� 'age
Intentionally
.Left Blank
From:
Don Thorvund <thorvund @gmail.com>
Sent:
Thursday, February 14, 2013 10:21 AM
To:
Town Manager
Cc:
Council; Spector @losgatosca.gov; Steve Leonardis; Diane McNutt; Joe Pirzynski; Marcia
Jensen; dsparrer @community- newspapers,com
Subject:
Keith Holland Guitars and the city of Los Gatos
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
To the Office of the Town Manager, Town of Los Gatos
I am the founder of the Julian Rock Memorial, a non - profit charity to benefit St. Jude Children's Research
Hospital. We are one of the only grass roots charities recognized and endorsed by St. Jude Children's Research
Hospital. I am very proud that 100% of all funds that we raise go directly to St. Jude.
I founded the Julian Rock Memorial in 2010 in memory of my late son, Julian Joseph Thorvund. The loss of a
child is the single most devastating event that can befall a parent. My heart continues to break for other parents
with children that are suffering with catastrophic diseases. It became my goal and mission to support St. Jude in
order to ease the pain of other parents.
My own recovery has been a long, challenging, and continuous journey. I found that my appreciation of music
and the music community have been extremely beneficial. It is the music community that is the core of my
charity. We hold a small musical celebration of life as well as an auction of items donated from celebrity
musicians who appreciate my efforts in helping the children and families of St. Jude Children's Research
Center.
I have chosen to hold my third annual Julian Rock Memorial at Keith Holland Guitars because of his shared
love and appreciation of music and the music community. What he has been - doing - with -his- retail - establishment and the Woodshed celebrates the importance of music in all of our lives, not just those of us that have suffered
devastating losses. His efforts share this appreciation of music with families, children, and the entire
community. I have chosen to partner with Keith because his environment is alcohol -free, family friendly,
contentious of its neighbors, and much needed in our community. I will proudly be discussing this partnership
with Keith Holland Guitars in Los Gatos while I am being interviewed on NBC Bay Area again this year, as I
have each previous year.
Z
It is with Ereat sadness that I heard his concerts have been suspended while the city of Los Gatos reviews its
entertainment policy. I do understand that certain establislunents have presented challenges to their neighbors
due to the live music events being held in adult -only bars /restaurants with alcohol being served late into the
night. I assure you this is not the same type of entertaimnent that is being presented by Keith Holland Guitars
and the Woodshed. Keith's events are family friendly, with no alcohol, and ending before l Opm.
I urge you to consider Keith's family friendly and community friendly atmosphere as you review your policy on
entertainment licensing. Keith Holland Guitars should not be grouped in with the alcohol serving bars and
restaurants that are causing challenges late into the night with your community. If this suspension is not lifted, I
will not be able hold the Julian Rock Memorial to benefit St Jude Children's Research Hospital at Keith
Holland Guitars in Los Gatos.
Please feel free to reach out to me if you require any additional information. I sincerely hope you reconsider
and allow Keith to continue to host music celebrations that will benefit Los Gatos. I would welcome the
opportunity to speak to your office as well as the mayor and city council members to explain how important
Keith's efforts are to the community as well as my charity.
Best regards,
Don Thorvund
www.Jul ianRockMemorial.orq
thorvund@gmail.com
408- 505 -1445
From:
Torn McCarter <TMcCarter @packard.org>
Sent:
Thursday, February 14, 2013 10:38 AM
To:
Town Manager; Council;'BSpector; Diane McNutt; Steve Leonardis; Joe Pirzynski; Marcia
Jensen
Subject:
The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Honorable persons,
I have attended concerts at The Woodshed and I think Keith Holland is providing a valuable service to Los Gatos and the
surrounding community. Last year, Mission City Coffee Roasters in San Jose closed, which was the only venue I am aware
of in Silicon Valley to host small concerts of this size featuring talented artists who did not have the name recognition to
be featured at a larger venue. Keith Holland is providing a venue for such artists, including local musicians, and the
audience that enjoys intimate shows. They are also creating a community of musicians of all ages to learn to play musical
instruments and to practice together. We all know our schools can no longer afford to provide these services. On top of
this, when my wife and I attend shows at The Woodshed, we look for new places to dine in Los Gatos and make an
evening of it. In this way, The Woodshed is creating a draw to Los Gatos for people who might otherwise find
entertainment elsewhere. I hope you can find a way to allow this valuable service to continue in your community.
Cordially,
Tom McCarter
San Jose, CA
Tgmc512sbcglobal.net
From: McFarland John <johnm1331 @comcast.net>
Sent: Thursday, February 14, 2013 2:30 PM
To: Spector @losgatosca.gov; Steve Leonardis; Town Manager
Cc: Diane McNutt; Marcia Jensen; Joe Pirzynski
Subject: The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars
Dear Mayor, Town Manager and Council Members,
I am writing to request that the town's action requiring "The Woodshed" at "Keith Holland Guitars" to suspend activities
be reviewed and reversed. The Woodshed is a very worthwhile educational and cultural organization whose mission is
so unique it appears to be misunderstood.
The town's actions could be easily understood if the venue had the characteristics of a night club but it does not. Most of
its schedule is comprised of fairly small classes. When a performance is held for an audience no alcohol is served and the
volume is low. Many of the students in the classes aspire to perform one day and many of the performers teach so there
is a symbiosis between the two activities. The effect on the community is entirely one of cultural enrichment.
It is understandable that neighbors might have concerns. I used to live in the neighborhood and actually attended Fisher
Middle School so I am familiar with the area and its activity level. The Woodshed is a small facility. Its activities will be
barely noticeable by any measure but especially in comparison to the school.
Please do the community a service and free The Woodshed to proceed with its mission.
Sincerely,
John McFarland
From: Michael Curnett <clearpebbles @gmail.com>
Sent: Thursday, February 14, 2013 9:02 PM
To: Town Manager
Cc: Council; spector @losgatosca.gov; Steve Leonardis; Diane McNutt; Joe Pirzynski; Marcia
Jensen
Dear Los Gatos Town Manager and Town Council,
The acoustic (not amplified) concerts at The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars are a important cultural
resource that attract patrons that support the arts and human potential. These are people sensitive enough to
prefer the low volume and intimate feel of acoustic inusic, and are considerate to the Los Gatos Town business
and residential community.
They are not inclined to consumption of alcohol or loud behavior.
I am someone who is inspired by the acoustic music instruction, workshops and concerts The Woodshed at
Keith Holland Guitars offers, and is willing to travel considerable distance to Los Gatos for this rare
sponsorship and opportunity in human artistic development.
Please allow this rare cultural resource to prove that it co- exists harmoniously and is an asset to Los Gatos.
Thank You for your consideration,
Michael Curnett
From:
Carrie Crumley <carriecrumley @comcast.net>
Sent:
Friday, February 15, 2013 12:58 PM
To:
Town Manager; Council; Spector @losgatosca.gov; Steve Leonardis; Diane McNutt; Joe
Pirzynski; Marcia Jensen
Cc:
The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars
Subject:
Fwd: Update on Woodshed Concerts
Dear Mr. Larson,
I would like to submit my views on the restrictions that have recently been placed on Keith Holland's Woodshed.
I recently attended an event at the Woodshed and thoroughly enjoyed it. As a new guitar student, I very much
appreciated the locale of the musical event in a lovely local music store. What better match could be made?
As you know, no alcohol or prepared foods are served or sold and the crowd was very civil and are true music
enthusiasts. There was no lingering or after parties, people may have shopped in the store but most folks left right after
the performance.
am not aware of any neighborhood violence or break -ins associated with the Woodshed events.
Please reconsider the restrictions placed on the Woodshed so that we can all enjoy and benefit from this local venue
and its programs!
Best Regards,
Carrie
From: John Stoneham <john @stoneham.com>
Sent: Friday, February 15, 2013 5:08 PM
To: Town Manager; Council; BSpector; Diane McNutt; Steve Leonardis; Joe Pirzynski; Marcia
Jensen
Subject: The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars
Hello Los Gatos!
I just wanted to add my support for live music at the Woodshed. It is a great venue for showcasing quality music in the
South Bay.
I never cease to be amazed at how difficult it seems to be for places like this to keep their doors open. After the demise
of the Mission City Roasting Company (and the Expresso Gardens before that), hearing that the Woodshed was
supporting music was a great relief. There are so few places in the South Bay that provide venues for the many excellent
musicians that live here and that pass through.
A community without music is impoverished indeed.
John Stoneham
From: cwtripp @comcast.net
Sent: Tuesday, February 19, 2013 11:04 PM
To: Council
Cc: spector @losgatosca.gov; Steve Leonardis; Diane McNutt; Joe Pirzynski; Marcia Jensen
Subject: Keith Holland Guitars - Woodshed
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Hello,
Please consider allowing Keith Holland at Keith Holland Guitars to have concerts, open -mics, and
workshops. These events fill a much - needed gap in the available musical events in Los Gatos. I am
so disappointed that I now have to drive to another city for such events. As you know, these events
have no alcohol, no loud or rowdy behavior, and the patrons are usually mature music - lovers.
Thanks for your consideration.
Charles W. Tripp
15241 Oak Ridge Way
Los Gatos, CA 95030
_ ._.._...___._.._.__.---_,...._.....___._ ..........
.....__......__...._._._-....__..-,...._....._......_.._...._._...._. .._____.- _._...._.._.....____..
From: les @les- thomas.com [mailto :les @les- thomas.com]
Seat: Wednesday, February 27, 2013 8:16 AM
To: Town Manager
Cc: Les Thomas
Subject: RE: The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars
Hi,
Just wanted to express my disappointment with the Town's decision to halt group lessons and concerts at
The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars.
Can anyone council member explain the logic behind this decision? I cannot understand why group
lessons would be an issue. What defines a "group lesson "?
Kind regards,
Les
From:
Sue Borgman <sueborgman @gmail.com>
Sent:
Wednesday, February 27, 2013 11;28 AM
To:
Town Manager; Council; BSpector; Diane McNutt; Steve Leonardis; Joe Pirzynski; Marcia
Jensen; info @woodshed.org; Keith Holland
Subject:
The Woodshed
I would like to add my voice
to the already rather loud one I am hearing regarding support for Keith Holland
and The Woodshed.
The arts are sadly dying as, unlike when I was a child, there are very few outlets these days where people are
encouraged to get together and celebrate and enjoy the art of making beautiful music - nurturing a passion for
the arts and allowing an outlet for creativity - the old fashioned, non- digitalized/high tech kind. Keith Holland
and the team at the Woodshed have a vision of creating an environment in our (sometimes) wonderful town
where music and creativity can be nurtured and celebrated. They are doing so at little to no personal financial
gain - but because they have a passion for it and want to share that passion with others. The environment they
have created is small, safe, extremely family friendly and very special. How many places can you go to on a
Saturday night where a group of people ranging from young children to more aged residents of our town are
listening to extraordinarily talented musicians in an intimate setting with no alcohol involved ? Why would
anyone do anything to challenge or take that away ?
It is heartbreaking that a town management team that allows a gun shop to open with no prior consultation of
the residents, and then hides behind potential litigation to excuse not being able to do anything about it, reacts in
such a decisive and swift manner to bring an end to something which can only be beneficial to our town and
those who live in it.
Please make a sensible decision and move swiftly to do whatever needs to be done to allow Keith and the team
to continue the incredible work they are doing.
Susan Borgman
From: David Nye <slackdog @sbcglobal.net>
Sent: Wednesday, February 27, 2013 11:43 AM
To: Jennifer Savage; Town Manager
Subject: The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars
Dear Los Gatos City Manager and Planning Department,
My naive is David Nye. I am a semi - retired Dentist and part -time music instructor. My primary instrument for
instruction is the 'ukulele, with which I give private lessons at Keith Holland Guitars. A few months ago I was
asked to start and run an 'Ukulele Club, utilizing the space at The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars. The only
reason I agreed to do it is because this offered the opportunity to share my love of music with all ages. Unlike
other clubs, The Woodshed was not in a restaurant or bar, so at any given meeting the ages run from 6 years old
to 80. I provided this service free of charge. The club meetings were held the 1St and 3rd Tuesday of the month at
7:00 pm and lasted until 9:00 pm.
The article printed in the Mercury -News stated that noise, parking and traffic were main issues, besides the fact
that Los Gatos didn't have regulations in place. I believe the first three are non - issues. How much noise does a
few 'ukuleles and acoustic guitars really make? We do not have irresponsible drinkers leaving a meeting,
workshop or concert and getting in cars or getting sick in peoples yards. Parking has never been a problem. The
only traffic issues are in the morning and afternoon when the Middle School opens and closes, plus the folks
who race down Roberts Road as a shortcut from Blossom Hill Road to Los Gatos Blvd. I have been playing and
listening to music in Los Gatos since the 1960's, so I have a hard time believing that Los Gatos did not have
"use permit" regulations in place for community based music.
Keith Holland Guitars is a small Mom -n -Pop store, which like most businesses, is struggling in this economy.
Keith Holland has been an upstanding business owner in Los Gatos for many years. I believe that an
unreasonable CUP would force him to close his doors for good. That would be a lost revenue stream for Los
Gatos and the loss of a number of jobs. Is that truly the precedent that the Los Gatos city council wants to set?
In the meantime, why not let the music continue until the council decides what to do?
Thank you for taking the time to read this note. I hope this can be a win -win for all involved.
David M. Nye DDS
From: Michele Jehenson <mjehenson @gmail.com>
Sent: Wednesday, February 27, 2013 9:17 PM
To: Town Manager; Council; BSpector; Diane McNutt; Steve Leonardis; Joe Pirzynski; Marcia
Jensen; info @woodshed.org; dsparrer @community- newspapers.com
Subject: re: The woodshed
To the Los Gatos Council and Mr Sparrer
I find it so sad and so bewildering that all the complaints that you have received did not lead you to reconsider
the permit for the Templar Sports gun shop but one complaint was enough for you to shut down The Woodshed,
an acoustic guitar venue. Where are your priorities as a town? Are you really looking out for your constituents
9
Respectfully
Michele Jehenson
15192 Karl ave
Monte Sereno, CA 95030
(408)712 -4962
From: Barbara Bird <bbeautday @yahoo.com>
Sent: Thursday, February 28, 2013 1:58 PM
To: Council
Subject: Keep the Woodshed
To the council, the Woodshed is a wonderful place for beginner Uke players to meet, so socialize, to learn Ukulele
together. I am a senior and I have met the most wonderful, generous people there, plus attended great concerts of
local musicians. There is no other place like it, and no other place that offers such variety of music lessons and local
music at a reasonable price for those of us on a budget. Please resolve all issues and allow them to get back to
business. They are an asset to Los Gatos and your community in so many respects, and an asset to greater San Jose
too.
Keep local small businesses at all costs as that is what America was founded on.
Sincerely, Barbara Bird, LMFT
Barbara Bird, LMFi, RScP
Licensed Psychotherapist
Licensed Spiritual Counselor
Life is so good!
From:
ariela harber <justsayyess @hotmail.com>
Sent:
Thursday, February 28, 2,013 8:38 PM
To:
Town Manager; Council; spector @losgatosca.gov; Steve Leonardis; Diane McNutt; Joe
Pirzynski; Marcia Jensen
Cc:
dsparrer @community- newspapers.com
Subject:
Woodshed Concerts
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
We just got back from a few weeks out of town, and were horrified to find out that our new favorite music venue has
been closed down. Oh no! How did this happen?
We are retired professionals and active music lovers, and prior to the opening of Keith Holland's concert series have been
having to go out of town for our music. Imagine our pleasure to find that some of the same high grade musicians we
have travelled far to see and hear were playing right in our own home town! Before the town closed down this operation,
we were able to make it to two concerts, and enjoyed both the musicians and the community atmosphere this venue
supported. As the former school psychologist at Los Gatos High School, I was pleased to see that Keith Holland was also
able to support music groups and music development for the kids and teens. It had seemed like a win -win situation for
everyone!
The shows we went to were well attended, there were absolutely no issues with intoxication or civic disruption, and as far
as I could tell the venue was small enough that traffic did not seem to be a particular issue. While I can see the need to
have control over loud music and drinking in downtown bars, I am sad that the closure of a small, low key, nonprofit
operation such as this one has to suffer by being put in the same category as more high profile and potentially disruptive
commercial endeavors.
Keith Holland took a brave step in renting a venue which could support local music. It is a real shame both for Keith and
his associates and for the town of Los Gatos if this venue shuts down permanently. Due to fiscal constraints, I suspect
that time is of the essence if we are not to lose this unique, creative, and community - building music venture. I truly hope
you are able to consider this unique situation and find a way to support it before it before Keith is forced to permanently
shut it down.
Thank you so much for your consideration of this matter!
Ariela Harber
From: Bill Bentinck <bentinck @comcast.net>
Sent: Thursday, February 28, 2013 9:12 PM
To: Town Manager; Council; BSpector; Diane McNutt; Steve Leonardis; Joe Pirzynski; Marcia
Jensen; info @woodshed.org; dsparrer @community- newspapers.com
Subject: To the business prevention unit
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
I truly find the position the city is taking regarding the Woodshed ridiculous and against public interests.
I have attended a couple of gatherings at the Woodshed and really enjoyed the evenings. The demographic was diverse
(young to old), it was gentile and calm.
What really moved me from the whole experience was the raw, talented nature of the musicians. The music was Jazz to
Folk. Almost LG Mountain in some respects. It seemed more like a place for the musicians to share their talents with
the audience, as opposed to the audience coming for the performance. There was true joy in the innocent and humble
expression of their talents. One performance I remember was an woman (60 -70 years) who had been playing only a
year. It was hear first stage performance and I was so impressed with the talent she amassed in only 1 year. The
audience just sat and watched, then clapped when you was finished. Of course she missed every 4t" or 5t" note, but that
wasn't the point.
My wife and I really enjoyed the performance and the "real" and intimate venue that the woodshed provided. No loud
noises, no routy people, no drinking, no smoking. To think that the city government is preventing a very modest
business from being able to share something that would enrich and broaden those willing attendees, is a pity.
I read about the restrictions on music lessons, which also seems unfair. As a business person, the CUP fee seems
excessive and punitive and disproportionate. Additionally, I think they also open their doors at no expense to young
musicians as a great venue for them to develop and practice their skills.
I can't understand how or why there can't be accommodations in public policy to permit such a modest business,
especially one that provides culture and joy to many people. It's a case where they policy makers are too risk averse in
"doing things right versus doing the right thing ".
I've lived here for 20 years and raised two kids through LGHS. LG is a great place, but imperfect. Can it be said that the
same degree of rigidity and rigor is in place for all city policies or law? I can't imagine so. So, consider some flexibility in
the interpretation of the laws or policies that snuff the bright flame of modest but rich and enlightening venture such as
Holland Guitars...
Bill Bentinck
Btw.....Although I wish I could, I can't play a guitar, not am I a customer of Holland Guitars (or any guitar shop for that
matter). I am someone appreciative of music and the talent, commitment, and passion it takes to create it and play it...
From: Dennis Geiszler <dgeiszler @kerisys.com>
Sent: Friday, March 01, 2013 9 :30 AM
To: Town Manager; Council; BSpector; Diane McNutt; Steve Leonardis; Joe Pirzynski; Marcia
Jensen
Cc: info @woodshed.org; dsparrer @community- newspapers,com
Subject: Support for The Woodshed
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
I am writing to express my support for The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars. If any of the council members or other
governing body members have attended any performances there, they would have seen that this is just the type of venue
and activity this community needs. It is low key, unobtrusive, attracts a very nice and well behaved crowd, and the
performances are off the charts. Plus, it likely brings a few more patrons out to visit the local restaurants and shops prior
to the show. And finally, group lessons, mostly attended by kids, are banned? Seriously?
I urge you to speedily process whatever applications are required and spare the proprietor any more delays and
expense. The Woodshed is quite unique, and just the kind of place the community needs. Having been a Los Gatos
resident since 1967 and hearkening back to when we had a real town feeling, let's bring some of that back by doing the
right thing instead of standing on some rule that is non - nonsensical (in this case) and detrimental to the community and
Mr. Holland's business.
Sincerely,
Dennis Geiszler
(408)356 -4954
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From: Neil Hogan <neil @joplinandsweeney,com>
Sent: Friday, March 01, 2013 11:03 AM
To: Town Manager; Council; BSpector; Diane McNutt; Steve Leonardis; Joe Pirzynski; Marcia
Jensen
Cc: Keith Holland; Larry Baron
Subject: Los Gatos Needs The Woodshed
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
March 1, 2013
Members of the board and town staff,
I have just become aware of what has been going on with controversies regarding music venues in Los Gatos and need
to weigh in on the subject. I have been a business owner and part of the Los Gatos music community since the mid
1970s, the longest business being Joplin & Sweeney Music which I operated for over 30 years. We offered music
instruction on various instruments and offered our services and support to the town whenever asked. I retired from AS
a couple of years ago but continue to help out as I can, particularly with music at the annual Tree Lighting.
Keith Holland has been a friend and occasional business partner of mine for nearly my entire life in Los Gatos and I
believe he is offering an incredible resource to the town with his launch of the Woodshed. Aside from offering a place
for young musicians to play and perform in an atmosphere much more conducive to musical development than a bar,
restaurant, or even cafe, the Woodshed offers a gathering place where the entire community can meet and appreciate
talented musicians, whether local or traveling. For that matter, there are not many places where parents can take their
children and enjoy live music together.
As a music teacher for over 40 years I can also say that some of my most valuable lessons as a student were in workshop
situations where notable artists and master teachers shared their knowledge and experience with aspiring musicians in
the type of setting that recently occurred at the Woodshed with Tommy Emmanuel. This is a musician who will go down
in history as one of the greatest guitarists and musical ambassadors of our time, if not all. I certainly did not have that
opportunity as a teenage musician in Los Gatos. The place we gathered was behind Forbes Mill where my band played a
few times.
I understand that the town needs regulations in place regarding amplified music but there are a few reasons that the
Woodshed should not be considered in the same category as places that offer food and drinks, and have entertainment
that is audible in the neighborhood late into the evening. The biggest is that the center room at Keith's Guitar Hospital is
completely isolated and insulated from the rest of the building, and hence from the neighborhood. They also specialize
in acoustic music, where people could talk over the volume level of the music. Obviously most people are there to listen
anyway.
I hope the council will seriously consider what a valuable asset the Woodshed is to our community and allow it to grow
into the progressive, visionary place that Keith, Greg, and Bev have put so much thought, effort, and planning into.
Every town needs a place like the Woodshed for the cultural health of its community.
Sincerely,
Neil Hogan
From: Rene Maus <mausl7 @sbcglobal.net>
Sent: Saturday, March 02, 2013 5 :46 PM
To: Town Manager
Cc: Council; spector @losgatosca,gov; Steve Leonardis; Diane McNutt; Joe Pirzynski; Marcia
Jensen
Subject: The Woodshed /Keith Holland Guitars
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
Dear Greg Larson, Regina Falkner and Pamela Jacobs,
I'm writing today in reference to, and support of, The Woodshed in the Town of Los Gatos. I was privileged to
attended only 3 events before they were halted in February. The people who attended these events ranged fiom
ages 7 and up and most were sporting grey hair, like me. The musicians I've been honored to listen to and see
here have been absolutely amazing. This venue is an alcohol /tobacco free, family event that respectfully ends
by 10:00 pm. I have been so impressed with the friendly, professional staff here who genuinely want to nurture
and support this community. These are good people. At the age of 55, I am currently learning the ukulele
through the Ukulele Club at The Woodshed with such encouragement and support it is empowering. I
understand that you may be having issues at some other venues, however, The Woodshed is truly a special
entity within your Town and does not contribute to the scenarios I've heard that have created this hiatus. I
respectfully ask that you consider these thoughts and allow the Woodshed to continue supporting the
community and musicians by allowing these wonderful, cultural shows to be heard and enjoyed by all in this
safe environment. I thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Rene' Maus
135C Redding Rd.
Campbell, CA 95008
408 -891 -7559
Human Resources Technician
Franklin- McKinley School District
645 Wool Creek Drive
San Jose, CA 95121
From: Rick Bale <rbalel @gmail.com>
Sent: Monday, March 04, 2013 4:56 PM
To: Town Manager, +council@ losgatosca.gov; +bspector @losgatosca.gov;
+dmcnutt @losgatosca.gov; +sleonardis @losgatosca.gov, +jpirzynski @losgatosca.gov;
+mjensen @losgatosca.gov
Subject: The Woodshed at Keith Holland Guitars
Dear Los Gatos Town Manager and Town Council,
After living near Stanford for 50 years, we recently bought a home in Morgan Hill. We are loving our
new environs, and we're just getting to know the South Bay as well as the Los Gatos and Saratoga
areas. One of the most delightful experiences of our first few months was attending a small concert at
the Woodshed in January. We took a large group of people to dinner in Los Gatos before the concert,
then traveled to the concert site. Everyone was excited, and we planned to gather again about every
month for dinner and another concert in Los Gatos.
So of course we were distressed to hear that the concerts at the Woodshed have been suspended. We
do not know the reason for this, but would like to learn. Is there a forum where we could find out
more, and give our own input as well?
Thank you!
Dr. Rick Bale
Clinical Associate Professor, Emeritus
Stanford University School of Medicine
14634 Stonebridge Court
Morgan Hill
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From: Don Thorvund <thorvund @gmail.com>
Sent: Monday, March 04, 2013 7;44 PM
To: Town Manager
Cc: Council; Steve Leonardis; Diane McNutt; Joe Pirzynski; Marcia Jensen; Dick Sparrer;
BSpector; Don Thorvund; Jennifer Savage
Subject: The Julian Rock Memorial and the city of Los Gatos
Follow Up Flag: Follow up
Flag Status: Completed
To the office of the Town Manager, Town of Los Gatos,
Two weeks ago, I wrote the letter below in support of Keith Holland Guitars and the Woodshed. I know that
this issue is important to the city of Los Gatos and I honestly believe you are working on a solution that will
benefit a 17 year retailer as well as the entire community of Los Gatos because it is the right thing to do. I am
sure my sentiments in the email below were echoed by many other community members and the benefit Keith is
bringing to the community of Los Gatos is obvious.
I am sending you this email as a follow up to some very disappointing news I received today from the City of
Los Gatos regarding holding my charity event at Keith Holland Guitars on May 19, 2013. Per my meeting with
Ms. Savage on Feb 22, I had been working to obtaining a special permit to allow my event at Keith's location. I
had provided all necessary information and worked out the necessary parking requirements with RJ Fisher
Middle School. I was greatly disappointed to hear that I was not granted a special permit as my event is not
large enough.
As I mentioned below, I founded the Julian Rock Memorial as I had lost my son to a catastrophic disease and
wanted to do everything in my power to help other parents in the same situation. I ask you to take a moment
and to think as a parent, not as a member of the fine city of Los Gatos. For a moment, imagine the thought that
your child had a catastrophic disease and would not be able to share and experience all the joys in life. Think
about not being able to watch your child grow into a fine adult and start their own family. Think about
watching your child pass away in your arms. Please think about having to choose a casket and make funeral
arrangements for your child. This is an every day occurrence for the families of St. Jude. I know this because I
have done all those things. St. Jude works hard for the treatment and cures for these children and their families,
and they never turn a child away regardless of ability to pay. This noble act is not free, and I will continue to do
whatever I can to raise money to help ease the pain of other families.
I am not sending you this email to discuss municipal codes, conditional use permits, parking lot ratios, or
special event permits. All of those items are trivial when you have a child with a catastrophic disease. I am
sending you this email to ask you to do the right thing and allow my event on May 19, 2013 at Keith Holland
Guitars. You have the power to grant a special exception and help the families of St. Jude. You have the power
to make their lives a little bit easier. You are the leaders of our community and have the ability to show that the
city of Los Gatos cares about the children and families of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
The planning of my event has already begun and I need an answer as soon as possible, preferably by the end of
this week.
Sometimes it is very difficult make the right decisions in life, this time it is very easy. Please look into your
hearts and utilize your power to do the right thing, Please let me know that I can count on your support as
community leaders.
Sincerely,
Don Thon-und
Founder
Julian Rock Memorial
www.JulianRockMemorial,or�
thorvund @gmail.com
408- 505 -1445
From: Stephanie Gaspari <Stephanie.Gaspari@agropur.ca>
Sent: Tuesday, March 05, 2013 2:34 PM
To: Council
Cc: BSpector
Subject: Julian Rock Memorial (JRM) @ The Woodshed
Dear Council and Honorable Mayor Spector:
I am writing you regarding the JRM which was to be held at The Woodshed this upcoming May 19th, 2013. First off, a
little background on my attachment to this wonderful charity. I am a 5t" generation Canadian who will be
accompanying my 16 -year old daughter, who is giving her time and support to fly 3,000 miles, miss a very crucial time at
school in order to lend support to this worthwhile cause. She is a grade 10 Catholic School student and her graduation
requirement is that she spend 40 hours giving back to others via volunteer work. Her teachers, her school and her
classmates are very proud of her for thinking of others and going to such lengths to accomplish it. This is, of course, now
at jeopardy due to your most recent decision to withhold a special permit for the Woodshed to accommodate this
event, At the moment, I am trying to contain my outrage and sadness at the lack of humanity that the town of Los Gatos
is showing in support of this event.
As you know, this event is fully (every last penny) in support of St. Jude's Children's Hospital. It is a way to give back to
those, in your very community, that are given care for a sick or dying child EVEN IF THEY CANNOT AFFORD TO DO
SO. Mr. and Mrs. Thorvund, the founders of the JRM have suffered such devastating grief due to the loss of their child,
and as a result, wish to support the very hospital that supported them, and those who may find themselves in the same
position.
The Thorvund's work tirelessly to seek the support, in time and auctionable goods, from the music
community. Musicians world -wide are aware of the event and have given their support. I am not in a position to
indicate which musicians have given their support, but trust me, the list would certainly impress.
This is not a time for politics, this is a time for humanity. The JRM at The Woodshed is not to be grouped into the "bar
scene on a Saturday night ". This is a family event, alcohol free, and all are welcome to hear great music as well as
peruse collector's items that any rock enthusiast would love to have.
I am requesting the following:
1) The "typical process" be lifted and a special permit be granted immediately;
2) Failing the above, a "fast track" through the system as time is of the essence. My flights are already booked as
are others, I'm quite sure.
3) A call from Honorable Mayor Spector so I may personally indicate my support for this event and help to explain
the urgency of a quick decision. I have called the Mayor's office twice today as I don't feel, due to distance and
my inability to actually attend a council session, that my views and opinions will be heard.
This is incredibly important for many: the children of St. Jude's and their families, the Thorvund family, my daughter, the
people and and proprietors of Los Gatos and yourselves, Council. The opportunity for some positive press for Los Gatos
can't be disregarded, especially given the scope and magnitude that this event reaches. While attendance at the actual
event may not equal an NFL football game, through social media and sponsorships, I'd bet they're close.
i Z
I sincerely hope that my letter does not fall on deaf ears. As witnessed in my attempts to reach Mayor Spector today,
from another country no less, I feel very strongly that the Town of Los Gatos should promptly reconsider their decision .
and process.
I look forward to hearing from Mayor Spector at her earliest convenience at 647 - 206 -7476. 1 will have that line open,
regardless of time, to ensure I don't miss her call.
Sincerely,
Stephanie A, Gaspari
zl2
From:
Albright Karla M, <kmalbright @gmail,com>
Sent:
Wednesday, March 06, 2013 12:50 PM
To:
Council
Cc:
Holland Keith
Subject:
woodshed
Hello Town Council,
I am writing as a concerned LG resident of 18 years.
Please, please, please do what ever is necessary to allow The Woodshed to continue to provide family friendly,
community building music activities, lessons and concerts. Please at a minimum immediately authorize Don Thorvund's
May 19th's charity event which supports St Jude's.
In the aftermath of Eric Quesda's death and as a result of the Living and Loving Life forums, there was discovered the
need for the kids in our town to express themselves with music. Out of that grew a friday night music open mic night of
sorts which was run out of the venue more recently and called the Under 21 Club. It is in the process of being revived
but in the meantime, The Woodshed meets that need and then some.
In the wake of the authorization of a gun shop without public comment it is amazing that the town is having any issue
with such positive, expressive, creative activities as those provided by Keith Holland and his company.
This should be a no brainer.
Karla Albright
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