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2010110107 - Consideration and Approval of the Human Services Element for the 2020 General PlanMEETING DATE: 11/1/10 ITEM NO: COUNCIL AGENDA REPORT DATE: OCTOBER 27, 2010 TO: MAYOR AND TOWN COUNCIL FROM: GREG LARSON, TOWN MANAG SUBJECT: TOWN COUNCIL CONSIDERATION AND APPROVAL OF THE HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT FOR THE 2020 GENERAL PLAN UPDATE RECOMMENDATION: Review and approve the modified Human Services Element for the 2020 General Plan Update BACKGROUND: On September 20th, the Town Council approved the environmental documentation and all aspects of the 2020 General Plan Update, as previously directed by Council and recommended by the Planning Commission, except for the Housing Element and the Human Services Element. At that meeting, the Mayor requested additional time to submit and incorporate many editorial and substantive suggestions for the Human Services Element which otherwise would have taken considerable time to review individually during the course of the meeting. Staff concurred with the continuance of the Human Services Element given the priority direction provided by Council to focus on Youth and Senior Services as part of the General Plan Update. The Housing Element is being considered separately on this agenda. PREPARED BY: GREG LARSON Town Manager Reviewed by: Assistant Town Manage( Wk own Attorney Clerk Administrator Finance Community Development N:\MGRWdminWorkFiles)2010 Council Reports\Human Services Element I 1-1-10 TC Report (2).docx PAGE 2 MAYOR AND TOWN COUNCIL SUBJECT: 2020 General Plan Human Services Element October 27, 2010 ANALYSIS: Town staff has reviewed the suggested modifications submitted by the Mayor and others, as well as other potential changes and opportunities. The most substantive of these changes address the following issues: • Fostering the health and well-being of Los Gatos • Strengthening and clarifying desirable youth services and programs, including civic engagement • Strengthening and clarifying desirable senior services and programs, including senior housing, social engagement and safety • Strengthening and clarifying desirable artistic and cultural opportunities, including the literary arts, performing arts facilities, and artistic collaborations and partnerships. Staff concurs with all of the recommended changes as incorporated in the attached documents. The first document is a next -to -final draft including all prior and new modifications, except for final formatting, numbering and technical edits. The second document is a "red -line" version showing both previously recommended modifications as well as the new recommended changes. The final document provides the recommended addition of two additional goals and associated policies which could not be included in the other documents without extensive re -numbering and editing in advance prior to Council approval. PUBLIC COMMENTS: At this time, the Town has not received any new public comments on the Human Services Element. ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW: None of the new edits and changes have any impact on the previously approved EIR. FISCAL IMPACT: Adoption of the Human Services Element does not require any specific budgetary changes or fiscal impacts, but will inform future strategic priorities and budgetary decisions. ATTACHMENTS: 1. Recommended 2020 General Plan Human Services Element, pending final Council modifications, direction and incorporation of final edits, numbering and formatting. 2. Recommended 2020 General Plan Human Services Element in a "red -line" format. 3. Recommended addition of two goals and associated polices to the Human Services Element. 12 HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT A. Introduction Major land use and development decisions have important physical, economic, social, and environmental implications that must be considered by public officials during any planning process. A Human Services Element in the General Plan provides a venue for bringing human concerns into the physical planning process. Human Services are those services in the community, both public and private, designed especially to meet the social, health, safety, communication, education and artistic needs of people. This Element expands upon the Town's role and responsibilities pertaining to the broad areas of human services and assessing needs for available resources. Through an effective Human Services Element the Town will be better able to assist individuals and families in achieving and maintaining high levels of social well-being, leading to a more positive and satisfied community. The Town should be involved in meeting human needs, but may not necessarily be responsible for directly delivering all services. The Town recognizes the value of public and private agencies working together to effectively deliver services. The Town can be a leader in bringing agencies together and encouraging long-range planning. For services not directly provided by the Town, the Town may assume any of the following four roles to assist in developing more effective delivery of Human Services in Los Gatos: resource coordinator; educator; advocate; facilitator; and evaluator. This Element is divided into the following sections: • Public Health • Youth Services • Senior Services • Schools • Libraries • Arts & Culture Each of these components is divided into the following sections: • Background Information: Provides background information about the various resources within Los Gatos. • Goals, Policies and Actions: Provides guidance to the Town related to decisions affecting the resources addressed in this Element. HS-1 ATTACHMENT 1 TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN }HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT B. Public Health The Town of Los Gatos wants to help ensure a healthy community through planning efforts that can directly enhance the wellness of the community. 1. Background Public health and planning professionals now recognize that increasing individuals' physical activity is paramount to healthy populations, and that the built environment greatly influences lifestyle choices that promote such activity. Los Gatos strives to be an active, inclusive and responsive community, where healthy habits are encouraged rather than discouraged by the environments we build. Goals, policies, and actions that promote active healthy lifestyles are also found in the Land Use Element and Transportation Element. Policies related to community health are also addressed in other sections of this General Plan, including: • Emergency preparedness in the Safety Element. • Parks and recreational opportunities in the Open Space Element. • Water and air quality in the Environment and Sustainability Element. • Fire and Police services in this Human Services Element. 2. Goals, Policies and Actions Goal HS-1 To ensure resources and programs are available for the health needs of the entire community, including youth and seniors. Policies HS-2 Policy HS-1.1 Encourage the retention of three nearby hospitals: El Camino Hospital Los Gatos, Good Samaritan Hospital, and its Mission Oaks Campus. Policy HS-1.2 Promote health services provided by other agencies to local residents. TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT Action Policy HS-1.3 Encourage a full array of health care professionals to locate their practices in Los Gatos. Action HS-1.1 Annually review programs the Town supports to assure they meet the health needs of target groups. Action HS-1.2 Identify health services that are not readily available in Los Gatos and add them to the Town's economic vitality efforts. C. Youth Services Having community activities and services catering to young persons 18 years of age or younger is important for families in Los Gatos. The Town of Los Gatos strives to be a youth -friendly community and recognizes that youth services must be identified and developed to foster a healthy and active environment for youth growing up in Los Gatos. 1. Background Information Almost 30 percent of all households in Los Gatos have at least one youth under the age of 18. Young persons under the age of 18 represent approximately 20 percent of the total population in Los Gatos. Youth represent the future of Los Gatos, and providing and maintaining services for youth continues to be an important issue to the Town. Information on youth organizations, library services, family and community events and Town policies for youth can be found on the Town's website in the Youth and Teen Resources section. The Town of Los Gatos provides the following youth services. a. Youth Commission Formed in 2004, the Los Gatos Youth Commission includes 20 young persons who live in Los Gatos and go to schools throughout Santa Clara Counrv. Youth on this Commission are in grades 8 through 12 and are formally appointed by the Town Council. The Youth Commission represents the youth community of Los Gatos and is supported by the Los Gatos/Monte Sereno Police Department. The purpose of this Commission is to increase communication between adults and HS-3 TOWN OF LOS G A T O S DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT youth in Los Gatos, to give youth an avenue for expressing their voice in Town affairs and on issues related to youth in Los Gatos, and to encourage them to make civic engagement part of their adult lives. b. Community Services Commission Two of the nine members appointed to the Community Services Commission in Los Gatos are high school youth. The Community Services Commission advises the Town Council on housing and community development issues in Los Gatos. This Commission develops partnerships with public and private agencies that can help support various housing and community programs. c. Parks Commission Two of the nine members of the Parks Commission are youth. The Parks Conunission advises the Town Council on issues related to public parks, trails, grounds, street trees and Town beautification. d. Los Gatos Library The Los Gatos Library provides collections and services specifically oriented to- ward children and teens. The new library opening in 2010 will have expanded seat- ing and study areas specifically for Los Gatos youth e. Community Unity The Town's volunteer recruitment and coordination service provides targeted op- portunities for youth and family volunteer projects, internships and other services in Town parks, trails, government offices and other agencies and programs. 2. Goals, Policies and Actions Goal HS-2 To meet the needs of Los Gatos youth. Policies Policy HS-2.1 HS-4 The Town shall interact with applicable agencies and entities that provide youth services to ensure that the_needs of children and teens are met. TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN FIUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT Actions Policy HS-2.2 The Town shall encourage a broad array of child care facilities and services to meet the economic, geographic and demographic diversity of Los Gatos. Action HS-2.1 Town staff shall meet with agencies as needed to identify the needs of children in the community. Goal HS-3 To offer a wide range of youth programs and services within the Town. Policies Actions Policy HS-3.1 Continue to support organizations that offer recreational activities and events for youth. Policy HS-3.2 Coordinate with public and private schools, local non -profits , service clubs and other agencies to provide opportunities for youth to explore and enjoy sports, creative and performing arts, and future career paths. Policy HS-3.3 Coordinate with local organisations to support and encourage youth and multi - generational volunteer opportunities. Action HS-3.1 Coordinate with community partners to conduct a needs assessment for youth facilities, activities, employment opportunities and programs, prioritize results and implement as feasible. HS-5 TOWN OF L O S GATOS DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT Action HS-3.2 Action HS-3.3 Encourage youth art by periodically display- ing youth artwork in gallery space in the Town Council Chambers, Library, and the Civic Center. Continue to utilize traditional communication tools and new media and technology to pro- mote youth programs and services Goal HS-4 To encourage civic involvement of all youth in the community. Policies Policy HS-4.1 Continue to encourage the Youth Commission to explore youth concerns and opportunities, facilitate community forums, and undertake special projects. Policy HS-4.2 Continue to challenge the Youth Commission to develop new youth - oriented initiatives such as the Youth - Friendly Business Program. Policy HS-4.3 Continue to work with community partners to_provide a variety of programs and events for Town youth. Policy HS-4.4 Encourage students and families to attend Council, Commission and other public agency meetings. Policy HS-4.5 Recognize exemplary youth who are actively involved in civic and community activities, events, services and programs. HS-6 TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT Actions Policy HS-4.6 Engage youth in Town beautification and other civic improvement efforts. Action HS-4.1 Create additional opportunities to involve the Youth Commission with other Commissions. Action HS-4.2 Continue the Community Unity program to encourage youth volunteer opportunities and resources. Goal HS-5 To promote safe, youth -friendly environments within the Town. Actions Action HS-5.1 Work with the Town of Los Gatos Library, Police Department, and_Los Gatos -Saratoga Recreation District to create a program to educate youth about internet use safety. Action HS-5.2 Work with local schools and other community organizations to educate and encourage positive behavioral choices. Action HS-5.3 Support continuation of positive parenting and family relationship courses and programs provided by regional agencies and other resources. Goal HS-6 To ensure that bicycling and walking is safe for youth throughout the Town. HS-7 TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT Policies Actions Policy HS-6.1 Promote educational programs for youth that encourage safe and fun bicycle commuting and recreational riding and pedestrian safety. Policy HS-6.2 Promote the Safe Routes to School program, which supports safety improvements that encourage safe walking and bicycling to school. Policy HS-6.3 Coordinate with local businesses, organizations and school districts to develop innovative programs, such as "Walking School Buses" and `Bicycle Trains" that encourage " youth to commute to and from school in groups. Action HS-6.1 Coordinate with local organizations and school districts to develop a program to offer bicycle and pedestrian_safety and education classes for youth. Action HS-6.2 Identify safety improvements that will allow for safe walking and bicycling to schools. Action HS-6.3 Coordinate with schools and the police department to develop and implement a teen driver safety program. D. Senior Services Seniors, or persons identified as age 65 and older, are a significant and growing population group in Los Gatos. In Santa Clara County, seniors are the fastest growing population segment, expected to number more than 300,000 by 2020. The Town of Los Gatos strives to be a senior friendly community and recognizes that, HS-8 TOWN OF LOS G A T O S DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN iI❑\I_�N SERVICES ELEMENT as this population group continues to grow and age, services must be identified and developed to accommodate the needs of older adults. 1. Background Information The Los Gatos population is growing older. In 2010, the median age of the Los Gatos population is estimated to be 45 years, while in 1970 it was estimated to be 30 years. The older population is evidenced by the increasing proportion of the Los Gatos population who are age 65 and older. According to the 2000 U.S. Census, the number of seniors in Los Gatos has increased from 11 percent of the total population in Los Gatos in 1970 to 15 percent by 2000. Currently, it is estimated that seniors represent 17 percent of the total population in Los Gatos and could be at 20 percent by 2020. The Town of Los Gatos contracts with the Los Gatos -Saratoga Recreation District for services, information and activities for seniors living in Los Gatos. Many of these services are provided at the Los Gatos Adult Recreation Center at 208 E. Main Street in Los Gatos. a. Healthcare and Social Services Los Gatos provides a majority of its healthcare and social service programs for seniors through the Los Gatos Adult Recreation Center. The Los Gatos -Monte Sereno Police Department also offers a daily senior check -in program called Operation C.A.R.E. i. Los Gatos Adult Recreation Center The Adult Recreation Center is a gathering place for seniors in Los Gatos and provides several senior healthcare and social services. The Center provides case management services to seniors. This service includes advice and referrals to social service agencies, and assistance in completing applications for social services. The location of the Center is shown on Figure HS-1. Through the Adult Recreation Center, volunteer counselors give assistance to seniors interested in drawing up a "durable power of attorney," or health care power of attorney. -Volunteer counselors also provide other services such as neutral healthcare insurance advice and information and income tax assistance. ii. Operation C.A.RE. Program Operation C.A.R.E., or Caring About Resident Elders, is a program run by the Los Gatos/Monte Sereno Police Department that offers a free, daily phone call to check -in on the welfare of seniors who may be living alone. A Police Dispatcher HS-9 TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT will call at an agreed -upon time with the senior and if unable to reach the senior or any of the senior's emergency contacts, a Police Officer will be sent to the home to check on his/her welfare. Seniors can register for this free service through the Los Gatos/Monte Sereno Police Department. Figure HS-I Youth and Senior Public Facilities HS-10 TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT b. Housing The Town of Los Gatos strives to provide a variety of housing alternatives to allow seniors to live independently and age in place as they so choose. These housing types include not only single family homes, town homes, condominiums and apartments, but also life care communities, affordable housing, shared housing and below market rate properties. Villa Vasona, Blossom Hill and Anne Way offer affordable senior units to Los Gatos residents, while the Terraces of Los Gatos, a senior residential care facility run by American Baptist Homes of the West, offers 59 beds and has independent living, assisted living and skilled nursing programs on -site. Twenty-nine of the senior units at the Terraces of Los Gatos are Below Market Price (BMP) units under the Town's BMP program. Los Gatos also has Los Gatos Meadows Life Care Retirement, run by Episcopal Senior Communities, which has 170 units of studios, apartments and cottages that house approximately 200 residents. The Town also supports a Housing Conservation Program which offers no -interest and low -interest loans to income -eligible Los Gatos residents, including seniors, for home rehabilitation projects. The program is administered by the Santa Clara County Housing and Community Development Department and makes home rehabilitation loans available to qualified Los Gatos renters and owners. c. Transportation The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) operates up to six public transit bus lines that run through the Town and several park -and -ride lots. The community relies primarily on non-profit organizations to provide transportation services and education for seniors in Los Gatos. The OUTREACH Senior Transportation Program provides public paratransit services as an alternative for seniors who are unable to access or use fixed -route public transit. The American Association of Retired People (HARP) hosts a quarterly senior driver safety course called the 55 Alive Driver Safety Program. The Los Gatos Adult Recreation Center in Los Gatos offers information on the OUTREACH Senior Transportation Program. The Center also provides discounted BART tickets for seniors in Los Gatos. HS-11 TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT d. Recreational and Social Activities The Los Gatos Adult Recreation Center is a central gathering place that often hosts local activities for seniors. The Center also publishes a free bi-monthly newsletter with information on local events, programs and announcements geared toward seniors. The Center hosts a number of events for seniors in Los Gatos, including: • A weekly Town -sponsored walking group to promote exercise; • A weekly bingo night, sponsored by Live Oak Senior Nutrition and Services; • A Live Oak Nutrition Lunch, followed by a free movie, every month; • A weekly board games and table games event, sponsored by the Los Gatos - Saratoga Recreation District's 55 (and over) Program; • An annual Senior Thanksgiving dinner with food from local restaurants; and • Senior picnics at local parks. The Los Gatos -Saratoga Recreation District offers several classes geared toward seniors, ranging from dance and exercise to writing, language and technology education. The Los Gatos -Saratoga Recreation District publishes a monthly newsletter and also organizes day and extended day trips for seniors. Information on such trips offered through other senior centers can also be obtained through the Los Gatos Adult Recreation Center in Los Gatos. The Los Gatos Public Library offers several programs and services for seniors, seven days a week. A monthly book club, Internet classes, a weekly knitting group and quarterly evening programs featuring special guests are among the many free programs offered to all. The Library offers a variety of materials including a magnified and large type section. Several non-profit agencies also provide assistance and support for seniors in Los Gatos. Senior programs managed by non-profit agencies include: • Live Oak Adult Day Services • Long -Term Care Ombudsman • Operation Brown Bag • the Health Place, San Jose State University's School of Nursing • Meals On Wheels HS-12 TOWN OF LOS G A T O S DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT 2. Goals, Policies and Actions Goal HS-7 To ensure programs for social interaction for senior citizens. Policies Action Policy HS-7.1 Policy HS-7.2 The Town shall act as a clearinghouse for social programs provided by other agencies and groups that provide aid for social problems. Regularly consult with older adults and seniors on the services and programs they desire and need. Policy HS-7.3 Encourage the Los Gatos -Saratoga Recreation District and other service providers to provide a wide variety of senior services and programs, including daily opportunities for seniors to have physical activity, social interaction and mental stimulation. Policy HS-7.4 Policy HS-7.5 Action HS-7.1 Coordinate with local organizations to support opportunities for seniors to interact with youth in Los Gatos. Encourage new development to include intergenerational spaces, such as cafes or family -oriented outdoor spaces. Annually review social programs offered by the Town and other agencies to determine if they meet the needs of seniors. HS-13 TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT Action HS-7.2 Collaborate with the Los Gatos -Saratoga Recreation District and other local organizations to develop a program to provide additional recreational and fitness programs for seniors. Action HS-7.3 Explore ways to increase the focus on senior needs in existing commissions and consider establishing a separate or broader commission focusing on senior issues. Action HS-7.4 Develop or identify an existing facility for a full service senior center. Action HS-7.5 Connect seniors with existing -resources in the community. Action HS-7.6 Annually set funding priorities which include funds for senior needs. Action HS-7.7 Continue to utilize traditional communication tools and new media and technology to promote senior' programs as best suited to meet their needs (e.g., larger type for ease of reading). Goal HS-8 To improve mobility and access to care and' services for seniors. Policies Policy HS-8.1 HS-14 The Town shall coordinate with senior service providers who provide or support senior shuttle services so that seniors have convenient access to social services, commercial areas, medical services and transportation. TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN N C M A N SERVICES ELEMENT Actions Policy HS-8.2 Encourage all new senior housing developments to provide transportation services. Policy HS-8.3 Action HS-8.1 Encourage businesses and health care providers that serve seniors to locate in Town. Seek funding and coordinate with Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) to provide lower, subsidized public transit fares for seniors. Goal HS-9 To encourage a wide variety of types of senior housing, including independent living, residential care facilities, and affordable housing within the Town. Policies Policy HS-9.1 Encourage new development or substantial remodels to incorporate barrier -free design principles to ensure access for people of all ages and abilities. Actions Action HS-9.1 E. Schools Identify incentives for the development of a variety of types of senior housing, including independent living and residential care facilities. Quality education is important to the residents of the Town. However, while local land use and development decisions may impact school facilities, mitigation for HS-15 TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT school impacts required of developers may be limited by State legislation or other factors. 1. Background Information Six different school districts serve the residents of the Town of Los Gatos. These are the Los Gatos Union School District, the Los Gatos -Saratoga Joint Union High School District, the Campbell Union School District, the Campbell Union High School District and the Cambrian Union Elementary District. In addition, nearby West Valley Community College, located in the City of Saratoga, offers academic and career programs. The location of the elementary and high schools that serve Los Gatos students is shown on Figure HS-1. Elementary and high school district boundaries are shown in Figures HS-2 and HS-3, respectively. a. Los Gatos Union School District The Los Gatos Union School District has four elementary schools and one middle school providing educational services to the children of Los Gatos: • Blossom Hill Elementary School (16400 Blossom Hill Road) • Daves Avenue Elementary School (17770 Daves Avenue) • Lexington Elementary School (19700 Old Santa Cruz Highway) • Van Meter Elementary School (16445 Los Gatos Boulevard) • Raymond J. Fisher Middle School (19195 Fisher Avenue) All the elementary schools serve kindergarten through grade 5. Raymond J. Fisher Middle School serves Los Gatos students in grades 6 through 8. b. Los Gatos -Saratoga Joint Union High School District The Los Gatos -Saratoga Union High School. District has two high schools, Los Gatos High and Saratoga High, which serve over 3,100 students from unincorporated Santa Clara County as well as the communities of Los Gatos, Monte Sereno and Saratoga. Each school offers grades 9 through 12. Campbell Union School District c. Campbell Union School District More than 7,300 students from the communities of Campbell, Los Gatos, Monte Sereno, San Jose, Santa Clara and Saratoga attend the 12 schools within the Campbell Union School District. The four schools within the District that serve the Town of Los Gatos are Capri, Forest Hill and Marshall Lane Elementary Schools, all of which offer kindergarten through grade 5, and Rolling Hills Middle School, which offers grades 5 through 8. HS-16 TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT The only one of these schools located within the Town of Los Gatos is Rolling Hills Middle School. All the other schools are located near the northwest border of the Town in different cities. HS-17 TOWN OF LOS G A T O S DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT Figure HS-2 Elementary Schools and School Districts HS-18 TOWN OF LOS G A T O S DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT Figure HS-3 High School and School Districts PIS-19 TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN HC\I AN S'ERVICES ELEMENT d. Campbell Union High School District Campbell Union High School District serves over 7,700 students at five campuses: Branham, Del Mar, Leigh, Prospect and Westmont High Schools. Both Leigh and Westmont High Schools serve the residents of Town of Los Gatos. e. Union Elementary School District Union Elementary School District serves approximately 4,400 students enrolled in eight elementary schools (K-5 grades) and two middle schools (serving 6-8 grades). The Alta Vista Elementary School serves Los Gatos students. f. Cambrian Elementary School District Cambrian Elementary School District serves approximately 3,142 students enrolled in four elementary schools (K-5 grades) and one middle school (serving 6-8 grades). The Farnham Elementary School is the only school in this district that serves Los Gatos students. g. West Valley Community College Located within the City of Saratoga and serving Los Gatos residents, West Valley Community College offers career programs, professional certificates and degree programs with preparation for transfer to four-year colleges and universities. 2. Goals, Policies and Actions Goal HS-10 To maintain a system of open communications between the Town, school districts and the development community in order to coordinate the activities of each to achieve the highest quality of education for all public schools students. Policies Policy HS-10.1 HS-20 Encourage developers to engage in early discussions with the Town and school districts regarding a project, its potential impacts on schools and the potential to reduce impacts. These discussions should occur as early as possible in the project planning stage, preferably preceding land acquisition. TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT Policy HS-10.2 Cooperate with school districts in identifying and evaluating population and demographic changes that may impact schools. Policy HS-10.3 Allow altemative uses of the sites and facilities of schools, subject to conditions that will protect the surrounding neighborhood. Action Action HS-10.1 Amend Town development applications to require applicants for residential projects_to contact the affected school districts to discuss the impacts of the proposed development. F. Libraries The Town of Los Gatos has one public library located within the Town's Civic Center complex, which was built in 1964 when the population of the Town was approximately 9,000. Since that time, the population of the Town has grown to just over 30,000, with approximately 20,000 registered library card holders and material borrowers. The Los Gatos library provides a variety of services for people of all ages. 1. Background Information To meet the community's growing library needs, the Town of Los Gatos is building a new, larger library that will be located on the southeast corner of the Civic Center complex. The new library is expected to open in early 2012. The new two-story library will be approximately 30,000 square feet and will include: a separate space for children's story -telling programs; a separate teen room; reading and study areas for users of all ages; computer areas for research, Internet access and technology education; laptop areas; additional self -check out machines; and space for the Town's extensive history collection. The new library will also have more seating and added space for adult and youth book collections and multi -media collections. The current library collection consists of books, audiobooks, magazines and periodicals, newspapers, DADS, CDs, CD ROMs, video cassettes, microfilm and reference materials. A current collection of Los Gatos High School textbooks is HS-21 TOWN OF LOS G A T O S DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT also available for in-house use. The library also subscribes to computerized databases which provide access to thousands of archived newspapers, periodicals, primary source documents, reference works and media files. These databases are accessible on library computers and remotely using a library card number. The library also holds an extensive collection of historical artifacts and information, with emphasis on the Town of Los Gatos and surrounding areas. Original photographs and newspapers are available, along with copies of death certificates and profiles of historic homes. The library provides access to research on the original "Rancho Rinconada de Los Gatos," the Hernandez and Peralta families, grantees of the land, the John Lyndon family, and other early settlers who were important in the founding of the Town. The library's History Collection includes information on local authors, such as Colonel Charles Erskine Scott Wood, Sara Bard Field and Ruth Comfort Mitchell. The library also owns signed first editions of many local authors. The digitized collection of nearly 4,000 historic photographs includes the Hamsher Collection, donated to the library in the mid-1950s, the entire photo collection of the Museum of Los Gatos, and many other images donated by long-time Los Gatos families. In addition to reference and checkout services, the library offers story -times; after - school programs; volunteer reading programs; book discussion groups; knitting groups; computer and intemet access; wireless internet access; internet classes; summer reading programs, and Friends of the Library programs, featuring special speakers, artists and performers. Reference Librarians are also available to assist in locating materials in the Library. All programs are open to the public and are free of charge. HS-22 TOWN OF LOS G A T O S DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT 2. Goals, Policies and Actions Goal HS-11 To provide a library facility that will accommodate library services to meet the educational and informational needs of the community. Policies Actions Policy HS-11.1 Ensure that all residents have access to library services, including access to technology resources. Policy HS-11.2 Maintain the library as an important activity center within the community. Action HS-11.1 Investigate various funding mechanisms for ongoing operation and expansion of the library facility, services and programs. G. Arts and Cultural Enrichment The Town of Los Gatos has a rich history as a center of arts and literature and the home to both historical and contemporary artists of renown. And today, Los Gatos maintains a thriving arts community that is invaluable to people of all ages in the Town. The Town has committed to protecting and promoting its cultural resources, including theaters, museums, art galleries and public art. The Town also strives to further attract and encourage performing arts in Los Gatos, including live theater, music and dance, as well as the literary arts, including author events and poetry. 1. Programs and Facilities Los Gatos's Arts and Culture Commission is actively involved in promoting cultural events and public art displays in the Town. The Arts and Culture Commission is an advisory group to the Town Council and works to encourage the development of music, drama, art and other cultural and creative activities in Town. HS-23 TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN FI LMAN SERVICES ELENIENT The Town supports the Music in the Park Summer Concert Series, the annual July Fourth musical celebration, and public art in the Council Chambers and throughout the community. Los Gatos has two museums — the Art Museum of Los Gatos, located in a historic former firehouse on Tait Avenue, and the History Museum of Los Gatos, located in the Forbes Mill annex. While the Town owns these two buildings, collections and operations of these museums are managed by a non-profit organization. The Town also supports art-related_non-profit organizations which host various music and arts programming. In addition, the Town appointed a Los Gatos Poet Laureate for the construction and opening of the new library, a new tradition which will likely continue to support the literary arts in Los Gatos. 2. Goals, Policies and Actions Goal HS-12 To enrich the Town by making visual arts, the performing arts, literary arts and other cultural amenities more accessible to the Town's residents. Policies Policy HS-12.1 Policy HS-12.2 Policy HS-12.3 Policy HS-12.4 Policy HS-12.5 HS-24 Encourage public art in all new commercial development. Encourage art related uses (theaters, museums, art galleries) in new and remodeled retail development. Limit the conversion of museums and theaters to non -art related uses. Continue to support community -based and outdoor musical and other arts programs. Encourage new or expanded public and private facilities to host performing arts events for youth and the broader community. TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT Actions Policy HS-12.6 Encourage private/public funding, development and operation of cultural amenities, activities, and centers consistent with the small town character of Los Gatos. Policy HS-12.7 Encourage all local arts groups and artists to collaborate and partner across disciplines, mediums and venues for a richer and more diverse cultural experience. Action HS-12.1 Develop design guidelines to encourage incorporation of art and art -related uses in new and remodel developments. Action HS-12.2 Study the feasibility of a performing arts center for the Town, including options for location and financing. HS-25 n Lexington Reservoir 0.5 SourceTown of Lcs Gatos. 20IOE Los Gatos Public Library • The Venue Teen Center • Los Gatos Adult Recreation Center TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT 1 1 Unincorporated Santa Clara County Ell Town Boundary p-..c..) Sphere of Influence Water Body Highway Creek • ,11 . Blossom Hill Elementary . Van Meter Elementary - Leigh High School DavesAvenue Elementary a Rolling Hills Middle School . Los Gatos High School 1L 616 FIGURE HS-1 YOUTH AND SENIOR SERVICES ES NO AVENUE SourceTown of Los Gatos.2C0B Elementary School Districts Cambrian School District Campbell Union School -District Los Gatos Union School District Union School District Public Schools City of Campbell Ji Unincorporated Santa Clara County Blossom Hill Elementary Van Meter Elementary TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT CURTNERAVEN \ XWORTFtYAVENUE Raymond J. Fisher Middle r I Town Boundary 1..11 Sphere of Influence Water Body • Highway Creek r r FIGURE HS-2 ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS AND SCHOOL DISTRICTS fl TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT iS City of Campbell Ji coh. CURTNER AVEN Y AVENUE r ..I Town Boundary 17..:1 Sphere of Influence Water Body Highway Creek Scbrce: Tc1vr of Los Gatos. 2C08 High School Districts Campbell Union High School District Los Gatos -Saratoga Joint Union High School District School - Los Gatos High FIGURE HS-3 HIGH SCHOOL AND SCHOOL DISTRICTS `'� C 12 HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT A. Introduction Major land use and development decisions have important physical, economic, social, and environmental implications that must be considered by public officials during any planning process. A Human Services Element in the General Plan provides a venue for bringing human concerns into the physical planning process. Human Services are those services in the community, both public and private, designed especially to meet the social, health, safety, communication, education and artistic needs of people. This Element expands upon the Town's role and responsibilities pertaining to the broad areas of human services and assessing needs for available resources. Through an effective Human Services Element the Town will be better able to assist individuals and families in achieving and maintaining high levels of social well-being, leading to a more positive and satisfied community. The Town should be involved in resolving -meeting human needs, but may not necessarily be responsible for directly delivering all services. The Town recognizes the value of public and private agencies working together to effectively deliver services —and. The Town can be a leader in bringing agencies together and long-range planning. For services not directly provided by the Town, the Town may assume any of the following four roles to assist in developing more effective delivery of Human Services in Los Gatos: resource coordinator; educator -awl; advocate; facilitator; and evaluator. This Element is divided into the following sections: • Youth Services • Senior Services • Schools • Libraries • Town Arts • Public Health • Firc Protcction • nti • Watcr Scrvice • Sterster • Solid Wa3tc and Pzet�lur� Each of these components is divided into the following sections: • Background Information: Provides background information about the various resources within Los Gatos. HS-1 ATTACHMENT 2 TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN IIt'M \ SERVICES ELEMENT ♦ Goals, Policies and Actions: Provides guidance to the Town related to decisions affecting the resources addressed in this Element. B. Public Health The Town of Los Gatos wants to help ensure a healthy community through planning efforts that can directly enhance the wellness of the community. 1. Background Public health and planning professionals now recognize that increasing individuals' physical activity is paramount to healthy populations, and that the built environment greatly influences lifestyle choices that promote such activity. E d- -- e-- -- odes_c. i ' S _ f fee :ve1 y 11 11 - ell _- _-__ a healthy foods. Such bcncfit3 arc particulaely important for the youth and scnior populations in Lea Gatos Los Gatos strives to be an activeinclusive and responsive community. where healthy habits are encouraged rather than discouraged br the environments we build_ Goals, policies, and actions that promote active .err � =a�'��=.healthy are also found in the Land Use Element and Transportation Element. quality cart and dict arc not only vital to human health and longevity, but can also Policies related to community health are also addressed in other sections of this General Plan, including: • Emergency preparedness in the Safety Element. ♦ Parks and recreational opportunities in the Open Space Element. • Water and air quality in the Environment and Sustainability Element. • Fire and Police services in this Human Services Element. 1-IS-2 TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT 2. Goals, Policies and Actions Goal HS-1 To ensure resources and programs are available for the health needs of the entire community, including youth and seniors. Policies Action Policy HS-1.1 Policy- HS-1.2 Encourage the retention of three nearby hospitals: El Camino Hosptial Los Gatos, Good Samaritan Hospital, El Camino Iloapital and the —its Mission Oaks Campus—ef—Gocel—gamtritsfi Promote health services provided by other agencies and to local reside n ts.—ef targee-groups. Pchicv 1 1: 1 'Police- 11S-1.3 Encourage a full array of health care professionals to locate their practices in Los Gatos. Action HS-1.1 Annually review programs the Town supports to assure they meet the health needs of target groups. Action HS-1.2 Identify health services that are either not readily available €nrrdisgin Los Gatos and add them to the Town's economic vitality efforts. HS-3 TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT C. Youth Services Having community activities and services catering to young persons 18 years of age or younger is important for families in Los Gatos. The Town of Los Gatos strives to be a Youth -friendly community and recognizes that youth services must be identified and developed to foster a healthy and active environment for youth growing up in Los Gatos. 1. Background Information klmost 30 percent of all households in Los Gatos have at least one youth under the age of 18. Young persons under the age of 18 represent approximately 20 percent of the total population in Los Gatos. Youth represent the future of Los Gatos, and providing and maintaining services for youth continues to be an important issue to the Town. Information on youth organizations, library services, family and community events and Town policies for youth can be found on the Town's website in the Youth and Teen Resources section. The Town of Los Gatos provides the following youth services. a. Youth Commission Formed in 2004, the Los Gatos Youth Commission includes 20 young persons who live in Los Gatos and go to schools throughout Santa Clara County. Youth on this Commission are in grades 8 through 12 and are formally appointed by the Town Council. The Youth Commission represents the youth community of Los Gatos and is supported by the Los Gatos/Monte Sereno Police Department. The purpose of this Commission is to increase communication between adults and youth in Los Gatos—ancl, to give youth an avenue for expressing their voice in Town affairs and on issues related to youth in Los Gatos, and to encourage them to make civic engagement part of their adult lives. b. Community Services Commission Two of the nine members appointed to the Community Services Commission in Los Gatos are high school youth. The Community Services Commission advises the Town Council on housing and community development issues in Los Gatos. This Commission develops partnerships with public and private agencies that can help support various housing and community programs. The two youth mcmbcr3 i,f the Cotrmt.:Air- Scricc3 Commission muit be high School 3tudcnr3 who have HS-4 TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT c. Parks Commission Similar to thc make up of the Community Scrvicca Commission, ts.voTwo of the nine members of the Parks Commission are youth. Youth mcmbcrs of thc Parka The Parks Commission advises the Town Council on issues related to public parks, trails, grounds, street trees and Town beautification. d. Los Gatos Library The Los Gatos Library provides collections and services specifically oriented to- ward children and teens. The new library opening in 2010 will have expanded seat- ing and study areas specifically for Los Gatos youth e. Community Unity The Town's volunteer recruitment and coordination service provides targeted op- portunities for youth and family volunteer projects. internships and other services in Town parks trails. government offices and other agencies and programs. 2. Goals, Policies and Actions Goal HS-2 To rcco;uize meet the speeial—needs of children andLos Gatos youth. Policies Policy. HS-2.1 The Town shall interact with applicable agencies and entities that provide children'a youth services to ensure that the weir -needs of children and teens are met. HS-5 TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT Actions Policy HS ?.? The Town shall encourage a broad array of child care facilities and services to meet the economic. geographic and demographic diversity of Los Gatos.Town staff shall meet kith agencic3 23 needed to identify- the needs of childzen in thc community. and —to such a3 childcare sCrVICc3. Action I -IS 2.1 Town staff shall meet wi agencies as needed to identify the needs of children in the community. Goal HS-3 To expand 9ffer a wide range of youth programs and services e€fered-within the Town. Policies Policy HS-3.1 HS-6 Continue to support organizations who that offer both daytime and nighttime recreational activities and events for youth. Such as A Place For Tccna, thc Loa —Gatos —Saratoga Recreation Di3trict and other similar organizationain recreational activities and events. TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN H L M \\ SERVICES ELEMENT Actions Policy HS-3.2 Coordinate with public and private schools, local non -profits , service clubs and other agencies auch as thc Los Caton Saratoga Recreation Diatact to provide opportunities for sad participation in mwic, visual and Policy HS_33 performing art3 programs.youth to explore and enjoy sports. creative and performing arts. and future career paths. Encourage youth art by periodically di3playing youth artwork in gallery apace in the Town Council Chambcra, Library, and the Civic Center. I'ol: -. I IS-3.4,'u',i..- I ES-3.3 Coordinate with local organizations to support and encourage youth and multi -generational volunteer opportunities at thc Senior Ccntcr and senior houaing facil.itie3, 3o that youth can Interact With 3cn•0r3. Policy HS 3.5 Continue to utiliz traditional communication too13 and new mcdil and tcehnolog to promote youth Action HS-3.1 Coordinate with community partners to conduct a needs assessment for youth facilities. activities employment opportunities and programs_ prioritize results and implement as feasible. Develop a program to offer Town spon3or,d--Lirte-r rd youthyouth—anel—teettsuelt--a-a—art-s—aftd—eultural fairs, educational activirica and movie HS-- TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN SF.R\I (:ES P. LE\II'.NT ,-1ction HS-3.2 Encourage youth art by periodically display- ing- youth artwork in gallery space in the Town Council Chambers. Library. and the Civic Center. Action HS-3.3 Continue to utilize traditional communication tools and new media and technolog- to promote youth programs. Action I IS 3.2 Work with A Place for Tcen3 and thc Los Gato3 Saratoga Recreation Di3t.ct to Stud, thc po;3ibility of expanding The Venue or a aimiLir teen facilit; to offer a larger variety of programming ;pccific to different age gr r:p3. Action HS-3.4 Conduct a Study to identify 'the activitie•3 and,'or develop thc faci'litic3 that tccn3 would like to 3CC in thc Town. Goal HS-4 To t - i >, Youth Comm:ssio_ and encourage civic eemm rni-ty involvement of all youth in the community. Policies Policy HS-4.1 Continue to encourage the Youth Commission to explore youth concerns and opportunities facilitate community forums. and undertake special projects. Policy [IS-4.2 Continue to challenge the Youth Commission to develop new youth - oriented initiatives such as the Youth - Friendly Business Program. Policy HS-4.3 Continue to work with community partners to provide a variety of programs and events for Town youth. HS-S TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT 0 Actions Policv E-iS-4.4 Encourage students and families to attend Council. Commission and other public agency meetings. Polk,- 1 :S 1.31'olicv HS- 4.3 Recognize exemplary youth who are actively involved in civic and community activities. events. services and programs. Pc=lien l 1 I. I I'olicv 1-1S-4.6 Engage youth in Town beautification and other civic improvement efforts. Action HS-4.1 Create additional opportunities to involve the Youth Commission with other Commissions. Action HS4.2 Continue to -support -the Community Unity Develop a program of -to encourage youth volunteeropportunities and resources. Action 1 S 13 Support the Town'3 Supplement the Town'a cxi3ting yoluntccr resourcc ccntcr that a7 ' EIS=-4. 3Crcate a centralized youth carter resources ccntcr or ail on linc resource for Goal HS-5 To promote safe, youth -friendly environments within the Town. Actions for children and familic3. HS-9 TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN II U\I \N SERVICES ELE\UENT fiction Eaeeuragc buainctsc3 d i, appcal to youth and tccna. Work with the Town of Los Gatos Library. Police Department. and Los Gatos -Saratoga Recreation District er---a --il-- organ -- to create a program to educate youth about internet use safety. Action HS-5.2 Work with local schools and other community organizations to educate and encourage positive behavioral choices. .1: ri. Ht ? F=1criun I IS-5 Support continuation of positive parenting and family relationship courses and programs provided by regional agencies and other resources. a thcacc vcnut .;pcc:fic to youth Goal HS-6 To ensure that bicycling and walling is safe for youth throughout the Town. Policies Policy HS-6.1 Promote educational programs for youth that encourage safe and fun bicycle commuting and recreational riding and pedestrian safety. Policy HS-6.2 HS-10 Promote the Safe Routes to School program, which supports safety improvements that encourage safe walking and bicycling to school. TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT Actions 0 Policy HS-6.3 Coordinate with local businesses, organizations and school districts to develop innovative programs, such as "Walking School Buses" and `Bicycle Trains" that encourage youth to commute to and from school in groups. Action HS-6.1 Coordinate with local organizations and school districts to develop a program to offer bicycle and pedestrian safety and education classes for youth. Action HS-6.2 Identify safety improvements that will allow for safe walking and bicycling to schools. Action HS-6.3 Coordinate with schools and the police department to develop and implement a teen driver safety program. D. Senior Services Seniors, or persons identified as age 65 and older, are a significant and growing population group in Los Gatos. In Santa Clara County_ seniors are the Easiest growing population segment_ expected to number more than 300.000 by 2020. The Town of Los Gatos strives to be a senior friendly community and recognizes that, as this population group continues to grow and age acnior services must be identified and developed to accommodate its -the their -needs of older adults. 1. Background Information The Los Gatos population is growing older. In 2010 the curicnt median age of the Los Gatos population is estimated to be 45 years, while in 1970 it was estimated to be 30 years. The older population is evidenced by the increasing proportion of the Los Gatos population who are age 6 and older. According to the 2000 U.S. Census, the number of seniors in Los Gatos has increased from 11 percent of the total population in Los Gatos in 1970 to 15 percent by 2000. Currently, it is estimated that seniors represent 17 percent of the total population in Los Gatos and could be at 20% by 2020.. HS-11 TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN HC\I 4\ SE.R\ ICE ELE\IE\ The Town of Los Gatos contracts with the Los Gatos -Saratoga Recreation District for services, information and activities for seniors living in Los Gatos. Mara- of these services are provided at the Los Gatos Adult Recreation Center at 208 E. Main Street in Los Gatos. a. Healthcare and Social Services Los Gatos provides a majority of its healthcare and social service programs for seniors through the Los Gatos Adult Recreation Center. The Los Gatos -Monte Sereno Police Department also offers a daily senior check -in program called Operation C._'t.R.E. i. Los Gatos Admit Recreation Center The Adult Recreation Center is a gathering place for seniors in Los Gatos and provides several senior healthcare and social services. The Center provides case management services to seniors. This service includes advice and referrals to social service agencies, and assistance in completing applications for social services. The location of the Center is shown on Figure HS-1. Through the Adult Recreation Center, volunteer counselors give assistance to seniors interested in drawing up a "durable power of attorner," or health care power of attorney. Volunteer counselors also provide other services such as neutral healthcare insurance advice and information and income tax assistance. ii. Operation CA R E. Program Operation C_A.R.E., or Caring About Resident Elders, is a program run by the Los Gatos/Monte Sereno Police Department that offers a free, daily phone call to check -in on the welfare of seniors who may be living alone. A Police Dispatcher will call at an agreed -upon time with the senior and if FES- l 2 TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT Figure HS-1 Youth and Senior SerliccsPubb'c Facilities HS-13 TOWN OF LOS G A T O S DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN IIC\I.1X SERVICES ELEMENT unable to reach the senior or any of the senior's emergency contacts, a Police Officer will be sent to the home to check on his/her welfare. Seniors can register for this free service through the Los Gatos/Monte Sereno Police Department. b. Housing The Town of Los Gatos encourages the development of affordable housing for seniors in Loa Cato3strives to provide a variety of housing alternatives to allow seniors to live independently and ag in place as they so choose. These housing types include not only single family homes. town homes. condiminums and Apartments. but also life care communites. affordable housing. shared housing and below market rate properties. Affoedablc developments located in Loa Gatos include. • Villa Vasona • Blossom Hill ♦ Loa C3to3 Fou:plex • Anne Wa) • The Terraces of Los Caton Villa Vasona, Blossom Hill and Anne Way offer affordable senior units to Los Gatos residents, while the Terraces of Los Gatos, a senior residential care facility run by American Baptist Homes of the West, offers 59 beds and has independent living, assisted living and skilled nursing programs on -site. Twenty-nine of the senior units at the Terraces of Los Gatos are Below Market Price (BIP) units under the Town's BMP program. Los Gatos also has a private life care facility called Los Gatos Meadows Life Care Retirement, run by Episcopal Senior Communities, which has 170 units of studios, apartments and cottages that house approximately 200 residents. The Town maintains also supports a Housing Conservation Program; which offers no -interest and low -interest loans to income -eligible Los Gatos residents. including— seniors. for home rehabilitation projects. The program is administered by the Santa Clara County Housing and Community Development Department and makes home rehabilitation loans available to qualified Los Gatos renters and owners. c. Transportation The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) operates up to sir public transit bus lines that run through the Town and several park -and -ride lots. The Town community relies primarily on two —non-profit organizations to provide alternative transportation services and education for seniors in Los Gatos. The HS-14 TORN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN II I M A N SERVICES ELEMENT OUTREACH Senior Transportation Program provides public paratransit services as an alternative for seniors who are unable to access or use fixed -route public transit. The American Association of Retired People (-CARP) hosts a quarterly senior driver safety course called the 55 Alive Driver Safety Program. The Los Gatos Adult Recreation Center in Los Gatos offers information on the OUTREACH Senior Transportation Program. The Center also provides discounted BART tickets for seniors in Los Gatos. d. Recreational and Social Activities The Los Gatos Adult Recreation Center is a central gathering place that often hosts local activities for seniors. The Center also publishes a free bi-monthly newsletter with information on local events, programs and announcements geared toward seniors. The Center hosts a number of events for seniors in Los Gatos, including. • A weekly Town -sponsored walking group to promote exercise; • A weekly bingo night, sponsored by the Live Oak Senior Nutrition and Service Center; • A Live Oak Nutrition Lunch, followed by a free movie, held on the fourth Wednesday of every month; • -A weekly board games and table games event, sponsored by the Los Gatos - Saratoga Recreation District's 55 (and over) Program; and • An annual Senior Thanksgiving dinner with food from local restaurants; and • Senior picnics at local parks. The Los Gatos -Saratoga Recreation District offers several classes geared toward seniors, ranging from dance and exercise to writing, language and technology education. The Los Gatos -Saratoga Recreation District publishes a monthly newsletter and also organizes day and extended day trips for seniors. Information on such trips offered through other senior centers can also be obtained through the Los Gatos Adult Recreation Center in Los Gatos. The Los Gatos Public Library offers several programs and services for seniors, seven days a week. A monthly book club, Internet classes, a weekly knitting group and quarterly evening programs featuring special guests are among the many free I IS-15 TOWN OF L O S GATOS DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN FI C\I.1N SERVICES I I.E\IEXT programs offered to all. The Library offers a variety of materials including a magnified and large type section. Several non-profit agencies also provide assistance and support for seniors in Los Gatos. Senior programs managed by non-profit agencies include: • Live Oak Adult Day Services • Long -Term Care Ombudsman • Operation Brown Bag • The Health Place, San Jose State University's School of Nursing • Meals On Wheels 2. Goals, Policies and Actions Goal HS-7 To nsure programs for social interaction for senior citizens. Policies Policy HS-7.1 The Town shall act as a clearinghouse for social programs provided by other agencies and groups that provide aid for social problems. 1 i Regularly consult with older adults and seniors on the services and programs tnev desire and need. Policy HS 7.2 Continue to utilize traditional e ....:. , 1. ; na - - _pia tcc:�i. loin we the local media and TOW11 11.cw3lettcr to promote 3cnior HS-l6 TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT Action Policy HS-7.3 Encourage the Los Gatos -Saratoga Recreation District and other service providers to provide a wide variety of senior services and programs, including daily opportunities for seniors to have physical activity, social interaction and mental stimulation. - Policy HS-7.4 Coordinate with local organizations to support opportunities for seniors to interact with youth in Los Gatos. Policy HS-7.5 Encourage new development to include intergenerational spaces, such as cafes or family -oriented outdoor spaces. Action HS-7.1 Annually review social programs offered by the Town and other agencies to determine if they meet the needs of seniors. Action HS-7.2 Collaborate with the Los Gatos -Saratoga Recreation District and other local organizations to develop a program to provide additional recreational and fitness programs for seniors. i •ra i f*-=3 1�ut,n 11N-, Explore ways to increase the focus on senior needs in existing commissions and consider establishing a separate or broader commission focusing on senior issues. _rE(S-={Develop or identify an existing facility for a full service senior center. HS-17 TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN FI 12 \I .\ \ SERVICES F. I. E \I E \ 'r *-- - 1f:I�, n I ;- ;Connect seniors with existing resources in the community. Crcatc and maintain an up-te date senior >esource directory including information en- local services, recreational aca\lucs and senior Action HS-7.6 Annually set funding priorities which include funds for senior needs. � • ,rrF h---> Ai --Continue to utilize traditional communication tools and new media and technology '.. ' .l --d'; and Tow_ acw9lcttcr to promote senior programs as best suited to meet their needs (eg.. larger type for ease of reading). Goal HS-8 To improve mobility and access to care and services for seniors. Policies Policy HS-8.1 The Town shall coordinate with senior service providers who provide or support senior shuttle services so that seniors have convenient access to social services, commercial areas, medical services and transportation. Policy Encourage all new senior housing developments to provide transportation shuttle services. Encourage businesses and health care providers that serve seniors to locate in Town. f-Is-ls TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT Actions Action HS-8.1 Seek funding and coordinate with Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) to provide lower, subsidized public transit fares for seniors. Action HS-8.2 Study the fcasibility of requiting all new Goal HS-9 To encourage a wide variety of types of senior housing, including independent living, and residential care facilities, and affordable housing within the Town. Policies Policy HS-9.1 Encourage new development or substantial remodels to incorporate barrier -free design principles to ensure access for people of all ages and abilities. Actions Action HS-9.1 Identify incentives for the development of a variety of types of senior housing, including independent living and residential care facilities. E. Schools Quality education is important to the residents of the Town. However, while local land use and development decisions may impact school facilities, mitigation for school impacts required of developers may be limited by State legislation or other factors. HS-19 TOWN OF LOS GAT OS DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN itC \! l\ SERVICES F L E\IE\ 1- 1. Background Information Six different school districts serve the residents of the Town of Los Gatos. These are the Los Gatos Union School District, the Los Gatos -Saratoga Joint Union High School District, the Campbell Union School District, the Campbell Union High School District and the Cambrian Union Elementary District. In addition, nearby \Vest Valley Community College, located in the City of Saratoga, offers academic and career programs. The location of the elementary and high schools that serve Los Gatos students is shown on Figure HS-1. Elementary and high school district boundaries are shown in Figures HS-2 and HS-3, respectively. a. Los Gatos Union School District The Los Gatos Union School District has four elementary schools and one middle school providing educational services to the children of Los Gatos: • Blossom Hill Elementary School (16400 Blossom Hill Road) • Daves Avenue Elementary School (1 i 7!0 Daves Avenue) • Lexington Elementary School (19-00 Old Santa Cruz Highway) • Van Meter Elementary School (16445 Los Gatos Boulevard) • Raymond.). Fisher Middle School (19195 Fisher Avenue) All the elementary schools serve kindergarten through grade 5. Raymond J. Fisher Middle School serves Los Gatos students in grades 6 through 8. b. Los Gatos -Saratoga Joint Union High School District The Los Gatos -Saratoga Union High School District has two high schools, Los Gatos High and Saratoga High, which serve over 3,100 students from HS-_20 TORN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN H C\I:\N SERVICES ELEMENT Figure HS-2 Elementary Schools and School Districts IS-2l TOWN OF LOS GAT OS DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN FIE\I i\ SERVICES ELEMENT Figure HS-3 High School and School Districts EIS-22 TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN ILEMAN SERVICES ELEMENT unincorporated Santa Clara County as well as the communities of Los Gatos, Mon- te Sereno and Saratoga. Each school offers grades 9 through 12. c. Campbell Union School District More than 7,300 students from the communities of Campbell, Los Gatos, Monte Sereno, San Jose, Santa Clara and Saratoga attend the 12 schools within the Campbell Union School District. The four schools within the District that serve the Town of Los Gatos are Capri, Forest Hill and Marshall Lane Elementary Schools, all of which offer kindergarten through grade 5, and Rolling Hills \fiddle School, which offers grades 5 through 8. The only one of these schools located within the Town of Los Gatos is Rolling Hills Middle School. All the other schools are located near the northwest border of the Town in different cities. d. Campbell Union High School District Campbell Union High School District serves over 7,700 students at five campuses: Branham, Del Mar, Leigh, Prospect and Westmont High Schools. Both Leigh and Westmont High Schools serve the residents of Town of Los Gatos. e. Union Elementary School District Union Elementary School District serves approximately 4,400 students enrolled in eight elementary schools (K-5 grades) and two middle schools (serving 6-8 grades). The Alta Vista Elementary School serves Los Gatos students. f. Cambrian Elementary School District Cambrian Elementary School District serves approximately 3,142 students enrolled in four elementary schools (K-5 grades) and one middle school (serving 6-8 grades). The Farnham Elementary School is the only school in this district that serves Los Gatos students. g. West Valley Community College Located within the City of Saratoga and seeing Los Gatos residents, \Vest Valley Community College offers career programs, professional certificates and degree programs with preparation for transfer to four-year colleges and universities. HS-23 TOWN OF LOS GA T OS DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN FIC\I \\ SERVICES ELEMENT 2. Goals, Policies and Actions Goal HS-10 To maintain a system of open communications between the Town, school districts and the development community in order to coordinate the activities of each to achieve the highest quality of education for all public schools students. Policies Policy HS-10.1 Encourage developers to engage in early discussions with the Town and school districts regarding a project, its potential impacts on schools and the potential to reduce impacts. These discussions should occur as earlv as possible in the project planning stage, preferably preceding land acquisition. Policy_ HS-10.2 Cooperate with school districts in identifying and evaluating population and demographic changes that may impact schools. Policy HS-10.3 Action _Action 1-1S-10.1 F. Libraries Allow alternative uses of the sites and facilities of schools, subject to conditions that will protect the surrounding neighborhood. Amend Town development applications to require applicants for residential projects to contact the affected school districts to discuss the impacts of the proposed development. The Town of Los Gatos has one public library located within the Town's Civic Center complex, which was built in 1964 when the population of the Town was I-IS-24 TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT approximately 9,000. Since that time, the population of the Town has grown to its eurecnt catimatcd sizc of 28,800 rcaidcntsjust over 30.000, with approximately 20,000 registered berrowerslibrat v card holders. The Los Gatos library provides a variety of services for people of all ages. 1. Background Information To meet the community's growing library needs, the Town of Los Gatos is in -the buildin for a new, larger library that will be located on the southeast corner of the Civic Center complex. The new library is expected to open in early winter 2011/2012. The new two-story library will be approximately 30,000 square feet, an will include.: a separate space for children's story -telling programs; a separate teen room; reading and study areas for users of all ages; computer areas for research, Internet access and technology education; laptop areas; additional self -check out machines; and space for the Town's extensive history collection. The new library will also have more seating and added space for adult and youth book collections and multi -media collections. The current library collection consists of books, audiobooks, magazines and periodicals, newspapers, DV'Ds, CDs, CD ROMs, video cassettes, microfilm and reference materials. A current collection of Los Gatos High School textbooks is also available for in-house use. The library also subscribes to computerized databases which provide access to thousands of archived newspapers, periodicals, primary source documents, reference works and media files. These databases are accessible on library computers and remotely using a library card number. The library also holds an extensive collection of historical artifacts and information, with emphasis on the Town of Los Gatos and surrounding areas. Original photographs and newspapers are available, along with copies of death certificates and profiles of historic homes. The library provides access to research on the original "Rancho Rinconada de Los Gatos," the Hernandez and Peralta families, grantees of the land, the John Lyndon family, and other early settlers who were important in the founding of the Town. The library's History Collection includes information on local authors, such as Colonel Charles Erskine Scott Wood, Sara Bard Field and Ruth Comfort Mitchell. The library also owns signed fast editions of many local authors. The digitized collection of nearly 4,000 historic photographs includes the Hamsher Collection, donated to the library in the mid-1950s, the entire photo collection of HS-25 TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN II CAI.\N SERVICES ELEMENT the Museum of Los Gatos, and many other images donated by long-time Los Gatos families. In addition to reference and checkout services, the library offers four story -times each wcck; weekly after -school programs; volunteer reading programs; book discussion groups; knitting groups; computer and internet access; wireless internet access; internet classes; summer reading programs, and Friends of the Library programs, featuring special speakers, artists and performers. Reference Librarians are also available to assist in locating materials in the Library. All programs are open to the public and are free of charge. 2. Goals, Policies and Actions Goal HS-11 To provide a library facility that will accommodate library services to meet the educational and informational needs of the community. Policies Policy HS-11.1 Ensure that all residents have access to library services, including access to computers and other technology resources. Policy HS-11.2 Maintain the library as an important activity center within the community. Actions Action HS-11.1 Investigate various funding mechanisms for ongoing operation and expansion of the library facility, services and programs. Action 11.2 Work with the Town of Loa Cato3 Libr:tr: he D trtrnct:t ut Lea Gatos Saratoga Recteatiou Di3trict or a ainlilar ors nizatieet teens about internet uac safzty. HS-26 TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT G. Arts and Cultural Enrichment The Town of Los Gatos has a rich history as a center of arts and literature and the home to both historical and contemporary artists of reknown And today. Los Gatos has -maintains a thriving arts community that is invaluable to people of all ages in the Town. The Town has committed to protecting and promoting its cultural resources, including theaters, museums, art galleries and public art. The Town also strives to further attract and encourage performing arts in Los Gatos, including live theater, music and dance, as well as the literary arts. includin ,au h_o events and Poetry. 1. Programs and Facilities Los Gatos's Arts and Culture Commission and Art Selection Panel arc is actively involved in promoting cultural events and public art displays in the Town. The Arts and Culture Commission is an advisory group to the Town Council and works to encourage the development of music, drama, art and other cultural and creative activities in Town. The Arta Commission plan.Tow•n supports the Music in the Park Summer Concert Series„ a summer Sunday afternoon conccrt series that is free to thc public and hosted annually at the Civic Center park, and -the annual July Fourth Concert musical Celebration 1 , and public artwork in the Council Chambers and installation a€-u t t tl. cif' all. a a h Ccntcrthroughout the community. Many of these efforts are supported or led bva a Council -appointed Arts Commission. Loa Gatos also has an The Art Selection Panel which assists in thc selection of long term loam or a ft3 of reviews proposals for public artwork that is loaned, purchased, or-eemmi coned by 9S__the Town, and makes recommendations to thc Los Gatos also -has two museums - the Art Museum of Los Gatos, located in a historic former firehouse on histerie-Tait Avenue, and the History Museum of Los Gatos, located in the Forbes Mill annex. While the Town owns these two buildings. collections and operations of these museums are managed by a non- profit organization. The Town also supports art -related non-profit organizations, rangings Caton Arts Association to A Place for Teen, which host various music and arts programming. In addition. the Town appointed a Los Gatos P et Lane-att :for th HS-27 TOWN OF LOS G A T O S DRAFT 2 0 2 0 GENERAL PLAN IIC\I AN SERVICES ELEMENT construction and opening of the new librar,-- a new tradition which will likely continue to support the literary arts in Los Gatos. 2. Goals, Policies and Actions Goal HS-12 To enrich the Town by making visual arts, the performing arts, literary arts and other cultural amenities more accessible to the Town's residents. Policies Policy HS-12.1 Policy HS-12.2 Policy HS-12.3 Policy HS-12.4 Policy HS-12.5 Policy HS-12.6 Encourage public art in all new commercial development. Encourage art related uses (theaters, museums, art galleries) in new and remodeled retail development. Limit the conversion of museums and theaters to non -art related uses. Continue to support Juaic in the Park and razz in tl c Plazacommunity- aced and outdoor musical and other arts programs. Encourage new or expanded public and private facilities to host performing art events for youth and the broader community. Encourage private/public funding, development and operation of cultural amenities, activities, and centers consistent with the small town character of Los Gatos. TOWN OF LOS GATOS DRAFT 2020 GENERAL PLAN HUMAN SERVICES ELEMENT Actions Pr,lic I ES I2.6Policv I IS- I2.7 Encourage all local arts groups and artists to collaborate and partner across disciplines. mediums and venues for a richer and more diverse cultural experience. Action HS-12.1 Develop design guidelines to encourage incorporation of art and art -related uses in new and remodel developments. Action HS-12.2 Study the feasibility of a performing arts center for the Town, including options for location and financing. HS-29 0 V Recommended Additions to the Human Services Element: Recommended additions to be inserted where designated and all appropriate re -numbering and re- formatting to follow: To be inserted in Section B. Public Health (pages HS-3 and HS-4) Goal HS-2 To Foster all residents' health and well-being. Policies Policy HS-2.1 Encourage safe and attractive places for recreational exercise within a half mile of every residence. Policy HS-2.2 Encourage the continuation of a farmers market in Town and community gardens in appropriate locations. Policy HS-2.3 Encourage pedestrian routes and sidewalks to be integrated into continuous networks. Policy HS-2.4 Provide safe and convenient access to disposal sites for expired and unused pharmaceuticals, needles and related items. To be inserted in Section D. Senior Services (approximately page HS-18) Goal HS-10 To ensure safe environments for Los Gatos seniors. Policies Policy HS-10.1 Identify isolated seniors who may need assistance in natural disasters such as earthquakes or floods. Policy HS-10.2 Continue daily public safety outreach and communications to seniors and their families requesting such support. ATTACHMENT 3 C