A Message From the Mayor 

As I write to you amid the gloomy pall cast by our smoke-filled, otherworldly skies, I have to wonder what is next. Though Los Gatos was fortunate to escape the direct ravages of the CZU Lightning Complex fire, its effects linger, and the need for the Town to do everything possible to prepare for wildfire becomes more evident. This year, the Council has already taken a number of affirmative steps to promote fire safety, including incorporating County Fire recommendations pertaining to Wildland-Urban Interface fire zones – such as the new requirement for 100 feet of defensible space around residences – into our Ordinances, and by identifying and enhancing evacuation routes - as by eliminating street parking on those routes where it could interfere with emergency access. Please join this effort by doing what you can to keep our Town fire-safe. Most importantly, please stay informed. Safety alerts, maps, and current information can all be found on the Town website, www.losgatosca.gov. Look for the banner headline on fire safety.

With fire season also comes the renewed possibility of PGE Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS). Though PGE has upgraded its system to allow for more discrete coverage and placement of shutoffs, PSPS events could still be the source of power outages in Town. In our new work-at-home/school-at-home virtual world, these are far more than an inconvenience, and the Town is in close contact with PGE to monitor any rolling blackouts or PSPS plans in an effort if not to avoid them altogether, at least to minimize their length and geographic coverage.

Still, there are two more encouraging pieces of news I can share. First, as part of its Becoming a More Inclusive Community initiative, the Town hosted the first of three community listening events on September 8^th. The session, focused on policing, featured a presentation and responses to questions from Chief Pete Decena about training, practices, demographics and statistics relating to our police department. Suggested changes to the Town’s policing structure will be discussed at tomorrow’s Town Council meeting, beginning at 7 p.m. on Zoom. Two additional sessions, focusing on Affordable Housing and Community Culture, will be convened on September 29 and in early October. Please check the Town’s website and “What’s New?” for updates.

Secondly, as you may have read, California has moved to a color-coded tier system in determining which businesses and activities may or may not open under COVID-19 health Orders. Santa Clara County has recently moved into the “Red” Zone (the second-least severe) which has allowed some expanded opportunities for retail and restaurants, while also allowing salons and some exercise facilities to open on a limited basis. Outdoor dining, curbside pick-up, and other now-familiar amenities will continue as Los Gatos looks toward economic recovery. Hopefully, if we can all keep up the good health habits that have become second nature to us now, we can move toward fewer restrictions as winter arrives and the ability to do business inside becomes more important.
 
Finally, ballots will arrive in the next few weeks for the November election. This year, three Council seats and 2 local initiatives are at issue. I urge each of you to learn all you can about the candidates, and about the pros and cons of the proposed ballot measures – read Candidate statements and go to websites (election information is available on the Town website), read arguments for and against the initiatives, look for virtual debates, information sessions and Q and As, rather than relying solely on social media or word of mouth. Your vote can shape Los Gatos for years to come, so please make it an informed and independent one. Though no one will knock on your door this year, campaigning will still occur – as only 2020 can bring it to you.

Hang in there Los Gatos. It takes a Town.

Marcia Jensen
Los Gatos Mayor

September 23, 2020 Planning Commission Meeting

The agenda and reports for the September 23, 2020 Planning Commission meeting are available online. The Planning Commission will consider modifications to Chapter II (Constraints Analysis), Chapter III (Site Planning), and Chapter IX (Project Review and Approval Process) of the Hillside Development Standards and Guidelines regarding the visibility analysis and a request to remove underground parking for construction of a commercial building in the North 40 Specific Plan Area.

Planning Commission meetings are held regularly on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. Commission meetings are broadcast live on KCAT-15. Live and archived videos are also available online.

This meeting is being conducted utilizing teleconferencing and electronic means consistent with State of California Executive Order N-29-20 dated March 17, 2020, regarding the COVID-19 pandemic.  The live stream of the meeting may be viewed on television and/or online.  In accordance with Executive Order N-29-20, the public may only view the meeting on television and/or online and not in the Council Chamber.

If you are interested in providing oral comments real-time during the meeting, you must join the Zoom webinar at: https://losgatosca-gov.zoom.us/j/93937326319?pwd=V3F2WThJbUFFT1NpbkxDdjh4ekhmQT09 with password: 821855.

To access the meeting by phone, dial (213) 270-2124 or (888) 273-3658 (US Toll Free) with conference code 898841.
 
During the meeting:

• When the Chair announces the item for which you wish to speak, click the “raise hand” feature in Zoom.  If you are participating by phone on the Zoom app, press *9 on your telephone keypad to raise your hand.  If you are participating by calling in, without a Zoom app, you must notify the Community Development Director  at PlanningComment@losgatosca.gov which item(s) you would like to speak on prior to 7:00 p.m. the day of the meeting. 
• When called to speak, please limit your comments to three (3) minutes, or such other time as the Chair may decide, consistent with the time limit for speakers at a Planning Commission meeting.

If you are unable to participate in real-time, you may send an email to PlanningComment@losgatosca.gov with the subject line “Public Comment Item #__ ” (insert the item number relevant to your comment) or “Verbal Communications – Non Agenda Item.”  Comments will be reviewed and distributed before the meeting if received by 5:00 p.m. on the day of the meeting.  All comments received will become part of the record.  The Chair has the option to modify this action on items based on comments received.

For details on this agenda or about Planning Commission meetings, please send an email to the Community Development Department.

September 24, 2020 Winchester Boulevard Bicycle Lane Project Community Meeting

The Parks & Public Works Department invites you to attend an online community meeting on September 24 to discuss how the Winchester Boulevard Bicycle Lane Project will improve safety and connection for bicyclists and pedestrians using the Winchester corridor.  This project proposes to install protected bike lanes along Winchester Boulevard between Blossom Hill Road and Lark Avenue/Wimbledon Drive to better accommodate bicycle and pedestrian users of all ages and abilities.

 We encourage you to attend, learn more about the project, and provide input. Public participation is vital to the project’s success! 

 Please visit the Connect Los Gatos webpage to learn more! 

September 24, 2020
Landscaping for Wildfire Protection Class

The Los Gatos Library is offering a Landscaping for Wildfire Protection Class on September 24, 2020 at 6 p.m. via Zoom. Join Barbara Hunt with UC Master Gardeners of Santa Clara County for this talk on landscaping for wildfire protection.

Apply to Serve on a Town Board,
Commission, or Committee

Are you looking for a way to make a difference in the community and get more involved with local government? The Town has adult volunteer opportunities available on its various Boards and Commissions.

Wildfire Information

The Santa Clara County Fire Department is closely monitoring the CZU Lightning Complex Fire (in Santa Cruz and San Mateo Counties) and the SCU Lightning Complex Fire (on the eastern side of Santa Clara County). There are currently no evacuations in effect for the Town of Los Gatos.  Please remain aware, informed and ready to evacuate.  The County has set up a dedicated webpage for community information, updates and resources.

Below are steps you can take to be personally prepared:

1. Don’t be a source of ignition! Cease any risky activities like using outdoor machinery, barbecuing, improperly towing chains etc., as one less spark, one less wildfire!
2. Pack your GO Bag Now.
3. Agree on an Evacuation Plan for your family including pets. Where will you meet and how will you get there?
4. Be ready to leave immediately if an order is issued.
5. Sign up for emergency alerts with AlertSCC and Nixle. 

SNAP (Special Needs Awareness Program)

The Los Gatos-Monte Sereno Police Department is pleased to introduce a new program to assist our community members with special needs. The Special Needs Awareness Program (SNAP) is voluntary and confidential. It is designed to provide First Responders with important information when responding to calls that involve individuals who may have a memory disorder, hearing impairment, autism, or other needs. For more information, please visit: https://www.losgatosca.gov/2583/SNAP

Represent Los Gatos Oral History Project

The Local History Room of the Los Gatos Library holds a collection of historically valuable documents that help tell the story of the Town of Los Gatos. However, the stories of Black, Indigenous, and people of color are underrepresented in this collection. We acknowledge that without the voices of the BIPOC community, it is not possible to paint a complete picture of the history of our Town. We are launching the Represent Los Gatos Oral History Project to fill these gaps in our collection and to allow you to share your own stories, however you would like them to be told. To learn more and to share your story, please visit the Represent Los Gatos webpage. 

Becoming an Inclusive Community

Visit the Town's webpage, Becoming an Inclusive Community to find information about the Town's commitment to inclusivity and diversity, including related Town Council actions, advance promotion of future workshops, an overview of Police Department community policing, and a dedicated email for comments and inquiries regarding these important issues.

If you have concerns, experiences, questions, or ideas regarding how Los Gatos can be more welcoming for all, please let us know by sending an email to Community@losgatosca.gov.

2020 Census

Now is a great time for residents to complete the census online at www.my2020census.gov or by phone at 844-330-2020. Remember that anyone can complete the census with or without a permanent address or 12-digit ID number (sent to households by the Census Bureau). Everyone needs to be counted, regardless of race, ethnicity, age, gender or immigration status. 

Voting Is Now Easier Than Ever in Santa Clara County!

Our county will be using an exciting new voting model that makes it easier than ever to cast a ballot.

California Blueprint for a Safer Economy

• 21 day mandatory wait time between moves, and
• meet metrics for the next tier for two straight weeks

Santa Clara County Business Database

Curious about which businesses are COVID-19 prepared? You can now search the Santa Clara County business database to see which businesses are following Social Distancing Protocols. Search by name, type or location: https://sdp.sccgov.org/.   

Businesses must require the following for employees and customers:   
-Face coverings (exceptions for medical reasons)  
-Social distancing  
-Handwashing or provide hand sanitizer stations

Concerns About Not Following County COVID 19 Guidelines 

If you have concerns about a business, school, or healthcare provider not following Santa Clara County COVID-19 Guidelines, visit the County Health website to report a concern.

Outdoor Dining Guidelines & 

CHECK for Your Safety!

As we make outdoor dining plans, it's important to remember that COVID-19 is still present. Visit downtown Los Gatos to see how some of our local businesses are expanding into temporary parklets on Santa Cruz and Main, and keep in mind that going out to eat has changed and may feel a little strange. We must take extra precautions to protect workers, restaurant owners, and other customers to ensure that everyone can enjoy this new way of dining. Plan ahead to protect yourself and others by following these County guidelines:

• Only dine with people you live with, in groups of 6 or fewer.
• Call ahead so restaurants can prepare seating.
• Wear a face covering when you are not eating or drinking.

For more information on what to expect when dining out, watch Santa Clara County's segment on outdoor dining.

Additionally, Santa Clara County requires ALL businesses to post and implement a Social Distancing Protocol. The “COVID-19 Prepared” Checkmark Sign and Visitor Information Sheet should be posted at the business entrance. The Social Distancing Protocol provides important information about hand-washing, hand-sanitizing, cleaning, social distancing, signage, training, control measures, how to report a complaint, and other safety measures. For more information, visit the Santa Clara County Public Health website.  Remember when you enter a business to CHECK for your safety!

Los Gatos Strong

Over the years, the Town’s conservative budgeting practices have resulted in healthy reserves and frequent annual budgetary surplus.  Those reserves and surpluses are now paying the Town huge dividends. 

On May 26, 2020, the Town Council reallocated $1,900,000 in prior surpluses reserved for downtown streetscape revitalization toward COVID-19 economic stimulus recovery efforts.  Visit downtown restaurants and shops to see how some of our local businesses are expanding into temporary parklets on Santa Cruz and Main. This is one of the single largest economic recovery packages ever proposed in the Town’s history.

In addition, on June 2, 2020, the Town Council approved a balanced Operating Budget for Fiscal Year 2020-2021 with no reductions to service, despite significant revenue and other economic impacts from sheltering-in-place.  

Los Gatos Farmers' Market 

As you may know, Farmers’ Markets are exempt from the Shelter in Place order issued by the County, as they are places the community can acquire food. The Los Gatos Market staff, farmers and producers are dedicated to adhering to health and safety standards, and providing safe and reliable access to nutritious foods. Here are some of the additional measures being taken to keep everyone healthy and safe at the market during COVID-19: 

Update to Available Town Services

Police Department: Fully operational. Non-essential functions are postponed until further notice.  Personnel are utilizing remote means to handle non-life threatening calls when appropriate.  For more information, visit the Department website. 

Community Development Department: Temporarily closed to the public. No in-person counter services are currently available.  Inspections that can be completed via video are being scheduled and other on-site inspection services are evaluated on a case by case basis.  Limited staff resources are available to perform work on permits remotely.  Electronic permit submittal, resubmittal, and limited issuance started on April 17^th.  Please visit the Town’s Building and Planning webpages for further information on this option. 

Library: Although the building is temporarily closed to the public, patio pick-up is available Monday through Saturday.  Laptops are also available for use outside. Follow Facebook, Instagram, and the website for a schedule of remote storytimes and other fun activities. Online services such as e-books and e-magazines are available.  If you need to open an account, email library@losgatosca.gov. 

Parks and Public Works Department:  Parks and trails are open with physical distancing of at least six feet.  Park restrooms are available and cleaned once a day. Playgrounds, tennis courts, sports fields, and BBQ areas are open with physical distancing and other requirements as posted.  Park reservations are being accepted.  Routine maintenance of streets and parks continues at reduced levels.  Selected construction projects and support for urgent work for utility companies exempt from the County Order continue. Email any concerns to ppw@losgatosca.gov. 

Economic Vitality Department: Resources for small businesses, employers, and employees are available here and on the Town website. The Los Gatos Chamber of Commerce is also a good source of information for businesses and the community. Any questions can be emailed to Monica Renn at mrenn@losgatosca.gov. 

Finance Department: Business license services are available remotely via email at businesslicense@losgatosca.gov. 

Clerk Department: Requests for public records are being processed, but time limits to respond have been suspended.  We appreciate the importance of your request and will do our best to respond within 10 days, but responses may be delayed until such time the order is suspended and Town Hall opens fully for all services.

Help Keep Los Gatos Parks and Trails Open

• Stay close to home and avoid crowded areas.
• Share the trail and yield to others to maintain a safe distance.
• Choose less frequented parks and trails.
• Do not park in a crowded parking lot or use a crowded trail.
• Hike single file to maximize distance when passing others.
• Leave no trace: pack out what you pack in.
• Look for nearby nature to enjoy, look for the hidden nature in your own neighborhood.
• Do not hold social gatherings (do not mix with other households) at parks or anywhere.

Notify Me!

How can we help you if we can't reach you?  While you have signed up to receive these weekly "What's New" emails, many of your neighbors may have remained in the dark because they did not receive current information from the Town.  In addition to emergency communications, you may sign up for Town notifications regarding infrastructure projects in your neighborhood, Town events, meetings, and other topics of community interest. 

Please encourage your friends and neighbors in Los Gatos to sign up for Town communications through "Notify Me" at: www.losgatosca.gov/notifyme. Type your email address in the box and select "sign in."  From there, you can subscribe to the topics you wish and you are able to unsubscribe at any time. If you need help, call the Town Manager's Office at (408) 354-6832 during business hours.