Public Meetings - San Jose, California

This hearing, conducted by Hearing Officer Martina Davis on behalf of the Director of Planning, Building and Code Enforcement, considered two consent calendar items and no public hearing items. The meeting was held on June 27, 2025, though the transcript references June 25, 2025; the date provided in the instructions is used here. Consent Calendar - Item 3A (H24011, T24-004, ER24-049): Site development permit and vesting tentative map for a new 4,434-square-foot duplex and demolition of an existing 1,200-square-foot single-family residence at 555 North 10th Street (Council District 3). The CEQA exemption was proposed under Section 1530B. Staff recommended adding a condition requiring a building survey by a qualified historic architect prior to demolition, with salvaging of historically significant materials and revision of the DPR report with findings by Preservation Action Council San Jose (PACSJ). The applicant agreed to this condition. The hearing officer noted a letter from PACSJ raising concerns about the architectural significance of the building but found no conclusive evidence regarding the architect. The item was approved with the added condition. - Item 3B (PD24020, ER24265): Plan development permit for a new 60-foot-high monopine wireless telecommunications facility, demolition of an existing 31-foot monopole, and removal/replacement of two ordinance-sized trees at 1720 Ocala Avenue (Council District 8). CEQA exemption under Section 15302. Staff proposed a revision to Condition 20, changing graffiti removal from 48 hours to 72 hours to account for the unoccupied facility. The applicant agreed. The item was approved with the revised condition. Key Outcomes - The consent calendar was approved as a single action with the revised conditions read into the record by staff for both items. - No items were deferred or moved to the public hearing calendar. - The hearing officer urged stakeholders to submit technical comments earlier than the day before the hearing for better staff review. - The meeting concluded with no public hearing items on the agenda.

This meeting of the San Jose Planning Commission, chaired by Anthony Tordillos, included a public hearing required under SB 423 for a proposed 100% affordable housing project at 7 Top Golf Drive in the Alviso neighborhood. The commission also approved consent calendar minutes, heard public comment on non-agendized items, and elected new officers for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. No action was taken on the proposed development. Consent Calendar - Approval of Action Minutes (May 28, 2025): The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the previous meeting (11-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Non-Agendized Public Comment: Carl Gish, co-CEO of a residential home builder, requested the city improve the speed and efficiency of permitting for simple residential two-story projects, citing delays in intake and issuance. - Public Testimony on the 7 Top Golf Drive Project: - Opponents (Alviso residents and community leaders): Multiple speakers opposed the project, citing: - Inconsistency with the Alviso Master Plan, which designated the site for commercial/industrial use. - Traffic and safety hazards, especially for children at George Main Elementary School across the street. - Environmental impacts, including flood risks (the area is in a flood zone) and harm to migratory birds. - Inadequate infrastructure (roads, parking, water pressure, emergency services). - Overcrowding and loss of community character. - Concerns that the developer has made false promises and that the city has neglected Alviso since 1968. - Supporters: - Eli Robles (Carpenters Local 405) urged the developer to commit to using skilled, unionized local labor and fair wages, emphasizing that the project should be built with dignity for workers. - Bo Neves (UA Local 393) requested the developer engage with local building trades unions to ensure a trained workforce and community benefits. - Alex Shore (Catalyze SV) supported the project, noting its affordability (100% affordable at 80% AMI) and the innovative model of building without public subsidies. - Manuel Salazar (SVA Home) highlighted the project's potential to provide workforce housing for teachers, city staff, and first responders, and praised the use of modular construction. Discussion Items - Staff Presentation (Jason Lee, Project Manager): Staff explained the SB 423 early referral process, the builder's remedy status (due to the city's housing element not being certified by HCD until January 2024), and that the project would be deemed consistent with the general plan and zoning under state law, despite being on a site zoned for commercial/industrial use. The project would be exempt from CEQA if it qualifies for the ministerial SB 35 process. - Applicant Presentation (Curtis Wong, Cloud Apartments): The applicant described the project as 780 units of workforce housing (studios and one-bedrooms) at 80% AMI, with 16,238 sq ft of commercial space (including a grocery store, cafe, and restaurant), 261 parking spaces, 238 bike stalls, and $3 million in park fees for Alviso Park. The project aims to revitalize the area and meet 10% of San Jose's annual RHNA goal. - Commissioner Questions and Discussion: - Commissioner Oliverio asked about the city's ability to enforce the commercial component and the limits of SB 35/423. Staff clarified that the city cannot dictate tenants but that the retail space is part of the approved plan. - Vice Chair Cantrell sought clarification on how the city arrived at the builder's remedy situation (failure to get HCD certification on time). Staff confirmed 20 active builder's remedy projects in San Jose. - Commissioner Rosario asked about avenues to stop the project. Staff and the city attorney noted the only path is a finding of a specific adverse impact to public health and safety, which is a high burden. - Commissioner Casey inquired about traffic analysis; staff stated that under the ministerial process, CEQA and traffic studies are not required. - Commissioner Larnois asked about park fees; staff confirmed they are not earmarked for a specific park but could be directed to Alviso Park through the process. - Commissioner Bickford expressed concerns about zoning, density, CEQA waiver, traffic, and parking overflow, and questioned the purpose of the hearing given the limited ability to influence the project. - Commissioner Young provided context on the housing crisis, noting that single-family zoning has contributed to the shortage and that state laws are a response to decades of underbuilding. - Commissioner Brosio discussed the unique character of Alviso and the need for a holistic review of health and safety impacts, including evacuation routes. - Chair Tordillos encouraged the applicant to continue engaging with the community and local labor unions. Key Outcomes - No Action Taken on Project: The commission accepted the staff report and public comment; no vote was taken on the proposed development. The project will proceed to a formal SB 35 application after tribal consultation. - Election of Officers for Fiscal Year 2025-2026: - Chair: Commissioner Rosario was elected unanimously. - Vice Chair: Commissioner Bickford was elected unanimously. - Recognition of Outgoing Commissioner: Commissioner Justin Larnois was recognized for his service from July 2020 to July 2025, including his tenure as chair. - Next Steps: The commission will participate in the upcoming four-year general plan review, with a study session scheduled for September 2025.

The Planning Director's Hearing was held on June 18, 2025, via Zoom, with Hearing Officer John 2 presiding on behalf of Director Christopher Burton. The meeting addressed a single consent calendar item and included no public comments, deferrals, or separate public hearings. Consent Calendar - SP25-004 / ER25-007: Special use permit to allow storage of commercial vehicles and buses at an existing charter bus company facility on a 2.34-acre site at 560 Lincoln Avenue. The project involved no tree removal or new construction. Staff recommended finding the project exempt from CEQA and approving the permit. No public comments were received, and the item remained on the consent calendar, being approved without separate discussion. Key Outcomes - The consent calendar item was approved as presented. - No other items were considered; the hearing was adjourned immediately after the consent calendar action.

The San Jose City Council held a regular meeting on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, starting at 11:00 a.m. in Council Chambers. The meeting covered a wide range of items including ceremonial recognitions, adoption of the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 budget, new ordinances targeting trespassing and "van lording," the reappointment of the City Auditor, and major actions on homelessness, business improvement districts, digital billboards, and police oversight. Councilmember Domingo Candelas was absent due to illness. This was also the last meeting for outgoing District 3 Councilmember Carl Salas. Ceremonial Items - South Bay Clean Creeks Coalition: Recognized for over 12 years of volunteer creek cleanups, removing more than 1 million pounds of trash across 489 cleanups. - Eloy Rodriguez: Honored for driving his burning recycling truck away from homes and businesses on May 23, 2025, preventing injury and major damage. - Mary Tucker: Recognized for decades of community leadership, including emergency preparedness workshops in downtown San Jose. - Councilmember Carl Salas: Given a heartfelt farewell, receiving a bicycle helmet and a book donation to the library. - Shirlee Marie DiNapoli Mulcahy Schiro: The meeting was adjourned in memory of the lifelong San Jose resident, philanthropist, and mother of Councilmember Michael Mulcahy. Consent Calendar All consent items were approved unanimously, except for items pulled for separate discussion (detailed below). Key approvals included: - Item 2.53: Added to consent (2/3 vote) — Resolution delegating authority to the City Attorney and City Manager to authorize defense of city officers and employees under Gov. Code § 995.8. - Budget & Finance: Final adoption of the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 budget (Item 3.4), including a $1.614 billion appropriation limit. Approval of $209.57 million in General Obligation Bonds (Series 2025) and $53 million in Lease Revenue Bonds (Series 2025A) via the San José Financing Authority (Items 3.5 & SJFA 1). - Homelessness & Housing: Extension of the local emergency declaration for the homeless shelter crisis (Item 2.31); grant agreements for multiple homeless-serving programs (Item 2.32, with an amendment on Santa Teresa Safe Parking); agreement for 72 interim housing units at the Pacific Motor Inn (Item 2.33); and a $9.26 million contract for the Safe Sleeping Navigation Hub and Motel Program (Item 8.8). - Infrastructure & Contracts: Awards for on-call water main repairs, landscape maintenance, a new fire apparatus, street sealing, and bikeway conversion projects. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 2.2 (Trespass/Van Lord Ordinances): Several speakers supported the memo by Councilmembers Campos, Cohen, Ortiz, and Candelas, arguing the ordinances as written criminalize homelessness. The Law Foundation of Silicon Valley warned of potential lawsuits, citing a $3 million settlement in San Diego over a similar vehicle sleeping ban. The San Jose Chamber of Commerce supported moving forward with implementation. - Item 2.33 (Pacific Motor Inn Agreement): Multiple speakers urged a buffer between homeless shelters and schools/senior facilities, specifically concerned about the Bristol Hotel conversion (to be discussed as part of the broader motel strategy in Item 8.8). - Item 8.7 (Digital Billboards): Speakers opposed included a representative from Lick Observatory citing light pollution/health risks, a resident arguing it opens the door to more billboards and litigation, and the Sierra Club noting insufficient environmental analysis. Support came from the Chamber of Commerce and Clear Channel Outdoor. - Item 8.8 (Safe Sleeping/Motel Program): A resident asked about the cost of the Bristol Hotel lease and funding for nearby schools. - Items 8.1-8.4, 8.6, 8.9-8.10: No public comments. Discussion Items - Item 2.2 – Final Adoption of Ordinances (Trespass & Van Lording): Councilmember Campos, joined by Cohen, Ortiz, and Candelas, submitted a memo to delay parts of the trespass ordinance and the vehicle sleeping ban, citing ambiguous language and civil rights concerns. After extensive debate, the Council (9-1, Campos dissenting) adopted a substitute motion from Vice Mayor Foley supported by Mayor Mahan: the trespass ordinance was approved as-is, but an info memo on implementation is due in August. The van lording ordinance (including the 9 p.m.–6 a.m. sleeping ban) was also approved as drafted; staff will explore alternative enforcement approaches focused on the lessor. Chief Joseph noted the sleeping provision is key to defending the ordinance against legal challenges. - Item 4.1 – 2024 Independent Police Auditor (IPA) Year-End Report: IPA Eddie Aubrey presented, reporting 373 complaints (a 17% increase from 2023) with a 14% sustain rate. He offered 12 recommendations, including greater real-time access to officer-involved shooting scenes, review of all use-of-force incidents (not just Great Bodily Injury cases), and a formal memorandum of agreement with Internal Affairs. Councilmember Doan expressed frustration that a memo she authored was effectively superseded by a similar memo from other Brown Act members, but the Mayor called for substance over process. The Council voted unanimously to accept the report, accepting 10 of the 12 recommendations; the IPA and police chief will continue dialogue on the remaining two. - Item 8.5 – Alameda Community Benefit Improvement District (CBID): A public hearing and ballot proceeding was held. The city clerk reported results: 11,389.66 weighted votes in favor vs. 109,907.36 opposed. The ballot failed, meaning the district will not be formed. Councilmember Mulcahy expressed disappointment but noted the process was valuable. - Item 8.7 – Large Format Digital Signs: Council approved leases with Clear Channel Outdoor (two sites) and Outfront Media (one site) for a total of five sign faces. The 10-year leases include two 5-year renewal options; the city expects $21 million in minimum guaranteed rent over 20 years and up to $28 million in projected revenue. The city will control 12.5% of sign time for public messaging. In exchange, 35 existing static billboard faces will be removed citywide. Councilmember Mulcahy recused himself due to a financial conflict of interest. - Item 8.8 – Safe Sleeping Navigation Hub & Motel Program: The Council unanimously approved $9.26 million in contracts with HomeFirst for a 56-tent navigation hub at 1157 E. Taylor Street and for leasing/operating five motels providing 251 rooms. The motels will target specific populations: women/children, seniors, and LGBTQ+ individuals. 24/7 security, case management, and a focus on transitions to permanent housing were emphasized. Vice Mayor Foley noted strong community support for the Bristol Hotel conversion and plans for a community advisory committee. Key Outcomes - Ordinances Approved: Final adoption of 13 ordinances covering trespass, van lording, vehicle abandonment, illegal dumping, vacant lot maintenance, and more (Item 2.2). The van lording ordinance includes a 9 p.m.–6 a.m. ban on sleeping in RVs on public streets. - Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Budget: Adopted (Item 3.4), along with bond authorizations (Items 3.5 & SJFA 1). - City Auditor Reappointed: Joe Rois reappointed for a term through June 30, 2029 (Item 3.8). - Settlement Approved: $1 million settlement in Tovar v. City of San José (Item 3.9). - Homelessness Contracts: Approved $9.26 million for the navigation hub and five motels (Item 8.8); extended shelter crisis emergency (Item 2.31); approved $1.53 million for LifeMoves safe parking RV program and $2.73 million for the motel voucher program (Item 2.32, with an amendment to limit the Santa Teresa contract to six months). - Digital Sign Leases: Approved (Item 8.7). - Business Improvement Districts: Annual renewals approved for Japantown, Downtown, Monterey Corridor, and Tully Road Eastridge BIDs (Items 8.1-8.4). The Alameda CBID failed to secure property owner approval (Item 8.5). - Boards & Commissions: Approved multiple appointments to the Airport Commission, Housing Commission, Planning Commission, and others (Item 2.9).

The Community and Economic Development Committee (CED) met on June 16, 2025, at 1:30 PM in Council Chambers. The committee reviewed four reports: an audit of special event costs, the Downtown annual progress report, a status update on the Foreign Trade Zone and Sister Cities programs, and a planning update for the 2026 major sports events (Super Bowl, NCAA tournament, FIFA World Cup). All items were accepted and, where applicable, forwarded to the City Council for the August 19, 2025 meeting. No public comments were made. Consent Calendar - No items were on the consent calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke. Discussion Items - Cost of Special Events Audit Report (CC 25-1001) – City Auditor Joe Royce presented the audit of security and other costs charged to organizers of outdoor special events. In FY 2023-24, the city collected $622,000 from 84 events (estimated 330,000 attendees over 300 event days). Police staffing accounted for $319,000 (51% of total costs). The audit found that cost estimates for police services were not consistently provided, hourly rates not fully posted, and roles between sworn officers, non-sworn staff, and private security were unclear. Recommendations included establishing a threshold for cost estimates, posting rates, and clarifying roles to control costs. Administration (Carrie Adams Hapner, OEDCA, and Sgt. Tony Diepp, SJPD) agreed with all four recommendations, with implementation timelines ranging from immediate to June 2027 for a new software system. Council members discussed the challenges of last-minute staffing cancellations, the need for clearer cost estimates, and the potential liability of endorsing private security firms. The committee accepted the report and forwarded it to the August 19 City Council meeting. - Downtown Annual Progress Report (CC 25-1023) – Deputy Director Blaga Zilalich and Downtown Coordinator Chris Arkley reported on downtown’s performance. Key indicators: 3,700 residents, 320 residential units under construction (City View Plaza conversion), 2.1 million visitors from 102 permitted events (368 days of activation), and a 7% increase in foot traffic. Office vacancy rose slightly, but new office leases included Plug and Play (AI Center of Excellence) and Abacus Semiconductor. Notable developments: VTA’s purchase of 488 Almaden Boulevard, new hotel openings (Townplace Suites), and retail openings (Press Room, Sumi Sushi, Jackie’s Place). Public realm improvements included the Post Street pedestrian mall, wayfinding signs, and tree lighting on Santa Clara Street. Safety efforts: SJPD foot patrols 80% staffed, a stay-away order for St. James Park, and 5,000 contacts with unhoused individuals by PATH and the Social Impact Team (141 housed). The report will be folded into the city’s economic strategy work plan moving forward. The committee accepted the report. - Foreign Trade Zone 18 and Sister Cities Program Status Report (CC 25-1034) – Joe Hedges reported on the Foreign Trade Zone, which marked its 50th anniversary in November 2024. The zone covers San Jose, all of Santa Clara County, southern Alameda County, Santa Cruz, and Scotts Valley. In 2023, the zone generated $55 billion in activity, over $5 billion in exports, and supported 30,000 jobs. Eleven companies currently operate in the zone. The Sister Cities program has eight sister cities, with active organizations for Okayama, Tainan, Dublin, Pune, and Guadalajara. Highlights included a delegation visit to Dublin, a visit by the Okayama City Council, and student exchanges. The 70th anniversary of the Okayama relationship will be in 2027. Vice Mayor Foley noted she serves on the board of Sister Cities International. The committee accepted the report. - 2026 Major Events Status Report (CC 25-1012) – Presented by Rosalyn Hughey, Carrie Adams Hapner, and Tommy O’Hare (2026 Sports and Special Events Director). The report outlined the SJ26 strategic plan with three objectives: build civic pride, maximize local economic impact, and enhance the city’s brand. Major events in 2026: Super Bowl (February 8), NCAA Men’s West Regional Basketball Tournament (March), and FIFA World Cup matches (six matches, June 12–July 1). Planned activations include 13 concerts, 13 drone shows, watch parties, public art installations (Elizabeth Turk’s “Invisible Skies”), and a corporate innovation hub. The city has updated policies (supergraphics ordinance, entertainment zone ordinance) and is working with the Bay Area Host Committee. Tommy O’Hare reported that the past weekend’s FIFA one-year-out party was successful, and the U.S. Men’s National Team played at PayPal Park. Additional 2025 events include the NWSL Championship, Junior Olympics, and USA Table Tennis Championships. Council members discussed targeting audiences (international, regional, local) and the integration of cultural programming. The committee accepted the report and forwarded it to the August 19 City Council meeting. Key Outcomes - Accepted and forwarded to City Council (August 19, 2025): Cost of Special Events Audit Report, 2026 Major Events Status Report. - Accepted (no further action): Downtown Annual Progress Report, Foreign Trade Zone 18 and Sister Cities Program Status Report. - All votes were unanimous. - Next steps: Administration will implement audit recommendations, continue downtown progress reporting as part of the economic strategy work plan, and advance planning for the 2026 events.

The Public Safety, Finance and Strategic Support Committee (PSFSS) held a special meeting on June 12, 2025, to accept a bi‑monthly financial report, receive an annual report on racial and social equity, and hear the Police Department’s quarterly operations and performance update. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Bi‑Monthly Financial Report (March/April 2025): The committee accepted the report on actual revenues and expenditures compared to the 2024‑2025 Budget for the ten months ending April 2025. Motion carried unanimously. Reports to Committee 1. Advancing Racial and Social Equity Through Culture and Practice Annual Report Andrea Aguilar (Racial Equity Manager) and Lydia Bustamante (Assistant to the City Manager) presented the 2024‑2025 annual report. Key statistics: - 86% of city employees see how inclusion and equity relate to their role. - Departments completed 160 equity actions in the previous cycle; in the current cycle, 55 are complete and 184 are in progress. - 100% of participants in equity action plan sessions found them valuable. - A public dashboard now tracks equity action progress. - The San Jose Civics Masters Class helped 350+ residents (84 foreign‑born) learn civic engagement. - Over 5,000 multilingual “Know Your Rights” cards distributed; 200 front‑line staff trained in trauma‑informed de‑escalation. - Legal services supported 1,000+ immigrants from 73 countries via 38 attorneys (24 pro bono). - The 16th Annual Disability Awareness Day drew 500+ attendees; digital accessibility compliance targeted by April 2026. Discussion highlights: - Councilmember Mulcahy asked about the $250,000 immigrant services fund and Gardner Community Center site visits. Staff confirmed they will coordinate with funders and check Gardner. - Mulcahy raised concerns about ADA compliance programs in OEDCA and potential frivolous lawsuits against small businesses. Councilmember Salas echoed those concerns, citing examples. Staff noted their site visits focus on technical assistance, not enforcement. - Councilmember Salas highlighted disparities in code enforcement and park maintenance between districts, urging staff to visit areas like Washington School and Spartan Keys. - Salas and Vice Chair Kamei asked about federal DEI funding cuts. Staff responded they are coordinating with the City Attorney and intergovernmental relations and will “stay the course” until directed otherwise. - Motion to accept the annual report passed unanimously. 2. Police Department Operations and Performance Quarterly Status Report Deputy Chief Gina Tabaldi presented city‑wide crime statistics for the first five months of 2025 versus 2024 (first year‑over‑year comparison under NIBERS). Key data: - Crimes against persons: overall decrease quarter‑over‑quarter; homicides down by 5 (25% drop from 2024). - Crimes against property: vehicle thefts down 25% (711 fewer cases); larceny/theft up 7% (417 more cases) attributed to increased organized retail theft reporting. - Crimes against society: narcotics cases up 48% (692 more) due to officer proactivity; prostitution down 76% (65 fewer) due to resource redirection to unpermitted vendor enforcement. - Cinco de Mayo operations (May 2‑5): 35 felony arrests, 39 misdemeanor arrests, 23 warrant arrests, 283 citations, 10 vehicles impounded, 15 loaded handguns recovered from suspected gang members. No major injuries or use of force. - Community engagement study: Over 1,200 residents surveyed; 75% feel safe with an officer present, 60% trust police, more than half believe police treat people fairly. Recommendations total $47.6 M ongoing and $73.4 M one‑time costs (mostly officer hiring); non‑staffing items cost $5.1 M annually and $654,000 one‑time. Already implemented: Chief’s Community Advisory Board, community partnership academy, and a new community engagement team. Discussion highlights: - Councilmembers praised officer professionalism and the department’s success in solving homicides. - Councilmember Mulcahy suggested adjusting messaging about officer shortages to avoid undermining public perception of safety. - Councilmember Doan asked about recruitment: upcoming June academy has 43 recruits; October academy has 66 in backgrounds. Minimum qualifications: 60 quarter or 40 semester college credits (or honorable military service substitute). - Doan expressed concern about massage/coffee shops linked to sex trafficking and illegal gambling on Tully Road, asking for targeted enforcement. - Councilmember Salas asked about the “No Kings” march planned for the weekend; staff confirmed they monitor protests and will prevent vandalism but plywood is a personal choice. - Motion to accept the report passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony No public comments were made on any agenda item or during Open Forum. Open Forum No speakers. Key Outcomes - Accepted the Bi‑Monthly Financial Report for March/April 2025 (unanimous). - Accepted the Advancing Racial and Social Equity Annual Report (unanimous). - Accepted the Police Department Operations and Performance Quarterly Status Report (unanimous). - Committee members directed staff to follow up on Gardner Community Center site visits, ADA program coordination, and enforcement on Tully Road. - Recruitment and retention remains a priority with growing academy classes. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned.

Date: June 12, 2025 Time: 1:30 PM (approx. 1 hour) Location: Council Chambers, City of San José Committee Members Present: Chair Peter Ortiz, Vice Chair Bien Doan, Members David Cohen, Domingo Candelas, Pamela Campos This meeting covered three main reports: an update on Happy Hollow Park and Zoo, a status report on sports fields use and equity, and a report on blight reduction coordination with the Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA). All three reports were accepted unanimously by the committee. No public comments were made on any agenda item. Consent Calendar - No items were listed on the Consent Calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided comments during the meeting. Discussion Items 1. Happy Hollow Park and Zoo Status Report (CC 25-0951) - Presenters: Avi O'Tom (Deputy Director, PRNS), Shannon Heimer (Division Manager), Kirsten McCormick-Manwell (General Manager) - Highlights: - Happy Hollow opened in 1961, celebrating its 65th anniversary in 2026. - Attendance and membership numbers are on pace with the previous year; the access ticket program (priced at one quarter of general admission) has already exceeded last year's usage. - Revenue is steadily increasing, but operating expenses continue to rise, creating budgetary challenges due to inflation and increased costs for aging animal care. - The Danny the Dragon ride will reopen on July 15, 2025, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony planned for that morning. - A new FUSA habitat and expanded capybara habitat are being developed. - The zoo has maintained AZA accreditation for 32 years; the next renewal cycle begins in 2026. - Over 6,000 volunteer hours were logged, supporting operations and special events. - The Happy Hollow Foundation launched its first capital campaign to fund the new Danny the Dragon experience. - Top five zip codes for the access ticket program: 95122, 95111, 95116, 95112, 95127. - Committee Questions: - Vice Chair Doan asked about affordability and keeping the access ticket program funded as demand grows. Staff noted they are seeking sponsors for the unfunded account. - Councilmember Campos asked about promoting Happy Hollow to visitors, especially for the 2026 World Cup. Staff mentioned partnerships with Southwest Airlines and promotional tickets. - Chair Ortiz asked about scholarship methodology and zip code tracking; staff confirmed the top five zip codes and that outreach includes Project Hope and social influencers. - Infrastructure needs were discussed; staff stated safety and animal health are top priorities. - Outcome: Motion to accept the report (by Councilmember Candelas) passed unanimously. 2. Sports Fields Use and Equity Status Report (CC 25-0982) - Presenters: Avi O'Tom, Shannon Heimer, Troy Treedy (Parks Manager), Joe Albialde (Parks Recreation and Facilities Supervisor) - Highlights: - The City maintains 110 fields and 104 courts; two-thirds are available for reservations by sports organizations. - Field allocations occur twice a year (spring/summer, fall/winter); staff verify residency, nonprofit status, and age eligibility. - An equity task force was formed in 2021 after a Councilmember request in 2020; improvements include clearer rules, streamlined online systems, and enhanced enforcement. - Revenue and cost recovery have increased significantly over four years due to efficiency improvements and standardized time blocks. - Data analysis reveals: 80% of field users come from neighborhoods in the upper half of the Healthy Places Index (HPI), while only 20% come from the lower half, indicating a significant equity gap. - Partnerships include the San Jose Earthquakes (youth camps) and the county probation department. - The temporary equity supervisor role has been made permanent to continue data-driven analysis and community engagement. - Staff highlighted the need for additional field marshals to enforce policies and ensure equitable access. - Committee Questions: - Councilmember Candelas raised concerns about rising rent costs for local leagues like Eastridge, Evergreen, and Alum Rock Little Leagues, and asked about prioritizing local users at regional fields like Arcadia. Staff explained Arcadia's business model focuses on tournament play on weekends but local leagues can use fields weekdays. - Vice Chair Doan asked how to increase the 20% usage rate from lower-HPI neighborhoods. Staff discussed developing a “playbook” to help grassroots teams with reservations, sponsorships, and nonprofit status, and noted the need for deeper community engagement to understand barriers. - Chair Ortiz asked about partnering with trusted community organizations (e.g., African American Community Service Agency, Asian Americans for Community Involvement). Staff agreed to include such organizations in future engagement. - Staff confirmed they interact with local little league leaders regularly and through biannual surveys. - Outcome: Motion to accept the report (by Councilmember Candelas) passed unanimously. 3. Blight Reduction Coordination with Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) Status Report (CC 25-0973) - Presenters: Aurelia Bailey (Division Manager, Community Services), Jamie Marcel (Program Manager, Beautify San Jose), along with VTA Deputy Director of Maintenance Jesse Soto - Highlights: - In November 2023, the City Council directed staff to develop a formal agreement with VTA to address blight (trash, debris, graffiti, encampments, overgrown vegetation) on properties bordering VTA. - Key elements: joint cleanups, regular communication (monthly meetings), and resource sharing. - The May 2025 meeting established the cadence and participants; priority hotspot areas will be identified in the next kickoff meeting. - VTA Deputy Director Soto stated that blight reports are typically addressed within a day or the next day, depending on resources. - Committee Questions: - Vice Chair Doan raised issues with Union Pacific and Caltrans properties (e.g., graffiti on sound walls, encampments under bridges at Story and Tully). Staff noted they also meet with Caltrans bi-weekly and will include Union Pacific as a partner. - Councilmember Campos asked about timeline expectations for VTA stations. Deputy Director Soto confirmed a turnaround of same day or next day for most reports. - Chair Ortiz asked about staff bandwidth; staff clarified that each jurisdiction continues to handle its own property, but coordination improves efficiency. - Outcome: Motion to accept the report (by Councilmember Candelas) passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - All three status reports were accepted by unanimous votes of the committee members present. - The flavored tobacco ban status report was dropped per the June 4, 2025 Rules and Open Government Committee recommendation. - Next steps for Happy Hollow include the July 15 grand reopening of Danny the Dragon and continued fundraising for the scholarship program. - Sports fields staff will expand community engagement with trusted organizations and develop a playbook for grassroots teams. - Beautify San Jose and VTA will finalize a work plan in upcoming meetings to address priority blight locations. - The committee adjourned at approximately 2:30 PM.

The Planning Director Hearing for June 11, 2025, was called to order by Hearing Officer Sylvia Doe. The meeting covered a consent calendar item for a 36-unit townhome development and a public hearing for a Chick-fil-A restaurant proposal at 1301 West San Carlos Street. After extensive public comment and deliberation, the hearing officer approved the site development permit with conditions, including retaining an existing building on the property. Consent Calendar - Item 3A (SP 25-011, T24-035, ER24-243): Special use permit for 36 residential townhome units at 2820-2848 Florence Avenue. Staff read a revision to condition of approval 48 regarding soil sampling for residual pesticides. No public comment to remove the item; it was approved as recommended by staff. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 4A – Chick-fil-A at 1301 West San Carlos Street: Approximately 139 emails were received, with all but five opposing the project. A change.org petition with over 3,200 signatures also opposed it. During the hearing, several members of the public spoke in opposition: - David Moore (District 6 resident): Called the proposal "outrageous" and inconsistent with the urban village vision, displacing local minority-owned businesses. - Rachel Kumar (San Jose resident, 20+ years): Urged rejection, noting Chick-fil-A cannot succeed without car traffic and would clog streets. - Eric Rice (neighborhood resident): Disappointed the city is not listening; said plan destroys local jobs and violates urban village principles. - Greg Ripa: Submitted a letter detailing non-compliance with General Plan and design guidelines; argued the project is parking-lot oriented. - John Hwan Vu (District 6 resident): Opposed due to lack of inclusivity, inconsistency with urban village plan, traffic, and loss of existing businesses. - Alex Shore (Catalyze SV): Opposed on behalf of 75 projects; stated the project violates General Plan and would set the city backwards. - Tom Spilsbury (property owner’s representative): Clarified that Eduardo’s Tacaria is not being displaced by Chick-fil-A; they signed an acknowledgment in 2020 and have been month-to-month since 2023; redevelopment has been the owner’s goal regardless. Discussion Items - Item 4A – Site Development Permit for Chick-fil-A (H24-046, ER24-195): Staff (Jason Lee) presented the proposal: demolition of an existing commercial building and removal of 20 ordinance-sized trees to construct a 5,139 sq ft quick-service restaurant with a covered patio, 29 new trees, sidewalk improvements, and a mural. The project meets zoning and urban village plan requirements. Applicant Christine Cho highlighted economic benefits, jobs, and community investment. Public testimony overwhelmingly opposed. Hearing Officer Sylvia Doe questioned the applicant about retaining the existing building, parking, and building orientation. The applicant offered to reduce parking stalls and consider redesigning the entryway. Staff confirmed that retaining the building had not been evaluated but that circulation could be adjusted. Key Outcomes - Decision on Item 4A: The hearing officer approved the site development permit with modifications. The permit was granted to allow the 5,139 sq ft restaurant and outdoor patio, but with the condition that the existing 3,817 sq ft commercial building be retained, not demolished. The hearing officer directed a site redesign to accommodate both buildings and required the following: - The entryway vestibule be redesigned to bring it closer to West San Carlos Street. - All windows along West San Carlos and Race Street shall be transparent for pedestrian visibility. - Updated conditions of approval: Section 4C corrected to read "UV zone" (not MUC), condition 33B2 updated to 32 off-site replacement trees, and condition 14 clarified for the mural requirement. - The applicant expressed willingness to reduce parking stalls and add more landscaping. - Consent Calendar: Approved as recommended. - Appeal Deadlines: Permit appeals must be filed within 10 calendar days (by June 23, 2025). Environmental determination appeals must be filed by June 16, 2025.

The Rules and Open Government Committee (ROGC) met jointly with the Committee of the Whole on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at 2:01 p.m. in Council Chambers. The committee reviewed the final agenda for the June 17, 2025 City Council meeting, approved a consent calendar of 12 items, considered the reappointment of the City Auditor, and debated a temporary moratorium on smoke shops. The meeting adjourned at 2:53 p.m. Final Agenda Review (June 17, 2025) - The committee reviewed the final agenda for the June 17, 2025 City Council meeting. Members agreed to set the regular session start time at 11:00 a.m., move invocations and ceremonial items to 11:00 a.m., and conduct item 8.5 (ballot counting) prior to item 8.1 to avoid delays. The motion carried 4-0 (Councilmember Doan absent). Consent Calendar - Items Approved (4-0): The consent calendar contained 12 items, including approvals of public records, meeting schedules for FY2025-2026, committee work plans (Community and Economic Development, Transportation and Environment, Public Safety Finance and Strategic Support, Neighborhood Services and Education, Rules and Open Government), the Auditor’s Monthly Report for May 2025, a travel authorization for the Mayor’s staff member Jessica Barriga, and retroactive approvals for special events and raffle prizes in Districts 5, 7, and 8. A motion to approve the consent calendar carried 4-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Jordan Mullale (District 3) spoke under consent calendar item B4 (Transportation and Environment Committee Work Plan). He expressed support for the committee’s commitment to Vision Zero and climate smart initiatives but noted that the Transportation and Environment Committee (TNE) lacked a "City Council Focus Area Status Report" unlike other committees. He suggested incorporating outcome measures related to Vision Zero, traffic safety, and the Move San José plan, and requested that future focus area revisions include a climate or Vision Zero measure owned by TNE. Chair Cohen agreed to consider the suggestions. - Jordan Mullale (District 3) spoke under the reappointment of the City Auditor, stating "Joe and his team do great work, and I'm happy to support the reappointment." - Jordan Mullale (District 3) spoke under Open Forum, criticizing the city council agenda structure as confusing, especially for first-time attendees. He noted that the actual hearing order differs from the printed order and suggested using the Mayor’s script as the public-facing agenda format. Chair Cohen acknowledged the comment. Discussion Items - Reappointment of City Auditor (Item C.1): The committee considered a resolution to reappoint Joe Rois as City Auditor for a term beginning July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2029. After public comment, the committee voted 5-0 to approve the resolution and place it on the June 17, 2025 City Council agenda for final action. - Temporary Moratorium on Smoke Shops (Item C.2): This item, sponsored by Councilmembers Ortiz, Campos, Candelas, Cohen, and Casey, directed the City Attorney and Planning, Building, and Code Enforcement (PBCE) staff to draft an ordinance enacting a temporary moratorium on new smoke shops citywide, focusing on overconcentration in neighborhoods such as East San José. Staff (Chris Burton, Director of PBCE, and Rachel Roberts, Deputy Director for Code Enforcement) presented an Early Consideration Response Form outlining immediate ("green lit") steps and longer-term ("yellow light") items. They reported that since the flavored tobacco ban, the number of licensed tobacco retailers had decreased from approximately 620 to 578 (net reduction of three in the current fiscal year). Staff stated that a moratorium could not be implemented immediately because it required: (1) findings to support the ordinance, (2) expanded grant funding from the county (a DOJ grant administered by the county health department currently limited to decoy operations), (3) a memorandum of understanding with the police department for enforcement, (4) an agreement with the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration, and (5) sufficient staffing capacity. The recommended timeline for bringing the moratorium ordinance to council was October 2025, with a proposed moratorium duration of three to six months to allow for permanent regulation development. Councilmember Ortiz expressed urgency, noting that East San José has disproportionately more smoke shops and that other cities (Campbell and Richmond) acted faster. Vice Mayor Kamei asked about outreach, and staff confirmed they would conduct stakeholder outreach before bringing the draft moratorium ordinance to council. Councilmember Doan inquired about limiting the number of smoke shops instead of a moratorium; the City Attorney clarified that any restriction would require similar findings. After debate, the committee voted 5-0 to direct staff to bring the moratorium ordinance no later than October 2025, with necessary findings, a timeline plan for the moratorium’s length, and appropriate outreach. Key Outcomes - June 17, 2025 Final Agenda approved with 11:00 a.m. start, invocations/ceremonials at 11:00 a.m., and item 8.5 heard before 8.1 (vote 4-0). - Consent Calendar approved (vote 4-0). - Reappointment of City Auditor Joe Rois approved and placed on June 17, 2025 Council agenda (vote 5-0). - Temporary Moratorium on Smoke Shops – directed staff to return no later than October 2025 with a draft ordinance, findings, a proposed moratorium duration, and outreach plan (vote 5-0). - Meeting adjourned at 2:53 p.m.