Public Meetings - San Jose, California

The San José City Council convened on May 20, 2025, at 9:30 AM for a closed session (labor negotiations update) and at 11 AM for the regular session, which extended into the afternoon. The meeting covered a wide range of topics including a new elected official transition policy, a report on community-led solutions to domestic violence, approval of entertainment zones for 2026 sports events, and an update to supergraphic sign regulations. Several proclamations were presented. All votes were unanimous unless noted. Public Comments & Testimony (Closed Session-Related) - Return-to-Office Mandate (Item 3.2 - Labor Negotiations Update): Multiple city employees spoke at 9:30 AM before the closed session, urging the council to delay the city's return-to-office mandate (moving from 3 to 4 days in-office) until negotiations with unions are completed. Speakers represented themselves as members of various unions (AEA, Local 21, IFPTE, MEF, CAMP) and departments (Airport, Environmental Services, Housing, Transportation). Key concerns included: inability to care for children or ill family members, increased childcare costs (one speaker cited an additional $2,000 per month), loss of flexibility impacting productivity and retention, and the city's legal obligation to bargain. One speaker noted that the policy is fiscally irresponsible given the budget deficit. The Mayor acknowledged the comments but stated the Council was not conducting labor negotiations in closed session. Consent Calendar (Items 2.1–2.20) - All 20 consent calendar items were approved unanimously, except Item 2.18 (Advocacy for Vietnamese Heritage and Freedom Flag Emoji) which was pulled for separate discussion. Key consent items included: final adoption of ordinances (shopping cart prevention, multiple rezoning parcels, multifamily housing incentive program increase from 1,500 to 1,800 units), master service agreements (Environmental Science Associates – $1,000,000; Ultimate Kronos Group – $412,936; DST Consulting – $715,000; The Pun Group – $731,500), contracts for sewer condition assessment ($1,249,140) and sewer improvement ($2,338,470), electric vehicle charger overstay fee, list of pavement maintenance projects eligible for SB 1 funding, and approval of several special events sponsored by Council District 4 and District 6. - Item 2.18 (Vietnamese Heritage and Freedom Flag Emoji): Councilmember Doan presented a resolution to recognize the yellow flag with three red stripes as an official emoji, honoring the Vietnamese American community. Public speakers expressed strong support, noting its significance as a symbol of freedom, democracy, and remembrance. Many speakers urged Unicode Consortium adoption. The council voted unanimously, with the Mayor stating the city is proud to have the largest Vietnamese community outside of Vietnam. Discussion Items - Item 3.3 – New City Council Policy for Seamless Transition of Elected Officials (Policy 0-47): City Clerk Tony Tabor presented a policy to standardize transitions, including requirements for city-based social media accounts, centralization of constituent data (CRM), use of .gov domain by 2029, and inventory of physical assets. A group memo from the Mayor, Candelas, Ortiz, and Cohen clarified that personal social media accounts would not be required to transition, but official city-based accounts must be handed over. Councilmember Kamei submitted a last-minute memo requesting mandatory training on the distinction between official, personal, and campaign social media use. After discussion, the council approved the policy with an amendment (moved by Candelas, seconded by Kamei) directing the City Attorney and City Clerk to collaborate on a training program for officials and staff on social media best practices, to be integrated into the transition process. The effective date for CRM transition remained December 2025; the policy itself takes effect immediately. Vote: unanimous. - Item 4.1 (25-560) – Community-Led Solutions to Domestic Violence Report: Staff presented findings from a report by the Battered Women's Justice Project (consultants: Dr. Sujata Warrior, Maria Jose Fletcher, Amy Sanchez) in partnership with local nonprofits My Tree and Gaminar. Key findings included: lack of public awareness about what constitutes domestic violence, need for culturally responsive education, importance of community-centered healing, and need for alternative pathways to safety without law enforcement. Recommendations included: investing in community-based organizations, strengthening language/disability access, creating dedicated housing for survivors, and ongoing training. Public commenters (Darcy Green – Latinas Contra Cancer, Sandra Asher – board member at Parents Helping Parents, Kira Kazantis – Silicon Valley Council of Nonprofits, Eugene Torres – Family Supportive Housing) urged moving forward with a pilot alternative response program. The Real Coalition submitted a proposal for a pilot design. Councilmember Kamei expressed concern that the $400,000 allocated produced only a study, not a pilot. Staff noted $50,000 remains unspent; a proposed pilot design would require additional funding (estimated $100,000). Councilmember Doan moved approval of the report including memos from colleagues and a directive to explore a pilot design. The motion passed unanimously. The City Manager stated she would issue a budget addendum outlining what $50,000 could purchase for pilot design. - Item 8.1 – Entertainment Zone Ordinance for 2026 Sports Events: Staff proposed amending the municipal code to establish entertainment zones (per SB 969) allowing to-go alcoholic beverages in designated public areas during special events. Six downtown zones were proposed: San Pedro Street, Po Street, SOFA District, Little Italy, Fountain Alley, and Paseo de San Antonio. A group memo from Mayor, Foley, Kamei, Salas, and Mulcahy added Sharks Way (connecting San Pedro to SAP Center). Councilmember Ortiz submitted a memo to add two stretches of Alum Rock Avenue (East San Jose). Public commenters (Zach Waldron – TBD Events, Gumby – San Jose Downtown Association, Kat Angelov – San Jose Chamber of Commerce) strongly supported, citing economic benefits and activation of downtown for the 2026 World Cup, Super Bowl, and March Madness. Discussion focused on capacity and scale. Councilmember Salas moved to accept staff recommendation plus group memo and Ortiz's first location (Alum Rock near Mexican Heritage Plaza), but not the second larger stretch. The motion was seconded. Assistant Police Chief Schab noted that a 1.6-mile zone would be challenging to staff (2 officers per block). Staff clarified that events can be smaller than the zone boundary. The motion passed unanimously. Because new zones were added, the ordinance requires another reading in two weeks (June 3) and a second reading two weeks after that. - Item 10.2 – Supergraphic Sign Ordinance Amendment: Staff presented updates to allow large-scale signs for large events (700+ hotel room nights or 10,000+ attendance). Changes include: removing sunset clause, lowering minimum sign height from 125 ft building to 40 ft above grade, extending display duration from 7 days before/after to 75 days before/after (max 180 days total), allowing roof-mounted signs (not illuminated), and increasing maximum signs per building from 1 to 2. Staff indicated that monetization on private property faces legal challenges, but a sponsorship program on city-owned property can be developed administratively. Councilmember Kamei asked about roof sign illumination – confirmed not allowed. Councilmember Ortiz asked if signs could go in East San Jose – staff confirmed only in downtown sign zone and North San José sign area. Vice Mayor Foley moved to accept staff recommendation and direct staff to develop a sponsorship program. Vote: unanimous. - Item 5.1 – Report on Bids and Award of Contract for 2025 Major Streets Resurfacing Project: Awarded to MCK Services, Inc. for $8,971,914 with 10% contingency ($897,191). Approved unanimously. Ceremonial Items (1:30 PM) - Proclamation: Mental Health Awareness Month (May 2025) – Presented by Vice Mayor Foley. Recognized one in five adults experiencing mental health conditions; highlighted the need to reduce stigma. Accepted by Mary Ann Grogan from Assemblymember Gail Pellerin's office. - Proclamation: Public Works Week (May 18-24, 2025) – Presented by Councilmember Kamei. Recognized the Public Works Department's role in infrastructure, parks, fleet, and animal care. Accepted by department staff. - Proclamation: Building Safety Month (May 2025) – Presented by Councilmember Mulcahy. Noted that San Jose's Building Division issues 28,000 permits and conducts over 100,000 inspections annually. Accepted by Chief Building Official Lisa Joyner. Key Outcomes - Approved (unanimous): Consent Calendar (all 20 items except 2.18 pulled). - Approved (unanimous): Item 2.18 – Resolution advocating for Vietnamese Heritage and Freedom Flag emoji. - Approved (unanimous): Item 3.3 – New Council Policy 0-47 for elected official transitions, with amendment to develop a mandatory training program on social media use for officials and staff. - Approved (unanimous): Item 4.1 – Acceptance of Community-Led Solutions to Domestic Violence Report, with direction to explore a pilot design for alternative response; City Manager to issue budget addendum for $50,000 available. - Approved (unanimous): Item 5.1 – Award of contract for major streets resurfacing. - Approved (unanimous): Item 8.1 – First reading of ordinance establishing entertainment zones in downtown (six zones plus Sharks Way and one Alum Rock stretch); second reading scheduled for June 3, 2025. - Approved (unanimous): Item 10.2 – Amendment to Sign Code to allow supergraphic signs for large events; staff directed to develop sponsorship program on city-owned property. - Referral: Item 3.3 – City Attorney and City Clerk to collaborate on training program for social media best practices, return to council by August 2026 (later amended to 2025 per motion). - Referral: Entertainment Zone ordinance amendments (new zones) will require two readings; report back to CED in April 2026 on implementation and expansion feasibility. - No report from Closed Session. The regular session adjourned at approximately 3:00 PM, followed by a break and then a study session on wildfire planning and preparedness.

On May 20, 2025, the San José City Council held a study session to review the city's wildfire planning and preparedness efforts. The session featured presentations from the San José Fire Department, Cal Fire, Santa Clara County Fire Department, Santa Clara County Fire Safe Council, and San José State University. Key topics included fuel and fire behavior, water supply systems, wildland-urban interface (WUI) risk zones, multi-agency coordination, new technologies, and community outreach. No public comment was received. Discussion Items - Los Angeles Fires (January 2025): The wildfires claimed 30 lives, burned nearly 37,000 acres, and destroyed more than 15,000 structures. San José Fire Department deployed 31 personnel to support suppression efforts. - San José's Wildfire Risk Profile: There are 31,032 addresses in WUI areas, with 11,768 in fire hazard severity zones (FHSZ): 5,737 moderate, 6,027 high, and 4 very high – covering 46.2 square miles (29,581 acres). - Fire Weather & Modeling: Dr. Greg Clements (SJSU) explained that Diablo winds can generate extreme fire conditions, though San José's terrain limits the strongest downslope winds seen in Los Angeles. The university operates a state-of-the-art wildfire modeling system and new AI-based risk maps. - Water Supply: San José relies on a network of hydrants (maintained by San José Water Company, Municipal Water System, and Great Oaks Water), static resources (lakes, reservoirs), and mutual aid from water purveyors to boost pressure during incidents. - Vegetation Management & Code Enforcement: Code Enforcement resolved 2,857 overgrown vegetation cases over the past five years and 536 in 2025 alone. The county weed abatement program handles 200–300 vacant parcels annually. The city is implementing eucalyptus removal and fuel breaks in parks. - Multi-Agency Coordination: The San José Fire Department coordinates with Cal Fire, Santa Clara County Fire, and other agencies through mutual aid, strike teams, pre-positioned staffing, and annual training. The Genesis platform (evacuation management) is partially deployed, with city zones still being masked pending public outreach. - Community Outreach: The Fire Department held a wildfire preparedness meeting in Almaden (300 participants), promotes AlertSCC enrollment, CERT training, and Firewise communities. A new door-to-door WUI education project is underway, prioritizing areas with limited evacuation routes (e.g., Suncrest, Swagert). - Fire Hazard Severity Zone Updates: The San José Fire Department will formally request Council adoption of updated FHSZ maps in early June 2025, which will enable stricter building codes and vegetation management. Key Outcomes - Council directed staff to strengthen vegetation management, improve data collection, and develop a vegetation management dashboard. - Staff will continue evaluating new technologies (satellite, AI, drones) for real-time fuel load assessment and risk mapping, leveraging partnerships with NVIDIA, SJSU, and the Fire Safe Council. - The “Know Your Zone” evacuation campaign for Genesis will launch within weeks, alongside community education in high-risk areas. - Councilmember Kamei urged colleagues to engage with the Santa Clara County Fire Safe Council, which has large fuel reduction projects (2,000 acres in Los Gatos Creek watershed) and offers home assessments, chipping, and rebate programs. - The Office of Emergency Management will prioritize CERT training in neighborhoods adjacent to WUI zones over the next two years. - No formal votes were taken; the session was informational and directed ongoing work.

The Transportation and Environment Committee (T&E) of the San José City Council held a special meeting on Monday, May 19, 2025, at 9:00 AM in Council Chambers. The committee reviewed the work plan, received status reports on Vision Zero, the City Infrastructure Strategy, and vehicle concerns/service improvements, and heard presentations from staff and the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee (BPAC). All agenda items were accepted unanimously. Work Plan - The committee approved dropping the Regulation of Oversized Vehicle Parking Status Report (CC 25-0711) as recommended by the April 2, 2025 Rules and Open Government Committee. The motion passed without objection. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided comment during the meeting, either on agenda items or during open forum. Vision Zero Action Plan Status Report - Staff presented the 2025 Vision Zero Action Plan, adopted by Council in February 2025, focusing on five priority action areas. Over the past decade, traffic fatalities peaked at 65 in 2022 but declined to the lowest levels since 2017. Pedestrians and bicyclists represent 11% of all crashes but 42% of KSI (killed or seriously injured). Pedestrian KSI declined from a peak of 85 in 2019 to 67 in 2024; bicyclist KSI was 36 in 2024. Speed-related KSI peaked at 79 in 2020 and fell to 58 in 2024; red-light-running KSI fell from 35 in 2021 to 26 in 2024. - DOT completed 376 safety projects in the first nine months of FY 2024-25, including quick-build corridors and intersections. Grant applications totaled $11 million, with about $50 million in federal grant agreements in progress, including $21 million in Safe Streets for All funding. School safety efforts included 31 access and circulation studies, 282 upgraded high-visibility crosswalks, and a goal of upgrading all 1,800 crosswalks within three years. The Walk and Roll program reaches about 90 schools (35% of K-12). - Automated enforcement: Council adopted the Speed Safety System Use Policy on Oct. 29, 2024; a five-year speed safety system is estimated to cost $15.4–17.9 million. Red-light cameras will be activated at four intersections in summer 2025. - Jordan Moldow, representing BPAC, presented recommendations, including lowering speed limits to 25 mph or lower on unprotected bikeways, prioritizing walking and bicycling in mode priority, preferring protected bikeways on high-speed/volume roads, revising complete streets standards to reflect a Safe Systems approach, allowing crosswalk activation after a green light, and preventing waste haulers from placing bins in bike lanes. - Committee members expressed support for the program and asked questions about school project prioritization, crosswalk upgrades, and speed limit reductions near schools. Staff noted that a prior 15 mph school zone pilot showed negligible speed changes and that changing roadway character is necessary. City Infrastructure Strategy Quarterly Status Report - Staff reported Q3 FY 2024-25 results: 12 workstreams finished green, 6 yellow, and 1 red. The red workstream was the Climate Smart Plan update, whose stakeholder engagement had not yet begun; the Council date was pushed to fall 2025, with the next T&E update in October 2025. - The city and PG&E are negotiating an implementation agreement for North San José and downtown San José electrification, with a goal to execute by end of June. A stormwater permit progress update was approved, and a memorandum of agreement with Valley Water for creek cleanup was finalized. - A draft of the FY 2025-26 infrastructure strategy was presented, graduating the Climate Smart workstream and removing the municipal electric utility and citywide building electrification workstreams. Chair Cohen expressed concern about losing focus on electrification goals; staff said they would relay feedback. Vehicle Concerns and Service Improvements Status Report - The new SJ311 Vehicle Concern Service automatically triages vehicle-related reports to five city departments. In the first three quarters of FY 2024-25, the system received 28,453 reports, prevented 2,232 duplicate submissions, identified 186 stolen vehicles, and transferred 1,565 requests between departments. - DOT received 81% of reports. The Abandoned Vehicle Program closes most cases within 10 days. The Extended Parking Stay (EPS) program received over 14,000 reports, on pace for 19,000; issued 897 citations and 18 tows (tow rate less than 1%). Housing received 3,245 lived-in vehicle reports, closed roughly 45%, and provided outreach to 331 occupants. - The OLIVE program (oversized and lived-in vehicle enforcement) launched January 2025. At 18 sites, 97% of vehicles voluntarily relocated; 167 lived-in RVs/trailers and 514 personal vehicles were identified, with 10 RVs/trailers and 12 personal vehicles towed. A citywide inventory is expected by June 2025 to identify the next 25 sites. - Committee discussion included concerns about the 72-hour parking rule being gamed, the need for proactive enforcement, and the frustration of residents with ineffective no overnight parking signs. Staff referenced the Manager's Budget Addendum (MBA 4), which would add about $1 million annually for expanded parking compliance, including an expired registration team and enhanced OLIVE. Councilmember Salas cited specific problem areas (28th Street, Columbus Park). Councilmember Campos called for an equity-centered, community-led approach. Chair Cohen suggested proactive mailers and clearer feedback language. There is no ordinance requiring personal RVs to be parked off-street. Key Outcomes - Work Plan: Approved dropping the oversized vehicle parking status item. - Vision Zero Action Plan Status Report: Motion to accept carried 5-0. - City Infrastructure Strategy Quarterly Status Report: Motion to accept carried 5-0. - Vehicle Concerns and Service Improvements Status Report: Motion to accept carried 4-0 (Vice Mayor Foley absent). - No public comments were received at any point during the meeting. - Meeting adjourned at 10:47 a.m.

The Community and Economic Development Committee (CED) of the City of San José held a special meeting on May 19, 2025, at 1:30 PM. The committee reviewed the work plan, deferring two items to June 16, 2025, and then received and discussed two major reports: the Housing Balance Status Report and the Moderate-Income Housing Strategy Status Report. Both reports were accepted by motion. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were presented. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the meeting or the Open Forum. Discussion Items - Housing Balance Status Report – Presented by Eric Sullivan, Housing Department. The report analyzed San José's multifamily rental housing stock: 37% market rate units, 40% rent-stabilized (Apartment Rent Ordinance), and 23% income-restricted units. Multifamily represents about 17-18% of the city's total 340,000 housing units. Key findings: zero market rate multifamily starts in 2024, but over 2,000 affordable units under construction across 13 projects; preservation of 285 units through indirect means; and 1,194 affordable units (16 developments) could lose affordability restrictions if no action is taken. Councilmember Ortiz questioned preservation strategies; Sullivan described indirect tools such as loan modifications and capping rent increases during refinancing. Councilmember Casey referenced a Mercury News article about Bay Area vacancies; Sullivan noted San Jose has lower vacancy rates (Class A at 6% trending down, Class C at 4% trending down) compared to Oakland, and emphasized the need for increased production across the continuum. Councilmember Kamei raised concerns about aging housing in District 1 and the lack of condo development for entry-level homeownership; Sullivan identified construction defect liability reform as a necessary step to revive condo production. - Moderate-Income Housing Strategy Status Report – Presented by Eric Sullivan and Jared Ferguson (Planning, Building and Code Enforcement). Middle income is defined as 81-120% of Area Median Income (AMI); for a family of four, 100% AMI is now $195,000/year. The city needs approximately 10,000 additional moderate-income units by 2031. About 59,000 households fall into this category, and 20% are cost-burdened. Challenges include zero market rate starts in 2024, high development costs, limited public subsidies, and high homeownership costs (single-family median over $1.6 million). Proposed strategies include updating the Inclusionary Housing Ordinance (IHO), ADU incentives, construction defect liability reform, and regulatory changes to encourage missing middle housing types. Councilmember Mulcahy asked about integration with the General Plan update; staff confirmed cross-departmental collaboration. Chair Foley emphasized the need for zoning flexibility to allow lower-density development (e.g., townhomes, condos) in appropriate areas. Councilmember Kamei supported pilot programs for missing middle housing in areas without high transit. Key Outcomes - The committee approved deferral of two agenda items (Cost of Special Events Audit Report and Housing Stabilization and Eviction Prevention Status Report) to the June 16, 2025 CED meeting, pending approval by the Rules & Open Government Committee. - Motion to accept the Housing Balance Status Report carried unanimously. - Motion to accept the Moderate-Income Housing Strategy Status Report carried unanimously. - The meeting adjourned with no further business.

Note: The meeting transcript indicates the hearing was called to order on May 14, 2025, but the required date for this summary is May 15, 2025. This discrepancy is noted per accuracy rules. Hearing Officer Martina Davis convened the meeting on behalf of Planning Director Christopher Burton. The agenda included a consent calendar item and one public hearing item (Tree Removal / Warehouse Project). No items were deferred. Public comment focused on labor partnership expectations for the warehouse project. Consent Calendar - Item 3B (SP25006/ER25070): Approved without discussion. This special use permit allows demolition of an existing 6,100 sq ft building and associated surface improvements at 2060 Cottle Avenue (southwest corner of Caudle Avenue and Malone Road). No new construction. Environmental clearance: CEQA exemption (Section 15301). Project manager: Cameron Gee. Approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 3A (H24058/ER24257): Site development permit to allow removal of 123 trees (60 ordinance‑size, 63 non‑ordinance‑size) and planting of 176 replacement trees for construction of an approx. 333,360 sq ft, three‑story warehouse and manufacturing building at 550 East Brokaw Road. Owner: Supermicro Computer. Council District 3. - Staff Report (Cameron G.): Described the project, consistency with general plan and zoning, transportation demand management plan (bike network, rideshare), design compliance, and environmental review (addendum to 2023 FEIR). Notices posted since Dec. 20, 2024, mailed to 1,000‑ft radius. Staff recommended approval. - Applicant (Evan Sokoloski, ArchTech): Expressed excitement about the project and Supermicro’s expansion in San Jose. Acknowledged staff’s presentation and offered to answer questions. - Public Speaker – Doug Block (Silicon Valley MEPS, advisor for multiple building trades unions and Supermicro shareholder): Expressed disappointment that the architectural/design firm did not respond to multiple outreach attempts. Stated unions are interested in partnering on the project but did not ask for denial. Emphasized union members live in District 3 and provide pathways to good jobs. - Public Speaker – Will Smith (Business Agent, IBEW Local 332): Echoed Doug Block’s comments. Noted union supports projects that create good community impact and employ apprentices. Stated they cannot speak in favor without a commitment from Supermicro, but are optimistic about future partnership. - Applicant Response (Evan Sokoloski): Thanked unions for their interest; noted focus has been on entitlement. Mentioned past partnerships and opportunity to re‑engage as the project moves forward. Key Outcomes - Item 3A Approved with Modification: Hearing Officer Davis acknowledged the public comments but stated she has no authority to require union construction. She directed that the final permit’s project description be reworded to explicitly state the site development permit allows construction of the warehouse (not just tree removal). She then: - Considered the addendum to the 550 East Brokaw FEIR. - Approved the site development permit (file H24058) and environmental review clearance (file ER24257).

The Public Safety, Finance and Strategic Support Committee met on May 15, 2025, to discuss third-quarter financial reports, the Fire Department’s annual operations report, and the Police Department’s 911 call analysis related to disability and homelessness. Committee members included Chair Bien Doan, Vice Chair Rosemary Kamei, and members Michael Mulcahy, George Casey, and Carl Salas. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - The committee unanimously approved the Third Quarter Financial Reports for Fiscal Year 2024-2025 (CC 25-083), covering debt management, investment management, revenue management, and purchasing and risk management. These reports will be referred to the June 3, 2025 City Council meeting for full adoption. Discussion Items - Fire Department Operations Annual Report (CC 25-084): Assistant Fire Chief James Williams, Deputy Chief Aaron Freiler, and Captain Ryan West presented. Key data included: a 20% increase in total call volume over the past five fiscal years despite an 8% population decrease; approximately 110,000 incidents in FY 2023-24; EMS calls accounting for 62% of incidents; and a county response time standard (90th percentile for turnout and travel time) met 87% of the time (11 of 12 months after readjustment). The department highlighted travel time challenges and ongoing projects funded by Measure T, including new fire stations 32 (opening 2026) and 36 (opening 2027-28). Committee members asked about the county contract renewal, the impact of homelessness on call volume, the rationale for four-person crews, strategies for managing call growth, triage protocols, and future staffing and station plans. Councilmember Kamei expressed concern about equitable contract terms with the county. Councilmember Salas noted San José is now the 12th largest city. Chair Doan emphasized the need to reduce geographic response areas and consider adding drug-related data fields. The committee accepted the report. - Police Department 911 Disability and Homelessness Call Analysis Status Report (CC 25-085): Deputy Chief Gina Tvaldi, Lieutenant Paul Hamlin, and Communications Manager Jennifer Hearns presented. Data from the computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system showed that in calendar year 2024, 5.5% of all CAD events (6,557 out of 118,651) involved unhoused individuals, and 9,811 events involved perceived disabilities, of which 85% (8,305) were mental health-related. Among mental health events, 45% also involved unhoused individuals. Officers receive 16 hours of academy training on disabilities and 40-hour critical incident training. Councilmember Kamei asked about tracking repeat individuals and noted a previous frequent utilizer program. Councilmember Salas expressed surprise that only 5.5% of calls were homeless-related and inquired about drug-related flags. Chair Doan suggested adding a drug addiction category to the disability dropdown and asked about the potential loss of the PERT program and its impact. The committee accepted the report. Key Outcomes - The committee voted unanimously to accept both the Fire Department Operations Annual Report and the Police Department 911 Disability and Homelessness Call Analysis Status Report. - The Third Quarter Financial Reports were approved on the consent calendar and will go to the full City Council on June 3, 2025. - No public comments were received on any agenda item or during open forum. - The meeting adjourned after the open forum.

This meeting of the San Jose Planning Commission, held on May 14, 2025, began at approximately 14:30 hours and was chaired by Anthony Tordillos. The commission considered two privately initiated general plan amendment requests (Ketman Road and Winchester Boulevard), heard extensive public testimony, and made advisory recommendations to the City Council. A consent calendar item was approved, and a report on the upcoming General Plan four-year review was provided. Consent Calendar - The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the April 22, 2025 meeting (7-0-2, with Commissioners Bickford and Oliverio absent). Public Comments & Testimony (Items Not on Agenda) - Brian Darby: Expressed that decisions made by the commission affect people's homes and memories, feeling that community voices are not heard. He urged the commission to consider that homes represent more than economic value. Discussion Items: GP24-010 (3630 Ketman Road) - Staff Recommendation: City Planner Laura Maurer recommended denial of the general plan amendment from "Lower Hillside" to "Rural Residential," citing inconsistencies with the Focus Growth strategy, hillside development restrictions, high VMT area, and geologic/seismic hazards. The site is 8.29 acres, currently has one single-family home, and the proposed amendment would allow up to 13 single-family residences (10x the current density). - Applicant (Van Tihun): Arguing that the current "Lower Hillside" designation is inappropriate because the site is well within the urbanized area, the applicant requested the commission approve the amendment, asserting that the proposal is consistent with the city's housing goals and the Housing Accountability Act. - Public Testimony (Speaker cards submitted; multiple speakers): - Pat Brooks (retired City employee, Twin Falls Court resident): Opposed, citing geologic hazards, historic landslides, flood risk (observed flooding at Ketman and Casey intersection), traffic impacts, loss of 204 trees, and high VMT. - Amanda R. (D8 resident): Opposed, stating the site is a hazard (landslides, flooding) and she gathered 80 signatures from neighbors opposing the plan. - Robin Banks (adjacent property owner): Opposed, noting three earthquake faults on the property (preventing an ADU), four fires since the new owner took over (one within 50 feet of her home), and lack of response from the developer regarding fire clearance. - Kirsten Pantoha (SJSU student, neighborhood resident): Opposed, raising safety concerns for children playing in the court, increased traffic, noise pollution, and lack of community engagement by the developer. - Moses Rodriguez (adjacent court resident): Opposed, citing environmental impacts (protected red-tailed hawks, tree loss), increased landslide/flood risk, and existing low water pressure in the area. - Dean Wynne (developer): Supported the project as a much-needed housing addition. - Feed Int (nearby resident): Supported, noting the area lacks housing (small homes costing $1.4M) and that development would bring more affordable options. - Stephen Tian (neighbor): Supported, noting the site is overgrown, a fire hazard, and that development would bring cleanup and reduce fire danger. - Chris (retired UPS driver, 30+ year resident): Opposed, citing flooding from the man-made hill (Sequoia Creek) and fissures on the slope. - Commission Deliberation: - Commissioner Bendal (D8) noted the site is in a geohazard/seismic hazard zone and high VMT area, and stated she would not support the project due to inconsistency with General Plan 2040. - Vice Chair Cantrell questioned the applicant about affordable housing options, fire/flood mitigation, and fiscal impacts. Staff noted the city's general fiscal analysis shows most residential development is fiscally negative, especially lower-density projects. - Commissioner Young asked staff to respond to the applicant's assertion that the lower hillside designation is inappropriate; staff noted many similar properties exist within the urban growth boundary and that the site is on a hillside with landslide issues. - Outcome: The commission voted 8-0-1 (Bickford absent) to approve staff recommendation, i.e., to deny the general plan amendment, with Vice Chair Cantrell making the motion and Commissioner Bendal seconding. The recommendation will go to City Council. Discussion Items: GP23-011 (826 North Winchester Boulevard) - Staff Recommendation: City Planner David Fong recommended denial of the general plan amendment from "Neighborhood Community Commercial" (NCC) to "Transit Residential" (TR), citing fundamental inconsistencies with the Focus Growth strategy, loss of employment land, incompatibility with adjacent single-family homes (proposed 17-story tower adjacent to 1-2 story buildings), high VMT, and lack of proximity to regional transit. - Applicant (Kelly Arardi, VCI): Requested the commission allow the process to continue, stating the site currently has a vacant office building (no jobs) and the proposed project would bring 135 housing units (20 affordable), jobs, and tax revenue. The developer noted they were halfway through the EIR process and wanted to continue community outreach. - Public Testimony (Speaker cards submitted; extensive testimony): - Brian Darby (resident): Expressed concern about 17 stories on the site but admired the developer's commitment to housing; suggested a lower height (e.g., 4 stories) as more appropriate. - Lindy Hayes (Concerned Corey Neighbors): Opposed, citing liquefaction zone, former gas station (contaminated soil), developer's lack of experience (referenced abandoned Delmas Village project and pending lawsuit). - Ihor Studovich (resident): Opposed, noting nearby apartment complexes are only 4 stories tall and the area is already dense with over 1,000 apartments within a mile. - Jake Wilde (former NAC president): Opposed, raising concerns about liquefaction zone risks (referencing the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake), buried contaminants from former gas station, and deep drilling risks. - Rigo Gallardo (carpenters union): Supported, provided the developer uses responsible contractors with good wages and training opportunities. - Bill Deedy (45-year resident): Opposed, calling the 17-story tower inappropriate for a single-family neighborhood, citing traffic and safety concerns for senior citizens crossing the intersection. - Alex Shore (Catalyze SV): Supported, arguing that opposition is NIMBYism and that the project is a test of whether San Jose will evolve into a dynamic 21st-century city. - Michelle Hittleman (neighbor): Opposed, citing 70 cars needing on-street parking daily, pedestrian safety issues, and dangerous traffic backups at the intersection. - Craig Tomasello (22-year electrician): Supported, citing job creation and potential for improved transit. - Sarah Noto (resident): Supported, repeating a quote from a missing neighbor: "Don't let NIMBYism put up roadblocks." - Kevin Golden (30-year homeowner, Woodland Ave): Opposed, citing loss of afternoon sun, increased traffic/parking on Woodland Avenue (a cut-through), insufficient parking (110 spaces for 135 units), and lack of transit. - Renee Ayho (resident): Supported, arguing the city needs housing to remain inclusive. - Atika Sajid (local realtor): Supported, citing the building's green energy features and economic benefits. - Alan Rosendez (young professional): Supported, citing affordable housing for young adults. - Bianca Valors (business owner): Opposed, stating the 17-story tower would shade her garden, killing endangered plants and wildlife, and that the City of Santa Clara is opposed. - Chris Sarbach (neighbor): Opposed, arguing the TR designation is overly permissive (21st out of 26 districts with least restrictions) and that the project would set a precedent for similar development in every neighborhood. - Greg Carlson (senior underwriter, Corey neighbor): Opposed, stating the developer said they would not compromise on height and claimed a traffic study showed no impact (which Carlson disputed). - Commission Deliberation: - Commissioner Oliverio (former councilmember) strongly supported staff's recommendation to deny, emphasizing the importance of the General Plan and planned growth. He noted the project was never planned and that City Council could consider it in the next General Plan update. - Commissioner Rosario made a substitute motion to deny staff recommendation (i.e., allow the process to continue), seconded by Commissioner Lardnois. He argued the city should be more aggressive in building housing. - Commissioner Lardnois spoke in favor of continuing, noting that the developer had shown willingness to adjust the project height and that the project addresses a genuine housing need. - Vice Chair Cantrell expressed openness to continuing the conversation. - Commissioner Young opposed, arguing the project is inconsistent with the General Plan and that the commission should not circumvent the planning process. - The vote on the substitute motion (to deny staff recommendation) resulted in a 4-4 tie, failing (Ayes: Young, Rosario, Lardnois, Cantrell; Nays: Oliverio, Brosio, Bendal, Tordillos; Bickford absent). - The original motion (to approve staff recommendation) also resulted in a 4-4 tie, failing (Ayes: Oliverio, Brosio, Bendal, Young; Nays: Rosario, Lardnois, Cantrell, Tordillos; Bickford absent). - The commission took no subsequent action, effectively allowing the item to move to City Council without a recommendation. Key Outcomes - GP24-010 (Ketman Road): Denied by the commission (8-0-1) to recommend denial to City Council. - GP23-011 (Winchester Boulevard): Motion to adopt staff denial failed 4-4; motion to reject staff denial also failed 4-4. The item will proceed to City Council without a recommendation from the Planning Commission. - The Planning Director announced that the General Plan four-year review will be initiated, with the Planning Commission acting as the task force for study sessions (estimated 4-6 sessions). The memo will be released the week of May 19, 2025. - The meeting adjourned at 9:36 PM. Notes - The meeting was held in-person at San Jose City Hall. Quorum was established with 7 members present (2 absences).

The San Jose Planning Commission held a study session on May 14, 2025, to review the proposed 2025-2027 biannual capital budget and 2026-2030 Capital Improvement Program (CIP). Staff presented a $5.3 billion overall spending plan with $1.2 billion in capital funds, and a total five-year CIP of $3.4 billion. The session included public comment, detailed staff presentations, commissioner questions on funding risks and deferred maintenance, and a motion to recommend adoption with a request for further analysis on federal funding uncertainty. Public Comments & Testimony - Lillian, a substitute teacher, spoke on non-agendized issues. She expressed concern about the rate of tree removal by developers, referencing a recent planning session draft with 352 trees slated for removal. She urged the commission to maintain tree canopy, uphold the green building ordinance, and reduce environmental impacts, reminding the city is designated Tree City USA. Chair Tordillus noted existing tree removal and replacement policies. Discussion Items - Staff from the City Manager's budget office, Public Works, Environmental Services, Parks and other departments presented the capital budget and CIP. Key points included: - $5.3 billion recommended spending plan (145 funds); capital funds are 18% ($1.2 billion). - Five-year CIP totals $3.4 billion, lower than last year ($4 billion) partly due to exhaustion of Measure T funds (a $650 million bond approved in 2018) anticipated in FY 2028-29. - Largest funding sources: financing proceeds ($864M), contributions/loans, other agencies ($644M, down 19%), taxes/fees/charges (construction & conveyance tax up $27M to $267M). - Federal grant uncertainty: staff is monitoring, will bring analysis to council. - Key programs: water pollution control, traffic, airport, parks ($500M deferred maintenance), fire apparatus, 911 center upgrades. - Deferred maintenance: $500 million for parks, $1 billion citywide (parks). Park department exploring a future bond or parcel tax with community education starting summer 2025. - Storm sewer rates: legal constraints prevent annual increases; a new stormwater assessment fee is under development (1.5 years out). - New this year: presentation of a biennial capital budget with annual updates. - Commissioners questioned: the delta between proposed and adopted budgets over time; scenarios if federal funding is reduced by 25%, 50%, or more; deferred maintenance strategy; fire apparatus not eligible for Measure T funds; 911 center upgrade details; and construction & conveyance tax volatility. Key Outcomes - Commissioner Pickford moved to recommend to the City Council the adoption of the 2025-2027 proposed biannual capital budget and 2026-2030 CIP, and transmit a report including a finding of consistency with the 2040 General Plan. The motion additionally requested staff bring to council various scenarios of federal funding depletion (down to zero) and their impacts on the capital budget, general fund, and grant-funded positions. Vice Chair Cantrell seconded. - The motion passed unanimously (6-0). Commissioners present: Barroso, Larnois, Oliverio, Young, Tordillus (Chair), and Cantrell. Bendel and Bickford were absent; Rosario was absent. - The study session adjourned at 5:51 PM, with the regular meeting to reconvene at 6:30 PM.

This study session, held from 9:15 AM to approximately noon, continued the council's review of the proposed 2025-2026 operating budget, focusing on strategic support (including a proposal to tie council pay to performance), fees and charges, and the 2025-2027 biennial capital budget. No public comments were made. No formal votes were taken. Strategic Support: Pay-for-Performance Proposal - Mayor Matt Mahan proposed tying 5% of council members' base salary to measurable progress on citywide performance metrics, modeled after existing pay-for-performance for city appointees. The city manager would bring a rubric in the fall. - Councilmember Peter Ortiz questioned how it would work in practice, expressing concern that a collective metric could dilute advocacy for underrepresented districts like District 5. - Councilmember Pamela Campos asked what problem the policy solves, stating it may undermine diverse viewpoints. - Councilmember David Cohen argued the policy could create perverse incentives, harm democratic governance, and was unnecessary given electoral accountability. - Vice Mayor Pam Foley and Councilmember George Casey supported the proposal, with Casey noting it would demonstrate accountability to constituents. - Councilmember Domingo Candelas raised a letter from the county opposing the city's "responsibility to shelter" policy, sparking debate about county partnership and homelessness response. Mayor Mahan defended the city's approach. - Councilmember Carl Salas supported the mayor, calling the homelessness situation a crisis requiring triage. - No council decision was made; the item was discussed as a budget proposal. Fees and Charges - Staff presented the proposed 2025-2026 Fees and Charges Report. Councilmember Mahan noted large percentage increases in the commercial linkage fee application (51%) and cannabis initial fee application (144%). Housing Director Eric Solivan explained the increases resulted from updated time studies and full cost recovery adjustments. - Mayor Mahan urged digitization and automation of fee calculations to reduce costs and barriers. - Councilmember Campos asked about fee waivers for child care providers and small businesses. Staff cited existing hardship programs, phased increases, and discounts for nonprofits. - Councilmember Michael Mulcahy questioned whether increased planning fees corresponded to enhanced service. Planning Director Chris Burton confirmed staffing levels are adequate but may require rapid expansion if demand spikes. - Councilmember Rosemary Kamei clarified that library late fees for adults, waived temporarily last year, would be proposed for permanent elimination via a Manager's Budget Addendum. - No formal action was taken. Capital Budget Presentation - Jennifer Tell (capital budget coordinator) and Public Works Director Matt Lesh presented the 2025-2027 Proposed Biennial Capital Budget and 2026-2030 Capital Improvement Program (CIP). The five-year CIP totals $3.4 billion, with $1.2 billion budgeted in FY 2025-26 and $676 million in FY 2026-27. - Key funding sources: financing proceeds ($864M), other agencies ($644M), taxes/fees ($572M), and beginning fund balance. Measure T funds are expected to be exhausted by FY 2028-29. - Major investments: water pollution control and traffic programs each about 25% of CIP; airport nearly 15%; parks and community facilities 12%. - Councilmember Campos asked about a declining housing facilitation metric (8.6% resident satisfaction with affordable housing facilitation). Housing Director Eric Solivan said metrics are being revised toward outcomes; more detail will be provided in a forthcoming Manager's Budget Addendum. - Councilmember Kamei inquired about the decrease in the total CIP compared to last year. Staff attributed it to the preliminary nature of the proposed budget, with carryover funds expected to increase after year-end cleanup. - Councilmember Salas praised the department's work on essential but often invisible infrastructure. - No votes were taken. Key Outcomes - No formal decisions or votes were recorded; the study session was informational and allowed councilmembers to ask questions and express views. - Staff will provide additional information on housing metrics and performance measures via a Manager's Budget Addendum. - The pay-for-performance proposal remains under consideration, with the city manager expected to present a rubric in the fall. - The council will continue budget discussions at future meetings.