Public Meetings - San Jose, California

[Introductory paragraph: The meeting was a study session to educate the council on park funding challenges, maintenance, and a potential 2026 ballot measure. No action was taken.] Public Comments & Testimony - Ally Victorine (D7 Leadership Group president) expressed concern over the $500 million maintenance backlog and inequitable distribution of capital funds, supporting new funding ideas. - Jean Dresden, longtime park advocate, noted that the current funding system is chaotic and inequitable, with fewer FTEs and increased acreage. She criticized the polling questionnaire design as biased. - Helen Chapman (Yes on San Jose Parks, former Park Commissioner) emphasized the $554 million backlog and San Jose's drop to 9th out of 12 largest California cities for maintenance funding. She urged council leadership for a revenue measure, noting the last such measure was 25 years ago. - Bob Levy (former planning and parks commissioner) stated the current model is unsustainable, with a $554 million backlog that grew from $464 million three years ago, and that parks lost 40% of staff during the Great Recession and never recovered. - Michelle Mashburn (disability advocate) called for disability-informed design in parks, stating that all-inclusive playgrounds often fail due to lack of input from people with disabilities. - Melissa Gott Lopez (District 5 resident) supported prioritizing parks and equitable funding, asking the council to review and create more equitable solutions. - Henry Song (park user) criticized inequities in park usage, citing priority given to pickleball over tennis, and poor conditions at certain parks. Discussion Items - John Cicerola (PRNS Director) presented the department's funding challenges: a $554 million deferred maintenance backlog, rising construction costs ($3 million for a basic 1-acre park), and a staffing shortage of about 100 FTEs. He explained the complex Construction and Conveyance (CNC) tax formula and the park trust fund (impact fees) that are geographically restricted, leading to inequitable distribution. He noted that park trust fund fees have not been updated since 2017 and are often discounted. He compared San Jose's per capita park investment ($46) unfavorably to other cities (e.g., San Francisco, Seattle) and highlighted that San Jose ranks 32nd out of 100 on the Trust for Public Land's ParkScore. He discussed a potential 2026 ballot measure for a parks bond or parcel tax, but noted polling showed only 50% support (needs 2/3). He proposed a park master plan inspired by San Diego's "One City, One Park" model and LA County's community engagement approach. - Avi O'Tom (Deputy Director) described park maintenance: 185 FTEs responsible for 1,800 acres (vs. 230 FTEs for 1,475 acres in 2002). Current park condition score is about 87% of a standard that itself is only 80% of desired quality, resulting in a D+ level. He detailed the need for 100-120 more staff to achieve adequate maintenance. - Councilmember Ortiz questioned the timeline for a park master plan and policy modifications. John Cicerola responded that work on modifications would begin this year but the full master plan might not be completed by the 2026 ballot measure. Ortiz emphasized the need for equity and urged colleagues to reflect on the data. - Councilmember Candelas asked about the CNC allocation and the feasibility of San Diego's model. John Cicerola explained that San Diego stopped using the Quimby Act and switched to a mitigation fee approach, which could be a model for San Jose. Candelas also inquired about procurement improvements to speed up maintenance responses. - Councilmember Kamei expressed support for a 2026 ballot measure and emphasized the need for proactive community engagement, noting that parks and recreation should be marketed together. - Councilmember Salas highlighted the irony of District 3 receiving $81 million in park fees while District 5 received only $1.9 million, and asked how Emma Prusch Park was so well-maintained. John Cicerola and Avi O'Tom explained that some parks have dedicated funding sources (e.g., gas station lease at Emma Prusch) and that staffing is prioritized for high-use parks, often at the expense of others. Key Outcomes - No formal action was taken as this was a study session. - Council members expressed support for further exploration of a 2026 parks funding ballot measure and a park master plan. - The council directed staff to begin community engagement and policy review for more equitable distribution of park impact fees. - The next steps include additional polling in fall 2025/early 2026, development of a park master plan, and potential policy changes to modify the park trust fund fee structure.

The San Jose City Council convened at 1:30 PM on April 15, 2025, in Council Chambers, with Mayor Matt Mahan presiding and all 11 council members present. The meeting included ceremonial recognitions, approval of a consent calendar, a joint meeting with the San Jose Housing Authority to support the federal Fiscal Year 2026 Moving to Work Annual Plan, a report from the City Manager introducing a new Deputy City Manager, and approval of the Columbus Park Revitalization Plan. Key discussions centered on housing authority strategies, federal funding uncertainty, encampment abatement at Columbus Park, and synthetic turf versus natural grass. Ceremonial Items - Presentation of a commendation to the City of Okayama, Japan, recognizing its 68-year Sister City relationship with San José (Vice Mayor Foley). The Okayama City Council Chairman Taguchi San accepted and reaffirmed ties, noting a student exchange program and the upcoming 70th anniversary in 2027. - Presentation of a proclamation declaring April 2025 as Arts, Culture & Creativity Month (Councilmember Campos). Peter Allen, co-founder of San Jose Arts Advocates, highlighted the sector's $292 million annual economic impact and called for increased local funding, noting that arts funding comes from the Transient Occupancy Tax. - Presentation of commendations to the 2025 Climate Smart Champion Award recipients in six categories: youth, energy, mobility, water conservation, equity, and champion of the year (Councilmember Cohen). Consent Calendar - The council approved the consent calendar with no items removed or separate discussion, including routine items such as contract amendments, purchase orders, grant agreements, and board appointments. The motion passed unanimously. Joint City Council and Housing Authority Meeting: Support for the Federal Fiscal Year 2026 Moving to Work Annual Plan - Staff Presentation: Eric Sullivan (Director of Housing) and Preston Prince (Executive Director, Santa Clara County Housing Authority) outlined the annual Moving to Work (MTW) plan, which includes four activities: a shallow subsidy program to reduce rent burdens, a direct rental assistance pilot (guaranteed basic income model) for about 10 families, expanding activities for new construction and preservation, and clarifying referral language to include the City of San José. A goal was set to explore using tenant-based vouchers for alternative housing types like interim housing. Angie Garcia Wynn (Deputy Executive Director) detailed the exploration process, including assessing existing interim housing units for HUD compliance and analyzing federal funding challenges, noting that a 1% cut in Housing Choice Voucher funding equals a $5 million loss affecting about 200 households. - Public Comment: None. - Council Discussion: Councilmembers expressed support for the plan while voicing concerns about federal funding uncertainty, the balance between permanent and interim housing, and potential impacts on traditional voucher holders. Mayor Mahan emphasized the need for innovation and collaboration. Councilmember Salas proposed a friendly amendment to add language about expanding partnership for at least one additional interim housing site and reporting back in six months; after discussion, the language was softened to “consider” exploring additional sites and reporting in six months. The motion, as amended, passed 10-1, with Councilmember Ortiz voting in opposition. - Key Outcomes: The council adopted the resolution certifying the MTW plan as consistent with the City’s Consolidated Plan and authorized the Executive Director to submit the plan to HUD. Council directed staff to report back in six months on progress exploring tenant-based voucher use and opportunities to expand interim housing sites. Report of the City Manager - City Manager Jennifer Maguire introduced Manuel Pineda as the new Deputy City Manager, effective April 14, 2025. Pineda, a San José resident and former city employee, has 28 years of experience including leadership roles in Sunnyvale and Santa Clara. The council welcomed him with applause. Report on Bids and Award of Construction Contract for Yard Piping Improvements Phase 3 at the San José-Santa Clara Regional Wastewater Facility - The council approved the award of a $19,490,000 construction contract to Michels Trenchless, Inc., with a 10% contingency of $1,949,000. The motion passed unanimously. Columbus Park Revitalization Plan - Staff Presentation: John Cisrelli (Director of Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services) and Raymond Constantino presented the revitalization plan for Columbus Park, a long-standing but underutilized park currently closed due to an encampment. The $19.5 million project, funded by Measure P, Park Trust Fund, and other sources, includes two adult soccer fields, a half basketball court, 14 horseshoe pits, four pickleball courts, a futsal court, a play area, a tree-lined promenade, a new parking lot, and restrooms. The construction schedule: design completion by winter 2025, bid award by spring 2026, and project completion by summer/fall 2027. Staff requested adoption of a Mitigated Negative Declaration (CEQA) and approval of the plan. - Public Comment: Four speakers addressed the council: - Linda Hutchins Knowles (Mothers Out Front Silicon Valley) urged avoiding synthetic turf and poured-in-place rubber due to health and environmental concerns, advocating for natural grass with organic management. - A speaker (self-identified as representing unhoused residents) criticized the lack of a plan for the approximately 200 people living at Columbus Park, questioned the city’s water shutoffs, and called for housing solutions. - Another speaker echoed concerns about relocating the unhoused population without actionable relocation plans. - A fourth speaker decried the city’s treatment of unhoused individuals, alleging denial of water and noting that 19 people died from hypothermia last year. - Council Discussion: - Mayor Mahan acknowledged the difficulty of balancing park restoration with homelessness, noting the city is adding 1,400 shelter beds this year (mostly individual rooms) and emphasized enforcement of code of conduct. He clarified that the encampment abatement will occur months before construction. - Councilmember Mulcahy (District 6) moved approval, highlighting the park’s history and community input. He confirmed the construction timeline. - Councilmember Campos questioned data on people coming from outside San José; staff replied that most are local, but some come from other areas. She asked about the encampment abatement strategy; staff said abatement is planned for summer 2025 with outreach, but no specific relocation plan was presented. - Councilmember Kamei asked about public-private partnerships for soccer fields and expressed concerns about synthetic turf. She requested an information memo on turf types. - Vice Mayor Foley questioned the lack of bicycle parking, the number of horseshoe pits (14), and synthetic turf vs. natural grass. Staff explained that artificial turf allows year-round use, generates revenue, and that newer models use no crumb rubber infill (e.g., cork or fully recyclable materials). The park design is based on artificial turf. - Councilmember Duan expressed concern about moving over 200 unhoused residents without a plan, urging the city to have shelter options. - Councilmember Ortiz asked about the abatement footprint; staff indicated it will be phased and includes the Guadalupe River corridor. He noted that without a plan, people will simply move to other neighborhoods. - Councilmember Cohen raised concerns about the ripple effects of abatements (e.g., RVs moving to Alviso from Santa Clara). He also questioned synthetic turf and heard from the North Valley US Soccer League wanting turf fields. Staff detailed newer, more environmentally friendly turf technologies (e.g., no crumb fill, fully recyclable). - Councilmember Salas mentioned reports of “van lording” (renting out RVs for encampments) and supported the mayor’s position on enforcement. - Key Outcomes: The council unanimously approved the Columbus Park Revitalization Plan and adopted the Mitigated Negative Declaration. The encampment abatement will proceed in summer 2025, with construction starting in June 2026. Staff will share the County of Santa Clara’s recent report on synthetic turf with councilmembers.

The Neighborhood Services and Education Committee (NSE) of the City of San José met on Thursday, April 10, 2025, at 1:30 PM in Council Chambers. The committee reviewed two reports: an annual report on Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services (PRNS) volunteer management programs and a status report on the Children and Youth Services Master Plan. Both items were accepted unanimously. The committee also deferred a report on Sports Fields Use and Equity to a future meeting. Consent Calendar - No items were on the consent calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - On the Children and Youth Services Master Plan: Ten members of the public spoke in support of the plan, including representatives from Healthier Kids Foundation, Grail Family Services, Somos Mayfair, Catholic Charities, and youth advocates. Speakers emphasized the importance of the plan for East San Jose, highlighted the need for adequate staffing, technical support, and sustained funding, and praised the collaborative, community-centered approach. Several speakers shared personal experiences with health screenings, child care deserts, and the impact of the plan on families. Discussion Items - Review of Work Plan: The committee voted to defer the Sports Fields Use and Equity Status Report (CC 25-0581) from the April 10, 2025, agenda to the June 12, 2025, NSE Committee meeting. The motion was approved without public comment. - Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services Volunteer Management Programs Annual Report (CC 25-0571): Staff presented an overview of volunteer engagement across three divisions. Highlights included: - Recreation: 34,773 volunteer hours in FY 2023-24, including 25,000 hours from 232 older adult volunteers in the senior nutrition program. - Community Services: Beautify SJ coordinated 430 litter cleanups with 15,000+ residents contributing 38,000 hours; Project Hope contributed 4,600 hours. - Parks: 37,025 hours volunteered across 140 park locations; 90 of 212 parks are adopted. Volunteer efforts are prioritized using the Healthy Places Index (HPI) to focus on lower-scoring areas. - All programs reported operating at full capacity, with demand exceeding staff coordination capacity. Pre-pandemic volunteer levels for older adults have not fully recovered. Parks staffing has remained the same since FY 2018-19, while events have doubled. - Councilmember Candelas asked about pre-pandemic staffing comparisons and noted the need for better data on which programs are oversubscribed. Councilmember Doan suggested creating certificates for volunteers to aid in college/job applications and inquired about outreach to retirement communities. Chair Ortiz highlighted the HPI map showing District 5 with the lowest score, linking to upcoming discussions on park funding equity. - Children and Youth Services Master Plan Status Report (CC 25-0592): Staff reported on progress one year after council approval. Key accomplishments include: - Co-design of a “no wrong door” system of care with 62 organizations and 120 representatives. - 3,000+ participants in college and career pathways (FY 2023-24). - 934 health screenings conducted through Healthier Kids Foundation, with an additional 700 expected by end of FY. - Completion of the Bill of Rights for Children and Youth Audit recommendations. - Demonstration sites in Mayfair, Poco Way, Seven Trees, and Santee, with an 18-month pilot to test and refine the system. - Over $1 million in grant funding leveraged for community-based organizations. - Councilmember Doan asked about financial literacy programs and how the plan will remain relevant as youth needs evolve. Staff noted existing library programs and a commitment to ongoing community engagement and evaluation. - Councilmember Candelas praised the transformative nature of the plan and the importance of long-term investment. Chair Ortiz emphasized the need for infrastructure, staffing, and funding, and noted that a March 2025 budget message requested additional resources for the plan. Key Outcomes - Deferred: Sports Fields Use and Equity Status Report to June 12, 2025 (unanimous). - Accepted: Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services Volunteer Management Programs Annual Report (motion by Councilmember Candelas, seconded, passed unanimously). - Accepted: Children and Youth Services Master Plan Status Report (motion by Councilmember Doan, seconded, passed unanimously). - Directive: The committee acknowledged the need for additional staffing and technical support for the Children and Youth Services Master Plan, as noted in the Chair’s March budget message. The item will be further considered during budget discussions.

Planning Director David Keon, on behalf of Director Christopher Burton, called to order the April 9, 2025 Planning Director Hearing at approximately 9:33 a.m. via Zoom. The hearing covered three items on the consent calendar and one item moved to a public hearing. No deferrals were requested. Consent Calendar - Item 3B (H24-048) – Site development permit for installation of three automatic vehicular access gates and fences at 1500 Cunningham Avenue. Approved as routine. - Item 3C (T24-036) – Vesting tentative map for subdivision at 14200 and 14420 Union Avenue (southeast corner of Union and Camden Avenues) into 48 single-family lots, 25 condominium units, and seven parcels. Staff read a revised condition 2 (map expiration terms) into the record. The applicant agreed to the change. Approved with the amended condition. Item 3A was initially on the consent calendar but was moved to the public hearing after a speaker requested discussion. Public Comments & Testimony Item 3A – 2165 The Alameda (100% Affordable Housing Project) - Judy (neighborhood resident) expressed concerns about removal of a mature sycamore street tree, lack of promised elevation views from neighboring streets, unanswered questions about pet relief areas, privacy impacts on adjacent homes, noise from parking garage signals, and the need for a traffic study regarding the Idaho Street stoplight. She stated that neighborhood input meetings were requested but not held. - Karsten (new resident) echoed concerns, focusing on insufficient parking (120 spaces for 174 units) leading to congestion on narrow neighborhood streets. - Jim Leal supported prior speakers, adding concerns about over-density and traffic/pedestrian safety. - Mari (Idaho Street resident) highlighted narrow street conditions, existing parking shortages, speeding traffic from an alley, and safety risks for children. Discussion Items Item 3A – Site Development Permit for 2165 The Alameda Project description: Removal of 10 trees (six ordinance-size) to construct a seven-story, 100% affordable residential building with 174 units, utilizing the State Density Bonus Law, on a 0.55-acre vacant lot in the Alameda West Urban Village. Staff report by Cora McNaughton confirmed the project is consistent with the General Plan, zoning (CO commercial office), and Citywide Design Standards. A Class 32 Categorical Exemption (CEQA) was recommended. Applicant representatives Curtis Warren and Bruce Greenfield responded: the sycamore tree removal is driven by Public Works off-site storm drain requirements; the project complies with all zoning and is below the 120-foot height limit; a 25-foot landscaped rear setback will provide privacy; and parking garage noise is not expected to be an issue given the location of the entrance on The Alameda, away from residences. Staff clarified that: - Elevation views from specific private points are not required by the city. - The tree removal for the sycamore is not part of this permit and would need separate approval from the Department of Transportation. - A traffic memorandum found no significant impact at studied intersections, including Idaho Street. - No parking minimums apply; the project is on a high-quality transit corridor (The Alameda) with frequent bus service. Hearing Officer David Keon noted the city’s Housing Element (adopted 2023) requires planning for 62,000 housing units by 2032, with over a third for lower-income households, and that the Alameda West Urban Village is a priority growth area. He cited the Housing Accountability Act, which limits the city’s ability to deny housing projects that meet objective standards and state law. The project is 100% affordable and meets all objective design standards. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar Approval: Items 3B and 3C approved unanimously without public comment (3C with the revised condition 2). - Item 3A Approval: The hearing officer approved the site development permit and the CEQA Class 32 Exemption, finding the project consistent with the General Plan and zoning, and meeting state and city housing requirements. - No deferrals were requested. The hearing adjourned at 9:33 a.m.

The San Jose Planning Commission met on April 9, 2025, to consider several items including a conditional use permit for a memory care facility, an appeal of a site development permit for an affordable housing tower, a data center project, a general plan amendment for airport-related commercial development, and a mixed-use affordable housing project requiring annexation. All votes were unanimous (9-0) unless noted. Consent Calendar - The commission unanimously approved the meeting minutes. - Item 4B (conditional use permit for tree removal) was pulled from the consent calendar and heard as a separate public hearing. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the non-agendized public comment period. Discussion Items - Item 4B: Silverado Memory Care Facility – A conditional use permit to remove 17 trees (14 ordinance-size, 3 non-ordinance-size) for construction of a 48,005 sq ft, two-story residential memory care facility with 70 rooms (94 beds) at 48,005 sq ft on a 1.77-acre site east of Union Avenue. The project includes 108 replacement trees, a community garden, and 52 parking spaces. Public speaker Birgit Calvildge expressed concerns about traffic and tree removal. Project applicant Lauren Shook and architect Doug Pancake highlighted the facility's specialized memory care model, including affiliations with Stanford and other universities. The commission discussed the transportation analysis and need for such services. Motion to approve by Vice Chair Cantrell, seconded by Commissioner Oliverio; passed 9-0. - Public Hearing Item 1: San Jose Data Center (Microsoft) – A conditional use permit to remove 79 trees (35 ordinance-size, 44 non-ordinance-size) for construction of two single-story data center buildings totaling 397,205 sq ft, with 224 backup generators, on 64.59 acres at 1657 Alviso Milpitas Road. The project also includes a development exception for a parking reduction. Staff recommended approval. Public comments included support from Rigo Gallardo (Carpenters Local 405) urging use of responsible contractors, and a challenge from Mike Sodergrin (Preservation Action Council) to incorporate housing and reuse waste heat. Project applicant Jonathan Noble (Microsoft) confirmed a project labor agreement with many trades. Commissioners discussed employee shifts, transit, environmental mitigation (273 replacement trees), generator noise, and on-site renewables. Motion to approve by Commissioner Oliverio, seconded by Vice Chair Cantrell; passed 9-0. - Public Hearing Item 2: Gateway Tower Appeal – An appeal by Steve Cohen of the planning director's approval of a site development permit for a 15-story, 100% affordable mixed-use building with 220 units (including permanent supportive housing) and 3,320 sq ft of commercial space at West William Street. The project involves partial demolition of a city landmark and incorporates historic facades. The appellant argued the building was too large, not compatible with the SOFA district, and that the developer could build more units. Public speakers from Silicon Valley at Home, San Jose Downtown Association, and the Chamber of Commerce supported the project, emphasizing the need for affordable housing. The Preservation Action Council did not oppose despite facadism concerns. Commissioners noted the appellant's contradictory arguments (too dense vs. not dense enough) and that similar appeals had been made by the same appellant. Motion to deny appeal and uphold approval by Commissioner Young, seconded by Commissioner Lardinois; passed 9-0. - General Plan Hearing Item 1: Coleman Avenue Land Use Amendment – A city-initiated general plan amendment to change land use designations on four airport-owned parcels along Coleman Avenue and West Hedding Street from Open Space/Parkland/Habitat and Light Industrial to Combined Industrial Commercial, and rezone to Planned Development (OSPD). The project aims to generate airport revenue and comply with FAA requirements after the airport faced corrective action due to homeless encampments. Public speaker Jordan Moldow opposed the loss of parkland. Staff explained the history of the site, FAA community benefit designation, and that the remaining Guadalupe Gardens would be reactivated with dog parks, disc golf, etc. Commissioners discussed transparency regarding homelessness, FAA obligations, and the need to activate the property. Motion to recommend approval to City Council by Commissioner Young, seconded by Commissioner Oliverio; passed 9-0. - General Plan Hearing Item 2: Burbank 45 (Path Villas) – A privately initiated annexation of five unincorporated lots (0.56 acres) from Santa Clara County into San Jose, accompanied by a general plan amendment (Mixed Use Commercial to Urban Village), prezoning, and a site development permit for a seven-story, 94-unit 100% affordable housing building (plus manager's unit) with 1,800 sq ft of commercial space at 1921 West San Carlos Street. The project includes density bonus concessions and waivers. Public speakers from Silicon Valley at Home and Catalyze SV supported the project, noting large family units and supportive housing. The applicant described community engagement and design features. Motion to approve staff recommendation by Commissioner Oliverio, seconded by Commissioner Lardinois; passed 9-0. Key Outcomes - The commission unanimously (9-0) approved Item 4B (Silverado memory care facility). - The commission unanimously (9-0) approved the data center project (Microsoft). - The commission unanimously (9-0) denied the appeal of the Gateway Tower affordable housing project and upheld the planning director's approval. - The commission unanimously (9-0) recommended City Council approval of the Coleman Avenue general plan amendment and rezoning. - The commission unanimously (9-0) recommended City Council approval of the Burbank 45 annexation, general plan amendment, prezoning, site development permit, and tentative map. - The meeting was adjourned at 9:27 p.m.

The San José City Council met on April 8, 2025, at 1:30 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting began with ceremonial proclamations, followed by consent calendar approvals, a city manager report, an appeals hearing board appointment, retirement plan reviews, a lawsuit settlement, clean energy agreements, a first-time homebuyer loan program modification, and early consideration of two innovative mixed-use projects under the new Innovative Project Pathway Program. The session concluded with Open Forum comments. Consent Calendar - Item 2.2 (Final Adoption of Ordinances): Councilmember Kamei clarified that a 30-day review period in the peddler ordinance (Ordinance No. 31183) is part of the city manager's administrative authority, not a separate public review. Public speaker Chris Jan Greco (Winchester Orchard Neighborhood Association) expressed concern that the 30-day review lacked clear public input opportunities and also raised a public safety threat from illegal food trucks on Stevens Creek Boulevard, urging council action. The consent calendar was adopted unanimously with two absent. - Item 2.6 (Council Liaison Report): Vice Mayor Foley reported on an update from the Federated Retirement Board and Police and Fire Retirement Board, noting that the boards approved travel and procurement policies in January 2025, resolving a dispute with the city and avoiding municipal code changes. - Other consent items included approval of minutes, committee reports, appointments (Nathan Nakagawa to Federated City Employees' Retirement System), purchase orders for bike park maintenance, sweeper parts, flooring services, and sponsorship of various special events (Music in the Valley Festival, Portugal Day, Fourth of July Fireworks, District events). Public Comments & Testimony - Consent Calendar (Item 2.2): Chris Jan Greco (Vice President, Winchester Orchard Neighborhood Association) spoke about the peddler ordinance review process and urged the city to address illegal food trucks causing vision zero safety hazards on Stevens Creek Boulevard. - Items 10.2 & 10.3 (Innovative Project Pathway Program): Brian Darby requested that data center fire safety and childcare be incorporated into the housing plans. Dennis Randall expressed strong support for the data center projects, emphasizing that San Jose must act quickly to capture AI investment opportunities, and noted the financial feasibility challenges downtown. - Open Forum: Multiple speakers addressed the council. One speaker highlighted fear among immigrant and disabled communities due to a lack of empathy and urged the city not to leave anyone behind. Another speaker (Mike Sodergren, Preservation Action Council) commended the Innovative Project Pathway Program and noted San Jose's history of innovation, referencing 55 Market Street and 99 Notre Dame. A third speaker shared personal experiences of homelessness and criticized the city's response to homeless and disabled individuals, demanding better outreach. Another speaker demanded body cameras for council members, criticized the council's handling of the Omar Torres case, and made allegations regarding other council members and an attempted murder cover-up, calling for accountability. Ceremonial Items - Displaced Vietnamese American Heritage Month (April 2025): Councilmember Doan and Mayor Mahan presented a proclamation recognizing the resilience and contributions of Vietnamese Americans displaced by the Vietnam War. Councilmember Doan shared personal reflections on heritage and freedom. - Cambodian Genocide Remembrance Month (50th anniversary): Councilmember Ortiz and Mayor Mahan presented a proclamation honoring the two million Cambodians killed under the Khmer Rouge regime. Community leader Nancy Kao accepted and gave a moving testimony about her mother's survival and the Cambodian community's resilience in San Jose. - National Library Week (April 6-12, 2025): Councilmember Kamei and City Librarian Jill Bourne highlighted the library's role, noting that San Jose Public Libraries welcome over 10,300 visitors daily (3.6 million annually), loan 23,000 items per day (8 million per year), and answer nearly 1,000 reference questions daily. City Manager Report - No Encampment Zones Update: City Manager Jennifer Maguire reported that the city established its first no encampment zone along the Guadalupe River in April 2024, with daily patrols. No encampment zones are now being implemented on 12 miles of Coyote Creek, with signage installed at Olander Park on March 26, 2025, and abatements scheduled by June 30, 2025. Zones are also being established around all Emergency Interim Housing sites. Beautify San Jose conducted over 300 encampment abatements last year and manages nearly 200 encampments with sanitation services. There are over 800 managed shelter spaces, with plans to add approximately 800 more in 2025 (200 already opened this year). Appeals Hearing Board Interview & Appointment - Council interviewed two candidates: Genevieve Altware (licensed marriage and family therapist, former police officer) and Samantha Kaye (internal audit background). After questions on code enforcement experience and reconciling personal beliefs with the law, the council voted by paper ballot. Genevieve Altware was appointed unanimously (9-0) to fill the Member-at-Large seat with a term ending December 31, 2025. The other candidate was encouraged to reapply for upcoming vacancies. Review of Retirement Plans’ Actuarial Valuations (Item 3.4) - John Flynn (Director of Retirement Services) and Bill Hallmark (actuary) presented the actuarial valuations as of June 30, 2024. Medians: national pension funding ratio 75%, California 82%. The Federated City Employees’ Retirement System serves 15,805 members (2.9% increase). Projections show city contributions peaking in 2029 and declining after 2040 due to completion of Great Recession liabilities. The unfunded liability ($3.1 billion) was attributed largely to the 2007-2009 recession (over $2 billion) and assumption changes (e.g., investment return assumption reduced from 8% to 6.625%). Current contributions are steadily paying down the unfunded liability. Council accepted the report unanimously. Settlement of Lawsuit (Unite Here Retirement Fund) (Item 3.5) - Council approved a $1,550,000 settlement to be paid in two installments of $775,000 each, with the first due by May 9, 2025. Motion passed with Councilmember Ortiz absent. San José Clean Energy Resource Adequacy Agreements (Item 6.1) - Staff requested authorization to enter into agreements with MRP Pacifica Marketing III for resource adequacy from a new Tracy long-duration storage facility (14 years) and an existing Tracy combined cycle gas facility (12 years). Annual cost not to exceed $25 million (5% of power supply budget); lifetime cost not to exceed $38 million. The battery will reduce emissions by 12% (equivalent to removing 50,000 gasoline cars for one year). The developer committed community investment funds. Motion passed unanimously with Councilmember Doan absent. First-Time Homebuyer Loan Program: Equity Share Reduction (Item 8.1) - Director Eric Sullivan presented a proposal to reduce the city’s equity share from 30% to 15% for the 438 loans in the portfolio. The program originated over 30 years ago; loans total $30 million (average $70,000). Most units are small condos. Staff analysis showed that reducing the share would lower the city’s take on 13 loans due today from $1.26 million to $631,000, providing borrowers with more equity (average $276,000 per loan vs. $227,000 at 30%). Council approved the reduction unanimously, with discussion about possibly removing deed restrictions entirely to further assist homeowners’ generational wealth. Innovative Project Pathway Program – Early Consideration (Items 10.2 & 10.3) - 323 Terraine Street (Item 10.2): West Bank proposed converting an existing 18-story residential tower entitlement (345 units) to an 11-story data center (680,000 sq ft) paired with the residential component. The data center would utilize waste heat for district energy and activate ground floor with public art and outdoor spaces. - 300 South 1st Street (Item 10.3): West Bank proposed a new project with over 1,100 residential units (three towers) and a 10-story data center (330,000 sq ft) on the Valley Title site, with a public square, retail, and an art walk. - Council discussed the need for data centers to unlock housing development, ensure ground-floor activation, and dedicate a portion of data center revenue to arts and culture. A multi-signature memo from the Mayor, Vice Mayor, and Councilmembers Salas, Cohen, and Candelas outlined conditions: housing must be under construction before data center operation; creative activation of ground floors; and exploration of a small percentage of revenue for downtown arts. Both items were approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar adopted unanimously with two absent. - Appeals Hearing Board: Genevieve Altware appointed (unanimous). - Retirement Plan Actuarial Valuations accepted (unanimous). - Lawsuit settlement approved ($1.55 million; Ortiz absent). - Clean Energy agreements authorized (unanimous; Doan absent). - First-Time Homebuyer equity share reduced to 15% (unanimous). - Innovative Project Pathway Program: Both projects (323 Terraine St and 300 S 1st St) received early consideration direction (unanimous). Staff will return with formal approvals. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned in memory of community leader David "Mike" Michael Flaugher.

The San Jose Historic Landmarks Commission (HLC) met on April 7, 2025, to discuss several general business items, including the Certified Local Government (CLG) report for 2023–2024, the creation of a hardship advisory committee, and signage for historic districts. The meeting also included public comments and updates on preservation efforts. Public Comments & Testimony - Ben Leach (Preservation Action Council San Jose) spoke on the need for standardized hardship application criteria, referencing a 2022 letter and noting that hardship is a constitutional requirement for preservation regulation. He supported a subcommittee to evaluate hardship applications independently of other design issues. - Mike Sodigrid emphasized the importance of design objectives in hardship cases and suggested that a hardship committee should review projects upfront to anticipate financial challenges. - Kay Guttneck (Shiley Subdivision, Alameda Park Historic District) presented on the need for signage in historic districts, noting a lack of city standards and process. She requested assistance in installing street signs with historic district designations. - Mike (unaffiliated) commented on the digital signage ordinance, initiating a request to landmark the Center for Performing Arts, and raised concerns about proposed demolitions at San Jose State University (music and science buildings). He also mentioned working on surety bonds for preservation. Discussion Items - CLG Report (2023–2024): Staff presented the annual report covering October 1, 2023 to September 30, 2024. Commissioners praised the report and noted accomplishments: four designations (including one landmark district), three historic resource surveys, and 27 HRI editions. The report was accepted unanimously. - Adaptive Reuse Incentive Committee: Discussion was deferred to the next meeting to allow absent Commissioner Galandari to participate. The committee aims to explore adaptive reuse strategies to save historic buildings. - Hardship Committee: Extensive discussion on creating a committee to develop criteria for evaluating hardship applications. Commissioners noted the lack of clear guidelines following recent cases (e.g., Herald Building). Ben Leach and Mike Sodigrid provided public testimony. The commission voted to establish an advisory committee (with public participation allowed) to research and develop hardship criteria. Commissioners Royer, Cohen, and Bainowal volunteered to serve on the advisory committee. - Historic District Signage: Kay Guttneck presented challenges in obtaining signage for the Shiley Subdivision historic district. Commissioners discussed the need for a clear process with the Department of Transportation (DOT) and Office of Economic Development. A motion passed (6–0–1) supporting a clear, publicized process for adding historic signage to existing street signs. Key Outcomes - CLG Report Accepted (6–0–1): Motion to accept the Certified Local Government annual report for 2023–2024. - Adaptive Reuse Committee Deferred (unanimous): Deferred to the next meeting to allow full commission participation. - Hardship Advisory Committee Established (6–0–1): Motion to create an advisory committee to develop hardship criteria; members: Commissioners Royer, Cohen, and Bainowal. - Signage Process Motion Passed (6–0–1): HLC supports a clear process for the public to work with DOT to add historic signage to street signs and publicize it. - February Meeting Minutes Approved (6–0–1). - Next Meeting: Scheduled for April 2, 2025 (noted as next meeting in transcript).

The Planning Director Hearing of April 2, 2025, held via Zoom and presided over by Hearing Officer Jared Ferguson (delegated by Planning, Building and Code Enforcement Director Christopher Burton), considered three items: two industrial projects on the consent calendar and one mixed-use residential project moved to public hearing. No items were deferred. The hearing approved a site development permit for an industrial building at 2256 Junction Avenue, approved a planned development permit amendment for the Second Harvest Distribution Center at 4553 and 4653 North First Street, and approved a site development permit and vesting tentative map for a 33-unit townhome project at 966 Pacific Avenue and surrounding addresses. Consent Calendar - H24-023 and ER24-104: Site development permit approved to allow demolition of an approximately 141,510 square foot industrial building and construction of an approximately 276,030 square foot industrial building on an approximately 13.68 gross acre site at 2256 Junction Avenue (Council District 4). The CEQA addendum to the 2256 Junction Avenue 2021 project mitigated negative declaration was considered and the permit approved. No public comments were received. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 3B (Second Harvest Distribution Center): Kara Hawkins, environmental project manager, requested the item be moved to public hearing to read three conditions of approval into the record that were missing from the permit. The conditions included: coordination with the local enforcement agency (LEA) for CalRecycle due to proximity to the disposal site, a detailed acoustical study to meet 55 dBA DNL at residential property lines and 60 dBA DNL at commercial property lines for mechanical equipment noise, and maintenance of landscaping along North First Street to ensure a minimum clear sight distance of 250 feet from project driveways. No public comments were made on this item. - Item 4A (Townhome Development): Diana Silva, a neighbor, expressed concerns about traffic congestion on narrow Pacific Avenue and parking demand, strongly urging a residential parking permit program. A second neighbor (Nikki or Hornstein) also raised concerns about parking, traffic, and construction noise impacts on existing residents. The applicant, Emily, responded by emphasizing the project's safety enhancements (new and widened sidewalks), $500,000 investment in bike and transit improvements, and provision of two parking spaces per unit (above the TDM recommendation). Discussion Items - H24-010, T24-002, ER24-038: Site development permit for demolition of three single-family residences and two commercial buildings (8,390 square feet), removal of 10 ordinance-sized and 17 non-ordinance-sized trees, and construction of seven three-story townhome buildings with 33 residential units (including 5 affordable units: 2 very low-income and 3 moderate-income), plus a vesting tentative map to merge lots into one 1.29 gross acre site at 966 Pacific Avenue, 275 and 285 Lincoln Avenue, and 1141, 1177, 1189 West San Carlos Street (Council District 6). The CEQA exemption was filed under CEQA Guidelines Section 15332 (infill). Staff (Angela Wang, project manager; Bethlehem, environmental planner) presented the project details, confirming compliance with the West San Carlos Urban Village Plan and density bonus law (one concession to waive commercial component, 11 waiver requests). The environmental review addressed a neighbor's appeal letter, finding no new CEQA impacts: solar panel impacts not a CEQA issue, noise and traffic analyzed (VMT generated 9.15 per residence vs. city threshold 11.39), no cumulative significant impacts, and the project improved pedestrian safety with new sidewalks. - The hearing officer asked staff about construction noise rules and local transportation analysis. Staff confirmed construction hours limited to 7 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday–Friday for projects within 500 feet of residential uses, with standard conditions (exhaust mufflers, noise control for equipment, restrictions on radios). Public Works (Renzel) reported that the local transportation analysis showed no significant congestion at Race/San Carlos and Lincoln/San Carlos intersections, and no new signal warranted at Lincoln/Pacific. Key Outcomes - Approved Consent Calendar Item 3A: Site development permit for 2256 Junction Avenue (H24-023, ER24-104). - Approved Item 3B from public hearing: Planned development permit amendment for 4553/4653 North First Street (PDA 21-061-01, ER24-163), with three conditions read into the record. - Approved Item 4A from public hearing: Site development permit and vesting tentative map for the 33-unit townhome project (H24-010, T24-002, ER24-038), including the CEQA exemption. The hearing officer noted the city's housing goals and limitations under the Housing Accountability Act, but approved based on project consistency with land use and density bonus law. Meeting adjourned at 9:45 a.m.

The San Jose Planning Director Hearing, held on April 1, 2025, via Zoom, addressed several land use items including a consent calendar and two public hearings: a tentative map for a four-lot subdivision and a builder's remedy site development permit for a mixed-use project. The hearing officer approved all items. Consent Calendar - Items 3A, 3B, 3C (site development permit H24-001 at 2350 Lindy Place, special use permit SP24-024 at 545 Hillsdale Avenue, special use permit SP2501 at 1001 New Hall Street) were approved without discussion. - Item 3D (tentative map T24-020 at 4895 Pearl Avenue) was moved to the public hearing due to a speaker request. Public Comments & Testimony - On the tentative map (3D): David Noel, president of the Erickson Neighborhood Association, spoke in favor, noting the developer kept the neighborhood informed and the project is compatible with density and parking. He raised a concern about minimizing road impacts during construction. - On the builder's remedy project (4A): Multiple residents opposed the project: - Nancy Keo, president of West Everything Neighbor Association, criticized insufficient notice, lack of community meeting, and inadequate parking (138 units with only 143 parking spaces in a congested area). - Sergio, a resident since 2002, cited existing traffic congestion and school safety concerns. - Francis, a 25-year resident, described traffic taking 30 minutes for 2 miles and lack of parking. - Patty urged the city to choose a different area and highlighted safety for children walking to school. - Mina Gutierrez, a 50-year resident, expressed frustration with overdevelopment and congestion. Discussion Items - Tentative Map T24-020 (4895 Pearl Avenue): Staff (Jason Lee) presented a proposal to subdivide a 0.43-acre lot into four residential lots, requiring waivers for minimum lot area due to state density requirements. The project is exempt from CEQA under infill development guidelines. The applicant (Raymond Shahabi) confirmed minimal construction impacts. The hearing officer approved the tentative map. - Builder's Remedy Project H23-031 (2470 Alvin Avenue): Staff (Alec Atienza) explained the project is a site development permit under the builder's remedy (SB 330) because the city's housing element was not certified at the time of application. The project proposes an eight-story, 138-unit mixed-use building with 4,992 sq ft of commercial space, plus density bonus concessions. An initial study/mitigated negative declaration was prepared, finding no significant unavoidable impacts. Public works staff (Renzal, Jason Yan, John Do) addressed traffic and parking: a traffic analysis showed acceptable levels of service; the project provides 143 parking spaces (no city minimum); and it will widen sidewalks, add a bulb-out, and contribute to bike lanes. The hearing officer acknowledged community concerns but stated state law limits denial to specific adverse public health or safety impacts, which were not found. The project was approved. Key Outcomes - Approval of Consent Calendar items 3A, 3B, 3C (unanimous, no objections). - Approval of Tentative Map T24-020 (File number T24-020) at 4895 Pearl Avenue, with a CEQA exemption. - Approval of Site Development Permit H23-031 (File number H23-031) at 2470 Alvin Avenue, adopting the mitigated negative declaration and adding permit condition 32 for conformance to the MMRP. - The hearing officer reminded the public of appeal rights and adjourned the meeting at 9:58 a.m. (actual transcript time, but note the user's specified date is April 1, 2025, 18:00 UTC).