Public Meetings - San Jose, California

The San Jose Planning Commission met on August 26, 2026, at 2:30 PM (Zoom hybrid meeting) under Chair Chuck Cantrell. The commission considered a consent calendar item for off-site alcohol sales at Sakura Market and a major public hearing on the Glider Elementary School redevelopment project. After public testimony and deliberation, both items were approved. The commission also received updates on city council actions and the General Plan review. Consent Calendar - The consent calendar was adopted with one item removed: Item 4D (CP26-007 and ER26-061) – a conditional use permit for off-site sale of full-range alcoholic beverages at Sakura Market (7,382 sq ft supermarket at 184 South Market Street, Suite 120). The item was pulled for separate consideration due to public speakers. - The remaining consent calendar items were approved by a unanimous vote (9-0, Commissioner Bandal absent). Public Comments & Testimony - On Item 4D (Sakura Market alcohol permit): One caller (phone ending in 140) expressed support, stating that restricting alcohol sales is unnecessary and that the market is the only downtown grocery, and alcohol sales would boost convenience and tax revenue. Lila Gurdamasso, a liquor license consultant representing the applicant, spoke in favor, noting that alcohol sales would be incidental (3.2% of sales floor) and that only one other active off-sale establishment exists within 1,000 feet. - On the Glider Elementary School redevelopment: Over 30 speakers provided testimony in person and via Zoom. Supporters included Oak Grove School District officials, educators, construction trade union representatives, and residents. They emphasized the financial benefit to the district ($26.6 million from sale, $8,000–$13,000 per month in security costs), the need for affordable housing, and the project's compatibility with the neighborhood. Opponents included nearby residents who raised concerns about increased traffic, vehicle miles traveled (VMT) impacts, loss of open space, density (80 homes), reduced setbacks, Saturday construction hours, and cumulative development impacts. Some requested reducing density to 62 units, more public open space, and traffic calming measures. Discussion Items - Glider Elementary School Redevelopment (Site Development Permit, Subdivision, EIR, Statement of Overriding Considerations): The project proposes 80 single-family homes (64 detached, 16 duets) on 9.5 acres, including 11 deed-restricted low-income units (13% at 80% AMI for 45 years), a 0.68-acre privately owned public park, demolition of the vacant school, removal of 48 on-site trees (18 ordinance-sized) with 159 new trees. The project qualifies under the builder's remedy (Housing Accountability Act) because the application was submitted before the city's housing element was certified, and it provides the required affordable housing. An Environmental Impact Report (EIR) identified significant unavoidable impacts for greenhouse gas emissions and VMT (unmitigated VMT 19.52 per capita, reduced to 17.04 after mitigation). The project will pay approximately $4 million (with annual escalation) to the city's Department of Transportation for multimodal improvements. Staff recommended approval, stating no specific adverse impacts to public health or safety were identified. - Commissioner Questions: Commissioners queried staff about the builder's remedy constraints, setbacks (no minimum under builder's remedy; project proposes minimum 10 feet vs. typical R18 20 feet), park obligations, Saturday construction hours, and enforcement of conditions. The City Attorney clarified that under builder's remedy, the zoning code does not apply, but health and safety conditions can be enforced. The developer committed to neighborhood coordination and a noise disturbance coordinator. Key Outcomes - Item 4D (Sakura Market alcohol permit): Approved unanimously (9-0, 1 absent). The commission recommends the city council approve the conditional use permit and determination of public convenience or necessity, subject to conditions. - Glider Elementary School Redevelopment: Approved unanimously (9-0, 1 absent) on a motion by Vice Chair Young, seconded by Commissioner Oliverio. The commission recommends the city council certify the EIR, adopt the statement of overriding considerations, and approve the site development permit, subdivision, and related actions. - Other Business: Staff reported on city council actions (August 18 and 26), including direction on the General Plan update (missing middle housing, public/quasi-public lands framework, Winchester corridor, etc.). The next planning commission meeting is scheduled for September 9, 2026.

The Historic Landmarks Commission met on August 26, 2026, with all commissioners present. The meeting included a memorial adjournment, a service recognition, discussion of the annual retreat, public comment, and routine administrative actions. Adjournment Recognition - The meeting was adjourned in memory of Paul Baim, a former commissioner who passed away on June 6, 2026, at age 70. He served on the commission for seven years, including as chair and vice chair, and was an educator and historian. Service Recognition - Harriet Arnold was recognized for nine years of service on the commission (August 2017 – June 2026). She was praised for her interdisciplinary background and contributions to historic preservation, including the city landmark designation of Antioch Baptist Church. Consent Calendar - No items were placed on the consent calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - Ben Leach (Preservation Action Council) spoke on three items: - Recent proposed changes to the federal Section 106 review process, which he described as a severe backtrack on public participation. He urged awareness and advocacy, noting that the National Trust is leading a call for 250,000 letters when the public comment period opens. - The California Preservation Foundation’s statewide conference will be held in San Jose in May 2027, with PAC SJ as a local partner. He invited session proposals and volunteers. - The annual “Doors Open California” program includes a hard-hat tour of the Bank of Italy conversion on Labor Day weekend (September 4, 2026), plus other local tours. PAC SJ is also holding a wine and beer tasting fundraiser on August 16, 2026. Discussion Items - Annual Retreat Planning (General Business Item 5): - The commission selected Friday, October 2, 2026 for the retreat (1:00–4:00 p.m. proposed). - Proposed topics included: - A walking tour of the downtown commercial block (Lawrence Hotel, Bank of America block). - Staff updates on the $250,000 budget allocation to reevaluate properties in the historic inventory (primarily contributing structures outside districts) and confirm eligibility for landmark designation. - Staff updates on defining “demolition” for properties on the inventory (more restrictive than the 50% threshold under state law). - Updates on the Five Wounds and East Side Ellen Rock urban village plans and their historic resource surveys. - Broader policy topics: state laws (SB 79, AB 130), citywide general plan update, economic development’s incorporation of historic preservation, and office-to-residential conversion feasibility. - A proposed presentation from the city’s budget office on how the public can engage in the budget process for historic preservation funding. - Good and Welfare – Report from Secretary & Elections: - No updates from City Council on historic projects. - Staff described the “My San Jose” story map tool for residents to share historic preservation stories; it is not yet widely promoted due to staff capacity. - The commission re-elected Rachel Royer as Chair and Sarah Galandari as Vice Chair for another year (motion by Commissioner Camuso, seconded, approved unanimously). - The action minutes from the May 6, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - The annual retreat is scheduled for October 2, 2026 (Friday). Walking tour and discussion topics will be finalized by staff. - Chair Royer and Vice Chair Galandari were re-elected by unanimous vote. - The minutes of the May 6, 2026 meeting were approved. - No other formal actions were taken. Next Meeting - The next regular meeting is scheduled for September 2, 2026 at San Jose City Hall, Rooms 118–120.

The Joint Rules and Open Government Committee and Committee of the Whole met on August 26, 2026 at 2:00 PM. The committee reviewed and adopted the September 1, 2026 final agenda, approved consent calendar items, received public comment, and heard Open Forum remarks. The meeting adjourned at 2:07 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved the Public Record for August 13-20, 2026 (receive and file). - Approved the appointment of Edward Carboni, nominated by the Police Officers' Association, as the POA's active employee member to the Voluntary Employees Beneficiary Association (VEBA) Advisory Committee for a partial term ending May 31, 2028, and placed the item on the September 1, 2026 City Council agenda. - Set a Joint Special Meeting of the City Council of San José and San José/Santa Clara Treatment Plant Advisory Committee on Thursday, November 5, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at the San José - Santa Clara Regional Wastewater Facility, and approved the Special Meeting agenda. All consent items were adopted by a vote of 5-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Brian (no last name provided) expressed support for the joint special meeting with the Treatment Plant Advisory Committee, noting the importance of the wastewater treatment plant. He also expressed support for the VEBA Advisory Committee appointment and highlighted the need to care for indigenous and Chicano murals as part of the public record. - Jordan Moldow (District 3) asked whether the tour included in the joint meeting agenda would be open to the public or invite-only. Staff clarified that the tour on November 5 is part of the public meeting and open to attendees, and additional public tours would be held on Saturday, November 7. Open Forum - Brian made philosophical remarks about societal division and uncertainty, referencing relativity and differing worldviews, and urged finding common ground. Key Outcomes - Adopted the September 1, 2026 final agenda (5-0). - Approved all three consent calendar items (5-0). - Noted that the September 8, 2026 draft agenda meeting was cancelled. - No other discussion items or votes.

The San José City Council met in hybrid session on August 25, 2026, beginning with a Closed Session at 9:30 AM and the Regular Session at 1:30 PM. The agenda included ceremonial recognitions, a consent calendar, strategic support items, transportation and environmental reports, a housing incentive program, and a land-use conditional use permit. Key actions included votes on three statewide ballot measures, approval of consultant contracts and grand jury responses, expansion of geothermal power agreements, a tax waiver for a multifamily development, and denial of a nightclub permit for San Pedro Social. Consent Calendar - Approved all consent items unanimously, including: - Final adoption of ordinances (Nos. 31339, 31341, 31342). - Expansion of the SJ Cares program to affordable apartment residents (an additional 2,384 units). - $200,000 increase for the Portuguese Organization for Social Services and Opportunities (POSSU) Senior Access Program, supporting over 10,000 home-delivered meals for seniors. - Amendment to the City Pay Plan creating a Council Executive Assistant classification ($79,469–$104,662). - Weed abatement agreement amendment with Santa Clara County. - Contract award for Cherry Avenue paving ($1,135,347 plus 10% contingency). - Appointment of Councilmember Cohen as voting delegate to the League of California Cities General Assembly. - Approval of travel, event, and ticket purchases for Mayor’s Office. - Approval of SJSU flag raising event. Public Comments & Testimony - Consent Calendar: One speaker supported the POSSU program and urged continued communication channels after sunsetting the Neighborhoods Commission. - Ballot Measures (Item 3.3): Several speakers opposed Prop 37, calling it a costly bond program benefiting developers; one speaker urged support for voter ID (Prop 39); another opposed Prop 39, citing barriers for disabled and low-income voters. - Pothole Grand Jury Response (Item 5.2): Two speakers criticized pothole repair and claims processes; one acknowledged improvements. - BART Grand Jury Response (Item 5.3): One speaker criticized VTA’s responsiveness and light rail reliability. - San Pedro Social CUP (Item 10.2): The applicant (Sandra Escobar) argued the staff report was inaccurate, highlighting improvements and lack of recent violations. Other speakers (Sal, Kathy Doyle, Michael Doyle, security contractor, and former GM) supported the permit, emphasizing economic impact and safety measures. One speaker (Ronan) opposed, citing safety concerns. Two callers offered mixed views. Discussion Items - 3.3 – 2026 General Election Ballot Measures: Staff (Emily Lamb, Han Kong) recommended positions on three propositions: Support Prop 37 (loan program for middle-income homebuyers) – noting 41% of renter households (133,000) could be eligible; Oppose Prop 39 (voter ID requirements) – citing costs up to hundreds of millions and existing safeguards; Oppose Prop 43 (raising vote threshold for citizen-initiated special taxes) – arguing it would hinder local funding. Councilmembers debated each measure. Councilmember Casey questioned the practice of taking institutional positions. After dividing the question, the votes were taken individually. - 5.1 – Consultant Agreements for Airport Planning: Approved three master agreements (Landrum & Brown, HNTB, Ricondo) at $10 million each, total $10 million cap, for five years. - 5.2 – Pothole Grand Jury Response: Approved the City Attorney’s response. - 5.3 – BART Grand Jury Response: Approved Transportation Department’s response. - 6.1 – Fish Lake Geothermal PPA: Approved amendment increasing annual commitment to $3.2 million (previously $1.9M) and aggregate to $64 million (previously $38M) through 2047. - 8.2 – 210 Baypointe Parkway Tax/Fee Waiver: Housing Director Eric Sullivan presented the Multifamily Housing Incentive Program, noting 3% vacancy rate and rising rents. Approved up to $5,130,775 in waivers for a 191-unit development. The program has supported over 3,000 units across nine developments, including 400+ affordable homes. - 10.2 – Conditional Use Permit for San Pedro Social (163 W. Santa Clara St.): Staff and SJPD opposed the permit for late-night operation until 2 AM, citing numerous violations: unpermitted late-night hours, ABC license violations, assaults, drug use, and failure to comply with past citations. Chief Joseph presented video evidence of incidents. Councilmember Tordillos highlighted a pattern of non-compliance over several months. The motion to deny was made and seconded, and the permit was denied. Key Outcomes - Prop 37 (Support): Passed 7-3 (No: Duan, Foley, Mulcahy). - Prop 39 (Oppose): Passed unanimously (9-0, Mahan absent). - Prop 43 (Oppose): Passed 6-4 (No: Duan, Foley, Mulcahy, Casey). - Airport Consultant Agreements: Approved unanimously. - Pothole and BART Grand Jury Responses: Approved unanimously. - Fish Lake Geothermal Amendment: Approved unanimously. - 210 Baypointe Tax/Fee Waiver: Approved 10-0. - San Pedro Social Conditional Use Permit: Denied. Council moved to deny the permit, and no further discussion occurred before moving to open forum. - Deferrals: Item 3.3(d) dropped; Items 3.4 and 8.1 deferred to September 1, 2026.

The Community & Economic Development Committee (CED) met on August 24, 2026, at 1:30 PM in a hybrid format. The committee reviewed two reports: an audit of the Office of Economic Development and Cultural Affairs (OEDCA) performance measures and a semi-annual status report on economic development activities. Both reports were accepted unanimously and forwarded to the City Council. Public comment was provided by one speaker, Brian Darby. Public Comments & Testimony - Brian Darby (member of the public) spoke on each agenda item. On the audit report, he commended the collaborative process between the auditor and department, agreed with the five recommendations, and suggested adding more metrics. On the economic development report, he praised the World Cup activations and requested future reports include data on jobs created or retained, private investment, business survival, reduced storefront vacancies, increased tax revenues, and city costs versus returns. He also acknowledged the new economic data analyst position. During open forum, Darby expressed concern about a potential deep recession but noted the city had done well with what could be done. Discussion Items - City Manager’s Office of Economic Development and Cultural Affairs Performance Measures Audit Report (CC 26-0881): City Auditor Joe Royce presented the audit findings. OEDCA reports 39 performance metrics in the adopted operating budget. The audit found that while most measures are generally useful and reliable, some can be clearer and more meaningful. Key issues: some performance results in the budget reflect short-term goals and should be reviewed for alignment with longer-term targets; methodologies for internal and external measures are not fully documented. The report makes five recommendations to improve clarity, consistency, and long-term usefulness. Jen Baker, Director of OEDCA, accepted the recommendations and noted the collaborative audit process. Councilmember Mulcahy asked about opportunities to standardize data collection with external partners (e.g., cell phone data) and shared subscriptions. Baker responded that recommendation five addresses co-creating expectations with partners. The audit commenced in December/January and was published in August 2026. Chair Foley inquired about public art maintenance, specifically the Sister City Walk along the Guadalupe River; Baker agreed to verify the inventory. The committee voted unanimously to accept the report and cross-reference it to the September 29, 2026 City Council meeting. - Economic Development Activities Semi-Annual Status Report (CC 26-0892): Bloggy Zalich, Deputy Director of OEDCA, presented the report covering activities since February 2026. Highlights included: commissioned interactive art projects with San José State University (e.g., illuminated artworks, Free Throw installation, Gaioscope, Hometown Heroes display); six expanded city dance events in the SoFA District during the World Cup; a dedicated film permit website leading to a significant increase in permits; NVIDIA’s GTC conference attracted almost 36,000 visitors (a 78% increase from 2025) from 956 zip codes, with 51% out-of-state visitors; the March Madness basketball games at SAP Center; $490,000 distributed to 49 small businesses and 21 startup grants awarded (from over 800 applications); approval of four new Business Improvement Districts (BIDs) and renewal of four existing BIDs, with a combined budget of $1.5 million from nearly 7,000 businesses; workforce programs (San José Works Summer Program with 200 youth participants); notable business openings (Strata at Miro Tower, TNT Supermarket, moved Mexican fare); corporate outreach events; international engagement (visit from Lord Mayor of Dublin commemorating 40-year sister city relationship); inaugural international business and investment event with 94 attendees; four new foreign trade zone applications approved (total 16 participating businesses, six more under review); and hiring of economic data analyst Chris Schaeffer. The committee accepted the report unanimously. Key Outcomes - Audit Report (CC 26-0881): Accepted unanimously and forwarded to the September 29, 2026 City Council meeting. OEDCA will implement the five recommendations, with a target completion before the March 31, 2027 proposed operating budget. - Economic Development Semi-Annual Report (CC 26-0892): Accepted unanimously. No further action required. - Open Forum: No committee action taken on public comments.

This meeting of the City of San José's Public Safety, Finance and Strategic Support Committee (PSFSS) covered four major items: the Fourth Quarter Financial Reports for Fiscal Year 2025-2026, an Employee Turnover Audit Report, a Fireworks Ordinance Work Plan Status Report, and the City Manager's Office of Emergency Management Work Plan Priorities Annual Report. All items were accepted unanimously by the committee, with additional discussion and clarifications on each topic. Public Comments & Testimony - During Open Forum, one speaker, who identified as a resident of District 1, expressed strong opposition to the city's direction on surveillance technology, including the planned deployment of 490 automated license plate readers (ALPRs), 1,020 public safety cameras, 1,000 private network cameras integrated into a real-time intelligence center, and a 33-camera automated speed enforcement program. The speaker stated that they should not have to monitor committee meetings to catch such proposals and opposed the entire surveillance expansion. Discussion Items - Fourth Quarter Financial Reports for FY 2025-2026 (CC 26-0901): Finance staff presented the quarterly report, noting the investment portfolio stood at just over $3 billion as of June 30, 2026, with an earned interest yield of 4.127% and a weighted average maturity of 661 days. Net income recognized for the fiscal year was $109.2 million, with no policy exceptions. Staff also highlighted two updates: the business tax amnesty program had collected $2.15 million as of June 30 against a projected full-year net revenue of $2.9 million, and the purchasing audit completed 7 of 8 recommendations, with the final one expected by end of August. Councilmember Mulcahy asked about property tax distribution spikes and the effectiveness of the amnesty program, requesting a comparative analysis with prior amnesty periods. The committee voted unanimously to accept the reports and refer them to the September 15, 2026 City Council meeting. - Employee Turnover Audit Report (CC 26-0912): City Auditor Joe Royce presented the audit, which reviewed non-sworn full-time staff turnover across city manager departments. The average annual turnover rate between FY 2022-23 and FY 2024-25 was 6.5% excluding retirements and 8.7% including retirements, below the city's 10% target. Two findings were identified: (1) the city lacks sufficient employee sentiment data (e.g., stay and exit interviews, engagement surveys) to understand turnover drivers, and (2) workforce analytics and succession planning guidance are needed to address staffing changes. Four recommendations were made, including providing guidance for interviews and re-establishing a citywide employee survey. HR Director Aram Kyoum Jan agreed with all recommendations. Councilmember Tordillos moved acceptance, and the committee voted unanimously to accept the report and cross-reference it to the September 22, 2026 City Council meeting. - Fireworks Ordinance Work Plan Status Report (CC 26-0923): Deputy Fire Chief Greg Tuyor presented the 2026 update, highlighting a multi-department effort including the Fire Department, Police Department, Code Enforcement, IT, and Animal Care and Services. The strategy focused on education, accessible reporting via SJ311, and enforcement. Key results: during the 4th of July period, there were 69 fireworks-related incidents (10 vegetation fires, 26 rubbish fires, 15 medical emergencies, 17 smoke/noise complaints, 1 vehicle fire). Police received 450 calls, and SJ311 received 522 reports, resulting in 80 warnings and 7 citations. A new $500 spectator fine was implemented in December 2025. Drone enforcement was deployed from five fire stations, but line-of-sight restrictions limited coverage. Councilmember Tordillos asked about increasing citation volume and the lack of criminal citations. Councilmember Kamei inquired about alternative drone operators and streamlining the citation process. Councilmember Mulcahy raised concerns about messaging clarity between 311 and 911 for fireworks emergencies, and IT confirmed that 311 calls include a disclaimer. The committee voted unanimously to accept the report. - City Manager's Office of Emergency Management Work Plan Priorities Annual Report (CC 26-0934): Director Ray Reardon and Assistant Alvin Galang presented the annual report. In FY 2025-26, OEM responded to six incidents, including Super Bowl LX and the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with no major incidents occurring. The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program graduated 208 new members, bringing the total to over 1,700. For FY 2026-27, priorities include preparing for stronger El Niño events, early planning for the 2028 Summer Olympics, and pursuing EMAP accreditation. Councilmember Kamei asked about CERT statistics per district and noted she had signed up for CERT, challenging other councilmembers to do the same. Councilmember Casey promoted the CERT 5K run. The committee voted unanimously to accept the report. Key Outcomes - All four agenda items were accepted by unanimous vote and referred to the full City Council as appropriate. - The Finance Department was directed to provide a comparative analysis of the business tax amnesty program's effectiveness after the current amnesty period ends. - The Fireworks Ordinance Work Plan will continue to refine drone enforcement, seek FAA line-of-sight waivers, and evaluate the $500 spectator fine's deterrent effect. The customer service transformation project will review 311/911 messaging for fireworks reports. - The Office of Emergency Management will share CERT membership statistics by council district and continue outreach to increase CERT participation toward a goal of 1% of the population initially, with a long-term target of 10%.

The Planning Director Hearing, presided by Hearing Officer Sylvia Doe, convened on August 19, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 10:28 AM via Zoom. The meeting addressed one consent calendar item and two public hearing items, including a Builder's Remedy project and a Density Bonus project. All items were approved, with one condition added to the Cherry Avenue project. Consent Calendar - Item 3A: Special Use Permit SP26-005 (Crystal Springs Court) – Staff added a condition requiring referral to Valley Water for an encroachment permit. No public comments were received. The hearing officer approved the permit as modified. Public Hearing Item 4A: 741 South Winchester Boulevard (Builder's Remedy) - Staff Presentation – Supervising Planner Alec Intienza explained the project: a seven-story, 264-unit multifamily building (13% low-income units) on a 2.97-acre site. The project invoked Builder's Remedy under the Housing Accountability Act (HAA), submitted as an SB 330 preliminary application on February 15, 2023. It requests a 9.8% density bonus and multiple waivers. Staff found no specific adverse health or safety impacts and recommended approval under a statutory CEQA exemption (AB 130). - Applicant Remarks – Glenn Cerradano (Cyrez Properties) expressed excitement and requested modifications to conditions of approval as detailed in a letter from attorney Hall & Knight. He reserved the right to appeal if changes were not made. - Public Comment – Lillian (District 3) criticized the removal of 23 trees (14 ordinance-sized) and the lack of a mandatory community meeting (noting the city's policy uses "should" not "shall"). She urged better outreach and tree canopy protection. - Discussion – City Attorney Daniel Sasuetta invited applicant attorney Jenny Yarkin to elaborate. Yarkin sought changes to conditions regarding SB 330 vesting timelines and affordable housing requirements (AB 1893). The city attorney opposed, arguing the proposed language could leave the permit open-ended and violate city policy on land banking. Staff confirmed that tree replacement would include 68 fifteen-gallon trees or 25 box trees plus an in-lieu fee, and that public outreach policy is under review. - Decision – Hearing Officer Doe approved the site development permit as drafted by staff, stating that state law stands alone and the conditions are legally consistent. Public Hearing Item 4B: 1425 Cherry Avenue (Density Bonus) - Staff Presentation – Project Manager Jason Lee described the proposal: demolish four existing units and construct two single-family homes and one four-plex (six units total) on 0.33 acres. The project uses the Housing Crisis Act to replace four units (two low-income, one extremely low-income) and requests an 88.75% density bonus (from 8 to 18.1 du/ac), three concessions, and nine waivers. Staff found full compliance with objective standards and recommended approval. - Applicant Remarks – Austin Lynn noted collaborative revisions in response to neighborhood feedback: reducing driveway cuts from three to two, adding two parking spaces for the four-plex, and proposing a three-foot fence and landscape buffer. - Public Comments – Martha Lazarakis (neighbor at 1439 Cherry) raised concerns about traffic safety on the narrow street, loss of on-street parking (potentially reducing property values 15%), and inadequate design for pedestrians, cyclists, and children. Carmen (nearby resident) criticized a lack of transparency and insufficient off-street parking, arguing the project is unsafe near multiple schools. - Discussion – Staff clarified that the city's objective parking requirement is zero spaces; the applicant voluntarily provides two. Public Works engineer Ray Adora confirmed driveway spacing and traffic thresholds are met, and that further safety reviews (e.g., sight distance) will occur during permitting. Staff noted the fence is not in the current plans and would require a minor permit adjustment. - Decision – Hearing Officer Doe approved the site development permit and tentative map, adding a condition requiring a three-foot fence along the four-plex parking area fronting Cherry Avenue, as voluntarily agreed by the applicant. The fence must be applied for via a minor permit adjustment before building permit issuance. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved item 3A (SP26-005) with added Valley Water condition. - Item 4A (741 S. Winchester): Site development permit approved per staff recommendation; no changes to conditions. - Item 4B (1425 Cherry Ave.): Site development permit and tentative map approved, with an added condition for a three-foot fence. - Both public hearing items were approved under applicable state laws (HAA, Builder's Remedy, Housing Crisis Act, Density Bonus Law). - The meeting adjourned at 10:28 AM.

The joint committee met on August 19, 2026 from 2:00 PM to 2:06 PM to review upcoming City Council agendas and approve a consent calendar of routine items. All votes were unanimous (5-0). One member of the public provided comments on future agenda items. Consent Calendar - Received and filed the public record for August 6-13, 2026. - Recommended release of the study session date held for September 14, 2026. - Approved the San José State University Flag Raising set for September 1, 2026 as a City Council sponsored special event, authorizing expenditure of funds and acceptance of donations, and placed the item on the August 25, 2026 City Council agenda. - Authorized travel for Mayor Mahan’s Office staff Amber Kappagantula to Tampa, Florida on September 22-25, 2026 for the Chamber Study Session (funded from the Mayor’s Office budget). - Retroactively approved the Mayor’s Office purchase of tickets to the Silicon Valley Business Journal’s “40 under 40” Awards event for $900, and placed the item on the August 25, 2026 City Council agenda. Public Comments & Testimony - Blair Beekman spoke on item 8.2 on the upcoming August 25, 2026 City Council agenda (a public hearing on a development tax and fee waiver for multifamily housing). Beekman expressed support for a “humble approach” towards multifamily housing and the “missing middle,” and urged others to recognize that a small-scale approach can be effective. - During Open Forum, Beekman commented on a previous council discussion about land in South San Jose (former IBM plant), questioning whether the land is contaminated (“poison land”) and suggesting that redevelopment options (housing vs. data centers) should be discussed more openly through a public process rather than a rushed permit process. Discussion Items - The committee reviewed the August 25, 2026 Final Agenda (including a discussion on statewide ballot measures, electric service franchise, airport consultant services, civil grand jury responses, geothermal power purchase agreement amendments, and a conditional use permit for San Pedro Social). No changes were made. - The committee conducted an initial review of the September 1, 2026 Draft Agenda (including amendments to CalPur’s contract, financing for affordable housing production, and an exclusive negotiation agreement for an arena hotel). No changes were made. Key Outcomes - The August 25, 2026 Final Agenda was approved as presented (motion 5-0). - The first review of the September 1, 2026 Draft Agenda was approved (motion 5-0). - All five items on the Consent Calendar were approved by a single motion (5-0). - The clerk noted that consent item B.4 (travel request) was approved for placement on the August 25 City Council agenda. - Meeting adjourned at 2:06 PM.

The City Council of San José convened at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, in a hybrid format after a closed session that began at 9:30 a.m. The meeting included ceremonial recognitions, a unanimous consent calendar, a housing loan portfolio audit, a response to a Civil Grand Jury report on the Animal Care Center, a land use appeal for 1295 Curtner Avenue, and a major policy framework discussion on the General Plan Four-Year Review. Members of the public spoke extensively on several items, especially the General Plan changes. The meeting adjourned at approximately 10:30 p.m. Ceremonial Items - The invocation was delivered by Than Phong Taekwondo Institute, arranged by Councilmember Doan. - A commendation was presented to the Bay Area Women’s Sports Initiative (BAWSI), recognizing its 21 years of service, support of over 29,000 children and youth, 80+ coaches, and more than 9,800 volunteers. CEO Dana Weintraub accepted on behalf of the organization. - Valley Services was recognized for its 40th anniversary as a family-run waste and sanitation company. Councilmember Mulcahy and Doan presented the commendation, and a representative accepted, highlighting the company's second-chance employment practices and nearly 100 employees. - Air traffic controllers at Mineta San José International Airport received a commendation recognizing their work in ensuring safety for nearly 12 million annual passengers. Victor Ramirez accepted on their behalf. - The council adjourned the meeting in memory of Reverend Peter G. Pabst, S.J., who died on May 2, 2026. Kayla Quinto, a Cristo Rey alumna, shared personal reflections on his legacy of expanding educational opportunities. Consent Calendar - The consent calendar was approved unanimously. Routine items included approval of minutes, ordinances, committee minutes, excused absences, and travel reports. - Several substantive items were also on consent, including: - Airside Lighting Replacement Project: $2,300,000 increase in federal revenue and $300,000 from the Airport Renewal and Replacement Fund. - Amendments to master consultant agreements with Project Controls Joint Venture LLC (increase of $750,000 to $6,750,000, term extended to June 30, 2028) and PMA Consultants LLC (term extension only). - Northern California Regional Intelligence Center (NCRIC) agreement amendment with the County of San Mateo, increasing compensation by $141,569 to a total of $424,707 and extending to July 31, 2026. - Resilient Facilities Coalition adoption and Proposition 4 climate bond readiness, authorizing grant applications estimated between $300,000 and $27,500,000. - Amendment to the Heritage Tree List. - Public comment on consent items included concerns about the NCRIC item and the consent process, but the Mayor explained these were routine reimbursements and grant applications. Land Use Consent — 650 Harry Road (Item 10.1) - Councilmember Casey pulled this item from the consent calendar for discussion. - Staff explained the request was a conforming rezoning of the former IBM Almaden Research Center (approximately 600 acres total) to align zoning with the General Plan: 35.097 acres to IP Industrial Park and 565.063 acres to OS Open Space. - Applicant Eric Shanaw said IBM is selling the property and that the rezoning would preserve open space while allowing modern economic uses for the industrial portion, preventing vandalism and fires. - Public comment was overwhelmingly in favor of deferral or denial. Speakers, including adjoining property owner Evan Brooks, the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority, Sierra Club Loma Prieta, Green Foothills, and many Almaden residents, raised concerns about: - The lack of permanent protection (conservation easement) for the open space. - Potential future data centers or advanced manufacturing under the IP zoning. - SB 131, which exempts advanced manufacturing uses from CEQA on industrially zoned parcels. - Water and power impacts, fire risk, and the perception that the rezoning was rushed through the consent process. - Council discussion: Staff confirmed that a conservation easement cannot be required as a condition of rezoning, but they would include information about a possible voluntary easement in future discussions with the property owner. Councilmember Casey made a motion to approve the rezoning, seconded by Councilmember Cohen. - Vote: The motion passed 9 to 2, with Councilmembers Kamei and Campos voting no. Report of the City Manager - City Manager Jennifer Maguire reported no items. Housing Department Loan Portfolio Audit (Item 3.3) - City Auditor Joe Royce presented the audit of the Housing Department’s affordable housing loan portfolio, which totaled over $745 million with nearly 25,000 units across approximately 220 properties. - The audit found that the asset management team had not completed all annual property reviews and inspections in recent years due to vacancies, unclear expectations, and insufficient software tools. A limited sample of 878 units (4% of total) found that 13% had tenants above their income cap, and 5% earned 140% or more of the cap. The audit also found no documented escalation process for repeated violations. - Housing Director Eric Sullivan accepted the findings, noting the department's complex regulatory environment. - Councilmembers asked about vacancies and future updates on income-limit policies. The council accepted the audit report unanimously, with Councilmember Casey absent. Animal Care Center Grand Jury Response (Item 7.1) - Staff presented the city’s response to the Santa Clara County Civil Grand Jury report, “San José Animal Care Center: The need to strengthen transparency, performance, and trust.” The response agreed with four findings and partially disagreed with one, related to declining rescue partnerships. - Public comment was extensive. Animal advocates and volunteers raised concerns about shelter management, euthanasia (citing 154 dogs, 715 cats, and 496 kittens killed in the last fiscal year), the termination of volunteers, lack of spay/neuter capacity, and the need for a community advisory group with actual influence. - Council discussion: Mayor Mahan noted the city has nearly doubled funding for the animal care center over three years. Councilmember Ortiz pressed for the community advisory group to include critics and asked how its recommendations would be reported. Councilmember Doan recited the completion of all prior audit items and moved to accept the report. - The motion passed unanimously, 11 to 0. Appeal — 1295 Curtner Avenue (Item 10.2) - This was an administrative hearing on the appeal of the environmental determination and Site Development Permit for a project to build 12 residential condominium units (two of which would be affordable), using State Density Bonus Law, with 14 waivers and the removal of 21 trees on a 0.65-acre site. - Staff recommended denying the appeals and upholding the Planning Director’s approval, including the Class 32 In-fill Exemption under CEQA. - Appellants Christine and Jennifer spoke about existing traffic safety problems at the Kirtner/Cottle intersection and noted that a road-rage stabbing had occurred at that intersection earlier in the day. They requested a formal traffic safety study. - Applicant Sarah Johanion described the project as a modest infill development, criticized the appeal process for causing a five-month delay, and noted the project would have 42 parking spaces. - Public comment was mixed, with neighbors opposed and some supporters. Concerns included traffic, school congestion, parking, tree loss, and construction impacts. - Council discussion: Vice Mayor Foley and Councilmember Mulcahy acknowledged the intersection’s traffic issues. DOT staff agreed to conduct pre-construction and post-occupancy traffic studies, refresh crosswalk striping, and coordinate with the police on the morning’s incident. Councilmember Mulcahy moved to deny the appeals and approve the permit. - The motion passed unanimously. General Plan Four-Year Review Policy Framework (Item 10.3) - This item presented the policy framework for updating the Envision San José 2040 General Plan, including increasing residential capacity, developing a small multifamily (“missing middle”) housing program, updating the Urban Village strategy, and maintaining the Jobs-to-Employed Residents ratio at 1.1. - Staff highlighted that the Planning Commission recommended approval, but noted a separate vote on small multifamily was 9–2, and the commission did not reach a majority recommendation on the Winchester Boulevard land use changes. The agenda had stated the Planning Commission recommended 11-0 for items (a)-(d) and 9-2 for item (e), but the transcript indicates the Winchester item lacked a majority. - Public comment lasted over two hours, with more than 100 in-person and online speakers. The majority of speakers who commented opposed the proposed increase from 8 to 32 dwelling units per acre in residential neighborhoods, citing parking, traffic, infrastructure, tree canopy, neighborhood character, and irreversibility. Many supported the proposal, including representatives from VTA, SV@Home, YIMBY, faith groups, and working families, emphasizing the need for housing and compliance with state law. - Council discussion was extensive. Councilmember Doan proposed a four-week deferral for additional public outreach; this did not succeed. Councilmember Cohen’s motion, incorporating multiple council memos and friendly amendments, directed staff to study a density range of 16, 24, and 32 units per acre, evaluate parking minimums where legally allowed, address high VMT areas and public safety guardrails, study PQP (public/quasi-public) land conversions, add a second General Plan amendment cycle, explore a local density bonus program, and adopt the Winchester Corridor compromise proposed by Councilmember Mulcahy. Staff will return with draft amendments and environmental analysis in December 2027. - Vote: The motion passed 8 to 3, with Councilmembers Doan, Candelas, and Casey dissenting. Open Forum - Members of the public spoke about topics not on the agenda, including mobile food truck regulations (the 15-minute parking rule), debris at a street corner, and a vacant lot on Menker Avenue that could be used for housing. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar approved unanimously. - 650 Harry Road rezoning approved 9–2 (Kamei and Campos dissent). - Housing Department Loan Portfolio Audit accepted unanimously (Casey absent). - Animal Care Center response to Civil Grand Jury report adopted 11–0. - 1295 Curtner Avenue appeal denied and project approved unanimously. - General Plan Four-Year Review policy framework approved 8–3 (Doan, Candelas, Casey dissent). Staff to return with more detailed proposals and environmental review by December 2027. - The city committed to improved public outreach and additional traffic studies, including a pre-construction and post-occupancy study for the Curtner Avenue area.