Los Gatos Weekly-Times Editorials Mayor can set tone for benchmark year Jan Hutchins, the man who was elected to the Town Council two years ago on the strength of his communications skills, will soon have an opportunity to show his stuff. The recent election was a quiet one, and we attributed the lack of campaign rhetoric to a good economy and the fact that there had been little controversy of late on the council. But we also believe that was a momentary lull. With the general plan revision on the agenda, it promises to be a benchmark year. Chances are there will be a strong push for slow growth; voices will likely be raised in favor of no growth at all. And that won't sit well with everyone. In Los Gatos, the mayor's role is largely ceremonial. Elected by his council colleagues, the mayor is the one who attends the most banquets and makes the most appearances on behalf of the town. The mayor does exert influence, however, by setting the agenda for council meetings, and, particularly, by setting the tone for those meetings. It's largely up to the mayor whether citizens leave a public hearing believing the town takes their concerns seriously or thinking that the town doesn't listen. As the community takes a hard look at updating its general plan--the town's blueprint for zoning and growth--Hutchins' considerable communications skills and his passion for process will be considerable assets. The process could be divisive, or it could bring the community together. We think Hutchins is well-equipped to make the journey as fruitful as the destination. Small-Town Traditions Thanksgiving is the time set aside on the calendar to consider the blessings in our lives. For Los Gatans, the blessings are many, and there are few who live or work here who don't realize that. It is especially fitting that this day of thanks ushers in the holiday season, for it is during this time of year that Los Gatos becomes the quintessential small town. All over the community, preparations are being made for the Dec. 4 tree-lighting program where the high-school band plays, and preschoolers bounce to the music from their perches on moms' and dads' shoulders. Everyone awaits the moment when the mayor will pull the switch and light the tree that was planted by the Los Gatos History Club some 75 years ago. The next morning, local service club members and town officials will join youngsters of all ages--from near and far--to participate in and view a parade that's devoted to children and has been for 42 years. These are small-town traditions, but in the hearts of Los Gatans, these rituals are a big reason they count their lives in this community as one of their greatest blessings. [ Back to Contents Page | Los Gatos Weekly-Times Home Page | Archives ] This article appeared in the Los Gatos Weekly-Times, November 25, 1998. ©1998 Metro Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved.