Los Gatos Weekly-Times

Heads Up!

Who: Los Gatos Town Council

What: Old Town public hearing

When: Mon., Dec. 2, 7:30 p.m. in Town Council Chambers

Background: The environmental-impact report has been approved by the Planning Commission and now moves to the council. Developers Ed Storm and Deke Hunter propose constructing a new retail structure above the sunken parking lot across from Old Town. Later, they plan to renovate the Old Town building. Current general plan does not permit retail above parking, so council must amend the general plan for the project to proceed. Also planned for this session: The council will consider approving the planned development (the overall design).

What's at Stake: The project offers new revenue sources in the form of increased sales tax. The renovation would return a once-thriving retail center to the community. Neighbors worry about increased traffic during construction and once the project is complete. Parking--particularly during construction--is another concern. Theater lovers want the developers to restore as a theater the onetime auditorium that has been used as a theater. The developers say they'll talk theater only if the theater lovers can find a tenant that will make it a profitable proposition. The relocation of Steamers is another potential problem. St. Luke's Episcopal Church doesn't want it moved back close to the church as the original plan proposed.

Staff Reports: The environmental-impact report is on file at the town library.