 |
|
|
|
|
Editorial
Norton set the standard for city managers
Saratoga will soon greet a new city manager, but before that happens, we'd like to say hats off to Bill Norton, who served as interim city manager for six highly productive months and restored many Saratogans' faith in the ability of local government to get things done.
Some staff members have complained that he works them too hard. Small wonder. He schedules many items for council agendas and he sees them through. With Norton, commitments don't fall through the cracks. He talked straight, avoided pettiness and followed through.
In his short time with the city, he jump-started economic revitalization. He budgeted for an economic coordinator and it was his idea to "seed" the business districts. He actually walked around the city's business districts and talked to merchants, which made them feel that the city is finally paying attention to their concerns.
He got out requests for proposals for a civic center master plan project and focused the project in a way that will make it easier for his successor to manage.
While here, the AT&T lawsuit over KSAR's channel position change was settled and Saratoga Creek pollution issues were handled competently. He worked out the city's agreement with the Mountain Winery, and most recently, negotiated a long-term lease with Hakone Foundation officials.
That's quite a lot to accomplish in six short months. Norton has set a high standard for those who follow. In retaining Norton, Mayor Bogosian and the members of the city council raised the benchmark for professional management of the city's business. Let's hope for similar success with newly hired city manager Dave Anderson, whose credentials and temperament suggest that the city's affairs will remain in capable hands.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
The Southwest YMCA brings inclusion to its programs by offering them to both disabled and able-bodied youngsters
|
 |
|
News Briefs
The city approves spending $20,000 in city funds to entice Patrick James to Saratoga Village amid criticism from other business owners
Neighbors drop appeal over Saratoga Tennis Club
Hakone Foundation is negotiating a long-term lease with the city for the Hakone Gardens
The proposed ballot measure placing a moratorium on residential development has pulled in four written arguments in favor with one in opposition
The Fire District withholds draft report on fire service from firefighters
The city council has chosen BSA Architects of San Francisco for the library's expansion and renovation project
Sheriff's Report
|
 |
|
Letters
Editorial: Norton set the standard for city managers
Commentary: The Valley Home Pages debut this week
|
 |
|
Agent Notes
The Internet is changing the face of the real estate industry
The Real Deal
Home sale prices
|
 |
|
Village Briefs
Watercolorist Avie Urch finds inspiration in nature and her dreams
DARE's annual summer camp
Family Daze
Engagements: Khrishna Cochran and Jason Taboada announce their engagement
|
 |
|
California Living, a high-end furniture store, opens in the space once home to The Saratoga Drug Store
Eagle scout Henry Nothhaft is honored for 35 years of community service
|
 |
|
Saratoga Stereopticon
Saratoga Sampler
|
 |
|
When the need arises for an arborist, it is important to request credentials and references to avoid problems
|
 |
|
Bangkok Palace presents its customers a royal feast accompanied by attentive service
|
 |
|
Sports Briefs
Dammit race is a tough one
Saratoga, MLS to host camps for kids and parents
Photo: Los Gatos-Saratoga Magic softball team
|
 |
|
Lectures, readings, auditions, sports & recreation,announcements, theater & arts, kids' stuff, clubs, public meetings...
|
 |
|
Something to say?
|
|
|
Saratoga, California Since 1955
