Willow Glen Resident

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MIDDLEBROOK GARDENS SITE APPROVED FOR ZONING CHANGE

By Mary Gottschalk

The San Jose City Council voted unanimously at its April 22 meeting to rezone three parcels along Race Street at Garland Avenue, paving the way for the owner to proceed with plans for a 5,950-square-foot retail building on the 0.38-acre site.

Councilman Pierluigi Oliverio, who represents the district where the property is located, made the motion for the rezoning, saying, "If the owner wants to change the zoning, it's private property, and he has the right to request rezoning."

The property is currently the site of Middlebrook Gardens, which specializes in California native plant landscaping and operates a native plant nursery. It is also home to the nonprofit California Native Garden Foundation.

Rebecca Schoenenberg, office manager for Middlebrook Gardens, spoke against the rezoning, saying, "It's the first step to pushing us from our location."

She pointed out that the rezoning allows building right up to the sidewalk on Race Street, with no setbacks, and that there are several empty properties for lease along the street.

Ed Schreiner, planning project manager, said the property owner could build without the rezoning.

Farhang Soltanzad, who owns the parcels at 76, 78 and 80 Race St., did not speak.

In an earlier interview, he said he has no immediate plans to proceed with plans for the single-story building, which includes a 28-foot tower and 24 parking spaces behind it.

Middlebrook Gardens does not have a long-term lease.