Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Los Gatos public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
6 issues in taxes budget with medium priority
$1.16 Million Downtown Holiday Tree Lighting Contract
The Bear Electrical Solutions contract grew to $1.16 million to add Holiday Plaza tree and downtown tree-wrap lighting. Resident Gus Who calculated roughly $7,075 per tree and called for competitive bidding or a community alternative.
Long-Term Community Benefit Fund and Forbes Mill Footbridge Art
Council Member Hudes polled thousands of residents and found 64% want any proceeds from the potential ForTate property sale to go to a tangible community asset. The council unanimously committed $3 million for long-term capital projects — a community center, sports courts, parks, bike/ped improvements, or affordable housing — excluding operating costs and deferred maintenance.
Rental assistance program scrutiny
Multiple speakers, including Council questions, pressed the town's three rental-assistance providers on how many families they serve and how funds are used. The Anti-Racism Coalition and St. Vincent de Paul defended their programs as complementary and volunteer-run, serving households that don't yet face eviction notices.
Future of the Town Attorney Position
The town's top legal job is in transition. The Council decided to recruit a new full-time in-house attorney rather than rely solely on outside counsel, with contract attorneys covering the gap in the meantime. The choice affects how the town handles legal advice, contracts, and litigation costs.
Community grant program oversight questioned
A Finance Commission letter questioning controls on the town's small nonprofit grants — especially direct rental assistance — split the council. The majority refused to delay funding, but the commission reviews the program August 10 and its work plan change still needs council approval.
Landscape and Lighting Assessment District Renewals and Herbicide Concerns
The council started the annual process to levy assessments in the town's Landscape and Lighting Districts, which fund landscaping and lighting in specific neighborhoods. A public hearing on the levy is set for June 16, 2026, where residents can protest the assessments.