Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Santa Clara public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
11 issues with high priority
Calabazas Boulevard Bicycle Lane Design
The committee is reviewing proposed bicycle lane configurations for Calabazas Boulevard to coordinate with upcoming roadway maintenance projects. This design choice will shape how safely and comfortably cyclists can navigate this corridor.
Station Area Specific Plan Chapters 2 and 3 Review
Committee members will review major regional planning efforts, including the Santa Clara Station Area Plan and the Benton-Brokaw Multimodal Crossing Feasibility Study. These studies aim to improve how people walk, bike, and access transit around key transportation hubs.
Senior Center Membership Fees and Pool Hours
The city removed membership fees to ensure all seniors have access to health and wellness programs and approved funds to fix up the multipurpose room.
Private Property Leases and Neighborhood Nuisance Management
The committee is tackling how rental leases handle neighborhood disturbances, focusing on the Old Quad neighborhood near the university. Members will explore ideal lease terms and guide staff on how to effectively reach out to landlords.
Vacant and Blighted Building Ordinance
The committee is tackling how rental leases handle neighborhood disturbances, focusing on the Old Quad neighborhood near the university. Members will explore ideal lease terms and guide staff on how to effectively reach out to landlords.
Youth Commission FY 2026/27 Work Plan and Goals
The commission had to postpone picking a new chair after a tie vote, but they successfully set up their committees and work plan for the year.
Senior Needs Assessment Survey & Outreach
Members discussed how to review the upcoming senior needs assessment data and prepare a concise presentation for the city council.
Walsh Avenue Office Building Project Continuance
The hearing will consider postponing the review of a large 692,634-square-foot office development on Walsh Avenue until November. This massive project includes extensive parking and a pedestrian bridge over the street.
Accessory Dwelling Unit Parking and Density
Residents near Maryann Drive pushed back against a proposed attached ADU, arguing that proliferating rentals and ADUs are overwhelming neighborhood parking and eroding the single-family character. City officials noted that state laws tie their hands, as ADUs must be approved if they meet objective development standards.
Pedestrian Access and Safety on County Expressways
Students and commissioners raised concerns about pedestrian safety, crosswalks, and accident prevention near major corridors and schools.
Senior Needs Assessment and Community Outreach
Staff and commissioners discussed preliminary findings from the Senior Needs Assessment survey, which highlights major needs in home repairs and transportation, ahead of a November presentation to the City Council.