THANKSGIVING SERVICE WAS OPPORTUNITY TO EXPRESS GRATITUDE TOGETHER
Event held at St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Parish
Dinah Cotton, Contributor
On a chilly fall evening, the Rev. Angelo David, of St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Parish, provided words of welcome after “All Things Bright and Beautiful” was sung by the Presbyterian Church of Los Gatos choir, alongside members of other faith communities, with the audience joining in.
And from there, an evening of religious fellowship unfolded in peace and harmony, as part of the annual Interfaith Thanksgiving Service, Nov. 20.
St. Mary’s sanctuary held many people of many faiths— offering empathy and understanding. Expressing faith and community, nine different places of worship all together in peace and harmony sharing the likeness in beliefs.
“Be thankful…not only on this day but…beyond the celebration,” Rev. David said. “The
Girls tennis team all aces in winning De Anza title
Emanuel Lee, Sports Editor
After the 2024 season ended, Los Gatos High School girls tennis coach Justin Stenger predicted 2025 would be a special one for the program. This proved prescient, as the Wildcats had one of their best seasons in recent memory, finishing as the runner-up in the Central Coast Section tournament. They fell to league rival Los Altos 5-2 in the title match on Nov. 18 at Los Gatos Swim and Racquet Club.
In going 12-0 to win the Santa Clara Valley Athletic League De Anza Division—the best league in the CCS—the
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Thanksgiving, from page 1
gift of sharing and the gift of love is what we can celebrate daily. We can really be there for each other. Especially when things are not going the way we think they should be.”
He concluded with, “When things are challenging, we know there are always good-hearted people ready to step up, even when they’re in the background.”
This event was sponsored by the Los Gatos Interfaith Clergy Council. The members are Congregation Shir Hadash-Jewish Silicon Valley, Los Gatos United Methodist Church, the Presbyterian Church of Los Gatos, Skyland Community Church, St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and the West Valley Muslim Association.
This was Rev. David’s first Interfaith Thanksgiving Service, and he is looking forward to more of these gatherings.
“I’m very happy to be here and host this event,” he said. “We are thankful for the presence of you, especially those of you who came with children.”
Then, the Rev. David Watermulder, from the Presbyterian Church of Los Gatos, called the gathering to worship, welcoming Democrats, Republicans and Independents who may be sitting next to each other here—or possibly at an upcoming Thanksgiving gathering. Encouraging all to get along in Thanksgiving time as well as all year.
“We represent different faith traditions, and we have very different ways to think about—or talk about—God,” he said. “We respect each other, we work together on things.”
number, this time “This is My World,” sung by the choir with the audience, rising up to their feet, again joining in. This audience of many faiths were able to see the words that were shown on screens on both sides of the sanctuary. In joining the voices from different faiths and the choir those in attendance sang in harmony.
Bishop Jeff Cole, of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, also cited scripture. Cole spoke of Psalm 100, a psalm of joyous praise and thanksgiving that calls all people to worship God for his goodness, mercy and faithfulness. He referred to serving God with gladness.
Rabbi Rafi Ellenson, of Congregation Shir Hadash, then gave a sermon beginning with what a joy it is for him to be in celebration. “Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. called a beloved community one that strives together across religious, racial and ethnic lines,” he said, “in pursuit of a better future for us all, a community who comes together to imagine not only the world as it is, that works together in creating a vision of the world to come—a community dedicated to emphasizing gratitude.”
Going on, Ellenson prayed, “May we all feed our souls, our bellies and our beloved communities with artistry, with beauty and with intention. Amen.”
WATER COMPANY DONATES SAFEWAY GIFT CARDS TO STRUGGLING FAMILIES
Operation Gobble connects utilities with officials, nonprofits
Staff Report
San Jose Water is donating Safeway gift cards to families in need as part of its annual Operation Gobble program.
The California Water Association established Operation Gobble with the purpose of partnering water utilities with elected officials and non-profit organizations across the state to make donations during Thanksgiving.
Hyujae Lee, pastor at Los Gatos United Methodist Church, then led the responsive Thanksgiving prayer. Words recited back included “Reach out with care and courage, so the goodness of life may be shared by all people.”
The hymn “Let There Be Peace on Earth” wafted through the air, followed by prayers for peace by Cantor Devorah Felder-Levy of Congregation Shi Hadash and the Rev. Erica Rader, associate pastor at the Presbyterian Church of Los Gatos.
“As we celebrate the holiday of Thanksgiving, we remember the early years of our nation, which included great harm to Indigenous people and enslaved people,” Rader prayed, shifting between gratitude and more serious notes, as she mentioned “the Ohlone people, whose legacy we honor and continue to recognize.”
Cantor Devorah Fedler-Levy added, “on this Transgender Day of Remembrance, we lament the oppression and violence that has wounded transgender, non-binary children, and we stand against those who would do harm to them. We should continue to be reminded that we are all created in the image of God and to love our neighbors as we love ourselves.”
After they concluded. Tooba Ahmed, from the West Valley Muslim Association, read a scripture passage that emphasizes the boundless mercy and blessings of Allah. This section of the Quran highlights the wonders of creation, such as the sun, moon and oceans, and reminds readers to be grateful for these provisions.
This was followed by another choral
Following Rabbi Ellenson, Rabbi Hugh Seid-Valencia, chief community officer for Jewish Silicon Valley, urged attendees to turn “our collective gratitude into a bountiful and meaningful offering.”
“The beneficiary of tonight’s offering is the National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI),” he said. “I serve on the community advisory council and have benefited directly, and immeasurably, from the wisdom and fellowship.” He introduced Rovina Nimbalkar, who represents NAMI.
“Many people come to us when they are scared or unsure,” Nimbalkar began. “We listen, we walk with them, and we help them find the path forward. Every year in Santa Clara County, we serve over 13,000 individuals and families. We partner with synagogues, mosques and churches to suggest clients that may need extra support. This allows us to help people who might never have otherwise found mental health support.”
“This Little Light of Mine” proved the offertory anthem. Then, the Rev. Ricardo Avila, rector at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, provided a final blessing.
“May your hunger feed compassion for the suffering of others. If darkness overwhelms you, may the inextinguishable spark of divinity in your soul call for daylight. In your moments of joy, may you sparkle so bright that others could see their way.”
He concluded with, “Should you ever feel lost near the gracious hand of God, let him take yours. Never forget to give thanks. Never take a single thing for granted. Pray for those who suffer for lack of what you have.”
The Interfaith evening ended with everyone singing “America the Beautiful,” before moving to the nearby hall for refreshments and continued fellowship.
“We’re honored to join our local elected officials and community partners through the CWA’s Operation Gobble, supporting families in need this holiday season,” said Tanya Moniz-Witten, president of SJW. “At San Jose Water, our commitment to helping our community extends year-round—we’re dedicated to improving the quality of life in the communities we serve.”
Senator Dave Cortese, Assemblymember Alex Lee, Assemblymember Gail Pellerin, Assemblymember Marc Berman, Assemblymember Patrick Ahrens, representatives for Senator Josh Becker (Miles Goodman and Alex Kobayashi) and a representative for Senator Aisha Wahab (Astrid Scott), were among those who participated in an announcement about the initiative, Nov. 19.
IRIDESCENT A flock of about 13 peacocks wander around a driveway on Pine Avenue. It’s not clear where this one originated, but the area has been populated with them since at least 1969, according to neighborhood resident Tom Ferrito.
FATHER Angelo David helped lead this year’s Interfaith Thanksgiving Service, at St. Mary’s of the Immaculate Conception.
Sara Lai Stirland
Sustainability, stewardship and the future of La Rinconada CC LETTER TO THE EDITOR
Recent commentary about the renovation at La Rinconada Country Club has raised understandable questions—and, unfortunately, some misconceptions—about what is actually taking place on our grounds. As stewards of a property with nearly a century of history and deep roots in the Los Gatos community, we welcome opinions of all kinds. What we cannot allow, however, is misinformation to overshadow the essential truth: our project is an ecological correction, a sustainability initiative, and a forward-looking investment in preserving the character we all cherish.
A recent letter published in the Los Gatan implied we are destroying oak canopies or otherwise harming the natural landscape, accompanied by dramatic photos of felled logs. This is simply not true. In fact, only one native tree is being removed for health and safety reasons. In total, 99.6% of the trees being removed are non-native, sometimes harmful species that have been crowding out native growth, consuming disproportionate water and degrading soil conditions. More than 70% of these non-native trees are being replaced with new plantings native to the Los Gatos chaparral. The result will be a more consistent landscape with the property’s original ecology—healthier, more sustainable, and more resilient.
Another misconception is that the renovation is driven by vanity: an attempt to “keep up” with other private clubs. This notion does not reflect who we are. La Rinconada does not compete with other clubs for members, and we have no desire to chase trends or prestige. We are proud of our club, but pride alone does not secure the next century. Our objective is simple: long-term sustainability. Healthy land, responsible water use and thoughtful investments, these are the building blocks of a club that will serve future generations. That’s not ego. That’s stewardship.
False concerns have been circulated about members departing the club in large numbers in reaction to the project. Again, the facts tell a different story. This year’s membership transfers have tracked exactly with normal trends, as has our waitlist, which stands today at about 15 months, not a five-year wait, but steady and healthy. The reasons members sell their memberships remain the same as always: roughly
half relocate, and half face healthrelated changes. The renovation has not altered this pattern.
The golf course restoration is only one example of the club’s broader commitment to responsible sustainability. Our major solar project, approved by 93% of our members and entirely financed by them, reflects the same values. Prior to approval, we fully communicated all plans, renderings, and locations so members could make informed decisions.
We have also taken great care to ensure the installation will be as visually unobtrusive as possible and respectful of Los Gatos’ character. Our aim is to reduce environmental impact, not create an eyesore. We treasure the feel of our town and will not diminish it. Everything we are doing, from tree replacement to course improvements to solar integration, is designed to honor the club’s history, the history of the land itself, and the values of both our members and the broader Los Gatos community. Preserving character is essential, we agree wholeheartedly. Sustainability and preservation are not competing goals; they are mutually reinforcing.
Over the last two years, we have held numerous in-person sessions with our members and neighbors. Their feedback has been overwhelmingly thoughtful, constructive, and, in most cases, enthusiastic. More than 73% of members approved the golf course restoration and the Los Gatos Town Planning Commission unanimously approved the project. That level of engagement and support speaks volumes.
La Rinconada stands firmly behind this project because the facts, science, and the long-term needs of our community all support it. We are correcting decades of ecological imbalance, embracing a sustainable future, honoring local character, and responsibly planning for generations to come.
As we move forward, we welcome continued conversation based on facts and shared commitment to the land that makes La Rinconada such a special place. We look forward to sharing the results of the project with the community.
Stewardship isn’t always easy, but it is always the right thing to do.
Bob Riland
President, La Rinconada Country Club Board of Director
Jury reaches decision after first full day of deliberations in Kaleb Charters case
Drew Penner, Editor
Kaleb Charters, the 18-year-old accused of dropping three people off in the Pleasure Point neighborhood of Santa Cruz, in 2019, to rob and kidnap tech executive and cannabis entrepreneur Tushar Atre, then driving up to the marijuana farm in Los Gatos where he’d worked for Atre— to prepare the crime scene where his former boss would be killed—was convicted of felony murder Nov. 19.
After a day of deliberation at the Santa Cruz County Superior Courthouse, the jury decided Charters—now several years older—was guilty on all counts, following dramatic closing arguments from Assistant District Attorney Michael McKinney.
“‘Get on the ground! Put your hands behind your back!’” McKinney shouted at the jury Monday afternoon to kickoff his closing argument, recreating the violent events that played out at Atre’s oceanfront home, then up at the rural property in the Santa Cruz Mountains,
where the victim was executed and left on the forest floor. “Left him shot four times, stabbed seven.”
Stephen Nicholas Lindsay and Charters’ brother, Kurtis Charters, were previously convicted and are serving life in prison. Joshua Camps, who admitted to shooting Atre in the head, has yet to be dealt with by the justice system.
McKinney said Lindsay and Kaleb Charters, who’d both worked for Atre at his weed grow, had $200 withheld from their paychecks and were humiliated by him—forced to do 500 pushups outside.
“Was he a major participant, and did he act with reckless indifference?” is a key question McKinney reminded the jury they had to focus on, when it came to Kaleb Charters’ role in the string of brutal crimes. “We know that the defendant did his part.”
In his closing arguments, defense lawyer T.J. Brewer, of Santa Cruz-based Page & Dudley, positioned his client as an upstanding citizen who made a bad decision to get involved in a robbery that went sideways.
“The whole revenge narrative sounds really good for the papers,” he said, disputing the prosecution’s theory and argu-
dropping out of college after being dazzled by his wealth, according to the prosecution.
“Their plans to ride Tushar’s coattails were dashed,” McKinney said, characterizing the situation when the employment opportunity in Los Gatos fell apart. “So, it’s fitting where they chose to take him to.”
Given the defendant’s army training, he could’ve at least tried to save the victim’s life, but he chose not to, the prosecutor added.
“He sat around dividing up the money,” he said. “He took his equal share.”
In fact, in text message evidence from after the murder, the defendant writes “I quit the right way” about his Santa Cruz job. In another he replies that what someone told him is “more f***** up than what we do for money.”
Brewer told the jury his client’s brain wasn’t fully developed, because he was barely an adult. He argued the post-murder text messages were his way of coping with a situation that had spiraled way beyond what was intended.
“What do you do with a taboo subject? You make taboo jokes,” he said. “Kaleb was the least involved.”
Brewer asked the jury to take into consideration the fact Charters testified for three days and didn’t shy away from the tough questions.
“You never saw him get mad. You never saw him blow up at anybody,” he said. “He was remorseful.”
But just one day later—at the end of their first full day after being sent to begin deliberations—the jury returned with a unanimous verdict: guilty on all counts (including murder, robbery, burglary, kidnapping and carjacking).
ing there was no way Charters could’ve known Camps would pull the trigger of the AR-15 that Oct. 1, 2019 morning at 3:30am. “He did not aid and abet the murder of Tushar Atre.”
McKinney painstakingly laid-out the reams of evidence connecting Charters to the others, telling the People’s story of what happened in nitty-gritty detail.
He tried to highlight aspects that wouldn’t make sense if they were just planning to steal money from Atre while he wasn’t around and they weren’t planning to kill him.
“For a burglary plan they’ve got it all,” McKinney said, suggesting there was no need for three of them to take a detour from Las Vegas, where they were living, to Lancaster to pick up Camps and his AR-15—or the armor-piercing rounds— instead of heading straight to Santa Cruz. “It’s a plan to kill.”
And, he added, they didn’t bring masks that would conceal their faces properly.
On the drive up from Lancaster, Charters was “the hype man,” McKinney said.
The lives of the perpetrators had just been shaken-up by Atre, a multimillionaire tech executive who’d started the web agency AtreNet, with one of them even
And given the special circumstances agreed to as true by the jury, he knew that meant in a matter of days his client will be sentenced to life in prison without the chance of parole.
“Both Kaleb and myself respect the jury’s decision,” he said in a telephone interview with the Los Gatan. “All you can ever really ask is for 12 members of the community to come in and do their best with the law.”
He says he doesn’t regret putting his client on the stand. But he was hoping for a different result.
“You do the best you can in cases like this, and you leave it in the jury’s hands,” he said. “It’s hard sometimes to take those verdicts. I mean, I’m not going to lie to you. It doesn’t feel great…but this is the system we have, and from what I felt, he got a fair trial.”
CORRECTION
In our recent Best of Los Gatan coverage, a photo taken at a local champagne bar should have stated co-owner Denise Thornberry was pictured with Wine Director Juan Pablo Trillo Molina at “Tasting House”. We regret the error.
3 DOWN, 1 TO GO Kaleb Charters (top left) was convicted of felony murder and other charges last week, after his brother, Kurtis Charters (top right), and Stephen Nicholas Lindsay (bottom left) were found guilty in the killing of Tushar Atre. A trial for Joshua Camps (bottom right) is expected to begin in January.
Ad POLICE BLOTTER
SUNDAY, NOV. 16
• The week’s string of auto burglaries began on Sunday evening, with a break-in occurring at Double D’s on North Santa Cruz Avenue.
MONDAY, NOV. 17
• At 7:33am, $1,000 worth of holiday products were stolen from trucks parked outside of the Whole Foods Market on Los Gatos Boulevard.
• A vehicle was stolen from the Muni Lots on North Santa Cruz Avenue and Los Gatos - Saratoga Road at 9:17am.
TUESDAY, NOV. 18
• Two sets of wires were reported to be down in Los Gatos on Monday.
• At 7:09am, wires were reported down on Camino Del Cerro.
WEDNESDAY, NOV. 19
• After two sets of wires were reported down on Tuesday, another incident was reported on the intersection of Tait Avenue and West Main Street at 4:03pm.
FINAL YEAR OF THE TURKEYBOWL?
Organizer Matt Ober wants to hand over the reins
Staff Report
Started in 1991, The National Turkeybowl League is a town institution.
The Thanksgiving morning football tradition sees players as old as eight years young and as young as 60 years old show their best moves in this flag football event. Each player hopes to be part of the champion squad, to secure bragging rights and claim the renowned Turkeybowl trophy.
Organizer Matt Ober look forward to this annual free event, which has grown to attract the support of local businesses such as The Alarm Company, Los Gatos Meats, Gardinos Restorante, Double D’s Sports Grille, Forbes Mill, Willow Street Woodfired Pizza, Don Knight with Coldwell Banker, Sorelle Italian Bistro and Campus Burgers.
But Ober says that now, after 34
THURSDAY, NOV. 20
• Two incidents regarding suspicious individuals and vehicles were reported at Los Gatos schools.
• At 10:44am, a suspicious vehicle was reported at Los Gatos High School.
FRIDAY, NOV. 21
• Vandalism was reported at 8:42am, on Old Adobe Way. The reporting person discovered a broken bathroom window, and proceeded to find a PVC pipe used to break the window on the property.
SATURDAY, NOV. 22
• Three auto burglaries were reported throughout the day.
• A property burglary was reported on Jo Drive.
SUNDAY, NOV. 23
• At 11:10am, a suspicious person was reported at the intersection of West Main Street and Montebello Way.
FUN The National Turkeybowl League has now been going for 34 years.
years, all good things must come to an end and he’s looking to pass the torch in hopes of keeping this flag football tradition going.
He urges people to come out and see what all the fun is about this Thanksgiving morning—Nov. 27—at Creekside Sports Park in Los Gatos. (Kickoff will be at 9am sharp).
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FLAG
When Brazil took over Los Gatos in the ’90s
Former mayor recalls glory days of ‘94 World Cup, as next one approaches
Faizi Samadani, Contributor
Classical music played throughout the home of former Los Gatos mayor Randy Attaway, last Thursday afternoon, as he prepared to sit down with the Los Gatan to recount one of the most thrilling moments in modern Los Gatos history. He spent two terms in the top job in the ‘90s, then one in 2002, for a total of 12 years on Town Council. Without a doubt, one of his fondest life memories was World Cup 1994. That was the time when Brazil won the soccer championship and thousands of people celebrated in Los Gatos. The Brazilian team was staying at a hotel in town that no longer exists, and so they would frequent downtown locations and fans streamed into the community to party late into the night. The next World Cup takes place next year, and will have a stop in Santa Clara. Could a full-circle moment be possible?
1, 2, 3 times the charm as mayor
After moving to Los Gatos in the 80s, Attaway immediately started making moves in the community. One of his friends suggested he run for Council in 1986. “I was encouraged to run by a Council member, Marlon Rasmussen, and in my first race I lost,” he said. “But then, I got on the Planning Commission, and went on a number of committees and earned my credentials. And then when I ran, I won in 1990." Attaway says that his first term as mayor was a huge learning curve. He remembers the North 40 project being initially proposed to the Town Council, during his third term. But, he says, the vision was much different at the time.
When asked about his stance on housing development, Attaway said he believes the Town should form a united front with other communities to challenge things he doesn’t support. “Because we're not the only community that has issues with this,” he said. “We need to get a coalition and get the whole cities association to push back.”
Los Gatos befriends Brazil
Attaway was mayor of Los Gatos during the ‘94 World Cup. The Brazilian team was housed at a hotel called Villa Felice on Winchester Boulevard. “It brought a certain amount of pride to your community, and we stood out to the Bay Area,” he said. “It was a proud moment for our government and for our citizens. They eventually approached me and asked me if I would provide security at the hotel they were staying in.”
Attaway says they were attracted by the hills surrounding the town, because they made them feel secure. Attaway says you could hear the celebrations from a great distance.
Attaway was invited to Brazil by their president. He said that when he landed in Rio de Janeiro, there were about two million people waiting. They board-
ed buses and he says it was like driving through “ants” with the sea of people. He remembers how special it was, because it was the last time many of the soccer stars would play together, since they were playing for different European teams. “I was asked by the Brazilian ambassador to the United States to come back before the World Cup, to meet the
president in Washington, DC, at their embassy,” he said. “We were asked by the ambassador of Brazil to San Francisco to an event where they brought me up on stage and honored me with the medal that they give to diplomats.” Attaway has this medal hanging in his office at his home, along with a signed jersey and soccer ball.
FORMER MAYOR Randy Attaway holds a Brazil jersey that was signed by the national team, which he got when he went to Villa Felice to visit them.
Photos by Faizi Samadani
Attaway, who himself played sports growing up, says he knew what it meant for them to choose Los Gatos. “I was at an electric place at a lucky time,” he said. “The fact that they chose us was unbelievably special.” The bond that Attaway initiated led him and his wife to eventually be invited to Brazil, where they were welcomed with open arms
and taken around the country as a way of returning their gratitude. “Our town supported this influx of Brazilians with open arms and joined in on their festivities,” he said. “It was an experience for them, and our residents.” But, he was a bit worried about complaints from local residents angry about all the ruckus. “When it's 2 o'clock in the morning and
I hear the chatting go on, I'm thinking, Please stop , because I'm gonna get a beating in the morning,” he said. “I never got one.”
The intensity of the moment was so strong that people even remember cars parking on the freeway to be able to access Los Gatos. While people wonder if something similar might happen
during next year’s World Cup, Attaway says not to get our hopes up. He believes the 1994 experience might have just been a one-time thing. One day of impromptu happenings, with a parade that flooded the town with thousands of people—and Attaway in attendance—that will never be forgotten by those who were there.
COMMENDATION Brazil’s president gave Randy Attaway the Order of The Southern Cross. The medal is the highest diplomatic honor given to anyone outside of Brazil.
SIGNED SPHERE The 1994 World Cup Brazil team captain gave Randy Attaway this signed soccer ball as a token of their appreciation. It lives on top of a cabinet in his home.
AT HOME Randy Attaway with wife Sara LaBerge in their livingroom.
SPORTS
DEPTH ON THE COURT MADE THE DIFFERENCE
S ports , from page 1
Wildcats beat Los Altos in their two regular-season matchups. However, defeating a talent-rich Eagles squad for the third time in as many tries proved too difficult, especially for a Los Gatos squad that was missing its No. 2 singles player due to injury.
“We knew going in what we needed to do and Los Altos was just a better team than us today,” Stenger said. “They’re the defending CCS and NorCal champs, and very much on track to do that again this season. But our girls played their hearts out today and it caps what was an amazing run this year. Our goal this year was to win the De Anza, so regardless of the outcome today, they are champions.”
The team’s lineup for the final included Kayla Mitchell, Tuleen Ikkawi, Anya Chahaun and Lila Zamansky at the Nos.
1-4 singles positions. The doubles teams featured Lera Marinicheva and Kaley Do at the No. 1 slot, Sejal Pancholy and Sophia Kim at No. 2 and sisters Syona Rama and Riya Rama rounding out the No. 3 doubles position.
The Wildcats’ two wins in the title match came at No. 2 and 3 doubles. Pancholy and Kim lost just one match the entire season, while the senior duo of Marinicheva and Do provided leadership as the co-captains of the team.
“Sejal and Sophia had a phenomenal season,” Stenger said. “That’s a sophomore and a freshman, so we’re really excited about having them back in the years ahead. And Lera and Kaley have been playing together for four years, and they’ve made their presence felt in different ways.”
In high school team tennis, depth is
“What they did was one of the best matches I’ve ever been a part of,” Stenger said. “All the wind was taken out of our sails, but everyone came together. We had to craft a lineup we’ve never used before, and had to put it together that morning. You see our No. 2 doubles team win in a third-set tiebreaker and Lera—who hadn’t played singles all season—come off the court with a win at three singles was just awesome. To me, that’s what I’m going to remember. Reaching the championship was great, but I’m going to remember the Monta Vista match.”
Speaking of memorable, Mitchell gave the program four years of stellar play, all at the No. 1 singles position. Blending athleticism, skill and powerful strokes, Mitchell dazzled on the court with an array of shotmaking. However, it was her intangibles that Stenger won’t soon forget.
“Kayla has all of it, just everything,” he said. “She’s so much more than tennis. One of the best I’ve ever been around, and I’m just lucky to have been around a kid of her caliber. It’s tough knowing her time as a Los Gatos High tennis player is coming to an end.”
In capturing a De Anza Division championship, the team—and specifically, four-year senior starters Mitchell, Do, Marinicheva and Chahaun—did something utterly remarkable. Four years ago, the Wildcats were in the SCVAL’s lower El Camino Division.
That season, the then-freshmen quartet helped lead the team to an El Camino Division title. The following season, they were promoted to the upper De Anza Division. In most cases, teams that get promoted usually find themselves back in the El Camino a year or two later because the jump in competition tends to be steep.
Instead of getting demoted, Los Gatos incrementally worked its way up the standings before reaching the apex this season.
paramount. That’s because a victory at the No. 3 doubles position carries the same weight as the No. 1 singles slot.
“Depth is what made the difference for us this year,” Stenger said. “So many teams in the league depend on their top four singles players, but not us. We were so much stronger on those doubles lines, and that’s what carried us through the season.”
Just to reach the final, Los Gatos had to beat three perennially tough foes: Leigh, Sacred Heart Prep and Monta Vista. Los Gatos avenged its only loss in the regular-season when it downed Leigh 5-2 in a second-round matchup. It was the semifinal contest against Monta Vista that made Stenger particularly proud. Despite having one of its top players unavailable due to injury, Los Gatos battled through adversity to prevail, 5-2.
“It’s a really difficult thing to do,” Stenger said. “These seniors can say they won an El Camino and De Anza championship. I don’t know how many players can say that. This year to be 12-0 in league, it’s wild. We’re celebrating that championship.”
The team dinner in the aftermath of the Los Altos match proved to be the final time where everyone was together.
“It was all smiles,” Stenger said. “The younger players started talking about next year, and the seniors are there smiling and talking about who’s going to be captain next year. When you see that, I couldn’t help but smile. To see that resilience and looking to the future after having such a tough day, it gives me hope and makes me want to come back and do it all over again.”
REASON TO SMILE The Los Gatos High School girls tennis team went 12-0 to win the SCVAL De Anza Division championship en route to the CCS title match.
HIGH SCHOOLERS GET ‘PERFECT’ SCORE ON STATE EXAMS
It’s the best LGSUHSD’s ever done in the 2025 California School Dashboard evaluation
Staff Report
The California Department of Education released the 2025 California School Dashboard earlier this month, providing schools and families with information on school and district progress in improving student learning and outcomes. The Los Gatos-Saratoga Union High School District calls it “a defining moment of achievement”—that’s because the District earned Blue, the highest possible rating, on every state indicator.
It marks the first time in District history that it’s reached the “All Blue” status. It also places LGSUHSD in a category of its own, as it’s the only K–12 (or high school district) in California to currently have earned a perfect rating across all measures.
“This is an extraordinary accomplishment for our schools and community,” said Superintendent Heath Rocha in a release. “To be the only K–12 or high school district in California to earn blue across every indicator is a testament to the talent, dedication and commitment of our staff and students, as well as the steadfast support of our parents and community members. Yet, as proud as we are, we know our work continues. Not all students are yet meeting standards, and that reality motivates us every day. Our ongoing focus on Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and Essential Learner Outcomes (ELO) remains essential to ensuring that every student thrives.”
The California School Dashboard is the state’s public accountability system, which uses multiple measures, not just test scores, to show how well schools and districts are meeting the needs of all students.
The six state measures for high schools are:
• Academic performance in English
• Academic performance in Math
• English-learner progress
• Graduation rate
• Suspension rate
• College/career readiness
For each state measure, districts and student subgroups receive one of five color-coded ratings, ranging from Red (lowest) to Blue (highest).
This year marks the first time that Science performance received a Dashboard rating and LGSUHSD earned a Blue in this new category.
“The District is also especially proud of the dramatic gains in English Learner Progress,” a spokesperson for the District said.
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NONPROFIT AIMS TO ELIMINATE PESTICIDE USE, IMPOSE BUFFER TO HELP PROTECT COMMUNITIES
Group says new State rules fall short of what’s needed
Todd Guild, Pajaronian E ditor
A state nonprofit that aims to reduce and eliminate the use of dangerous pesticides on agricultural fields in California plans to sue the agency tasked with regulating them.
The announcement came Nov. 18 during a press conference convened in Watsonville by Californians for Pesticide Reform.
Mark Weller, who oversees that organization, said the lawsuit will be filed soon.
According to that nonprofit, new rules from the state’s Department of Pesticide Regulation’s (DPR) governing the use of the pesticides 1,3-dichloropropene (1,3D; brand name Telone) and Chloropicrin—both known carcinogens—exceed by 14 times those recommended by state toxicologists at Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment.
Yanely Martinez, an organizer with Safe Ag, Safe Schools—which co-host -
ed the event—said the Watsonville rally was one of several held statewide, with Oxnard, Modesto and Fresno included in the list.
“Our call is to basically phase out fumigants,” she said. “The regulation does not protect our children in the Pajaro Valley.”
The group is also calling for a onemile buffer zone on farm fields near schools to be either pesticide free, or use organic practices.
“The ethical thing to do is to listen to the OEHHA scientists,” Martinez said, pointing to a similar one-mile buffer that was recently implemented in Imperial County.
“The reason we’re putting this press conference on, and why we’re doing what we’re doing, is for the health of the next generation, and the current generation,” she said.
Omar Dieguez, who recently went on a 30-day hunger strike in an attempt to convince companies such as Driscoll's to cease the use of pesticides, said he wants to bring public attention to the issue of cancer-causing fumigants.
“Driscolls owns thousands of fields,”
he said. “We’re asking for 20 to 30 fields near our schools to go organic. They’re not going to lose a lot of money on 20 to 30 fields versus the thousands that they own.”
Public health nurse Erika Alfaro said that 40 countries worldwide have already banned the fumigants.
“I am very furious,” she said. “The state is ultimately failing to protect us, and especially our children from these hazardous pesticides.”
Francisco Rodriguez, Monterey Bay Central Labor Council, said that the fumigants are more than just a public health issue.
“They’re also a work-safety issue,” he said. “These fumigants hurt the workers, they hurt the families, and if you live near one of these fields where these fumigants are applied, they hurt you.”
A 2014 study of the 15 California counties with the highest pesticide use showed an increase from 149,000 to nearly 190,000 pounds of Telone, and It grew from 161,000 pounds to 259,000 pounds of Chloropicrin.
In a statement provided to The Paja-
ronian, CDPR said that the rules set by OEHHA are different from the regulatory targets set by DPR.
OEHHA guidelines regulate when a warning is needed, and can prod businesses to reduce use beyond what a regulation requires. DPR regulations, on the other hand, restrict use.
“Last year, we set new rules that protect bystanders with fumigation restrictions, and those regulations are already working: emissions fell 29 percent from 2023 to 2024. In California, 1,3-D use and emissions are decreasing: 2024 air monitoring found levels below scientific health thresholds,” the statement reads.
In addition, DPR has partnered with OEHHA to further restrict the use of 1,3-D, which will require larger buffer zones and more evaluation of exposure risks. If approved, the new rules will take effect Jan. 1.
DPR also launched SprayDays California, which alerts the community when restricted materials pesticides are scheduled to be used.
RALLYING CRY Members of Californians for Pesticide Reform and Safe Ag Safe Schools, shown here during a press conference in Watsonville, are calling for a one-mile buffer zone for agricultural fields near schools where pesticide could not be used.
LEADING THE WAY Activist Omar Dieguez, who went on a 30-day hunger strike against the use of pesticides near schools, speaks to the crowd.
Todd Guild/ The Pajaronian
Todd Guild/ The Pajaronian
Ma’alot Farms gears up for upcoming busy season
Heading into the holidays, a young Los Gatos farm expands its role as a local food source, event venue
Staff Report
On a quiet hillside above town, Ma’alot Farms is steadily transforming raw land into one of Los Gatos’ most community-minded food sources. And while this young farm is still growing—literally—its team is gearing-up to serve local families this holiday season with fresh foods and handcrafted items.
Ma’alot Farms is led by Shoshana and Philip Ohriner, who run the working farm with their three sons and a small team. What began as a homesteading dream on a former walnut orchard has, over eight years, become a complex ecosystem of animals, orchards, perennials and community spaces. The Ohriners spent years living in a 399-square-foot tiny house on the property while cultivating the land, building a community space with living quarters and laying the foundations for the farm’s future.
For Shoshana, farming is a return to the practices that shaped her childhood, from berry-picking and jam-making with her family to five summers at Hidden Villa, the working farm and camp in Los Altos. Her background as a rabbi and hospital chaplain also informs her approach.
“Everything I’ve done leading up to this is about nourishing people in a holistic way,” she said.
Today, Ma’alot stretches across 16 acres, with about 10 of those dedicated to production. The farm raises goats, chickens, ducks, turkeys and occasionally quail, while cultivating more than 500 plant species—from currants and sour cherries to apricots, mangos and bananas. Diversity is intentional: with climate unpredictability increasing, the farm is built to withstand swings in temperature and weather.
Most crops are perennial, which means the farm’s major harvests are still ahead. Many of the trees were planted only recently, and full production isn’t expected until at least 2030. Even so, Ma’alot Farms is already regularly donating fresh produce through its partnership with Loaves & Fishes, which provides food to residents across Santa Clara County, each year. Shoshana says the food she and her team pick is usually in someone’s hand to eat within 48 hours.
As the orchard matures, their annual contribution is expected to rise significantly.
“We’re building toward the next 50-to100 years of production,” Shoshana said. “This is about creating resilience and being producers rather than consumers.”
Visitors to Ma’alot Farms quickly learn that it is more than a farm; it’s a gather-
CUDDLY GOAT Shoshana Ohriner, above, leads the day-to-day operations of the farm and lives on the property with her husband, Philip, and their three sons.
ing space. The property includes a teaching kitchen, private and communal event areas, and long outdoor tables that host farm-to-table dinners. The food, prepared largely from ingredients grown onsite, reflects Shoshana’s passion for cooking and the craft of turning raw harvests into jams, broths, breads and seasonal dishes.
These events often feature tours or storytelling led by Philip, who brings people into the journey of restoring the land. The owners say their name, Ma’alot, comes from the Psalms of Ascent, and is meant to reflect physical elevation and the spiritual act of bringing land back to health and abundance.
This month, Ma’alot Farms is once again opening its gates to the community through its Holiday Artists’ Market on Dec. 7. Families can shop pottery, jewelry, glasswork, soaps and other handcrafted gifts while enjoying the farm stand’s fresh produce, pantry items and hot food. A cookie-decorating workshop and the ever-popular farm animal experience add to the festive atmosphere.
While the event offers a charming afternoon in the hills above Los Gatos, it’s also part of a broader seasonal effort: showcasing how the farm is preparing to nourish families year-round. Ma’alot Farms offers a variety of memberships that provide seasonal boxes of fresh and preserved foods, access to members-only events and farm engagement opportunities—options that make meaningful holiday gifts.
Despite its early successes, Shoshana emphasizes that Ma’alot Farms remains a work in progress. The orchards are young, the soil is still being restored, and the systems that will support large-scale food donations are only beginning to take shape.
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Shoshana Ohriner
Fictitious Business Name Statements
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #720476
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Brightmane Therapeutic Center, 1040 Lincoln Ave., San Jose, CA, Alisha Danielle Allen. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant has not yet begun business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. /s/Alisha Allen. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 10/14/2025. (pub LG 11/05, 11/12, 11/19, 11/26/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #720420
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: 1. Ivory Squad, 2. Prime Smile, 3. Fang-Tastic Care, 100 Palm Valley Blvd, APT 3044, San Jose, CA, 95123, Shelley Gayle Acdan Raza. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 09/26/2025. /s/Shelley Gayle Acdan Raza. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 10/10/2025. (pub Metro 11/12, 11/19, 11/26, 12/03/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #721001
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Smart Wound, 1855 Alum Rock Ave, San Jose, CA, 95116, Layhill Inc. This business is being conducted by a Corporation. Registrant has not yet begun business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. Above entity was formed in the state of California. /s/Phillip Thelan Pham. CEO. #B20250327843. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 10/03/2025. (pub LG 11/12, 11/19, 11/26, 12/03/2025)
File Number: FBN720668. The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: 1. Creative Juices Design , 485 Alberto Way, Suite 200, Los Gatos, Ca 95032. This business is conducted by: An Individual, Mary Lacerte, 139 Vineyard Court, Los Gatos, CA 95032. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 07/18/2005 and 10/22/2025 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Corinne Vasquez /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. /s/ Mary Lacerte /s/. (Pub LGN: 11/12, 11/19, 11/26, 12/03/2025)
File Number: FBN720950. The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: 1. WREN APPAREL , 3185 Oakgate Way, San Jose, CA 95148. This business is conducted by: An Individual, SHEHZAD ISMAIL, 3185 Oakgate Way, San Jose, CA 95148. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 11/03/2025 and 11/03/2025 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Patty Camarena /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. /s/ Shehzad Ismail /s/. (Pub LGN: 11/12, 11/19, 11/26, 12/03/2025)
File Number: FBN721051 . The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: 1. IRISH RUMMY, 974 Yorkshire Drive, Los Altos, CA 94024. This business is conducted by: An Individual, MARY VERDUCCI, 974 Yorkshire Drive, Los Altos, CA 94024. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Not Applicable and 11/05/2025 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Elaine Fader /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. /s/ Mary Verducci /s/. (Pub LGN: 11/12, 11/19, 11/26, 12/03/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #720229
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: The Posture Lounge, 1706 Willow St. STE C., San Jose, CA, 95127, Richardson DC, LLC. This business is being conducted by a Limited Liability Company. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 11/17/2020. Above entity was formed in the state of California. /s/Melinda Valdez Richardson. Owner. #201934510269. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 10/03/2025. (pub LG 11/12, 11/19, 11/26, 12/03/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #720550
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Hotshots Carpet Installations, Ryan Moorhead. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant has not yet begun business under the fictitious business name or names listed
PUBLIC NOTICES
herein. /s/Ryan Moorhead. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 10/17/2025. (pub LG 11/12, 11/19, 11/26, 12/03/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #721060
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: MicroPast, 610 University Ave., Los Gatos, CA, 95032, Gordon Van Zuiden. This business is being conducted by an Individual. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 11/1/2025. /s/ Gordon Van Zuiden. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 11/05/2025. (pub LG 11/19, 11/26, 12/03, 12/10/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #720151
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Homewell Care Services, 808 W San Carlos St., APT 271, San Jose, CA, 95126, Kushneeta LLC. This business is being conducted by a Limited Liability Company. Registrant has not yet begun business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. Above entity was formed in the state of California. /s/Kushagra Gupta. Owner. #B20250298158. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 09/30/2025. (pub LG 11/12, 11/19, 11/26, 12/03/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #720269
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Magnificent Motors, 15940 Concord Cir., Morgan Hill, CA, 95037, Ahymen, Inc. This business is being conducted by a Corporation. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 6/1/2020. Above entity was formed in the state of California. /s/Ayhan M Menekshe. CEO. #C4539062. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 10/06/2025. (pub LG 11/19, 11/26, 12/03, 12/10/2025)
File Number: FBN720894. The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: 1. DEJA , 1484 Pollard Road #3042, Los Gatos, CA 95032. This business is conducted by: A Corporation, PARDE, 1484 Pollard Road #3042, Los Gatos, CA 95032. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Not Applicable and 10/31/2025 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Patty Camarena /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. PARDE, Article/Reg # 4777894, Above Entity was Formed in the State of California. /s/ Readette Andrea Svoboda /s/ President. (Pub LGN: 11/19, 11/26, 12/03, 12/10/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #720788
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Kaddu, 312 Gates Dr Apt 424, Milpitas, CA, 95035, Kaddu.Co LLC. This business is being conducted by a Limited Liability Company. Registrant has not yet begun business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. Above entity was formed in the state of California. /s/Ruchy Bhalla Gupta. Owner. #202130810022. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 10/27/2025. (pub LG 11/19, 11/26, 12/03, 12/10/2025)
STATEMENT OF ABANDONMENT OF USE OF FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME.
FBN72117, filed on 11/07/2025.
The following person(s)/registrant(s) has/have abandoned the use of the fictitious business name(s): Tradeline Partners , 108 Smith Creek Drive, Los Gatos, CA 95030. Filed in Santa Clara county on 11/07/2022 under file No. FBN690089. Full Name of Registrant (s): 1. Daniel J Linebarger, 108 Smith Creek Drive, Los Gatos, CA 95030 and Cynthia J Linebarger, 108 Smith Creek Drive, Los Gatos, CA 95030. This business was conducted by: A General Partnership. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Corinne Vasquez /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. /s/ Daniel J Linebarger /s/. Dated: November 7, 2025. (Pub LGN: 11/26, 12/03, 12/10, 12/17/2025)
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT #720992
The following person(s) is (are) doing business as: Abundant Heaven Integrative Acupuncture, 621 E. Campbell Ave., STE 7, Campbell, CA, 95008, Abundant Heaven Acupuncture Inc. This business is being conducted by a Corporation. Registrant began business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on 01/01/2021. Above entity was formed in the state of California. /s/Jessica Giese-Gardner. CEO. #4547459. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara County on 11/04/2025. (pub LG 11/26, 12/03, 12/10, 12/17/2025)
File Number: FBN721202 . The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: 1.VASONA PARK DENTAL , 540 N. Santa Cruz Ave, Suite B1, Los Gatos, CA 95030. This business is conducted by: A Corporation, Ghuman Dental Care, Inc, 2275 E. dunne Ave, Unit A, Morgan Hill, CA 95037. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on Nov 12, 2025 and 11/12/2025 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Mike Louie /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. Ghuman Dental Care, Inc., Article/Reg # B20250067856, Above Entity was Formed in the State of California. /s/ Gurjinder Ghuman /s/ Secretary. (Pub LGN: 11/19, 11/26, 12/03, 12/10/2025)
File Number: FBN721312 . The following person (persons) is (are) doing business as: 1. DRAGONBIRD CONSULTING 1213 Torrance Ave, Sunnyvale, CA 94089. This business is conducted by: An Individual, JUDY CHEN, 1213 Torrance Avenue Sunnyvale, CA 94089. The registrant commenced to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above on 07/01/2025 and 11/14/2025 is the file date. Statement filed with the County Clerk of Santa Clara: /s/ Mike Louie /s/ Deputy, 110 West Tasman Drive, San Jose, CA 95134. /s/ Judy Chen /s/. (Pub LGN: 11/19, 11/26, 12/03, 12/10/2025)
Town of Los Gatos
NOTICE AND SUMMARY OF ORDINANCE REPEALING CHAPTER 6, BUILDING REGULATIONS, AND CHAPTER 9, FIRE PREVENTION AND PROTECTION, OF THE TOWN CODE AND REPLACING THEM WITH A NEW CHAPTER 6, BUILDING CODES AND REGULATIONS
TITLE: AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS REPEALING CHAPTER 6, “BUILDING REGULATIONS,” AND CHAPTER 9, “FIRE PREVENTION AND PROTECTION,” AND REPLACING THEM WITH A NEW CHAPTER 6, “BUILDING CODES AND REGULATIONS,” THAT INCLUDES THE NEW 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING, FIRE, AND REACH CODES AS AMENDED. AMENDMENTS INCLUDE UPDATED FIRE SAFETY REQUIREMENTS IN WILDLAND URBAN INTERFACE AREAS FOR NEW, RENOVATED, OR REPAIRED STRUCTURES, AS WELL AS REACH CODES AFFECTING AIR CONDITIONING REPLACEMENT AND ELECTRICAL READINESS IN RENOVATIONS/ ALTERATIONS.
Notice is hereby given that at its meeting of Tuesday, November 4, 2025, the Town Council conducted the first reading of an Ordinance repealing Chapter 6, Building Regulations, and Chapter 9, Fire Prevention and Protection, of the Town of Los Gatos Municipal Code, and replace them with a reorganized Chapter 6, Building Codes and Regulations. The second reading is scheduled for Tuesday, December 2, 2025, at approximately 7:00 p.m., in person and via teleconference.
The following is a summary of the Ordinance: The Town Council will consider adoption of an Ordinance repealing Chapter 6, Building Regulations, and Chapter 9, Fire Prevention and Protection, of the Town of Los Gatos Municipal Code, and replace them with a new Chapter 6, Building Codes and Regulations. This Ordinance adopts the California Building Code by reference. The draft Ordinance repeals and reorganizes Los Gatos’ existing building and fire regulations to adopt the 2025 California Building Standards Code, effective January 1, 2026, along with tailored local amendments. It incorporates the full suite of state codes building, residential, fire, energy, green building, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, and wildland-urban interface while adding local provisions to address wildfire vulnerability, seismic risk, and climate change. Key measures include expanded requirements for automatic sprinkler systems, stricter roof covering standards in fire-prone areas, enhanced seismic bracing limits, and detailed rules for energy storage systems. The Ordinance also includes reach codes to promote electrification readiness in remodels and incentivize heat pump installation for AC replacements. These efforts will align with the Town’s General Plan by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Beyond code adoption, the Ordinance establishes a comprehensive framework for administration, enforcement, and permitting. It streamlines solar permitting for small residential rooftop systems, sets clear standards for hazardous materials handling, and strengthens fire department access, hydrant distribution, and emergency responder communication systems. Provisions also cover expedited permitting, relocation of buildings, and integration of green building standards into alterations of existing homes. Collectively, the Ordinance modernizes Los Gatos’ regulatory structure to improve public safety, resilience against wildfire and seismic hazards, and long-term sustainability, while ensuring consistency with state law and local environmental goals.
California Building Code modifications include but are not limited to, calculation methods for building allowable areas, materials and construction methods for exterior wildfire exposure, emergency escape and rescue openings, energy storage systems, photovoltaic requirements, increased energy efficiency, and increased green building requirements.
Please note that the above is simply a summary of the Ordinance. To obtain a full understanding of the Ordinance it should be read in its entirety. A copy of the full text of the Ordinance, copies of the primary code and also copies of the secondary codes, if any, being considered for adoption, are on file with the clerk of the legislative body, and are open to public inspection in the Town Clerk’s office at Los Gatos Town Hall, 110 E. Main Street., Los Gatos, CA 95030.
File Fictitious Business Name paperwork with the clerk of the county
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PUBLIC NOTICES
Town of Los Gatos
ORDINANCE 2379
AN ORDINANCE OF THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS
AMENDING THE ZONING FROM O (OFFICE) TO R-1:8
(SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL, MINIMUM LOT SIZE OF 8,000 SQUARE FEET) FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 14331 CAPRI DRIVE
THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF LOS GATOS DOES ORDAIN AS FOLLOWS:
WHEREAS, the applicant, Gordon K. Wong, proposes to demolish the existing singlefamily residence, construct a new single-family residence (S-24-043), and change the zoning classification of the property from O (Office) to R-1:8 (Single-Family Residential, minimum lot size of 8,000 square feet) of property located at 14331 Capri Drive, APN 406-32-004 (Z-23-005);
WHEREAS, the existing property is zoned O, which is inconsistent with the Low Density Residential General Plan Land Use Designation for this property, which provides for “singlefamily residential properties located on generally level terrain;”
WHEREAS, the proposed new single-family residence necessitates this zone change as singlefamily residential uses are not an allowed use in the O zoning classification;
WHEREAS, Government Code Section 65860 requires that zoning be consistent with General Plan Land Use Designations;
WHEREAS, staff recommended approval of the zone change from O (Office) to R-1:8 (Single-Family Residential, minimum lot size of 8,000 square feet) in order to be consistent with the General Plan, current use, proposed use, and surrounding neighborhood;
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing on September 10, 2025, at which time the Commission considered the public testimony, the Staff Report prepared for that meeting, and all other documentation related to the Zone Change, made findings and forwarded a recommendation of approval to the Town Council;
WHEREAS, this matter came before the Town Council for public hearing on November 4, 2025, and was regularly noticed in conformance with State and Town law; and WHEREAS, the Town Council received testimony and documentary evidence from the applicant and all interested persons who wished to testify or submit documents. The Town Council considered all testimony and materials submitted, including the record of the Planning Commission proceedings and the packet of materials contained in the Council Agenda Report for their meeting on November 4, 2025, along with any and all subsequent reports and materials prepared concerning this application.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED, by the Town Council of the Town of Los Gatos as follows:
SECTION I. Findings.
The Town Council of the Town of Los Gatos does hereby declare, determine, and order that the following findings are made by the Town Council of the Town of Los Gatos:
Finding for the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA):
1. The proposed Zone Change application (Z-23-005) is exempt pursuant to CEQA, Section 15061(b)(3), because it can be seen with certainty that it will not significantly affect the physical environment in that it aligns the regulations with the existing land use. The associated Architecture and Site Application (S24-043) for construction of a new residence and site grading is Categorically Exempt pursuant to CEQA, Section 15303: New Construction.
Finding for consistency with the Town’s General Plan:
1. The proposed Zone Change is consistent with the General Plan and its Elements in that the proposed zoning is consistent with the existing General Plan Land Use Designation.
SECTION II. Zone Change.
The Zoning Map in the Town Code of the Town of Los Gatos is hereby amended to change the zoning of the property at 14331 Capri Drive (Santa Clara County Assessor Parcel Number 406-32-004) as shown on the map attached hereto as Exhibit A, and is part of this Ordinance, from O (Office) to R-1:8 (Single-Family Residential, minimum lot size of 8,000 square feet).
SECTION III. Severability.
In the event that a court of competent jurisdiction holds any Section, subsection, paragraph, sentence, clause, or phrase in this Ordinance unconstitutional, preempted, or otherwise invalid, the invalid portion shall be severed from this Section and shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Section. The Town hereby declares that it would have adopted each Section, subsection, paragraph, sentence, clause, or phrase in this Section irrespective of the fact that any one or more Sections, subsections, paragraphs, sentences, clauses, or phrases in this Section might be declared unconstitutional, preempted, or otherwise invalid.
SECTION IV. CEQA.
Adopting this Ordinance is not a project subject to CEQA because it can be seen with certainty that it will not impact the environment in that it aligns the regulations with the existing land use (CEQA Section 15061(b)(3)).
SECTION V. Publication.
The Town Council hereby directs the Town Clerk to cause this Ordinance or a summary thereof to be published or posted in accordance with Section 36933 of the Government Code of the State of California.
SECTION VI. Effective Date.
In accordance with Section 36937 of the Government Code of the State of California, this Ordinance takes effect 30 days from the date of its passage. This Ordinance was introduced at a regular meeting of the Town Council of the Town of Los Gatos on the 4th day of November 2025, and adopted by the Town Council of the Town of Los Gatos at its regular meeting on the 18th day of November 2025, by the following vote:
COUNCIL MEMBERS:
AYES: Maria Ristow, Rob Rennie, Rob Moore, Mary Badame, Mayor Matthew Hudes
