HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-18-2025 City Council Agenda Packet, amended 03-17-2025Saratoga City Council Agenda March 18, 2025 – Page 1 of 3
SARATOGA CITY COUNCIL
SPECIAL MEETING
MARCH 18, 2025
AMENDED AGENDA
• 03/17/2025 LIBRARY & PUBLIC ART COMMISSION SUPPLEMENTAL MATERIAL
ADDED
Public Participation Information
In accordance with Saratoga City Council’s Remote Public Participation Policy, members of the
public may participate in these meetings in person at the locations listed below or via remote
attendance (if applicable) using the Zoom information below. In the event remote participation
technology is unexpectedly unavailable, the meeting will proceed in person without remote
participation.
Members of the public can view and participate in the 6:00 p.m. Study Session by:
1. Attending the meeting in person at:
• City Hall Linda Callon Conference Room located at 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga CA
95070; OR
2. Accessing the meeting through Zoom
• Webinar URL: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86846057855
• Webinar ID 868 4605 7855 OR
• Calling 1.408.638.0968 or 1.669.900.6833
Written Communication
Comments can be submitted in writing at www.saratoga.ca.us/comment. Written communications
will be provided to the members of the City Council and included in the Agenda Packet and/or in
supplemental meeting materials.
Public Comment
Members of the public may comment on any item for up to three (3) minutes. The amount of time
for public comment may be reduced by the Mayor or by action of the City Council. Public
Comment will begin with speakers attending in-person first followed by those attending via Zoom.
Meeting Recording Information
In accordance with the Saratoga City Council’s Meeting Recording Policy, City Council Study
Sessions, Joint Meetings, Joint Sessions, Commission Interviews, Retreats, meetings with the
Planning Commission, and Regular Session Meetings are recorded and made available following
the meeting on the City website.
6:00 PM COMMISSION WORK PLAN STUDY SESSION
City Hall, Linda Callon Conference Room | 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, CA 95070
Note: Times below are approximate. Items may be heard earlier or later than estimated. All
Commissioners are advised to arrive 15 minutes before the time shown below for their
Commission.
Saratoga City Council Agenda March 18, 2025 – Page 2 of 3
6:00 PM Heritage Preservation Commission Work Plan
Recommended Action:
Meet with Commission, discuss priorities and approve the 2025/2026 work plan
with input provided by the City Council.
Staff Report
Attachment A – Proposed 2025-26 Work Plan
6:30 PM Library and Public Art Commission Work Plan
Recommended Action:
Meet with Commission, discuss priorities and approve the 2025/2026 work plan
with input provided by the City Council
Staff Report
Attachment A – Proposed 2025/26 Work Plan
Supplemental Memo (added 03-17-2025)
7:00 PM Break
7:15 PM Parks & Recreation Commission Work Plan
Recommended Action:
Meet with Commission, discuss priorities and approve the 2025/2026 work plan
with input provided by the City Council.
Staff Report
Attachment A – Proposed FY 25/26 Work Plan
7:45 PM Traffic Safety Commission Work Plan
Recommended Action:
Meet with Commission, discuss priorities and approve the 2025/2026 work plan
with input provided by the City Council
Staff Report
Attachment A - Proposed 2025-26 Work Plan
8:15 PM Planning Commission Work Plan
Recommended Action:
Meet with Commission, discuss priorities and approve the 2025/2026 work plan
with input provided by the City Council.
Staff Report
Attachment A – Proposed 2025/26 Work Plan
ADJOURNMENT
CERTIFICATE OF POSTING OF THE AGENDA, DISTRIBUTION OF THE AGENDA
PACKET, COMPLIANCE WITH AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT
I, Britt Avrit, City Clerk for the City of Saratoga, declare that the foregoing agenda for the meeting
of the City Council was posted and available for review on March 13, 2025 at the City of Saratoga,
13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, California and on the City's website at www.saratoga.ca.us.
Signed this 13th day of March 2025 at Saratoga, California.
Britt Avrit, MMC, City Clerk
Saratoga City Council Agenda March 18, 2025 – Page 3 of 3
In accordance with the Ralph M. Brown Act, copies of the staff reports and other materials
provided to the City Council by City staff in connection with this agenda, copies of materials
distributed to the City Council concurrently with the posting of the agenda, and materials
distributed to the City Council by staff after the posting of the agenda are available on the City
website at www.saratoga.ca.us and are available for review in the office of the City Clerk at 13777
Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, California.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Governor’s Executive Order, if
you need assistance to participate in this meeting, please contact the City Clerk at
bavrit@saratoga.ca.us or calling 408.868.1216 as soon as possible before the meeting. The City
will use its best efforts to provide reasonable accommodations to provide as much accessibility as
possible while also maintaining public safety. [28 CFR 35.102-35.104 ADA title II]
SARATOGA CITY COUNCIL
MEETING DATE:March 18, 2025
DEPARTMENT:Community Development Department
PREPARED BY:Cindy McCormick, Development Manager
SUBJECT:Heritage Preservation Commission Work Plan
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Meet with Commission, discuss priorities and approve the 2025/2026 work plan with input
provided by the City Council.
BACKGROUND:
On March 13,2025, the Heritage Preservation Commission (HPC) reviewed the upcoming fiscal
year (FY) work plan and proposes to work on the following list of items during the 2025/26 FY.
A detailed description of the proposed work plan is included in Attachment A.
1.Heritage Resource Inventory (HRI)
2.Continuing Education
3.Public Outreach
4.Point of Interest Markers/ Plaques
During 2024/25 FY, the HPC is tentatively scheduled to review one (1)property for a Landmark
and Mills Act contract recommendation to the City Council.To date, the Commission has held
three meetings which included a tour of the Foothill Club, removal of a building from the Historic
Resource Inventory, election of the Chair and Vice Chair, and review and approval of their
workplan. The Commission also completed training (e.g., webinars) during the year on historic
preservation topics.
Current Membership
Name Term Ending Eligible for
Reappointment
Sharon Boyce-Bender (Chair)12/31/2025 Yes
Margarete Minar (Vice Chair)12/31/2027 Yes
Chen Xie 12/31/2028 Yes
J. Craig Awbrey 12/31/2028 Yes
Bill Cooper 12/31/2025 Yes
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Budget Request
The Heritage Preservation Commission would like to request a budget allocation of $11,000 for
2025/26.
Request Requested Allocation
Point of interest markers/Plaques $8,000
Training & Membership (California Preservation Foundation)$2,000
Blossom Festival and Preservation Month activities: (activities,
poster, speaker, displays, etc.)
$1,000
Total $11,000
Powers and Duties - City Code Section 13-10.040:
The Heritage Preservation Commission shall be advisory only to the City Council, the
Planning Commission and the agencies and departments of the City and shall establish liaison
and work in conjunction with such authorities to implement the purposes of this Chapter. The
Heritage Preservation Commission shall have the following powers and duties:
a) Conduct, or cause to be conducted, a comprehensive survey of properties within the
boundaries of the City for the purpose of establishing the Heritage Resource Inventory
which shall be publicized and periodically updated, and a copy thereof shall be kept on
file in the Planning Department.
b) Recommend to the City Council specific proposals for designation as a historic
landmark, heritage lane or historic district.
c) Recommend to the appropriate City agencies or departments projects and action
programs for the recognition, conservation, enhancement and use of the City's heritage
resources, including standards to be followed with respect to any applications for
permits to construct, change, alter, remodel, remove or otherwise affect such resources.
d) Review and comment upon existing or proposed ordinances, plans or policies of the
City as they relate to heritage resources.
e) Review and comment upon all applications for any work, permit, or approval pertaining
to or significantly affecting any heritage resource or a property that staff deems to be of
historic interest. The Heritage Preservation Commission's review for any work, permit
or approval concerning a heritage lane shall be limited to applications for any work,
permit or approval upon or within a designated heritage lane. The Commission's
comments shall be forwarded to the City agency or department processing the
application within thirty days after receiving the request for such comments.
f) Investigate and report to the City Council on the availability of federal, state, county,
local or private funding sources or programs for the rehabilitation and preservation of
heritage resources.
g) Cooperate with county, state and federal governments and with private organizations in
the pursuit of the objectives of heritage conservation.
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h) Upon the request of a property owner or occupant and at the discretion of the Heritage
Preservation Commission, render advice and guidance on the conservation,
rehabilitation, alteration, decoration, landscaping or maintenance of any heritage
resource; such voluntary advice and guidance shall not impose any regulation or control
over any property.
i) Participate in, promote and conduct public information and educational programs
pertaining to heritage resources.
j) Perform such other functions as may be delegated to it by resolution or motion of the
City Council.
ATTACHMENT:
Attachment A – Proposed 2025-26 Work Plan
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PROPOSED FISCAL YEAR 2025/2026
HERITAGE PRESERVATION COMMISSION WORK PLAN
1. Heritage Resource Inventory
Continue their duty as commissioners to recommend and work with property owners to add
eligible properties to the Heritage Resource Inventory, including an inventory of all the
homes, fences and trees along the portion of Saratoga Avenue that is designated as Heritage
Lane, for the potential addition to the City’s Heritage Resource Inventory.
2. Continuing Education
The City of Saratoga is a Certified Local Government (CLG) recognized by the State of
California Office of Preservation (OHP). The CLG requires that all commissioners receive
annual training in Historic Preservation.
3. Public Outreach
Continue to participate in City events such as the Blossom Festival, Arbor Day, Historic
Preservation Month, the State of the City, Harvest Day and provide information about the
City’s historic preservation efforts at these events. Collaborate with the City’s Public
Information Officer in utilizing social media platforms and add helpful links and documents
and informational videos to the HPC webpage. Such items would include, but not limited to,
advantages of putting structures and trees on the Inventory, reaching out to property
owners on the Heritage Resource Inventory about applying for Landmark status, the Mills
Act program, informational signage for the Heritage Orchard, and pride in our historic
community. Educate the public about points of interest in the City, including but not limited
to sites with markers and plaques.
4. Point of Interest Markers/Plaques
To properly recognize heritage resources and properties of special interest in our City, the
HPC would like to continue recommending to Council special sites that warrant Point of
Interest Markers (POI) and/or plaques. The HPC is requesting funding for POI markers and
plaques for the 2025/26 FY. In addition, the Commission will work with the Parks and
Recreation Commission to research park locations and local history for their Historic Plaque
Program for City Parks.
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SARATOGA CITY COUNCIL
MEETING DATE:March 18, 2025
DEPARTMENT:City Manager’s Department
PREPARED BY:Leslie Arroyo, Assistant City Manager
SUBJECT:Library and Public Art Commission Work Plan
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Meet with Commission, discuss priorities and approve the 2025/2026 work plan with input
provided by the City Council
BACKGROUND:
In February 2025, the Library and Public Arts Commission (LPA) reviewed the upcoming 2025/26
fiscal year (FY) work plan and proposes working on the following items in the upcoming fiscal
year. A detailed description of the proposed work plan is included in Attachment A.
1.Public Art Statement Pieces
2.Community Art Engagement
3.Library Activities
4.Youth Community Building
During the fiscal year 2024/25, the LPA did the following
1.Explored and researched Public Art Projects, including meetings, engagements and
private tours (e.g., Djerassi, Montalvo, City Commerce reps, Los Gatos Gateway Project,
Jentel Artist-in-residency--Sheraton Public Art Council, WY).
2.Identified location(s) and defined the Saratoga Gateway Project.
3.Hosted Saratoga Rocks at the July 4th celebration (Kevin Moran) and three Movie
Nights.
4.Engaged with Fellowship Plaza and Saratoga Retirement Home through rock painting
events, including hosting an event at Fellowship Plaza.
5.Sponsored youth programming at Saratoga Library (e.g., coding events, Dungeons +
Dragons’ event, engaged SED Talk speaker).
6.Volunteered at WVM College Student-Parent Symposium to help educate community
about library resources and programming for student parents.
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Current Membership
Name Term Ending Eligible for
Reappointment
Siana Smith (Chair)09/30/2026 Yes
Robert Gulino (Vice Chair)09/30/2025 No
Cristina Meiser 09/30/2025 Yes
Jeri Bromley 09/30/2026 Yes
Lakshmi Sharma 09/30/2027 Yes
Eric Lewis 09/30/2028 No
Anshul Agarwal 09/30/2028 Yes
Budget Request
The Library and Public Art Commission would like to request a budget allocation of $58,000 for
2025/26.
Request Requested Allocation
Public Art (5 sculptures, 1-year display @ $1,000 each)$5,000
Banners Project $3,000
Mural project ($10,000 to $50,000) depending on size, artist
experience, complexity, and materials)
$50,000
Total $58,000
Powers and Duties - City Code Section 13-10.040:
The Library &Public Art Commission shall serve as an advisory body.Its basic responsibilities
shall include the following:
a)Provide counsel and recommendations on Library and Public Art policies, budgets,
plans, and procedures to the Saratoga City Council and the Santa Clara County
Library. Identify and bring to the attention of the City Council, the City staff, and
the Santa Clara County Library staff (as appropriate)current and prospective issues
and questions relating to Library policies and activities.
b)As directed by the City Council, evaluate, and assess public art projects or programs and
perform such other activities as may be directed by the Saratoga City Council.
In carrying out its basic responsibilities, the Library & Public Art Commission shall perform
the following duties:
1.Hold formal meetings as required (see preceding Section on "Administration").
2.Maintain communications with the City Council,City staff,Santa Clara County
Library staff,and the Saratoga Community Librarian.
3.Maintain within the Commission a continuity of Library operations and Public Art
policies and strategies.
4.Keep generally informed on technical developments that could have a bearing on the
Library's policies or strategies.
5.Provide support and/or advice on events related to the Library and City Art.
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6.Review the Community Event Grant Applications and provide
funding recommendations to the City Council.
7.Work with "Friends of the Saratoga Libraries",the Saratoga Teen Advisory Board,and
other support groups as may be desirable concerning the Library and Public Art.
8.Maintain awareness and knowledge of public art trends and principles.
ATTACHMENT:
Attachment A – Proposed 2025/26 Work Plan
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LIBRARY & PUBLIC ART COMMISSION WORK PLAN
Attachment A
Fiscal Year 2025/26
1. Public Art Statement Pieces
Research and recommend installment of visually impactful art, to be located at key locations
within the City of Saratoga. The underlying goals of these efforts would include showcasing
Saratoga’s rich artistic and cultural heritage, attracting visitors from within and beyond the city,
and increasing foot traffic (e.g., in downtown Saratoga). Here are some examples:
• Gateway to city
o Issue a “Call for Public Art” to display five sculptures at prominent city entry points.
• Downtown mural
o Commission a large-scale mural in a high-visibility downtown location.
o Consider engaging a local or regional artist through a public call for submissions.
o Explore potential partnerships with local businesses to help offset costs.
• Banners
o Install banners featuring poetry and artwork from Saratoga residents.
o Could be displayed on downtown light poles or other visible locations.
2. Community Art Engagement
Engage the citizens of Saratoga in creating, sharing, and appreciating the arts.
• #SaratogaROCKS
• Art exhibition(s)
• Community performances
• Utility boxes
3. Library Activities
Support and promote library events and programs to increase awareness and community
engagement.
• Attend library events as commissioners and/or participants.
• Promote library events and programs; engage in information sharing with the library and the
public.
• Support activities designed to increase participation and engagement across adult
communities.
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4. Youth Community Building
Foster community-building, art appreciation, and library engagement among Saratoga youth,
especially middle school and high school students.
• Host youth events centered on the arts.
• Partner with the Saratoga Library’s Teen Advisory Board (TAB) and the Saratoga Youth
Commission; support and assist the students with their efforts.
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CITY OF SARATOGA
Memorandum
To: Members of the Saratoga City Council
From: Britt Avrit, City Clerk
Meeting Date: March 18, 2025
Subject: Supplemental Information, Library & Public Art Commission
_______________________________________________________________________________
Following publication of the agenda packet for the March 18, 2025, City Council Special Meeting,
Supplemental Information for the Library & Public Art Commission Work Plan was submitted. The
Supplemental Information is attached to this memo.
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Saratoga Library and Public Art
Sample public call for sculptures from Sheridan, WY
Since 2002, the City of Sheridan Public Arts Committee (SPAC) has invited artists
from across the country to participate in our On Loan Program, bringing dynamic public
art to the heart of downtown Sheridan.
Submission Details
• Deadline: March 15, 2025
• Submission Limit: Up to five sculptures per artist
• Outdoor Display: Selected sculptures will be exhibited year-round, enduring
Wyoming’s diverse weather conditions—from sunshine to snow. Please consider
durability when submitting your work.
Selection & Installation
• SPAC will jury submissions and notify selected artists by March 31, 2025.
• Installation Timeline: Accepted works must be delivered to Sheridan
between May 1 - June 10, 2025 (weather permitting). Alternative arrangements
may be made with the committee if needed.
• SPAC reserves full discretion on placement of all sculptures.
Honorarium & Sales
• Honorarium: SPAC will pay a $1,000 honorarium per piece for accepted
works.
• Sales Opportunity: All sculptures will be available for purchase, with SPAC
receiving a 25% commission on any sales. Please price your work accordingly.
Exhibition Requirements
To ensure the longevity and safety of the exhibit, sculptures must meet the following
criteria:
✔ Minimum height: 16 inches
✔ Structurally sound & durable for outdoor display
❌ Fragile, hazardous, or inappropriate works will not be accepted
Open to all artists residing in the US.
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Sample banners of the collaboration “Hope and Solace” public poetry
project between the Euphrat Museum and local communities
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Potential Mural wall (BOA parking lot) in downtown Saratoga
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SARATOGA CITY COUNCIL
MEETING DATE:March 18, 2025
DEPARTMENT:Public Works Department
PREPARED BY:Bridget Cash, Administrative Analyst
SUBJECT:Parks & Recreation Commission Work Plan
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Meet with Commission, discuss priorities and approve the 2025/2026 work plan with input provided
by the City Council.
BACKGROUND:
In January 2025, the Parks & Recreation Commission (PRC) reviewed the 2025/26 fiscal year work
plan proposed by staff. The Commission supported the plan as presented with the suggestion that
the Let’s Hike initiative be expanded beyond Quarry Park to allow for volunteer support of
additional Saratoga parks and trails. This suggestion is reflected in the detailed description of the
proposed work plan in Attachment A.
1.Community Outreach
2.Let’s Work
3.Let’s Hike
4.Movie Night
5.Community Engagement
In the last year, Parks and Recreation Commissioners made a site visit to Saratoga’s Community
Garden and gathered public input for the Garden renovation planning during three regular
meetings. The Let’s Work volunteer program made considerable progress to clear invasive French
broom from Quarry Park. The Let’s Hike program led four group hikes on Saratoga trails.
Currently, the Commission is initiating plans for the Bellgrove Park playground replacement CIP
(Capital Improvement Project) project. The PRC will partner with the Youth Commission to co-
lead its next hike and help plan June’s Movie Night.
Current Membership
Name Term End Eligible for Reappointment
Jim Cargill -Chair September 30, 2026 Yes
Mitra Pedersen –Vice Chair September 30, 2027 Yes
Isabelle Gecils September 30, 2025 Yes
Priya Shastra September 30, 2028 Yes
Badri Sridharan September 30, 2025 Pending confirmation to
Planning Commission
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Budget Request
The Parks and Recreation Commission requests a flat budget allocation of $1,300 for 2025/26 to
cover expenses for Commission meetings, Saratoga-branded clothing, and supplies to attend and
host events in the community.
Powers & Duties – Resolution No. 423
The powers of the Parks and Recreation Commission are advisory only and it shall render all
reports and recommendations directly to the City Council, unless otherwise directed by the
Council. The Commission does not constitute a planning agency with the terms and meaning of
Government Code Section 65100 of the State of California. The Commissions' powers and duties,
in such advisory capacity to the City Council, shall include the following:
(a) to recommend a parks and recreation program, and the programming and
implementation thereof, to the Council;
(b) advise the Council specifically on design, use, development, financing, care and
maintenance of parks and playgrounds; landscaping along thoroughfares and other City
streets; walkways, pathways, equestrian paths, streambeds, protection and promulgation of
trees, and such other matters as may be requested by the Council.
RESPONSIBILITIES
In carrying out its basic responsibilities, the Parks and Recreation Commission shall perform the
following duties:
1. Hold formal meetings as required.
2. Maintain communications with the City Council, and City Staff.
3. Serve in an advisory capacity on initiatives or policies to help create a more inclusive and
engaged community, including providing support in identifying and connecting with
different groups in the community (such as other governmental, educational, and non-
profit organizations).
4. Maintain within the Commission a continuity of knowledge of PRC operations and City
community engagement policies and strategies.
5. Keep generally informed on developments that could have a bearing on park and trail
policies or strategies.
6. Provide support and/or advice on events related to city parks and trails.
7. Work with other Commissions and groups on events and projects that are identified in the
PRC work plan.
ATTACHMENTS:
Attachment A – Proposed FY 25/26 Work Plan
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FISCAL YEAR 2025/2026
PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION WORK PLAN
1. Community Outreach
Facilitate commissioner and community feedback for capital projects in City parks. Utilize
regular commission meetings to gather resident input and share project updates. Encourage
the community to engage with the City and to share insights on park maintenance and
infrastructure projects.
2. Let’s Work Volunteer Program
Continue promoting a healthy lifestyle and engaging community members about parks and
trails in Saratoga by leading a volunteer program to remove invasive species and help the
City advance its effort to promote and extend the existing trail system.
3. Let’s Walk and Let’s Hike
Promote a healthy lifestyle and engage community members about new parks and trails in
Saratoga. The Commission will organize walks and hikes in parks and on City trails.
4. Movie Night
Build stronger community relations between the City of Saratoga and the community by
hosting events at City parks. The Commission will continue to support the outdoor Movie
Night series by hosting a resource table to engage with residents and promote City
objectives.
5. Community Engagement
Attend and volunteer for City of Saratoga events, share information about City efforts and
activities with friends and family in the community, encourage the community to engage with
the City, encourage fellow residents to serve on a City Commission, which provides the City
staff with insights about community concerns or interests to help shape City outreach and
engagement efforts.
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SARATOGA CITY COUNCIL
MEETING DATE:March 18, 2025
DEPARTMENT:Public Works Department
PREPARED BY:Emma Burkhalter, Associate Engineer
SUBJECT Traffic Safety Commission Work Plan
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Meet with Commission, discuss priorities and approve the 2025/2026 work plan with input
provided by the City Council
BACKGROUND:
In February 2025, the Traffic Safety Commission (TSC)reviewed the upcoming 2025/26 fiscal
year (FY) work plan and proposes to work on the following list of items in the upcoming fiscal
year. A detailed description of the proposed work plan is included in Attachment A.
1.Community Member Concerns
2.Discussion Space
3.Safe Routes to School
4.Traffic Safety Education
5.Revise Speed Hump Process (2021)
6.Specific Focus on Saratoga Avenue Congestion
7.Public Outreach for Saratoga/Herriman Signalization
8.Support Congestion Management Efforts
So far in fiscal year 2024/25,the TSC has reviewed 20 new traffic safety concerns, continuing
the 2023 trend of returning to pre-pandemic TSC submission levels. While the number of new
submissions is more manageable, the traffic safety concerns returning for their 2nd, 3rd, and even
4th review typically make up more than half of the agenda.
The most notable traffic safety improvements of FY24/25 are four new speed tables on Farwell
Avenue (approved and installed in late 2024), and the approval of the striping plans to close the
bicycle lane gap on Allendale Avenue, which will also resolve a 2020 resident-submitted
concern regarding the pork-chop island at Theater Way. The Allendale Avenue bike lane plans
will be implemented when Allendale Avenue is next resurfaced.
The TSC also began a quarterly safe driving campaign. The first two topics, titled Slow Down
Saratoga and Pay Attention Saratoga, have already been launched, and the upcoming year will
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see the approval of slogans and images on two new topics, with postcard mailings to follow. The
mailings will occur simultaneously with a cycle of Saratoga’s median banners bearing the same
image and slogan. Eagle-eyed residents will notice that the first postcard, Slow Down Saratoga,
was not accompanied by a median banner, which was due to heavy competition for median banner
space during the holiday season. Over the next year, staff will assist with shifting the campaign
topic scheduling to better allow for the median banners to align with the mailing.
Current Membership
Name Term Ending Eligible for
Reappointment
Alec Gulesserian (Chair)12/31/2026 Yes
Stephen Li (Vice Chair)12/31/2027 Yes
Dory Albert 12/31/2028 Yes
Robert Eng 12/31/2025 Yes
Jason Mount 12/31/2025 Yes
Powers and Duties – Resolution No. 2080
The Commission is an advisory agency to the city Council. It is not authorized to set policy or give
directions to the Sheriff, Chief of Police or City staff. The commission is authorized to investigate,
review and analyze issues and make recommendations to the City Council. The Commission shall
have such other authority to carry out tasks as may be approved and authorized by the City Council.
The Commission is responsible for the following functions.
1. Policy Advice: Receive referrals from the City Council or initiate reviews and analyses on
issues affecting the overall public safety of the community; prepare recommendations to
the City Council on appropriate action or policies.
2. Crime Prevention: Analyze crime reports, data and trends in the community; develop ideas
for programs to prevent or reduce crime in the community and increase public safety.
3. Community Participation: Develop and sponsor programs on crime prevention and public
safety, particularly information and education programs to obtain increased citizen
involvement and participation.
4. Community-Police Relations: Improve positive relations and understanding between the
community and law enforcement officials; respond to or address concerns expressed by
either the community or law enforcement personnel.
5. Traffic Safety: Review and recommend traffic safety regulations, measures and programs
for the community. On referral, consider requests from citizens for traffic regulating
devices and recommend appropriate actions to the City Council.
ATTACHMENT:
Attachment A – Proposed 2025/26 Work Plan
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Attachment A – Proposed 2025/26 Work Plan
1. Community Member Concerns
Investigate, review, and analyze traffic safety issues raised by community members.
2. Discussion Space
Provide a respectful space where community members can be involved in determining the
type of traffic calming solutions proposed for their neighborhood.
3. Safe Routes to School
Collaborate with schools and community members to implement projects from the Safe
Routes to School Master Plan.
4. Traffic Safety Education
Promote education to the community and schools regarding traffic, bicycle, and pedestrian
safety, through public meetings and quarterly safe driving campaigns.
5. Revise Speed Hump Process (2021)
Revise the Speed Hump Process (2021) to align with the City Council’s goals and
priorities.
6. Specific Focus on Saratoga Avenue Congestion
Efforts for the first round of Safe Routes to School implementation should specifically
focus on relieving congestion on Saratoga Avenue when the three schools in the area have
drop-off/pick-up.
7. Public Outreach for Saratoga/Herriman Signalization
Conduct public outreach and public meeting(s) for the upcoming Saratoga/Herriman signal
construction.
8. Support Congestion Management Efforts
Support the Mayor/Council in requesting traffic congestion mitigation from developers
(e.g. Costco, El Paseo, Builder’s Remedy projects in Saratoga, etc.)
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SARATOGA CITY COUNCIL
MEETING DATE:March 18, 2025
DEPARTMENT:Community Development Department
PREPARED BY:Cindy McCormick, Development Manager
SUBJECT:Planning Commission Work Plan
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
Meet with Commission, discuss priorities and approve the 2025/2026 work plan with input
provided by the City Council
BACKGROUND:
On February 26, 2025, the Planning Commission discussed their workplan for the upcoming fiscal
year (FY) and proposes to work on the following list of items in the 2025/26 FY. A detailed
description of the proposed work plan is included in Attachment A.
1.Saratoga Village Objective Design Standards
2.Pre-Approved Plans for Accessory Dwelling Units
3.Code Amendment to Implement State Law
4.Amendment to Article 15-50 Tree Regulations
5.Minor Code Amendments
6.Updated Standard Conditions of Approval
7.Discretionary Planning Entitlements
During fiscal year 2024/25, the Planning Commission reviewed eight design review applications
and three zoning amendments to implement the Housing Element.
Current Membership
Name Term Ending Eligible for Reappointment
Jojo Choi (Chair)March 31, 2025 Yes
Anjali Kausar (Vice Chair)March 31, 2027 Yes
Herman Zheng March 31, 2028 Yes
Paul Germeraad March 31, 2027 Yes
Clinton Brownley March 31, 2026 Yes
Ping Li March 31, 2026 No
Razi Mohiuddin March 31, 2025 Yes
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The Planning Commission would like to request a budget allocation of $13,000 for 2025/26 FY.
Request Requested Allocation
Meeting Expenses $1,000
Legal Advertising $2,000
Training (Planning Commissioners Academy-League of CA Cities)$10,000
Total $13,000
Powers and Duties - City Code Section 2-15.030:
The Planning Commission is hereby designated as the planning agency of the City, as described
in Section 65100 of the Government Code, and shall exercise the functions of a planning agency
as prescribed in Section 65101 of the Government Code. The Planning Commission shall also
exercise the powers and perform the duties conferred upon it by this Code and assigned to it from
time to time by the City Council.
GOVERNMENT CODE 65100
There is in each city and county a planning agency with the powers necessary to carry out the
purposes of this title. The legislative body of each city and county shall by ordinance assign the
functions of the planning agency to a planning department, one or more planning commissions,
administrative bodies or hearing officers, the legislative body itself, or any combination thereof,
as it deems appropriate and necessary. In the absence of an assignment, the legislative body shall
carry out all the functions of the planning agency.
GOVERNMENT CODE 65101
(a) The legislative body may create one or more planning commissions each of which shall report
directly to the legislative body. The legislative body shall specify the membership of the
commission or commissions. In any event, each planning commission shall consist of at least five
members, all of whom shall act in the public interest.
ATTACHMENT:
Attachment A – Proposed 2025/26 Work Plan
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Exhibit A- Planning Commission 2025/26 FY Work Plan
The Planning Commission proposed the following FY 2025/26 Work Plan:
Saratoga Village Objective Design Standards
One of the last remaining Zoning amendments required under the 2023-2031 Housing Element is
the development of objective design standards for the Saratoga Village (Program 3.3-3: Preserve
the Historic Character of Saratoga Village). The City has hired Lisa Wise Consultants (who
prepared the single-family dwelling design standards) to lead this effort. The primary goal of this
work is to develop and codify objective design standards that implement chapters 1 through 6 of the
2019 Village Design Guidelines. Following public engagement efforts led by the consultant, the
City will also hold an in-person Joint Study Session with the Planning Commission and City
Council. The study session will include a presentation summarizing the community input received
through stakeholder interviews, a community questionnaire, and a community workshop. The input
gathered at the joint Study Session will be reflected in a Final Analysis and Recommendations
Memorandum. The consultant will then prepare a Public Review Draft for review and feedback at
two study sessions, which may consist of a Planning Commission Study Session, a City Council
Study Session, and/or Joint Study Session(s) with the Planning Commission and City Council.
Based on the feedback received at the public Study Sessions, the consultant will prepare a final draft
for review at a Public Hearing. Based on the Planning Commission’s recommendations and City
Council’s final review and required text changes, the consultant will prepare the final Village
Design Standards amendments.
Public engagement will begin in March or April 2025. The first study session will likely occur in
May or June followed by two additional study sessions in early fall 2025 and public hearings in
November and December 2025.
Pre-Approved Plans for Accessory Dwelling Units
Pursuant to Assembly Bill (AB) 3321, as of January 1, 2025, all California jurisdictions must
have a process for pre-approving ADUs. Pre-approved plans must then be listed online for
homeowners to use. Accordingly, the City is developing a website that will include pre-approved
plans in addition to other information that may be helpful to an applicant. City staff will hold a
study session with the Planning Commission to choose pre-approved plans for the City’s online
ADU Plans Gallery. In accordance with the Housing Element (Program 3.1-1: Pre-Approved
Plan Sets for ADUs), the Planning Commission will assist City staff in selecting at least 3 pre-
approved ADU models that vary in design and size. The program is intended to facilitate reduced
applicant cost and expedited review for ADUs. The City of Saratoga has full control of which pre-
approved plans are included in the program. Furthermore, homeowners using a pre-approved
design must still complete site planning, foundation plans and other elements specific to their
property, but are eligible for an expedited 30-day permit review. Using a design from the Plans
Gallery requires additional property-specific work to be completed with an architect, designer, or
other professional before completing final permit applications.
The pre-approved ADU plan study session is tentatively scheduled for May 14, 2025.
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Planning Commission 2025/26 FY Work Plan Exhibit A
Page | 2
Amend Article 15-50 Tree Regulations
Given concerns regarding wildfires, the Planning Commission will review the City’s tree
regulations with regard to tree species in the City’s hillsides, wildland urban interface areas, and
fire hazard severity zones. The Planning Commission will also review defensible space
requirements and tree removal allowances in accordance with home insurance requirements.
Code Amendment to Implement State Law
Each year the State adopts new laws that require changes to City Codes with respect to ADUs
and other types of housing.
The Planning Commission will review the necessary amendments beginning in January or
February of 2026.
Minor Code Amendments
Throughout the year, City staff identify items in the Zoning Ordinance that need clarification or
to fix typos or to revise text to ensure consistency between code sections. This can be especially
true when the City adopts a new General Plan or one its Elements, or undergoes a major change
to the code, such as the recent changes to implement the Housing Element. For example, a minor
amendment is needed to Article 15-21 - M-U (Mixed Use Zoning Districts) sections 15.21.100
(d) (1) and (2), 15.21.110 (e) (1) and (2), and 15.21.120 (e) (1) and (2) to clarify that density
should be "per acre of net site area" (not gross site area) to be consistent with the recently
adopted General Plan regarding mixed-use developments.
The Planning Commission will review the minor code amendments prior to the end of the 2025
calendar year. In the meantime, the City will process applications consistent with State law and
the City of Saratoga General Plan which supersedes any inconsistencies in the Zoning
Ordinance.
Updated Standard Conditions of Approval
In collaboration with the City Attorney’s Office, City staff are preparing standard conditions of
approval to help ensure that planning entitlements include minimum requirements. The standard
conditions will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis to determine applicability to a particular
project.
The Planning Commission will review the draft conditions of approval prior to the end of the
2025 calendar year.
Discretionary Planning Entitlements
Throughout the year, the Planning Commission will continue to review the following types of
planning projects:
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Planning Commission 2025/26 FY Work Plan Exhibit A
Page | 3
Appeals of Administrative Design Review decisions
Projects utilizing the Builder’s Remedy tool under the Housing Accountability Act that
are not otherwise exempt from Public Hearing
Any new main structure in an R-M, P-A, M-U, or C district
Conditional Use Permits, Tentative or Final Subdivision Maps, Variances, General Plan
Text and Map Amendments, Zoning Text and Map Amendments
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