Santa Clara · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Santa Clara public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
2027 Meeting Calendar Approval
Commissioners approved their schedule for next year so they can keep meeting and planning events.
Public Art and Citywide Arts Master Plan
The contract for the citywide arts master plan was finally approved as to form and is expected to be signed by the end of the month, letting the commission begin onboarding the contractor.
Roche Office Campus Conversion to Outdoor Amenity
Roche is tearing down two unused office buildings on Scott Boulevard to build outdoor amenities like walking paths and sports courts for their employees. This reflects a broader trend of companies converting empty office spaces into wellness areas to bring workers back.
Associate Engineer Recruitment and Eligible List Abolishment
The city abolished the civil service eligible list for Associate Engineer after filling initial vacancies and determining that remaining candidates lacked specialized capital improvement project experience. Public Works will initiate a new recruitment to fill the remaining funded position.
Complete Communities Social Infrastructure
Planners presented methods for ensuring private developments make space for community needs like preschools, senior care, and small grocery stores.
Small Business Development and Permit Fee Burdens
Council members discussed the cumulative financial pressure that permitting, development, and municipal fees place on small businesses, prompting staff to explore dedicated support resources.
Stadium Turf Maintenance Contract & Oversight
Elected officials debated whether extending a multi-million-dollar field turf contract without fresh bidding provided enough fiscal oversight given the city's tight budget.
Board of Library Trustees Recruitment
The board is actively recruiting applicants for an upcoming vacancy to ensure diverse community representation. Applications are due by April 17, 2026.
Residential Addition and Neighborhood Compatibility on Mesquite Drive
Neighbors raised concerns about privacy, massing, and modern architectural styles for a proposed two-story replacement home at 3359 Machado Avenue. The hearing officer approved the project after confirming second-story windows would be frosted and setbacks adhered to guidelines.
New Valley High School Relocation and Capital Projects
The school district is moving forward with the New Valley High School relocation and various campus modernizations across the city, including new parking, green space preservation, and athletic field upgrades.
Residential Home Expansion at 472 Muriel Court
Homeowners worried about second-story windows peering into yards and blocking sunlight from solar panels.
Public Bicycle Rack Installation Priorities
Members discussed where to place new publicly funded bike racks to ensure they are secure, visible, and actually used by residents.
ICE-free zones
Santa Clara County is looking to create 'ICE-free zones,' basically telling federal immigration agents to back off local law enforcement's turf. This move could significantly change how immigration enforcement plays out right here in our community.
Housing Goals
Cities across Santa Clara County are falling way behind on their housing goals. This could make it even harder for people to afford a place to live and slow down the whole region's growth.
Urban Farm and Affordable Housing
Santa Clara is launching California's largest urban farm and affordable housing project. This massive development aims to bring fresh, local food options to the community while also addressing the need for more affordable places to live.