Los Gatos leaders look forward to 2024
Challenges include housing, senior services.
The new year sparks optimism and hope in many, including our town leaders. Here is a look at what some had to say about their plans for Los Gatos in 2024.
Los Gatos Mayor Mary Badame says, “Los Gatos is a special place we call home. We cherish the defining characteristics of our surroundings while embracing the relationships that connect us.
“As Los Gatos continues to evolve, we must adapt to change. State-mandated housing laws bring new challenges limiting local control in decision-making. We must step up collectively and constructively to ensure growth is balanced and blends within the character of our town. I am grateful for the trust in my leadership as we navigate the challenges ahead.”
Jennifer Lin, relatively new executive director of the Los Gatos Chamber of Commerce, says, “In 2024, my priorities for the Chamber include building stronger partnerships with community organizations such as our service groups and schools; better serving and supporting all the business districts of Los Gatos, not just the downtown; and launching fresh destination marketing initiatives to draw even more visitors to Los Gatos.”
Joe Pfahnl, president of Los Gatos Morning Rotary, says, “Our club plans to continue to be a presence in the Town of Los Gatos and Santa Clara County, whether it be Gallery 24, Jazz on the Plazz and more. You’ll know us by our blue T-shirts.”
Los Gatos Kiwanis President Nancy Pearson says, “Our big events for 2024 are lined up and ready. March 30 is our huge egg hunt with the Easter Bunny at Oak Meadow Park; April 26 is Special Games at West Valley College; May 9 is our Turn-Around Scholarship Awards Luncheon; and Sept. 21-22 is our Los Gatos Art and Wine/Fiesta de Artes 2024.”
Tom Picraux, president of the Los Gatos Foundation for Older Adults to Thrive, says the newly formed nonprofit “will be visiting new community centers in the area and seeking input from Los Gatans to establish priorities for a new community center in Los Gatos. Also, expect some fun new events for the whole family to raise money in support of older adult programs.”
Los Gatos town historian Alan Feinberg says, “My 2024 objective for the LOST Gatos Project is to share more of the fascinating but mostly forgotten stories about the people and events that have shaped our town over the past 200 years. It’s part of my ongoing mission to generate enthusiasm for preserving our town’s unique character and historic treasures before they’re lost forever.”
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