April 15, 2003

Mayor Ron Gonzales
City of San Jose
801 North First St.
San Jose, CA 95110-1704

RE: Alma Bowl Site - Files GP03-03-03, GPT03-03-03 & PDC02-072

Dear Mayor Gonzales & Council:

The Willow Glen Neighborhood Association (WGNA) is writing to express concern with proposed changes to the 1995 Tamien Station Area Specific Plan.

At our meeting last week, WGNA was approached by representatives of neighborhood associations in, or adjacent to, Willow Glen, regarding changes to the 1995 Tamien Station Area Specific Plan (Tamien Plan). These associations voiced concerns regarding changes in density, height and setbacks for properties within the Tamien Plan. Although the former Alma Bowl Site is just outside our official boundaries, WGNA is concerned with what appears to be project-by-project variances to the Tamien Plan.

As indicated in prior correspondence to the City regarding the Elks Club Site, WGNA understands the City's desire for high-density development near transit centers, but considerable time has passed since the Tamien Plan was adopted and most neighbors have no idea the Plan even exists. The Tamien Plan was developed with extensive community involvement and significant changes to it without re-engaging the community sets bad precedent. The residents near the Tamien Station already will be burdened by the impacts of the high densities in the Plan; to ask them to take on further increases in height and density is unfair.

If it is the City's intention to continue to entertain project-by-project changes to the Tamien Plan, then WGNA recommends a comprehensive Tamien Plan Review with true neighborhood involvement before changes are approved.

Thank you for allowing WGNA to present its perspective on this matter. If I can provide you with additional information please feel free to contact me.

Sincerely,

John L. Gibbs, WGNA President