The Housing, Land Use, Environment, & Transportation Committee of Santa Clara County convened on September 18, 2025, to discuss key issues surrounding land annexation and development processes in the region. The meeting focused on the criteria and procedures for annexing parcels, particularly in relation to the city of San Jose.

The discussion began with a question regarding whether a city could annex a parcel without the involvement of the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO). The response was affirmative, indicating that cities have the authority to proceed with annexations independently under certain conditions.

Committee members explored the historical context of annexation, noting that in the past, developers typically initiated the process. A specific example was cited regarding the annexation of 125 Curt Avenue, which occurred when a developer expressed interest in the site. This case highlighted the importance of communication between the city and LAFCO, as the committee learned about the annexation through LAFCO notification rather than direct communication from the city.

The conversation underscored the evolving nature of annexation practices, with the current trend suggesting that cities like San Jose may only pursue annexation when there is a clear development interest. This approach aims to streamline the process and ensure that annexations align with development needs.

In conclusion, the committee's discussions revealed significant insights into the annexation process in Santa Clara County, emphasizing the role of developers and the importance of timely communication between city officials and LAFCO. The committee plans to continue monitoring these developments to ensure effective land use and planning strategies in the region.