Los Gatos council interviews 31 applicants, fills most commission seats

Los Gatos — The Town Council held a special meeting on Nov. 24 to interview 31 applicants for nine advisory boards and commissions and appointed the bulk of candidates that night.

Council began by outlining the evening’s process and noting that applicants would have two minutes per question under council policy. Public comment earlier in the meeting raised Brown Act concerns and urged the council to allow ample public speaking time.

Interviews and themes Council interviewed candidates for the Community Health & Senior Services Commission, the Planning Commission, the Complete Streets & Transportation Commission, the Parks & Sustainability Commission, the Library Board, the Personnel Board, the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Commission and the Arts & Culture Commission.

- Community health and seniors: Applicant Shyaja Venet Subbermanian told council she had cared for an elderly parent and stressed loneliness among older residents. She recommended stronger outreach to publicize existing senior services and suggested intergenerational volunteer matches (student volunteers or other community members checking in with older adults) and small design fixes such as more benches along walking routes.

- Planning and housing: Planning applicants discussed striking a…