RECAP of SMNA Town Hall Meeting in April

The AGENDA included:

• Recognition of San Martin/Gwinn School representatives

• Q&A on Zone 4 proposal RE: Fire Service

• Builder's Remedy and other local developments

• Spruce Up San Martin

Our SMNA Treasurer, Martin Groen, and  our President, Stephen McHenry had the pleasure of presenting a $500 check to Rebecca Rubel-Seider- President of the San Martin/Gwinn Home and School Club. This donation, made possible by the collective efforts of SMNA members, will go a long way in supporting children in need—especially those facing challenges in attending school activities, science camp, or obtaining new backpacks, clothes, etc. It's heartwarming to witness the community coming together to make a difference!

As SMNA members, we've been able to provide not only monetary assistance but also Thanksgiving Turkeys, Christmas trees, toys, gift cards, and so much more! This support, made possible by you and an inventory grant from Supervisor Arenas in 2022-2023, is a testament to our community's collaborative spirit and commitment to helping those in need.

Fire District Change and Updates: 

Deputy Fire Chief Glass provided an update on the fire district changes and informed the residents about the letter the County sent out to all residents regarding creating a Zone 4. He also told the residents about the link they can use to get answers to frequently asked questions: South County Fire Department Reorganization FAQs—Santa Clara County Fire Department.

Deputy Fire Chief Glass stated that South County residents will not see any changes to their property taxes because of the fire district reorganization. He also explained that the creation of Service Zone 4 is required for County Fire to maintain an existing development fee that helps pay for fire services in South County and to create a structure to ensure revenue from the fee is dedicated to South County. From the website: This fee, called a Fire Protection Mitigation Fee, was first put in place in 2005 by the South Santa Clara County Fire District. The fee is a one-time payment made by developers and homeowners who complete remodels or new constructions to help cover the cost of fire protection for new development in the area. 

Deputy Fire Chief Glass stated that all parties involved in this change met to discuss the transition and possibly having two volunteer programs. He recognized the importance of Company 70 volunteers and how this program has been positive for the South County community. More to come on this issue.    

SMNA President Stephen McHenry shared valuable information on the "Builder's Remedy" housing development projects, which are currently in the preliminary stages, not formal ones. While some projects in Morgan Hill and Gilroy have expired, we're actively following the Llagas/Depot and Fitzgerald projects which are still in the preliminary stage with no formal applications filed. The SMNA board will do its best to provide updates regarding these developments should they move forward!  If you have any questions, in the meantime, send them to the Planning Department:

For Current planning projects: Home | Department of Planning and Development | County of Santa Clara. Current planning projects

For Builders Remedy Information-| Department of Planning and Development | County of Santa Clara--SB330 Housing Development Project |

Additionally, Mr. Harry Freitas, Director of the Santa Clara County Roads Department, had some good news: the highly anticipated four-way stop sign at Middle and Center is finally here! In addition, the team is tackling traffic and speeding concerns at Foothill and New Avenue. There was also a suggestion for the CHP and Sheriff's Department to team up to monitor these roads. The next article describes one of these efforts that occurred in March.

An audience member mentioned the possibility of introducing speed cameras to help manage traffic! While similar initiatives are already being piloted in cities like San Francisco and San Jose, South County needs to explore this option further. Mr. Freitas acknowledged the concerns surrounding speed cameras raised by law enforcement and emphasized that his department focuses on engineering solutions for improved road safety and design. He encouraged folks to share their comments and follow up on these vital roads and traffic matters. He gave a "Thank You" to San Martin residents for our continued engagement and patience as we all navigate the traffic and road issues we are experiencing. The SMNA Board reciprocated by bestowing him and his team with a Certificate of Appreciation.