Recent commentary about the renovation at La Rinconada Country Club has raised understandable questions—and, unfortunately, some misconceptions—about what is actually taking place on our grounds.
As stewards of a property with nearly a century of history and deep roots in the Los Gatos community, we welcome opinions of all kinds. What we cannot allow, however, is misinformation to overshadow the essential truth: our project is an ecological correction, a sustainability initiative, and a forward-looking investment in preserving the character we all cherish.
A recent letter published in the Los Gatan implied we are destroying oak canopies or otherwise harming the natural landscape, accompanied by dramatic photos of felled logs. This is simply not true. In fact, only one native tree is being removed for health and safety reasons. In total, 99.6% of the trees being removed are non-native, sometimes harmful species that have been crowding out native growth, consuming disproportionate water and degrading soil conditions. More than 70% of these non-native trees are being replaced with new plantings native to the Los Gatos chaparral. The result will be a more consistent landscape with the property’s original ecology—healthier, more sustainable, and more resilient.
Another misconception is that the renovation is driven by vanity: an attempt to “keep up” with other private clubs. This notion does not reflect who we are. La Rinconada does not compete with other clubs for members, and we have no desire to chase trends or prestige. We are proud of our club, but pride alone does not secure the next century. Our objective is simple: long-term sustainability. Healthy land, responsible water use and thoughtful investments, these are the building blocks of a club that will serve future generations. That’s not ego. That’s stewardship.
False concerns have been circulated about members departing the club in large numbers in reaction to the project. Again, the facts tell a different story. This year’s membership transfers have tracked exactly with normal trends, as has our waitlist, which stands today at about 15 months, not a five-year wait, but steady and healthy. The reasons members sell their memberships remain the same as always: roughly half relocate, and half face health-related changes. The renovation has not altered this pattern.
The golf course restoration is only one example of the club’s broader commitment to responsible sustainability. Our major solar project, approved by 93% of our members and entirely financed by them, reflects the same values. Prior to approval, we fully communicated all plans, renderings, and locations so members could make informed decisions.
We have also taken great care to ensure the installation will be as visually unobtrusive as possible and respectful of Los Gatos’ character. Our aim is to reduce environmental impact, not create an eyesore. We treasure the feel of our town and will not diminish it. Everything we are doing, from tree replacement to course improvements to solar integration, is designed to honor the club’s history, the history of the land itself, and the values of both our members and the broader Los Gatos community. Preserving character is essential, we agree wholeheartedly. Sustainability and preservation are not competing goals; they are mutually reinforcing.
Over the last two years, we have held numerous in-person sessions with our members and neighbors. Their feedback has been overwhelmingly thoughtful, constructive, and, in most cases, enthusiastic. More than 73% of members approved the golf course restoration and the Los Gatos Town Planning Commission unanimously approved the project. That level of engagement and support speaks volumes.
La Rinconada stands firmly behind this project because the facts, science, and the long-term needs of our community all support it. We are correcting decades of ecological imbalance, embracing a sustainable future, honoring local character, and responsibly planning for generations to come.
As we move forward, we welcome continued conversation based on facts and shared commitment to the land that makes La Rinconada such a special place. We look forward to sharing the results of the project with the community.
Stewardship isn’t always easy, but it is always the right thing to do.
Bob Riland
President, La Rinconada Country Club Board of Directors
