Clarifying Farley Road Neighbors’ views on mosque site
We’re writing to clarify several points regarding your recent article that said the Farley Road neighborhood argued for a church instead of housing in connection with the sale of the former Jehovah’s Witness property in Los Gatos.
First, there was no formal vote taken by the neighborhood. What occurred was an informal exchange of opinions among residents. Some individuals did express a preference for a church use, but that should not be characterized as a collective or official decision.
Second, many residents expressed the view that, if the site were to be developed for housing, it would be better suited for R-8 zoning (lower-density residential) rather than higher-density condominium development. This distinction is important, as it reflects a concern about the scale and fit of potential housing—not an outright rejection of housing itself.
Third, a number of neighbors noted that a church use could avoid the disruption associated with a prolonged construction process. For some, that practical consideration factored into their expressed preferences, rather than a broader position on land use policy.
Finally, the outcome of the sale was driven by the decisions of the property owner and the prospective buyers—not by a neighborhood vote. The Jehovah’s Witness congregation initially entered into a tentative agreement with a developer, who was given a 60-day due diligence period. At the end of that period, the developer requested additional time, which was declined because a backup offer was already in place. The developer withdrew, and the property was subsequently sold to the West Valley Muslim Association.
In short, the narrative that the neighborhood voted for a church instead of housing oversimplifies what was, in reality, a more nuanced and informal set of community viewpoints, followed by a private transaction process.
Farley Road Neighborhood Coalition
Los Gatos
Tabloid-style journalism not appreciated
I have been a subscriber of your paper from the beginning. I enjoy having limited real estate coverage and more attention to local matters.
However, your recent coverage of resident John Hale was, in my opinion, out of line.
Starting with the headline—it looked like The National Enquirer! Totally unprofessional.
In regards to the paragraph concerning his wife—have you considered her feelings about this whole incident besides this gossip? The paragraph about Mr. Hale’s activities and “drinking problem”—more gossip.
The whole article was disappointing to this long-time reader.
Karen Lorenz
—via email
Here a unique Santa Cruz Ave Mother’s Day idea for you
Looking for a more meaningful way to celebrate Mother’s Day?
Aluminary Arts in downtown Los Gatos is hosting a “Bubbles & Brushstrokes” watercolor workshop on May 10—an intimate, beginner-friendly class where you can paint, sip, and spend time together in a relaxed, creative setting.
Classes: 11:30am-2pm or 2:30pm-5pm, 59 N. Santa Cruz Ave., Los Gatos
Lisa Tollner
Founder, Aluminary Arts
*Letters are edited for length and clarity
