Los Gatos’s projected budget deficit is now a surplus

Town budget update

As of a special meeting on Feb. 10, Los Gatos may not have a budget deficit this fiscal year.

Town manager Chris Constantin informed the council a projected deficit of $3.1 million is now looking like a surplus of $4.3 million, potentially eliminating the town’s plan to use reserve funds to cover any budget gaps. Staff factored in savings from staffing vacancies, high interest earnings and deferred maintenance. Constantin noted that these savings may be impacted if the vacancies are filled or the town needs to pay off more overtime than expected.

“History would say we project deficits and end with surpluses,” Constantin told the council.

After some discussion, the council amended its strategic priorities around homelessness and transportation, saying the town would “continue to engage community service providers to meet the individualized and complex needs of unhoused residents, while pursuing a more coordinated regional approach.”

This is in line with Mayor Rob Moore’s goal to tackle homelessness in Los Gatos. At the meeting, he said that there were about 25 to 30 unhoused residents in town. He proposed using up to $150,000 from the town’s opioid settlement funding to help unhoused people with substance use disorders.

Regarding transportation, the council agreed to “pursue tangible bicycle and pedestrian improvements and explore innovative pilot solutions to mitigate traffic congestion.”

Based on residents’ comments, the council also prioritized the installation of a public bathroom downtown.

Piano-wind chamber concert

The Poulenc Trio will perform at Los Gatos High School on Feb. 22.

The oboe, bassoon and piano ensemble has garnered international recognition during its 20-year history. They have played in 47 U.S. states and at international music festivals like the San Miguel de Allende Festival in Mexico and the White Nights Festival in Russia.

The concert will take place at Los Gatos High School Theatre at 20 High School Court. Tickets are $5-$65 at lgcca.org.