By Robert Haugh

Councilwoman Kathy Watanabe discussed the impact of airplane noise on Northside neighborhoods.  Watanabe represents the Northside.

She’s concerned about San Jose’s plan to expand the airport. Watanabe proposed moving a noise monitor closer to the airport to collect data. There are currently four monitors around the stadium to gather information on stadium events and 49ers practices. 

The council unanimously agreed and suggested adding a noise monitor instead of taking one away from a neighborhood.

SCU Students and Downtown

Santa Clara University student government leaders Vidya Pingali and Eleanore Lammers-Lewis presented the Council with a long paper scroll. They collected written comments from students and faculty on campus about ideas for downtown. They’re working with Reclaiming Our Downtown. 

The students said that the student government has created a downtown committee to help students engage with their community now and in future years. Kudos to them.

Other Stuff

• The Council approved a 39-unit condominium project on the north side of El Camino Real near Lincoln Street.  Four of the units will be affordable.

• The Council approved a “Substation Service Agreement” between the City and Related Santa Clara, the developer of the Northside’s mega project.  Related will pay $9,7079,794 9.7 million) toward the cost of the substation.

• Councilman Raj Chahal was back from vacation and at the meeting.