Anna’s Hummingbird chicks: Sushanta Bhandarkar
On Tuesday, March 25, 2025, the San José City Council will discuss the Definition of Chartered Parkland under Section 1700 of the City Charter (Agenda Item 7.1, File 25-292). This discussion will help City Staff determine which city parks receive permanent protection from development or sale without voter approval.
The Santa Clara Valley Bird Alliance supports the staff report’s interpretation and the inclusion of 207 parks in the official Charter Park inventory (Attachment A). This is a critical step to preserve San José’s parks for future generations.
Why is this Important?
Protects Public Parks Permanently – Ensures parkland remains inalienable unless approved by voters.
Provides Clarity & Transparency – Establishes a clear, consistent policy on how Charter Park status is determined.
Supports Wildlife & Green spaces – Parks provide vital habitat, recreation, and climate resilience.
Aligns with Historical Intent – San José has protected public parklands since 1896, with voters reaffirming these protections in 1965.
How You Can Help:
Email the City Council – Urge Mayor Matt Mahan and Council members to approve the staff report and protect all eligible parks. Email: city.clerk@sanjoseca.gov (CC: mayor@sanjoseca.gov, district2@sanjoseca.gov, district1@sanjoseca.gov, district2@sanjoseca.gov, district3@sanjoseca.gov, district4@sanjoseca.gov, district5@sanjoseca.gov, district6@sanjoseca.gov, district7@sanjoseca.gov, district8@sanjoseca.gov, district9@sanjoseca.gov, district10@sanjoseca.gov) with the subject, "I Support the Definition of Chartered Parkland (Agenda Item 7.1, File 25-292)". In your email, tell the mayor and council a little about yourself, and ask them to support this protection for our local parks.
Attend the Council Meeting – Show support in person or via Zoom on March 25 at 6:00 PM. Meeting Details
San José’s parks are essential to our community and our environment—let’s ensure they remain protected for the future!
Thank you!