A plan that would allow Netflix to expand its headquarters operations didn't sit well with members of the Los Gatos Planning Commission, who balked at the idea of allowing 85 foot tall buildings in town.

The owners of the business park at 90-160 Albright Way and 14600 Los Gatos Blvd. are asking the town to approve a 15 year agreement, with a five year extension clause, to build as much as 550,000 square feet of new business towers, with the proviso that if that much commercial space isn't needed they could also build single family homes or a senior housing complex.

"We're in need of space ASAP," Netflix general counsel David Hyman said at the May 31 planning commission meeting. "Netflix is a homegrown company and we hope to be able to continue to grow in Los Gatos."

With only four of seven planning commissioners present, the request for five stories was lowered to three stories and housing was taken out of the equation altogether. Commission Chairwoman Marico Sayoc and Commissioner Joanne Talesfore voted for that plan.

Commissioner Marcia Jensen abstained and Commissioner Charles Erekson voted nay. Commissioner John Bougeois was recused and commissioners Jane Ogle and Thomas O'Donnell were absent.

The town council has the final say in the matter and could consider the proposal later this month.
Netflix contributes about $3.2 million annually to the town's coffers