New Los Gatos Gun Shop Causes Safety, Security Concerns

Residents who live near University Avenue and Roberts Road are expressing concern about the sudden opening of a gun store at 611 University Avenue last weekend.

One said he was on his morning walk when he passed the empty storefront in mid-November to signs plastered across the windows promoting the sale of the weapons.

The biggest sign, he said, read: “Coming Soon Guns, Guns and More Guns.”  There were smaller placards advertising bail bonds and check cashing. 

A public records search reveals the property, under parcel No. 529-10-091, is owned by Pletschette Partners LP. at 802 Poker Flat Road in Copperopolis, California.

The same company owns town property at 905 Castlewood Drive.

Another resident, who declined to be identified, said she tried to call town officials to inquire about the shop and asked about the process to open such a business in the downtown central  retail district.

She said town officials told her the new business didn't need a conditional-use permit and so the opening of the shop went without the residents receiving notice.

A soft opening is said to have taken place this past weekend for gun enthusiasts to check out the weapons, which aren't sports-type of firearms, but assault rifles, she said.

"It's very disturbing," she said.

Others, who also want to remain anonymous, are bothered by the apparent lack of opportunity for the community to voice questions or concerns around the decision to open a gun store in Los Gatos.

They say the shop's location also brings safety considerations to mind, given the fact that it's a main thoroughfare for kids, families and teens. It's across from a ballet studio, 100 yards from Oak Meadow Park and the main path for kids going to and from Fisher Middle School.

"I would liken this to the impact in downtown districts when head shops go in-- certainly doesn't improve home values," one said.