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News and thoughts from our staff

 

City Council Approves Targeted Zoning Updates

By Brittney Sherman

At its November 19, 2025 meeting, the Morgan Hill City Council approved a series of zoning amendments affecting several planned development areas along major commercial corridors. These updates clarify allowed uses, modernize development standards, and provide greater certainty for property owners, businesses, and future investment.

Actions included amendments to the Condit Road Auto Park, Condit Road Planned Unit Development, Laurel Road (Honda) site, and the Tennant Station Shopping Center. Collectively, the ordinances confirm existing commercial uses, refine development guidelines, and allow for greater flexibility where appropriate; such as expanded retail, dining, recreation, and entertainment uses.

Importantly, these changes do not expand the footprint or intensity of development beyond what is already planned. Instead, they align older development plans with current market conditions, clarify permissible uses, and reduce uncertainty for reinvestment and tenant activity.

Read more HERE!

 
A Look at Henry W. Coe State Park

A Look at Henry W. Coe State Park

By Brittney Sherman

Henry W. Coe State Park—just east of Morgan Hill—is Northern California’s largest state park and a major draw for hikers, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts. Covering more than 87,000 acres, its steep ridges, quiet canyons, and oak-covered hillsides offer a rugged, unspoiled setting for long hikes, backpacking trips, and wildlife viewing.

The park’s size and limited amenities mean visitors should come prepared with water, maps, and proper gear, especially in remote backcountry areas where cell service is sparse. Camping is available in designated locations for those looking to stay overnight.

As interest in outdoor recreation grows, Coe State Park has become an important destination for eco-minded travelers. Its natural landscapes support local tourism and offer a true backcountry experience that remains rare in Northern California.

Read more HERE!

 
City council loosens live entertainment rules in Morgan Hill

City council loosens live entertainment rules in Morgan Hill

By Brittney Sherman

The Morgan Hill City Council unanimously approved updates to the City’s live entertainment ordinance on Nov. 5, removing permit requirements for music and dancing held before 10 p.m. as long as businesses comply with noise regulations. The modernization replaces a 1998 rule that required permits for entertainment at any hour.

Under the revised ordinance, businesses offering entertainment after 10 p.m. must continue to obtain an annual permit and meet strengthened security standards. Requirements for late-night venues include surveillance, controlled entry, and incident reporting, with additional measures—such as bag checks and metal detectors—applying to establishments hosting more than 100 people.

Read more HERE!

 
Philz sets sights on Morgan Hill with new Cochrane Plaza location

Philz sets sights on Morgan Hill with new Cochrane Plaza location

By Brittney Sherman

Philz Coffee is preparing to open its first South County location at 250 Cochrane Plaza in Morgan Hill later this year. The company selected Morgan Hill as part of its broader Bay Area expansion strategy, citing strong demographics, a family-oriented customer base, and convenient access along Highway 101.

City permit records show the build-out, valued at about $575,000 and contracted through KDC Construction, will convert the former Pieology space into a 2,183-square-foot café with seating for 65. The new shop will sit within the Walmart-anchored Cochrane Plaza alongside tenants such as Hobby Lobby, Panda Express, Subway, and Wingstop. Project activity began in May, with final building permit approval issued in late August.

Read more HERE!

 
Morgan Hill, Open Space to collaborate on El Toro trail

Morgan Hill, Open Space to collaborate on El Toro trail

By Brittney Sherman

Morgan Hill is moving closer to opening a public trail on El Toro Mountain following the City Council’s approval of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Santa Clara Valley Open Space Authority on Nov. 5. The agreement formally commits both agencies to evaluate trail design, access options, and long-term stewardship for the landmark on the city’s west side.

The next phase will include public engagement and environmental review. If advanced, the trail would provide residents and visitors with expansive valley and Santa Cruz Mountain views. Mayor Mark Turner noted that expanding public access to El Toro has long been a city priority and said the partnership positions both agencies to begin detailed planning for a community-oriented recreational amenity.

Read more HERE!

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