Masson Estates approved
The Saratoga City Council voted to unanimously approve a hillside builder’s remedy project that was formerly rejected by the planning commission on Aug. 19.
Masson Estates is a builder’s remedy project in an area zoned for hillside residential on Pierce Road, an area that is known for high fire risk. The development includes the construction of 20 market-rate and five affordable single-family homes. The developers would make improvements to Pierce Road, build a new one-mile public trail and include home hardening and defensible space measures to mitigate wildfire risk. Primary access is from Pierce Road at Saratoga Heights Drive. The developers would have to create a new emergency access road that links the back of the development to Pierce Road at Vintage Lane. The project would also require the removal of 367 trees and detention areas for stormwater.
The planning commission rejected the project on July 8, saying that the benefits didn’t outweigh the significant effects on the environment, according to a staff report. Within a week, the developers submitted an appeal, arguing that under the builder’s remedy provision of the Housing Accountability Act, the project cannot lawfully be disapproved. Attorney Gabe Roth said there are very narrow reasons why the city council could deny the project, specifically if it was inconsistent with health or safety standards; however, there was no such standard based on evacuation time or wildfire risk that could qualify as a reason for denial.
“I want to make it clear: Approving this project does not mean we dismiss the fire and evacuation concerns raised by our residents,” said Councilmember Yan Zhao. “As elected officials, we have responsibilities to follow the law, even when the choices are difficult.”
Student films honored
Two films created by Saratoga High School Media Arts Program students were tapped as official selections at the 2026 All American High School Film Festival, according to a school district press release.
The films that were recognized were “Don’t Brake,” a 10-minute drama made by 2026 graduate Alex Sinton, and “Coming Up Roses,” an eight-minute drama by Ian Johnson and Christina Labban.
The All American High School Film Festival receives thousands of student film submissions each year. The official selections are chosen by a panel of industry judges. The films will be screened at the AMC Empire 25 Theaters in Times Square in New York City during the annual festival on Oct. 16-18.