Opinion: Creating a Village that welcomes us all

When I stroll down Big Basin Way on a sunny afternoon, I’m reminded why people fall in love with Saratoga at first sight. Flower beds burst with color thanks to the volunteer Village Gardeners, heritage buildings peek out from redwoods, and the hum of conversation drifts from coffee cups at Sue’s cafe.

Our Village is a scene from an idyllic postcard, but even idyllic downtowns need attention. Over the past year, the City Council has made economic vitality a formal initiative. Saratoga’s geography makes the topic tricky...