Saratoga’s City Council voted 4–1 on Oct. 7 to allocate $2.5 million for renovations to the koi pond at Hakone Gardens, according to a signed resolution now available in the city’s public records.
Resolution 26-059 amends the fiscal 2026–27 budget, moving the money from the city’s unallocated Park Development Fund into the pond renovation capital project. The resolution says recently received park development funds made the allocation possible.
Councilmembers Fitzsimmons and Zhao, Vice Mayor Walia and Mayor Chuck Page voted in favor. Councilmember Aftab voted against the measure. The resolution does not explain the dissent.
The city established the capital project in fiscal 2022–23 to begin setting aside money for renovations estimated at $5 million. The adopted resolution describes the pond as deteriorating and in need of work.