Facilities Update
We currently have four church facilities projects underway: 1) The Garden, 2) our new Parsonage, 3) the Yakitori restaurant, and 4) the repaving of the 6th Street parking lot. In this update, we’ll focus on the progress of the new Parsonage and share updates on the other projects soon.
On June 17th, 2024, we purchased the Mineta House (545 N. 5th St.). Shortly after, the Board of Trustees (BOT) began planning the restoration and upgrades needed to create a comfortable and welcoming parsonage. Our restoration budget is set at $400,000, and based on initial discussions with our contractor, we are optimistic about staying within budget. We’ll have a clearer picture once the final bid is confirmed.
However, a few months ago, the city planning department unexpectedly classified the Mineta House as a historical building. This brought additional restrictions and delayed the approval of our remodeling plans. The good news is that we have now received official approval from both the city planning and building departments. We are currently collaborating with our contractor to finalize the bid and obtain the necessary permits.
While awaiting city approval, we used the time productively. Obsolete systems, including wiring, water pipes, and heating and air conditioning, were removed. The sewer line was replaced, the house underwent termite fumigation, and roof repairs were completed to prevent further water damage. Additionally, we cleared much of the overgrown landscape and restored the garage, which is now serving as a secure storage space for building materials.
We estimate construction will take at least six months. Unfortunately, this means our senior pastor, Rev. John Oda, will need to stay in temporary housing at Avalon - Cahill Park until the restoration is complete.
Once finished, the Mineta House will stand as a beautifully restored parsonage that honors its historical significance. It will serve as a tribute to Norm Mineta, while supporting the growth and vitality of both our church and Japantown San Jose as we look toward a strong future.
On June 17th, 2024, we purchased the Mineta House (545 N. 5th St.). Shortly after, the Board of Trustees (BOT) began planning the restoration and upgrades needed to create a comfortable and welcoming parsonage. Our restoration budget is set at $400,000, and based on initial discussions with our contractor, we are optimistic about staying within budget. We’ll have a clearer picture once the final bid is confirmed.
However, a few months ago, the city planning department unexpectedly classified the Mineta House as a historical building. This brought additional restrictions and delayed the approval of our remodeling plans. The good news is that we have now received official approval from both the city planning and building departments. We are currently collaborating with our contractor to finalize the bid and obtain the necessary permits.
While awaiting city approval, we used the time productively. Obsolete systems, including wiring, water pipes, and heating and air conditioning, were removed. The sewer line was replaced, the house underwent termite fumigation, and roof repairs were completed to prevent further water damage. Additionally, we cleared much of the overgrown landscape and restored the garage, which is now serving as a secure storage space for building materials.
We estimate construction will take at least six months. Unfortunately, this means our senior pastor, Rev. John Oda, will need to stay in temporary housing at Avalon - Cahill Park until the restoration is complete.
Once finished, the Mineta House will stand as a beautifully restored parsonage that honors its historical significance. It will serve as a tribute to Norm Mineta, while supporting the growth and vitality of both our church and Japantown San Jose as we look toward a strong future.
Posted in Newsletter 2025-03-27