Board won't comment on issue of Ted Garrett's contract

Town crier file photo Ted Garrett, executive director of the Los Altos Village Association, will leave his position when his contract expires this year.

Ted Garrett, executive director of the Los Altos Village Association (LAVA), said last week he is leaving the downtown merchants group.

Garrett, hired in 2003, said he would leave at the end of the year when his contract expires. Garrett and the board met in October to discuss a contract renewal.

Harry Price, Village Association president, said he could not comment on whether Garrett’s leaving was the board’s decision because it was “a personnel matter.”

“It has been my sincere pleasure to be your executive director for the last several years,” Garrett said in a statement. “I leave, having instituted reforms and a reorganization that leaves LAVA completely and financially stable.”

Among his accomplishments, Garrett said he created a dedicated advertising fund from member fees, increased membership by 173 percent, doubled sponsorship funding, created the Taste of Los Altos Village and fostered partnerships with schools and other civic organizations, especially the Los Altos Chamber of Commerce. “And, I hear I livened things up a bit,” he quipped.

Garrett, who was often seen around downtown smiling and chatting with merchants and residents, earned a reputation as a lively promoter always looking to make things happen. This led to a glowing write-up in a local daily newspaper, but he also rubbed some the wrong way with his approach.

Price said Garrett will be missed.

“Ted has displayed tremendous energy and enthusiasm in his efforts on our behalf,” Price said. “We remain deeply indebted to him for the many great things he has accomplished for both the downtown commercial area and its patrons. He is a quality person, and we have all benefited from his association with our group of hardworking volunteers.”

“While LAVA is the most financially stable and successful in many years, it is working with dedicated volunteers and serving you and downtown Los Altos that has kept me motivated,” Garrett said in remarks aimed at merchants. “I am grateful for your tremendous support and enthusiasm and your smiles whenever I visited your businesses. The new team will need your support, enthusiasm and smiles, and I encourage you to work closely with them.”