ABOUT US
The Los Altos Village Association was founded in the early 1960’s by merchants and property owners who were concerned the opening of several regional shopping centers would lure customers away from the downtown triangle. Then, as it is today, LAVA’s main purpose was to promote downtown businesses via advertising, promotions and special events.
The more than 140 LAVA members believe a vital and energized Downtown is extremely beneficial to our local community and economy. Today LAVA staff and committee members work closely with the City of Los Altos, the Los Altos/Los Altos Hills Chamber of Commerce, local service groups and the community at large to ensure Downtown Los Altos is a great place to shop, dine, explore and discover.
LAVA is also involved in other aspects of Downtown life. Our members participate in several committees working to improve the Downtown area, keep in touch with city affairs and the pulse of the community. These committees include the City Affairs Committee, Beautification Committee and Promotions/Events Committee.
LAVA also acts as a link between the City of Los Altos and downtown businesses. Members can count on LAVA staff to help solve concerns or issues with code interpretation, parking and other issues.
You can show your support in several ways — join the Village Association, shop downtown on a regular basis, or even become an Event Sponsor by filling out this Sponsorship Application.
We welcome your support!
Scott Hunter
Executive Director
BOARD & STAFF
Officers
| Erika Harrington | President Needles Studio 334 State Street |
| James Kozy | Vice President DeMartini Orchard 66 N. San Antonio Road |
| Mary Sheila McMahon | Secretary Linden Tree Books 265 State Street |
| Nina Nesmith | Immediate Past President Los Altos Hardware 101 Plaza North |
| Beth Maxwell- Lyons | Treasurer Volunteer |
Directors
| Valerie Cairns | Resident / Volunteer |
| Joe Fusco | Resident / Volunteer |
| Quetzal Grimm | The Agency 160 Main Street |
| Shannon Geary | Los Altos Community Investments 170 State Street |
| Peter Gruber | State of Mind Public House & Pizzeria 101 Plaza North |
| Dr. Elisabeth Ward | Los Altos History Museum 51 San Antonio Road |
| Laura Yelavich | Diamond Brokers of Los Altos 333 First Street |
| Dennis Young | Los Altos Town Crier 138 Main Street |
Staff
| Scott Hunter | Executive Director With a strong background in association management, marketing, sales, promotions, and event planning, as well as community involvement, Scott leads the Los Altos Village Association’s efforts to market and promote Downtown Los Altos as a great place to shop, dine, explore, and discover. |
| Liz Williams | Marketing and Event Coordinator Hailing from the Land Down Under, Liz brings to LAVA a wealth of experience in planning, marketing, and executing large-scale community events. She is tasked with making LAVA’s wonderful events and promotions a success. |