2004-0092 – Application for Design Review on a 6,004 square-foot site to allow a second story addition of 1,215 square feet resulting in a 3,287 square-foot home with 54.75% Floor Area Ratio (FAR) where 45% is allowed without Planning Commission Review.  The property is located at 811 Haverhill Drive in an R-0 (Low Density Residential) Zoning District.(APN:201-09-035)

Steve Lynch, Associate Planner, presented the staff report.  He summarized the proposed application highlighting the use, site layout, architecture and neighborhood compatibility. He noted that there is minimal impact on streetscape and surrounding neighborhood. He reported that the applicant worked extensively with the neighbors regarding the type and placement of the second story windows.  Staff further reported that there are two changes since the staff report was written. One, on the upper rear elevation, the left hand high windows will be switched with the larger bedroom window on the right hand side.  Two, the applicant will use stucco siding for the two sides and the rear elevation. Therefore, the wood and the rock wains coating will be wrapped around from the front and have returns to the side. Staff was able to make the required Findings and recommended approval of the Design Review with the recommended Conditions of Approval.

Comm. Simons asked staff whether there is range or limitation in regard to the total FAR requiring Planning Commission review.  Staff responded that the code does not have a maximum Floor Area Ratio but rather the 45% FAR is a threshold to bring the item to a public hearing.   He added that an average floor area ratio going to a public hearing is about 55%.

Chair Babcock opened the public hearing.

Paul Ny, architect, applicant, stated that the property owners have worked extensively with their neighbors regarding the proposed addition.  He stated that they made some changes since the report was written as reported by staff.

Chair Babcock was impressed with the public outreach efforts of the property owners showing and involving the neighbors in the design.  Mr. Ny commented that staff advised and influenced them to make these efforts.

Pat Grennan, resident who lives next to the applicant, supported the project.  She was pleased with the outreach efforts of the applicant.  She was satisfied with the plans and noted that the placement of the windows would not invade their privacy. She was pleased that her neighborhood has a sense of community.  She urged the Commission to support the project.

Leanne Teruya, applicant, concurred with Ms. Grennan and was happy that her neighborhood has a sense of community and was pleased to be able to work with the neighborhood on their plans. 

Chair Babcock closed the public hearing.

Comm. Moylan commented that the application is uncontroversial. He was impressed with the neighborhood’s cooperation. He stated that the project is nicely designed and meets the single-family design guidelines enhancing the neighborhood.

Comm. Fussell concurred with staff recommendation.  During his site visit, he was impressed with the applicant’s outreach efforts. He was pleased with the design and its compatibility with the neighborhood.

 Ms. Ryan stated that the motion is final unless appealed to the City Council within the 15-day appeal period.