PC 041311 - Laserfiche WebLink

Mr. Cunningham stated that he cannot identify anything historic about the house, which was initially a garage that was eventually . He described the project which would blend in with the surrounding homes and adhere to alignment. He talked about the materials to be used for the project, its color scheme, front porch, balcony and window treatments, a lower pitched roof on the side, heritage style front and garage doors, pavers for the driveway and walkway up to the porch, and landscaping. He noted that the wall on the west hand side only has one bathroom window on the second floor which can be opaque for privacy. Mr. Cunningham cited the reputation and respect of architect Charles Huff and expressed his commitment to the Pleasanton Downtown and its revitalization process. Charles Huff, applicant and Project Architect, stated that the Cunninghams have done a good job at gathering over 60 letters of support and believes the two-story heritage style proposal fits in nicely and complements the historic Neal Street neighborhood; however, after reading the letter from Pleasanton Historic Association (PHA), one would think the proposal is for a high rise condominium project. Mr. Huff stated that they met with staff and mitigated all but two variances needed to complete the project, the first being a front yard setback which is being handled through a method of averaging the front yard setbacks of properties along the street. He noted that in 1969, a 20-foot front yard setback was the law, and over the years it was changed to 23 feet. He stated that he has designed and used 20 feet for many historic homes on First and Second Streets. He noted that Peter states that historic lots oftentimes require variances due to their undersized lots and existing neighborhood home setbacks. He pointed out that, for example, the lot adjoining 4512 Second Street needed two variances. He concluded that he believes the proposal meets many of the Downtown Design Guidelines aspects, especially those on design traits and meeting infill housing goals. Commissioner Olson asked Mr. Huff if the average front yard setbacks of properties on Neal Street were used, and if so, which section of Neal Street was used. Mr. Huff replied that he used a one-block section of Neal Street between Second and Third Streets. Commissioner Olson inquired what the second variance was. Mr. Huff stated that they met with staff regarding a concern relating to the distance to an adjoining garage at 4512 Second Street. He stated that staff believed the garage was over 15 feet in height; however, it is 10 to 11 feet, which can be addressed. He noted that a second issue is the fireplace being too close to the adjoining property at 215 Neal Street, and that would be addressed by narrowing the fireplace chimney down. He further noted an issue with the front porch setback, which will be mitigated by moving PLANNING COMMISSION REGULAR MINUTES, April 13, 2011 Page 4 of 19