06 ATTACHMENTS - Laserfiche WebLink

215 Neal Street, along with the tree in their backyard, whose branches are hanging over his property line and which, if trimmed, would allow more sun into their backyard. With respect to privacy considerations, Mr. Cunningham stated that they were really critical when they designed this house. He indicated that the two windows at the front of the home are at the six-foot level, and there are no rooms with views from the second story looking over into the neighbor's house. He noted that current vegetation also exists between the two homes and provides privacy. He added that the rear deck originally proposed looked into the back of 4524 Second Street was removed, and the master bedroom was relocated to the front of the house, with only one window located six feet above the vanity to provide some light into the master bathroom. Mr. Cunningham stated that there was also a concern that the tree in the rear yard in the adjacent home on Second Street would be impacted by the remodel. He noted that a horticulturist examined this and indicated that the trunk of the tree is 19 feet from the property line and that there would be little or no impact to the health of that tree. He added that the City's Landscape Architect, Mike Fulford, arrived at the same conclusion. With regard to size, Mr. Cunningham stated that his calculation of the FAR is 36 percent. He indicated that he recognizes what Mr. Dolan is saying but stated that the two lots cannot be separated. He noted that if he wanted to build a big home in the center of the property, he could do it with all the square footage, but it would not look half as nice as what is being proposed here; and if he connected the two homes, it would probably be approved. He stated that the distance from his house to the neighbor on one side is 39 feet and 13.5 feet to the neighbor on the other side. He added that the distance between two other houses in the neighborhood is also 39 feet. Mr. Cunningham stated that that he walked up and down the neighborhood and spoke to many people about his proposal, all of whom were supportive and wanted to see something happen on this property. He noted that what he is proposing will contribute to the integrity of the Downtown will support the revitalization that the City is looking for. He referred to the 66 signed letters of support that was included in the staff report, and he read an email of support from Bonnie Shamblin who could not attend the meeting. Mr. Cunningham stated that in developing this house with Charles Huff, project architect, they took into consideration the need to blend in with surrounding homes, matching their style of wood and color. He added that they have done the best they can, moving the front porch and balcony a step away from the street. He noted that the garage and front doors are a major issue and indicated that a door company will build his front door to match the garage door. As to the landscaping, he indicated that the old bushes in front of the house will be replaced with flowerbeds, and pavers will be installed going to the garage and the front porch. In conclusion, Mr. Cunningham stated that it is homes like this that will bring young families and those who want to downsize into the Downtown, thus bringing about hospitality and vitality. Charles Huff, project architect, stated that following the Work Session, they have taken all the comments into consideration and tried to come back with a project that meets a EXCERPT: PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, NOVEMBER 9, 2011 Page 3 of 17