PC 01/13/1993 - Laserfiche WebLink

Mr. Metz returned to the podium. He showed the petition signed by his neighbors in support of the project. He noted that a realtor, Valerie Oar, in the immedia area of the project had also signed the petition in support of the application. Commissioner Michelotti asked Mr. Metz if he has looked at his pI s to see if the square footage could be reduced to bring the house within the FAR limits. r. Metz replied that he has looked at the plans, but does not see how it can be cut back wi out giving up needed space and still accommodate the need for space for his five children. He supposed the laundry could be left in the garage but did not favor that. THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS CLOSED. Commissioner Michelotti expressed concern as to how the Commisso n would handle a similar case if they approve this one. She felt if they approve this se, any number of people might then apply for a variance for the increased FAR exc ing the permitted ratio. She also noted that in driving through the area she had observed tha most of the homes are one-story and was not sure a 3,049 square foot house would fit into he neighborhood. Mr. Swift noted that the Commission has to look at setting a preced nt every time they approve a variance. He further noted that if the Commission feels at 40 percent FAR is too restrictive, that the Code should be amended. Otherwise they m st make the finding that there is a special circumstance applicable to the property. In response to Commissioner Michelotti's question, Mr. Swift said e plan would have to be reduced by 486 square feet in order to meet the FAR requirement. Commissioner Michelotti again expressed concern that the Com miss on will be setting a precedent if they approve the application. However, she realized th y have approved granny flats, and are trying to provide affordable housing for the City's res' ents. Commissioner Finch stated that he has mixed feelings about the app . cation. He was concerned about granting a variance, but not necessarily about setti a precedent. He felt a strong point for approval was that the neighbors have no problem w th the house plans. He also felt that with the Cabana Club across the street that a two-story house would fit in all right. Commissioner Wright said he thought the plans were good; howeve , he felt he could not set a precedent as to the FAR. He suggested that a redesign of the ho e could be done by the applicant which could still give him most of the room he needs. H felt that if the study could be eliminated and the stairs shifted somewhat that an effectiv plan could be had. He felt the FAR could be cut back to 40 percent. Planning Commission Minutes January 13, 1993 Page 5