Gavin Moynahan, Planner I presented the item.
Commissioner Shugart asked for the representatives of the neighborhood to speak after giving an overview of RDRC.This included a discussion about Floor Area Thresholds and how the RDRC is chartered to review homes based on their design merits and how these merits help alleviate the massing of larger homes.
Ralph Bevin resident of 813 Rutherdale expressed a variety of concerns including that he had conducted his own survey and the he disagrees with the following: self-reporting of the applicant and designer is in error; the home is 737 square feet over the FAT; the home is in essence a totally new home; all existing homes on the street are similar in size and other two-story homes are too far away.
Denis Bevin resident of 813 Rutherdale spoke in opposition of the project and expressed the following concerns: believes that the home is too big and should be built elsewhere; might disrupt his view of trees and vistas; has concerns of privacy regarding his pool; construction noise issues (he works nights) and general privacy concerns.
Helen Werren of 819 Rutherdale spoke in opposition to the proposal and reiterated comments that were submitted on a previous response letter (August 2, 2008).She would like to see more planning requirements similar to those enlisted by Carmel by the Sea.
Marcus Werren of 819 Rutherdale commented on the proposed addition and shared the following thoughts:he preferred to live in a modest ranch style home, he thought San Carlos could benefit from more rigid design requirements like Santa Barbara and likes to see more land left around houses.
Mrs. Bevin of 813 Rutherdale spoke in opposition to the proposal and expressed concerns that she does not want a second floor added.
Chair Shugart asked two individuals to leave the public meeting due to inappropriate and disruptive comments.
The designer Matt Grocott gave a presentation of the design features and architectural program of the house.This includes the applicant’s need for additional space for a growing family and their staff.The designer also pointed out that the home protected the rear yard and made significant efforts to place windows so as not to encroach on neighbor’s privacy.
The Committee members conducted a discussion of the proposed home’s design, materials, and colors.Committee member Higgins requested that Staff continue to have applicants provide a colors and materials board that includes paint chips and small samples when appropriate, as the color reproductions sometimes vary.
Prior to the Committee vote Chair Shugart explained that it was not the within the RDRC’s powers to deny or reject second floor additions as they are entitled under the Zoning Code. This was in reference to concerns that the neighborhood was changing from its roots as a post-War development of modest houses.
