Planning Commission approves setback exception for 183 Prospect Street

The Woodside Town Planning Commission voted unanimously to grant a side-setback exception for 183 Prospect Street, approving a second-story element on the west side and a one-story garage on the east.

Melanie Olson, associate planner, summarized the request and staff'recommended findings: "The setback exception for the second story addition on the right proposes an allowed exception from 22 and 1/2 feet to 17 and 1/2 feet. And a single story garage exception from 15 feet to 14 feet if the findings can be met." Olson told commissioners the property is in the R1 zone, the lot is about 20,000 square feet, and story poles were installed at least 10 days before the hearing.

Applicant Taj Horton said the addition is intended to convert attic space into bedrooms for the family's three daughters while preserving the house's cottage character. "We can replace a large attic with upstairs kid bedrooms and a bathroom," Horton said, adding that neighbors had reviewed design alternatives and several sent letters of support. Horton told the commission the west-side placement and existing vegetation reduce visibility to neighbors.

Commissioners said they visited the site and agreed the proposal met the required findings. One commissioner summarized the assessment of the findings, saying the available conforming alternatives would cause greater adverse impacts or volume changes than the exception. After a motion and second, the roll-call vote was recorded in favor: Chair Guard, Vice Chair Tober, Commissioner Evans, Commissioner Stoker and Commissioner Weaver all voted yes. The commission noted a 10-day appeal period and said staff would send a summary letter in the next day or two.