During a recent government meeting, significant discussions emerged regarding a proposed use permit for a second story addition to a residential property in a neighborhood characterized by smaller homes. One commissioner expressed strong concerns about the size of the proposed dwelling, which at 3,500 square feet, would significantly overshadow existing homes that typically range from 1,500 to 2,500 square feet. The commissioner highlighted that the largest home in the area is only 2,200 square feet, suggesting that the new construction would be incompatible with the neighborhood's character.

The commissioner also noted that the applicant has a large backyard, implying that expanding horizontally rather than vertically could be a more suitable option for accommodating additional bedrooms. This perspective reflects a broader concern about maintaining the aesthetic and spatial harmony of the community.

In contrast, Commissioner Spears emphasized that the meeting's focus was solely on the use permit for the second story, rather than the design specifics of the project. Spears expressed confidence in the staff's ability to collaborate with the applicant to ensure that the final design aligns with the neighborhood's character. He also referenced the new general plan's encouragement of such developments, which aim to foster family cohesion and support aging in place.

The meeting underscored a tension between preserving neighborhood integrity and accommodating growth, as commissioners weighed the implications of the proposed construction against community standards and planning goals. Further discussions are expected as the project moves forward, with staff tasked to work closely with the applicant to address the concerns raised.