San Anselmo Planning Commission reviews grading permit for large Spring Grove Avenue home

In the softly lit chambers of San Anselmo's Town Hall, the Planning Commission convened on December 16, 2024, to address pressing community concerns and review significant development proposals. The evening began with a roll call, confirming a quorum as Chair Jennifer Asselstine welcomed both commissioners and members of the public.

The meeting opened with a public comment session, allowing residents to voice their thoughts on issues not listed on the agenda. Mark Whitney Ballard, a trustee for a local property, expressed gratitude for the commission's efforts while raising concerns about a proposed grading permit for a new construction project at 160 Spring Grove Avenue. He highlighted the project's scale, noting that the proposed two-story, 2,491 square-foot house seemed disproportionately large compared to the existing homes in the neighborhood, which typically range from 1,500 to 1,800 square feet. Ballard urged the commission to consider the visual impact and compatibility of the new structure with the surrounding area.

In addition to the grading permit discussion, Ballard also mentioned a petition from neighbors advocating for the repaving of Spring Grove Avenue, which they hope will be included in the upcoming capital improvement program. This grassroots effort reflects the community's desire for improved infrastructure amid ongoing development.

As the meeting progressed, the commission turned its attention to the main agenda item: the grading permit, design review, and variances for the Spring Grove project. Assistant Planner Jackson Deberny provided a detailed overview of the proposal, which included moving 600 cubic yards of soil and constructing a new home with an attached garage. The project had previously been discussed in July and December, with commissioners expressing concerns about its massing and integration with the hillside's topography.

Despite revisions made by the applicant in response to earlier feedback, the commission faced challenges in reaching a consensus. The previous vote had resulted in a tie, indicating ongoing apprehension about the project's fit within the neighborhood context. The commissioners reiterated their commitment to ensuring that new developments harmonize with the existing landscape and community character.

As the meeting concluded, the discussions underscored the delicate balance the Planning Commission must maintain between facilitating development and preserving the unique charm of San Anselmo. The outcome of the Spring Grove project remains uncertain, but the voices of the community will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping its future.