The Design Review Commission of San Gabriel convened on April 22, 2024, to discuss a proposed residential project at 1019 South Gladys Avenue. The meeting focused on the design elements of the project, including the layout, driveway placement, and window sizes, as well as public concerns regarding sidewalks and landscaping.

The meeting began with a presentation from the project applicant, who outlined the intention to rebuild the existing single rental unit into a family home. The applicant emphasized their goal of creating a comfortable living space while addressing neighborhood dynamics. The commission members engaged in a detailed discussion about the proposed changes, including the relocation of the driveway from the north to the south side of the property. This adjustment was made to enhance privacy from a neighboring two-story house and to optimize sunlight and airflow for the property.

Commissioner Lo raised questions about the window sizes in the bedrooms, noting that they appeared small. The applicant explained that the design aimed to balance natural light with the privacy of neighbors, resulting in fewer but strategically placed windows. The limited width of the lot also constrained options for garage placement, leading to an attached garage design that further reduced backyard space.

Public comments were invited, with one resident expressing opposition to the project. The resident raised concerns about the absence of sidewalks in the area and questioned whether new constructions would be required to include them. The commission clarified that sidewalk requirements would be addressed during the plan-checking phase by the Public Works Department, which also oversees landscaping in the right-of-way.

The discussion also touched on the preservation of existing trees on the property, with the commission confirming that any class 1 trees, as defined by the city's tree preservation ordinance, would need to be preserved unless otherwise approved.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the project's merits, and the commission agreed to consider conditions for sidewalk installation as part of the approval process. The next steps will involve further review by the Public Works Department to ensure compliance with city regulations.