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Commission continues decision on proposed three‑unit condo map and duplex at 301 W. Viasquilla
Summary
Commissioners put a proposed three‑unit configuration (existing single‑family house plus a new duplex) on indefinite continuance after criticising the design’s two garage‑forward driveways and asking the applicant to return with alternate site and garage configurations.
The Planning Commission continued, without setting a date, a request for a one‑lot condominium map and a duplex at 301 W. Viasquilla after several commissioners said the current design leaves an awkward, garage‑dominated frontage on Via Escuela.
Staff described the application as a request to create airspace parcels for two new units on a 0.56‑acre lot that already contains a single‑family house. The site is in zone RGA‑6 and the General Plan’s low‑density residential designation allows up to three units; the lot is a legal, substandard lot of record. Staff noted the project complies with lot‑coverage, open‑space (about 51 percent) and height (the proposal is 13 feet 5 inches, under the 15‑foot cap) standards; staff recommended approval subject to conditions.
Applicants told the commission the development is primarily for family use: two owners who bought the property said they plan to live in the existing home and one new unit while the other new unit would be used by another family member. The applicants said they have invested design and engineering costs and want to proceed.
Commissioners questioned the site layout, which places two new garages facing Via Escuela with limited “eyes on the street” and shared access through a narrow courtyard. Commissioner Miller described the proposal as “the worst version of snub houses I’ve ever seen” and argued the design was out of character with Via Escuela, which features hedges, front yards and houses with visible living facades. Commissioners proposed alternatives including a shared driveway, side‑loaded garages, tandem garages, or moving one unit to a Mira Vista Way entry to reduce garage frontage on Via Escuela.
Given the number of design changes suggested, the commission voted to continue the item so the applicants can return with revised plans or pursue an administrative minor modification or other relief. The continuance passed unanimously.
Why it matters The case illustrates tensions between increasing housing supply on infill lots and preserving neighborhood character. The commission signaled willingness to consider three units on the lot if the design produces a functional, neighborhood‑compatible frontage and adequate pedestrian and streetscape design.
Actions and outcome - Action: Motion to continue the application to an indefinite date to allow the applicant to prepare revised site and elevation plans. - Outcome: Continued (unanimous roll call vote).
