Olivette panel approves solar on covered walkway, delays decision on garage and pool at 820 North Price Road

The Olivette Community Development Design Commission on Thursday approved roof-mounted solar panels for a covered walkway at 820 North Price Road but postponed action on a detached garage and in-ground pool so staff can review revised plans and the commission can consider accessory-structure rules.

The commission voted unanimously to allow the solar array on the proposed covered walkway and, in a separate motion approved by the same unanimous margin, granted the applicant up to 90 days to submit additional plans for the proposed detached garage and pool. The postponement gives staff time to complete engineering and stormwater reviews and to post revised materials for public review.

Commissioners said the case raised a broader question about how Olivette’s accessory-structure rules define “subordinate” structures and whether a detached building with living space can be larger or taller than the primary residence. Carlos Trejo, Olivette’s director of planning and community development, told the…