The commission took two related actions on Kato Lane on Oct. 21 after extended discussion about siting and visual similarity between two new dwellings.

Commission staff and applicants presented that 10 Kato Lane had been approved previously (consent) and that 8 Kato Lane had been withdrawn and resubmitted with revisions. Commissioners and staff noted the two houses as proposed are nearly identical in shape, proportion and fenestration and sit close to the front setback, which led several commissioners to advise moving 1 house back or reorienting one to create variation and avoid a mirrored, suburban appearance on a rural road.

After discussion the commission approved 10 Kato Lane per the previously granted consent (the commission recorded the consent approval) and voted to hold 8 Kato Lane for revisions. Commissioners asked the applicant to provide clearer revision markings and a comparison to the previously approved footprint and to consider mirroring and/or further setbacks so the two houses do not read as identical twins along the street.

The motion to hold 8 Kato Lane passed on a roll call vote. One commissioner noted that the previous minutes and revisions were not clearly bubbled in the resubmission package, which contributed to confusion and prompted the hold for clarification and updated materials.