Atherton planning commission continues setback variance and heritage-tree removal requests at 84 Elena Avenue after neighbor concerns

The Atherton Planning Commission on Sept. 24 continued a request for a front setback variance and the removal of two heritage trees at 84 Elena Avenue after lengthy public comment and questions from commissioners about site circulation, lighting and privacy.

Town planner Britney Bennix opened the item by describing the proposal and staff’s recommendation. The application asks for a front setback variance to allow a roofed open area and a detached accessory building the applicant described as a gym. Bennix said the staff recommendation was to deny both the front setback variance and the tree removals. The town arborist told the commission she had identified at least three feasible alternative building locations on the lot and could not support the tree removals based on available alternatives.

The two trees proposed for removal were identified in the staff presentation as heritage specimens: an atlas cedar (tree No. 2) and a deodar cedar (tree No. 3). Bennix said one concern is that the lot is a 1.24-acre…