Encinitas Planning Commission denies three variances for proposed Neptune Avenue expansion

On May 1 the Encinitas Planning Commission denied three variances requested by homeowners Brian and Christy Kirk for a project at 1467 Neptune Avenue in the Leucadia community. The project would have demolished an existing detached deck and garage, added a first- and second-floor addition to a single-family home, converted part of the existing house to a junior accessory dwelling unit (JADU), and built a new detached two-car garage; the applicants also sought a coastal development permit.

Staff presented the proposal and recommended approval. Associate Planner Takuma Eastland summarized the requests and findings and told the commission, “Therefore, staff recommends that the planning commission adopt the draft resolution of approval and approve the project.” The three variance requests were: reduce the street-side yard setback from 10 feet to 4 feet; permit roof eaves to encroach up to 2 feet into that reduced setback; and allow the proposed detached garage to encroach 9 feet into the required street-side setback to satisfy the enclosed parking requirement of the Encinitas Municipal Code.

Neighbors and nearby residents strongly opposed the…