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Commission approves second‑story addition and new unit at 506 A Pine Street with three deviations
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Summary
The City of Capitola Planning Commission approved on Nov. 6 a design permit for 506 A Pine Street that adds a second story to an existing duplex and creates a new detached two‑story unit, granting three design deviations with conditions.
The City of Capitola Planning Commission on Nov. 6 approved a design permit for 506 A Pine Street that includes a second‑story addition to an existing duplex and a new detached two‑story residential unit. The project required three objective‑standard deviations: (1) the new unit's primary entry will face the interior of the site rather than the street, (2) an alternative pedestrian walkway treatment (material/color change rather than a continuous 6‑foot path) and (3) a window/door glass inset exception; staff recommended approval of the first two deviations and recommended the window inset be required as a condition (Condition 22).
Gina Pollini, a principal planner with CSG who presented for the city while the senior planner recruitment is open, explained that the site's topography and the existing duplex orientation lead to interior entries and that providing a street‑facing entry or a continuous 6‑foot walkway would be technically challenging. She said the building official found the alternative walkway treatment acceptable because ADA‑required features did not apply in this specific configuration. Staff and the design review committee requested a number of changes during review; Pollini said the applicants complied with most requests except for the three deviations under consideration.
Applicant representative Daniel Sepkin thanked staff for their assistance. Neighbor David Kramer spoke in favor during public comment, saying he and his wife live next door and have an agreement with the property owners (referred to as the Kellys) to remove a fence that currently encroaches about 50–60 square feet; Kramer also said he reserved the right to verify the lot line later if necessary.
Commission discussion emphasized neighborhood cooperation and the addition of housing stock; commissioners expressed support for the project. A motion to approve based on the findings and conditions in the staff report passed on roll call with Aye votes from Commissioner Que, Commissioner Welch, Vice Chair Christiansen and Chair Esty. The planning department will monitor compliance with the conditions, including the staff recommendation to require the 3‑inch inset for new windows and doors as condition 22.
