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Commission continues controversial 249 Texas Street project after extensive neighbor opposition
Summary
The Planning Commission continued consideration of a proposed rebuild at 249 Texas Street after extensive public testimony alleging outreach failures, demolition concerns and disputed unit history; the commission requested staff complete an unauthorized‑dwelling‑unit (UDU) screening and return on April 1.
The commission opened item 13 for 249 Texas Street, a proposed new two‑unit home with altered massing and reduced roof‑deck area. Project architect John Maniscalco described design changes made after neighbor concerns, including removal of a previously proposed fourth floor and reduction of the rear roof deck.
Public comment numbered more than two dozen callers. Neighbors and long‑time residents raised consistent concerns: the proposed single‑family mansion‑scale replacement is out of character; demolition of a historic‑appearing Victorian home is objectionable; construction noise, dust and excavation risks during the pandemic would harm tenants and older neighbors working from home; and outreach was described as inadequate. Several callers disputed the staff record asserting the existing building is a single‑family dwelling and said two separate households had occupied the property for years.
Commissioners sought clarification about unit history and the status of an unauthorized dwelling unit (UDU) alleged by commenters. Planning staff and the sponsor indicated an abatement occurred in mid‑2019 and that building‑department records list the site as a single‑family dwelling; staff said the department would research UDU records. Given new information raised during the hearing, Commissioner Moore moved and Commissioners Imperial and Tanner supported a continuance to allow staff to complete a UDU screening and for the sponsor to address commission comments on unit configuration, open space, deck setbacks and tenant issues. The commission continued the matter to April 1, 2021 by unanimous vote.
No final decision on the merits was reached; the continuance directs staff to verify permit history and the sponsor to return with requested revisions and documentation.
