Commission approves second unit at 53 Manzanita; denies discretionary review request

The Planning Commission voted unanimously Dec. 19 to approve an alteration permit allowing a lawful second dwelling unit within the existing building envelope at 53 Manzanita Avenue (RH2 zoning) and declined to take discretionary review.

Background and positions: Planning staff summarized that the property’s neighborhood contains a mix of multi‑unit and single‑family houses and that the proposal retained the existing building envelope and on‑site parking. Peter Morrissey, the DR requester, argued the permit should be denied and the matter undergo discretionary review, stating: “If there was ever a permit that called out for discretionary review, it is this one,” and expressing concern about preserving a contiguous row of single‑family homes. Multiple adjacent neighbors echoed concerns about neighborhood character and tenant behavior.

Applicant and support: The applicant, Alex Varam, and supporters contended the proposed lower unit is internal, not a building expansion, and that the conversion complies with RH2 zoning. Supporters argued that creating a legal unit helps housing supply and that the applicant intends to occupy the property once renovations are complete. Several residents urged housing flexibility and noted a shortage of family‑sized units.

Commission deliberations and vote: Commissioners questioned the sponsor about the infill work and verified that prior work had been permitted as an interior infill. Commissioners debated the balance between preserving single‑family character and increasing legally permitted housing stock in RH2 districts. Commissioner Hillis moved to approve and not take discretionary review; the motion passed 7–0.

Outcome: The applicant may proceed with permit processing. The commission recorded community concerns in the public record, and staff will continue to administer code compliance and noticing practices.