Commission grants variance for 225 Santa Ana Ave remodeling with restriction on ground‑floor cooking

The Planning Commission voted to take the discretionary review and to record a notice of special restrictions preventing cooking facilities on the proposed ground‑floor accessory living space at 225 Santa Ana Avenue. The action followed a substantial public exchange: the homeowner argued the remodel is needed for accessibility and healthy living conditions, while a neighbor (the DR requester) raised concerns about inadequate notice and potential impacts on views and neighborhood character.

Owner Ken Win described longstanding efforts to adapt his 1927 house for wheelchair accessibility and healthier living conditions, saying he had worked with neighbors and the Balboa Terrace Homeowners Association. Roger Ritter, president of the homeowners association, told the commission that the association had no objection and that the project followed architectural review protocols. Opponents said some neighbors had not received timely notice of hearing continuances and that the size of changes — raising the structure and enlarging a rear area — were greater than portrayed in earlier materials.

After discussion, the commission voted to require an NSR to prohibit a ground‑floor kitchen and to accept the zoning administrator's approach; the zoning administrator took the variance under advisement to ensure compliance with building, fire and health permitting. The Commission recorded the decision and noted staff would work with the sponsor to ensure the project meets dwelling‑unit merger and code requirements.