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Commission takes discretionary review on 763 University Street and orders modifications to side/rear parapets and reflective finishes
Summary
After neighbor petitions alleging unpermitted additions and blocked light at 763 University St., the commission voted 4-3 to take discretionary review and direct the sponsor to reduce side/rear parapets where feasible and to lighten interior light‑well/rear walls to increase reflectivity.
Neighbors and homeowners appeared before the Planning Commission on Jan. 15 seeking discretionary review of a three-story addition at 763 University Street, alleging the as-built work exceeded approved permit drawings and harmed adjacent properties by blocking light and views.
Lisa Wong, a neighbor and Doctor requester, said the project "raised the parapets even more than these little scribbled parapets" and that changes were made without proper notice. Neighbor David Bratt characterized the resulting view from his backyard as "an ugly, dark, blank billboard." Neighbors asked the commission to require removal or reduction of parapets and to enforce the notice process.
Project representatives including architect Bill Aubin and homeowner Sandy Herrera said they had talked with neighbors, made several design concessions and obtained job-card inspections from the Department of Building Inspection. The builder and sponsor disputed claims of serious code violations but acknowledged some communication gaps.
Commissioners debated whether the hearing was principally a design review (DR) question or a process/permit compliance matter. After extended discussion, the commission voted to take discretionary review, and directed the sponsor to work with staff to reduce side and rear parapets where possible, paint interior light-well and rear walls a light-reflective color, and wrap the front parapet visually to blend the elevation. The motion (moved by Commissioner Antonini, seconded) passed 4-3. Several commissioners emphasized that further technical review may be needed by DBI and that fines or permit remedies beyond the commission's DR authority remain available through building inspection.
