Commission approves second-story addition at 1841 Yosemite; staff cited view and setback compliance

The Seaside Planning Commission voted Dec. 10 to approve architectural review AR2025-023 for a second-story addition at 1841 Yosemite Street.

Senior planner Beth Rocher told the commission the project adds 879 square feet on the second floor, includes two balconies (57.5 and 49 square feet), and keeps the building under the 24-foot height limit at 21 feet 11 inches. Rocher said the proposal brings some interior nonconforming elements into compliance, removes two unpermitted areas and reduces site hardscape so site coverage falls to 62.9% (below the 65% maximum). The staff recommendation was approval subject to customary conditions including coordination with the Building Department and verification that prior unpermitted work has been removed before a certificate of occupancy is issued.

Applicant Abraham Martinez, who identified himself as a licensed general contractor and the property owner, said the design was intended to blend with neighborhood character and to minimize view and privacy impacts by using low-profile roof forms. Commissioners asked technical questions about the balconies and setbacks and generally expressed support for the design’s sensitivity to nearby views.

A motion to approve AR2025-023 carried after a second. The chair reminded the public that appeals of the commission’s decision must be filed in writing with the city clerk within seven calendar days and include the required filing fee.

The project record lists the property as a single-family residence in the RS-12 zone; staff emphasized that the addition is compliant with maximum floor-area ratios and setbacks and that Building Department coordination is required before final occupancy.