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Fortuna panel approves variance and lot-line adjustment for 1125 Angel Heights Drive
Summary
The planning commission approved a variance to reduce a side setback to 5 feet and a lot-line adjustment that shifts 1,377 sq ft between parcels to correct a structural encroachment at 1125 Angel Heights Drive; a neighboring owner and a written commenter expressed views about the project and traffic.
The Fortuna Planning Commission voted to approve a variance reducing the required side setback from 15 feet to 5 feet and a lot-line adjustment that transfers 1,377 square feet between assessor parcels to correct an existing structural encroachment at 1125 Angel Heights Drive.
Planner Katie summarized the project’s background: a 2018 minor-subdivision map and later extension were never recorded, and staff identified a structural encroachment that must be corrected before recording any new subdivision. The property’s new owner, Bryce Lester, confirmed plans to proceed with a minor subdivision and potential future construction including an ADU. The variance request would permit a reduced setback so the existing structure would have a 5-foot maintenance buffer while the adjacent redwood tree line remains intact.
Katie said Parcel 1 is currently 1.72 acres and Parcel 2 is 0.54 acres; the lot-line adjustment would add 1,377 square feet to Parcel 2, resulting in approximate parcel sizes of 1.6 acres and 0.57 acres respectively. Staff concluded the required zoning findings for a variance and a lot-line adjustment are met and recommended approval. The project was found exempt from CEQA under Public Resources Code §15305(a) for minor lot line adjustments.
John Egan, a neighboring property owner, spoke in support, saying he and his wife planted the redwood buffer around 2000 and are open to the lot-line adjustment because the property has been blighted and a new owner is improving it. Staff read a written comment from Jim and Francine Bridal, long-time residents of Angel Heights Drive, expressing concern that new dwellings could increase traffic on the dead-end street, noting bus service and tight roadway conditions.
Chair noted for the record that Commissioner Christiansen recused herself because she is personally related to the applicant; nonetheless, roll-call voting recorded affirmative votes by the commissioners present and the motion to adopt Planning Commission Resolution P2026-3143 passed.
A motion to adopt the resolution was made and seconded; the commission recorded the vote and approved the variance and lot-line adjustment. Staff will proceed with the lot-line adjustment recordation process and any required follow-up to correct the encroachment before recording a new subdivision.
The commission’s action included standard conditions and findings documented in the staff report; no additional public testimony was received beyond the in-person speaker and the written comment.
