Albany planning commission continues review of 706 Hillside Avenue after finding plan/rendering inconsistencies

The Albany City Planning Commission voted March 25 to continue consideration of design review PA25-052 for a proposed three‑story residence at 706 Hillside Avenue, citing inconsistencies between the project’s plan set and the visual renderings that made it unclear what the commission would be approving.

Associate Planner Mira Han described the proposal as a new three‑story, four‑bedroom, four‑bath home with a two‑car attached garage on a steeply sloped lot. Staff noted the project complies with setback and height rules, is categorically exempt from CEQA, and recommended approval subject to standard findings and two additional conditions to ensure internal plan consistency. Staff also explained that the lot sits in a Hillside Overlay district and outlined how height is measured on sloped lots.

Commissioners raised several specific technical and design questions. Multiple commissioners identified discrepancies between the elevations and the renderings: staff and commissioners noted the renderings omitted a slight third‑floor overhang shown on the plan sheets, and some elevations did not show a lower‑floor balcony or railing that appeared in other views. Commissioner comments covered entry‑porch proportions, the relationship of recessed walls to balcony composition, landscape opportunities between the principal residence and a future ADU shown for transparency (the ADU is ministerial and not part of this approval), and concerns about fenestration and opaque versus clear glass decisions.

Commissioners also discussed the project’s floor‑area ratio. Staff reported the proposed FAR is approximately 0.5054 of a 0.55 maximum, placing the proposal close to the allowed limit.

A nearby property owner, Alexi of 701 Hillside, said this was the first mailed notice received and raised concerns about potential view impacts and about short‑term rentals on nearby properties that, he said, have caused trespassing and required police response; he referenced a police report dated Feb. 24. Staff advised the commenter that ADUs are subject to a minimum 30‑day rental rule and encouraged the resident to follow up by email so code enforcement can investigate any suspected violations.

Given the unresolved plan/rendering inconsistencies and commissioner design feedback, Commissioner Pilch moved — and the commission seconded — to continue PA25‑052 to a date uncertain to allow the applicant and staff to correct plan sets, clarify renderings, and address commissioner comments. The motion passed by roll call with all present commissioners voting yes.