Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Land Use topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Planning commission approves demolition and replacement garage at 502 Maganda Street
Summary
The Nevada City Planning Commission approved an application to demolish an existing garage and construct a larger two‑car garage at 502 Maganda St., granting a variance and negative CEQA finding with a liaison appointed to review final garage‑door details.
The Nevada City Planning Commission voted to approve an application to demolish the existing detached garage at 502 Maganda Street and replace it with a new, larger single‑story two‑car garage after staff recommended findings and the applicant described structural problems with the current building.
The project package included a negative declaration under CEQA, a demolition permit, architectural review and a variance to allow the replacement structure to encroach into the side‑yard and to enlarge the rear‑yard setback by about 12 feet. Staff told the commission the existing garage measures roughly 448 square feet and that the proposed new structure would move into the same footprint but be slightly wider to accommodate two cars and a small rear storage room.
Commissioners pressed the applicant on materials and details. One commissioner urged a smooth siding to better match adjacent historic fabric; the applicant said they had selected a ‘‘hardy’’ lap siding product and would consider a smooth cedar‑mill look if preferred. The applicant also confirmed that asbestos testing and abatement will occur during demolition if necessary.
The commission discussed the lack of a finalized garage‑door product and agreed to appoint a planning‑commission liaison to review the selected garage‑door model and approve it administratively if it was consistent with the commission’s findings. "A liaison from the planning commission can be appointed to take a look at the garage door that you select," said a commissioner during the discussion.
A motion to approve the application, including the CEQA negative declaration, demolition permit, variance request and architectural review with the liaison condition, was moved by a commissioner and seconded; the motion passed and the chair announced the approval.
The decision authorizes the applicant to proceed with demolition and building permits under the conditions and findings adopted by staff. The record indicates the commission relied on the applicant’s written materials and on-site photos submitted with the staff report; final door and finish details will be cleared by the appointed liaison before construction permits proceed.
