Commission continues review of 1431 Laguna Avenue after neighbors raise privacy and design concerns

The Planning Commission continued consideration of a major design review and special permit for 1431 Laguna Avenue on April 13, 2026, after extended public comment and a detailed commission critique of design and landscape plans.

Staff described the proposal to demolish the existing dwelling and construct a new 3,307 square‑foot two‑story home with a detached one‑car garage. Staff noted the site is in a special flood hazard area and that finished living floors must be at or above base flood elevation plus 1 foot (reported in the hearing as 15 feet). The applicant had requested a special permit for the garage to remain within the rear 40% of the lot and a reduced side setback of 1 foot 6 inches where 4 feet would otherwise be required.

Several neighbors spoke in opposition to aspects of the design centered on privacy and proximity. Neighbor Denise Venerucci told the commission she was “very much concerned about the placement of the proposed windows facing our backyard,” adding that with the second story the neighbors would be “like fish in a fishbowl” with “0 privacy whatsoever.” Another neighbor asked whether mechanical equipment near the ADU would create noise; staff said exterior HVAC systems must meet decibel requirements.

Commissioners gave an extensive list of design and documentation requests: improved renderings, more substantial landscape screening, clearer window sizing and arrangement (including moving or altering rear windows that overlook neighbors), attention to transition details between siding and stone veneer, properly sized porch posts and railings, gutters and downspouts, and clarity about crawl‑space vents. Commissioner Schmid urged larger brackets, better detailing of stone transitions and careful gutter placement to avoid directing water into neighboring yards. Multiple commissioners recommended that the applicant reach out to neighbors and provide a more fully developed landscape plan to mitigate privacy concerns.

Given the number of outstanding design and landscape details and the neighbors’ privacy concerns, the commission voted to continue the item to allow the applicant to refine the plans and return with the requested clarifications. Chair Horan made the motion to continue; Commissioner Schmid seconded and the motion passed 4–0 (one commissioner absent).

Staff said it will follow up with the property owner to address resident questions that are within planning purview and connect neighbors with the owner for coordination on construction questions.