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Commission continues review of Mountain townhomes siding change, asks developer to return with samples
Summary
The Planning Commission continued a request by the Mountain townhomes developer to change approved stucco areas to fiber‑cement lap siding, asking the developer to return with material samples and refinements after commissioners raised concerns about massing, texture and visible seams.
Mount Shasta — The Planning Commission on April 28 continued a request from the Mountain townhomes team to revise exterior materials on a previously approved townhome project at Chestnut and Ivy.
Staff said the change would replace portions of the previously approved stucco with fiber‑cement lap siding (no color changes) because stucco cracking and maintenance concerns were reported by the construction team. Staff emphasized the request is a material substitution, not a change in massing or color.
Several commissioners and members of the public said the proposed siding risks flattening the building’s façade and increasing visible seams. Commissioner Alan Pardee urged the applicant to provide samples and explore smoother fiber‑cement panels or board-and-batten detailing to preserve the architectural relief approved in 2023. “I don’t like what they’re proposing,” he said, urging alternatives that maintain texture and reduce linear seams.
Action and next steps: The commission voted unanimously to continue the item and asked the developer to return with physical material samples (including smoother fiber‑cement options and examples of installation detailing) and clearer drawings showing orientation (horizontal vs. vertical) so staff and commissioners can confirm the design retains the previously approved relief and articulation. The commission specifically requested that siding orientation match the plans and that staff confirm the building-inspector review for any code implications.
The developer will be asked to present samples at a future meeting; staff will verify siding orientation with the building inspector and prepare the continued hearing for formal action if needed.
