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Residents appeal Lake Arrowhead setback variances, citing lack of unique hardship and safety concerns
Summary
Two Lake Arrowhead variance approvals (reducing front setbacks from 25 to 12 feet for 66 and 129 lots) were appealed by a resident who argued no unique hardship was shown and raised process fairness and pedestrian‑safety issues; commissioners discussed sidewalk placement and additional setback adjustments to address the concerns.
Two appeals concerning setback variances in the Lake Arrowhead community were before planning staff and commissioners on May 6.
The Zoning Board of Appeals had approved variances reducing a 25‑foot front setback to 12 feet for two phases (one phase of 66 lots and another of 129 lots). A resident, Stephen McClendon, appealed, arguing the applicant had not demonstrated a unique hardship and that the applicant’s rebuttal responses were ambiguous. He also raised a process concern that opposition lacked an adequate opportunity to rebut the applicant’s statements at the ZBA hearing.
Commissioners and staff focused on practical safety concerns for through streets, sidewalk placement and whether the proposed adjustments would allow vehicles to park without creating hazards. Staff and the applicant’s representative noted design changes: additional feet on the main thoroughfare setback and sidewalks on both sides of through streets to mitigate pedestrian/safety risks. The board debated whether to rehear the appeals or let the ZBA approvals stand.
Why it matters: the variances affect hundreds of lots in a large community, touching on neighborhood design, pedestrian safety and the consistency of approval processes. Commissioners requested clarifying design information and discussed options including upholding approvals, rehearing the appeals or requiring design amendments to preserve safety.
Next steps: the board will decide whether to rehear the appeals or let the approvals remain; staff flagged sidewalk and street‑section details for follow up.
