Commission approves transient rental at 326 C Whitley Ave Unit 3; neighbors raised noise and trash concerns

Staff presented the application for 326 C Whitley Avenue Unit 3, describing the upper unit as a one‑bedroom unit of approximately 350 square feet with a roof deck. Staff noted one issue: the exterior roof deck's potential for sound to travel in the area's geography and reiterated that Noise District 1 restricts amplified sound being plainly audible at adjacent properties; staff recommended approval under draft resolution PC26-02 and CEQA exemption section 15301.

During public comment, resident Shai Aloni identified himself and asked about trash receptacles for each unit. The property owner participating by Zoom (identified in the hearing as Fagan) said there would be designated places for trash and that the required inspection had passed prior to the hearing. One commissioner said they were concerned about opening the block to more transient rental licenses but moved to approve the project. The motion was seconded and the clerk recorded a vote of 4 ayes and 3 abstentions; the application was approved.

"The applicable roof deck in the area of the hills has potential for sound to travel due to the geography of the development," planning staff advised during the presentation, adding that standard conditions prohibit unenclosed balconies, decks, and patios between 9 p.m. and 8 a.m. The owner on Zoom answered questions about trash storage and confirmed an inspection was passed before the hearing.