pages: CityCouncil/2005-03-15.pdf, 5
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CityCouncil | 2005-03-15 | 5 | dwelling unit requirements. There being no further speakers, Mayor Johnson closed the public portion of the Hearing. Mayor Johnson stated that the Planning Board was concerned that the structure did not meet building codes; inquired what would happen if Council denied the variances. The Supervising Planner responded that the property owner would need to re-institute the garage use that was approved in 1984, extend the driveway to the garage, remove the French doors, install a garage door, and remove the kitchen and bathroom. Mayor Johnson inquired whether a garage could have a residential unit, to which the Supervising Planner responded in the negative. Vice Mayor Gilmore stated the structure does not comply with the set backs for a dwelling unit; noted that garages are allowed to sit on two property lines; stated placing a dwelling unit on two property lines would never have been approved in 1984; that she has seen countless situations where people apply for a permit, the inspector finals the permit, and then plumbing and electrical are installed after the fact; she has a great deal of sympathy for the property owners, but approval of the appeal would send a message that the permitting process does not need to be followed. Councilmember Matarrese inquired whether the appraisal form was in error, to which the Supervising Planner responded that she has not seen the appraisal form. Councilmember Matarrese stated there might be safety factors involved because plumbing, electrical and mechanical permits were not obtained; that he has sympathy for the property owners ; the real estate agent and appraiser are at fault. Mayor Johnson stated that she also has sympathy for the property owners; Council would be very arbitrary to approve the construction after the fact. Councilmembel deHaan inquired whether the structure could stay in place as a legal garage. The Supervising Planner responded in the affirmative; there may be some openings that are too close to the property lines and may need to be closed; some of the plumbing may need to come out. Mayor Johnson inquired whether the external type plumbing would Regular Meeting 5 Alameda City Council March 15, 2005 | CityCouncil/2005-03-15.pdf |