pages: CityCouncil/2008-01-15.pdf, 7
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CityCouncil | 2008-01-15 | 7 | The Applicant responded the existing house is approximately 1,600 square feet. Mayor Johnson inquired whether the 1,600 square feet includes the garage. The Applicant responded in the negative; stated the updated plans are approximately 3,200 square feet. Councilmember deHaan inquired what is the lot percentage. The Applicant responded the lot percentage is within the 40% lot coverage. Councilmember deHaan stated that the house does not resemble a 1906 structure; a lot of change has taken place; homes are disproportionate in size near Lincoln School; efforts have been made to keep scale in neighborhoods. Councilmember Gilmore inquired whether the demolition permit can be coupled to major design review, to which the City Attorney responded in the negative. Mayor Johnson stated that there is not enough information to make a decision; the bid needs to be clearer. The City Attorney stated that in order for the Applicant to support her assertion that there would not be an economic return on the property she would need to show that the cost of remodeling the existing house, bringing the house up to code, making alternations to bring the house back to the original historical value, and putting the house on the market would exceed the value of the lot with the refurbished house. Councilmember Matarrese inquired whether said scenario is assuming that the house is historical. The City Attorney responded in the affirmative; stated the HAB could have refused to grant the request if the structure had historical value; stated the HAB could grant the request to demolish the structure if the Applicant was able to show an insufficient economical return on the investment. Councilmember Matarrese stated the HAB findings note "Even though the residence does not show identifying marks, it should be saved because it completes the cultural fabric of the neighborhood. Houses that are eclectic surround the residence and they are Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 7 January 15, 2008 | CityCouncil/2008-01-15.pdf |