28337 Pontevedra Drive second-story appeal

The appellant argued the project's bulk and mass equals a 3,500-square-foot house when the attic space is counted, that 89% of nearby homes are under 2,600 square feet, and that unfrosted windows would allow clear views into his yard and pool from 40-80 feet.

The applicant explained her family outgrew their forever home, that first-floor expansion was blocked by the pool and setbacks, and that they offered hedges and a wall topper the appellant rejected; she asked the commission to deny the appeal.

A 52-year resident compared the trend to Manhattan Beach's transformation, saying it is unfair that the burden of creating privacy falls on the Holmes family rather than the project.

A 54-year resident and HOA member said the immediate section was built as all single-level homes and that the tall structure would not fit the neighborhood's character when seen from Galerita Drive.

The neighbor at 1922 Galerita Drive said the second story would look into his backyard where grandchildren play, look like a four-story building from his property, and reduce property values.

Read a letter from Rick and Chris Pialago of 1921 Galerita Drive warning that the second story would directly overlook five backyards with pools and could trigger more second stories, ruining the neighborhood's privacy and home values.

A 41-year resident across the street supported the Mansour family's request, citing three other two-story homes nearby and calling them wonderful neighbors.

A Pontevedra Drive resident and colleague of the applicants urged a fair process, saying privacy concerns were mitigated, progress and renovation are inevitable, and the family should be allowed to expand.