508 Gerona Avenue (SPR24-084)

The project architect argued the design exceeds code requirements — double the rear setback — and offered translucent stair windows and owner contact info for construction concerns.

The 43-year San Gabriel resident and property owner described the house as her family's forever home for children and grandchildren, and said she has tried to be a thoughtful neighbor.

Spoke in support, saying the design is appropriate and compliant with city guidelines.

The immediate north neighbor opposed the project, citing seven windows facing his house, a 5-foot wall, and a second-story deck; he asked for deck removal or privacy screening plus an 8-foot evergreen hedge.

Also at 512 Gerona, he asked for a hedge condition and urged the cat's claw vine — an invasive species — be removed from the landscape plan.

Quoted the R-1 zoning's compatibility purposes and the 2015 mansionization moratorium, arguing the two-story design violates all of them; also questioned notice adequacy.

The 36-year resident said the monumental two-story house would destroy the block's character and her backyard privacy, drawing on her experience with a neighboring two-story build.

The adjacent owner at 504 Gerona worried about foundation damage from excavation and questioned the need for four bedrooms, asking for denial or a one-story alternative.

Also of 504 Gerona, she counted 10-11 windows that would face her patio and baby room after construction and asked that the air conditioner and trash bins be relocated away from the 1-meter gap.

Speaking for 513 Gerona across the street, she warned that oversized houses would break up the iconic charm of the Jerona/Segovia blocks and opposed the design as proposed.