Residents raise alarm over dangerous ADU proposal near historic tree

In a recent government meeting, the preservation commission confirmed that a proposed modification to a garage at 1525 Judson Street is compliant with preservation standards. However, the discussion quickly shifted to public concerns regarding the addition of an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) on the second floor of the garage.

Jean Smiling Coyote, a local resident, voiced strong opposition to the modification, citing concerns about the suitability of the upper floor for elderly residents, particularly in the absence of an elevator. Smiling Coyote suggested that the ADU should be integrated into the main structure instead, proposing a design that would maintain the existing footprint while accommodating the needs of the homeowners' parents.

Alice Egley, another resident whose property adjoins the site, raised alarms about a large Douglas fir tree located near the proposed construction. Egley argued that the proximity of the ADU would jeopardize the tree's health and stability, potentially leading to dangerous conditions for her home. She expressed frustration over the possibility of having to remove the tree, which she described as a significant and beautiful part of the neighborhood.

The meeting highlighted the tension between development and preservation, as community members expressed their fears about the implications of the proposed ADU on both their homes and the local environment. The commission's decision will likely weigh heavily on these concerns as they move forward with the review process.