Commission declines to take discretionary review on 984 Corbett addition after shadow study, neighbors object to light loss

Neighbors opposing a proposed rear and vertical addition at 984 Corbett Avenue urged the commission to take discretionary review on March 16, arguing the project would shade their rear yard and kitchen and reduce usable outdoor sunlight. Clara Dutton, the requester, presented photos and testimony about limited sun hours and the effect on her family’s use of the patio and garden.

Staff recommended not taking discretionary review, noting the proposal complies with the planning code and residential design guidelines and that articulations and setbacks reduce impacts: the second floor is set back three feet from the north lot line, the third floor five feet and stepped back an additional 15 feet from the proposed rear wall of the floor below. The sponsor’s counsel and architect said the proposal includes terraced setbacks and that a shadow study shows the addition would not cast more shadow than alternatives such as a 6‑foot fence.

Callers and nearby longtime residents described prior loss of sunlight after earlier approvals and urged the commission to preserve sun access. Commissioners reviewed plans and shadow studies and concluded there are no exceptional or extraordinary circumstances warranting discretionary review; a motion not to take discretionary review and to allow the permit to proceed passed unanimously, 6–0.