Commission approves two‑unit home at 4234 20th Street with roof penthouse removed

Planning staff recommended approval of a conditional use authorization to demolish an existing single‑family cottage and build a three‑story, two‑unit home at 4234 20th Street (project includes two bedrooms per unit, two vehicle parking spaces and bicycle parking). Staff corrected a square‑footage error in the packet and concluded the project aligns with general plan objectives.

Architect Earl Weiss described design decisions to reduce massing (pitched rear roof, horizontal tapering, 5‑foot side setbacks and privacy glazing) and said about 800 square feet of new residential area is below grade. Neighbors asked for a modest additional cutback at an upper floor to protect daylight into existing windows and raised concerns about excavation and trees.

Commissioners focused on the visual impact of a proposed stair penthouse. After discussion, the commission adopted a motion to approve the conditional use authorization with a condition eliminating the penthouse and replacing it with a roof hatch; commissioners voted to approve (final record was 6–0 with one commissioner absent). The project will move forward with the condition to remove the penthouse and related plan revisions.