Commission approves raised windows for 1790 Montgomery Street after applicant cites vandalism

The Oroville Planning Commission on Dec. 18 approved proposed façade changes at 1790 Montgomery Street that raise storefront glazing from ground level and install 18-inch-high windows.

Planner (Speaker 7) said the facade alterations respond to damage from two separate vandalism incidents and are consistent with the downtown mixed-use (MXD) zoning; staff found the changes compatible with code and recommended approval. The proposal does not alter the building footprint or intensity of use.

The applicant, identified by staff as Mark Mendez, spoke to the commission. He said vandalism had damaged the storefront glass and that raising the windows would let in daylight while keeping a brick base and metal trim to match the building. "We're gonna raise it up to, I think, it's 7 feet ... 18 inch high windows on top, so we let daylight in," he said.

Commissioners discussed showroom use and insurance implications for vehicles previously displayed behind ground-level glass. Commissioner (Speaker 3) moved to approve the item as agendized and Speaker 1 seconded; the motion passed with six votes in favor, one absence.

The approval allows the applicant to proceed with the proposed façade improvements; any future changes or impacts beyond the approved facade will require additional review.