Board gives feedback on Shepherd's Place courtyard remodel, tree removals and ADA fixes

Carpinteria planning staff brought a non-agendized "matter by staff" on May 28 seeking Architectural Review Board input on a courtyard renovation and landscaping plan at Shepherd's Place, 5320 Carpinteria Avenue (building permit #15122). Staff said large courtyard trees have lifted walkways and may be impeding ADA access, and the proposal calls for removal of two large ficus-style trees, four white birches, an evergreen pair and a pygmy date palm, with stump grinding and replacement plantings.

"Currently... the root structures are upending the walkways, but also in a couple places it looks like it might be endangering the building as well," staff said, explaining the removals would enable ADA-compliant ramps, new courtyard furniture, aggregate-stabilized paths and relocated parking/planting adjustments.

Staff showed a plant palette emphasizing drought-tolerant and subtropical species (plumeria, king palm, agave and succulents) and noted interior tree ferns would be retained. Board members generally supported a move away from very large courtyard trees, recommended upsizing some plumeria specimens at planting (24-inch box where possible), and raised concerns about long-term performance of a few proposed groundcover and ornamental species in a commercial courtyard.

Board members asked about stormwater and drainage; staff said existing catch basins remain in place and civil plans are being prepared to address drainage consistent with the development plan and any amendments.

The board provided advisory comments only; no formal motion was required because this was presented as staff-level review for a building permit. Staff will incorporate board feedback into permit review and finalize plant sizes and hardscape details.