Commission Moves to Lock 45-Foot Cap on Crafts Section Block 36

The Commission voted 5–0 on first reading to hold Block 36 of the Crafts Section, north of the San Sebastian Apartments, to the 45-foot cap staff said was intended in 2021, closing a drafting gap that left room for the Mediterranean bonus. Attorneys for Malaga 300 LLC, whose four-story building at 300 Malaga Ave. won Board of Architects approval in August, said their client has spent $3.7 million and asked for a vesting clause; none was added. Commissioners said the project can proceed if a companion rooftop ordinance also passes, and the city manager warned that a carve-out could open the door to a 77-foot project. Second reading is next.

Rooftop amenities just got a path forward. The Commission approved on first reading a change to the Mediterranean architecture design standards that lets enclosed accessory spaces, such as cabanas, restrooms and storage, sit above a building's maximum height, capped at 25% of the roof. Living units are not allowed.

Homeowners on corner lots could get a little more room. The Commission voted 5–0 on first reading to set an 18-inch driveway side setback, allow motor courts on corner lots, and let pool equipment and generators sit 5 feet from the rear line, matching the side.

The North Gables is getting more eyes. Development Services reported on a beautification and enforcement initiative started July 29 that sends three to four code officers into the area several times a week, adds cameras at illegal-dumping hot spots, and works to catch trash and graffiti before residents report them.

The city's planned Mobility Hub could include a climbing wall. Commission aides presented a concept for a family-friendly climbing and recreation center, with bouldering, tension boards and interactive walls, in the hub's retail level, which has about 6,905 square feet available.