-- Compiled by Lolita Harper ON THE...
-- Compiled by Lolita Harper
ON THE AGENDA
MODEL RAILROAD
Planning commissioners will look to get the Fairview Park master
plan on track tonight as they consider a request by the Orange County
Model Engineers to expand its railroad in the northwest portion of
the park.
The model railroad train ride currently spans about 8,800 feet and
is configured in a figure-eight. The Orange County Model Engineers, a
club of train enthusiasts who voluntarily run the railroad at no cost
to the city, are asking for an additional 2,250 feet of new tracks,
according to a staff report. The additional length requires an
amendment to the park’s master plan.
About 45,000 to 60,000 people ride the railroad per year and
council members have called it a distinct attraction that makes
Fairview Park a special place to visit. The railroad also hosts
schools, parent-child groups, Scout troops, Cub packs, service clubs
and other private organizations.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Planning staff have called the proposed expansion “logical” and
recommend approval.
SECOND STORY CONSTRUCTION
Two Eastside homeowners are looking to demolish the existing
single-family home on Westminster Avenue and replace it with a
four-bedroom, two-story home that they contend will enhance the
modest neighborhood.
Paul and Laura Steiner have asked the Planning Commission to
approve construction of a two-story, 3,343-square-foot home that
would house a den, guest room, bathroom, living room, kitchen, dining
room and garage on the first floor and three bedrooms, two bathrooms
and a den.
According to a staff report, planners said the proposed house
would sit in the midst of a predominately one-story neighborhood and
would be much larger than the surrounding houses. However, three
other two-story homes are in the direct vicinity and the second-story
portion of the proposed home are designed to have the least effect on
neighbors.
Unlike previous second-story additions that have raised the ire of
residents while attempting to raise building heights, this project
seems to have the support of the neighborhood, as 19 people from
Westminster Avenue signed a petition in favor of the construction.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Barring a flood of angry neighbors -- and voters -- who suddenly
have a change of heart, expect the Planning Commission to approve the
proposed project.
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