-- 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.