After a four-week deferral, the planning director hearings approved a single-family house permit for the last undeveloped lot in Palm Haven neighborhood, after specific changes were made to the design.

The detached garage, which was originally designed at the front of the house, was moved to the rear to be consistent with other homes on Plaza Drive, and the carport, which shares a sloping roof with the house, was redesigned without doors so it does not appear to be a garage.

Palm Haven Restoration Committee Chairman Mike Borbely said the approved design had the "unanimous support from the community," and he thanked the planning department for its efforts on behalf of all involved.

Borbely said the department went even further than the neighbors' recommended changes and "actually quoted from the regulations" in the city's Your Old House guidelines, requiring the applicant to specify which materials will be used for windows, trim and the wall finish.

"The result is a home in keeping with the neighborhood," Palm Haven resident Joan Bohnett said.

The city, however, did give the owner some latitude on the setback requirements. Although the Palm Haven Conditions, Covenants and Restrictions require all houses have side setbacks of 10 feet, the city approved a 5-foot setback, which conforms to city requirements.

Borbely added that while the 10-foot side setback for utility access in the backyard was not implemented, PG&E and the sewer company assured residents they would not require access through adjacent neighboring yards.

"It's not only positive for Palm Haven, but all other historic conservation areas," Borbely said. "It sets an excellent precedent."