In the heart of San Gabriel, the Design Review Commission convened on October 28, 2024, to discuss a significant proposal that has seen its fair share of revisions over the years. The focus of the meeting was planning case number P.L. 1580, which seeks approval for a new two-story single-family residence at 921 Euclid Avenue.

City staff presented the case, recommending the commission adopt a resolution to approve the project, contingent upon certain conditions. This proposal is not new to the commission; it marks the third iteration of design discussions that began as far back as 2015. The initial application faced scrutiny and was subsequently redesigned after feedback from the commission in 2019.

As the meeting progressed, commissioners engaged in a thoughtful dialogue about the design. Commissioner Tu raised a pertinent question regarding the presentation images, noting that the main facade of the house was obscured by a tree in the rendering. The designer, Wilson Tan, explained that the landscaping was included at the request of city staff, which inadvertently blocked a clear view of the house.

Despite the challenges and the lengthy history of the project, the overall sentiment among the commissioners appeared to be positive, with Commissioner Chang stating that the design was "adequate." The meeting concluded with a sense of cautious optimism as the commission moved closer to a decision that could finally bring this long-awaited residence to fruition.

As San Gabriel continues to evolve, the outcome of this proposal will not only shape the neighborhood but also reflect the city’s commitment to thoughtful design and community input. The commission's deliberations underscore the importance of balancing aesthetic considerations with the desires of residents, paving the way for future developments in the area.