We feel that it is very important to respond to several anonymous letters that have been distributed through the neighborhood, which have misrepresented the facts regarding our second story addition.
The project as proposed is well within the applicable guidelines allowed by the City of Malibu Municipal Code.
In the letters, it was stated that the Malibu West Architectural Committee rejected our project based on a “feeling” that the overall project does not comply with the “neighborhood standards” and is significantly “out of character” with the rest of the neighborhood. Specific and definitive reasons should be addressed. Our proposed project is well within the second story standards, which is the proper criteria to make a comparison. We are located at the end of a cul-de-sac where many of the two story homes in Malibu West are located. The project is certainly in character with the neighborhood, as it will blend seamlessly, keeping the “ranch style” architecture. We are still in the process of working with the Architectural Committee and we are awaiting a meeting with the committee and any neighbors who are concerned with the scope of the project so that we can come to a mutual agreement.
There is concern precedence is being set, but how could that be when many of the homes in Malibu West have already added second stories. No precedence is being set. In fact, if one looks at similar cul-de-sacs (which is the location of the proposed property), the majority of the homes are second story. It is a very sensible and ideal location for the proposed project.
The proposed project is accused of dramatically infringing on the view and privacy of two homes. Part of the proposed project is to plant significant vegetation, which will completely sustain any privacy which may be lost. We have invited these neighbors to come and look at our project, and have given our written word that we will do everything necessary to sustain our mutual privacies. We do not want to lose our privacy either.
The letters have also stated that if projects like ours are allowed to “flourish” in Malibu West, they will significantly decrease the value of your home and diminish the value of your neighborhood. These statements, too, are misleading. Improving one’s property does nothing but increase the value of that property and those in Malibu West.
We have been accused of taking our “case” to the City. This is untrue for there is no “case” to take to the City. If anyone in Malibu would like to build or add onto their house or property, they, by law, are required to submit their plans to the City of Malibu in order to secure a building permit. We are just obeying the law and taking the required steps necessary to improve our property.
In no way have we tried to go behind the Malibu West Architectural Committee. We submitted our plans to the City and Architectural Committee at the same time. We have been very open with all our neighbors regarding this project. We have invited them over to our home to look at our architectural drawings and to look at the second story addition from the roof line. We could not have been any more up front and open with everyone and it saddens us that these anonymous letters have been distributed throughout the neighborhood behind our backs (We never received one, but were informed by other supporting neighbors. )
We invite those who have written these letters or anyone else who has concerns with the project to please contact us so we can discuss the concerns and come to an agreement. We believe that when a homeowner presents their property for modification, it is very important to look at the individual property. Our property is unique as it is located in one of the most low profile locations in the neighborhood and our project could be done with very little impact to anyone. We only have positive intentions for this neighborhood and hope we can work the difference out to everyone’s satisfaction.
Brian and Cindy McConnell