Neighbors Object to Museum Idea : Lanterman House Plan Protested

Residents living near the historic Lanterman house in La Canada Flintridge on Tuesday protested that plans by the city to convert the landmark into a museum and cultural center would disrupt their neighborhood.

Residents asked that the city Planning Commission reject an environmental impact study on the project because, they said, the report does not adequately consider the effects on neighbors of converting the private residence into a public place.

The city must first determine that environmental studies of the project are sufficient before it can obtain a conditional use permit to convert the property.

Proposed use of the house, built in 1915 at 4420 Encinas Drive, has been a source of contention in the community since it became available to the city in January, 1986, after the death of the last member of the Lanterman family.

Many Favor Restoration

The 1.3-acre property was home to three generations of the family that founded the community.

Many residents favor restoring the home, which was built with heavy wooden pieces and other materials typical of the Craftsman style of architecture at the turn of the century.

A special committee appointed by the city in July recommended that the house be restored and converted into a museum, civic-cultural center and organ recital hall. The committee estimated that the city would have to spend at least $72,000 a year to maintain and operate the facility.

The Planning Commission continued the public hearing until Sept. 27 to allow consultants to answer questions from residents. A final determination on the environmental report will be made by the City Council.