Man Loses Bid to Stop Neighbor’s Addition

A couple will be allowed to build a two-story home addition, despite complaints from a neighbor that he will lose nearly half of his 180-degree ocean view.

The City Council last week denied an appeal from Antonio Ferrigno over a Nov. 4 Planning Commission decision allowing his neighbor’s expansion project on Avenida la Cuesta.

The action means Bryan and Suzan Welbaum will be allowed to build the 2,573-square-foot addition to their 1,200-square-foot home. They have already begun building a three-car garage.

Ferrigno, whose 6,000-square-foot home is on the city’s historic properties list, contended the value of his home would be diminished, along with the view.

City Atty. Jeffrey M. Oderman said the city cannot protect the private ocean views of residents.