County supervisors last week delayed action on a proposal to limit second dwellings on Inverness Ridge lots to 750 square feet after some residents objected.
More than 20 West Marin residents showed up for the Board of Supervisors hearing, and opponents cited the area's housing shortage, the need for caregiver lodging, and the fact that 750 square feet is too small for a family with children.
Supporters, including representatives of the Inverness Association and Tomales Bay Association, complained that some second units are being built larger than the primary dwelling. They also expressed concern that too much residential construction will change the character of their community and tax its water supply and fire protection.
Supervisor Gary Giacomini endorsed a resident's suggestion calling for a 750-square-foot limit on lots one acre or less; 1,000 square feet on lots of one to two acres; 1,200 square feet on lots of two to five acres; and 1,500 square feet on lots over five acres.
Community Development Director Mark Riesenfeld said second units now fill a broader role in providing housing than the second-unit law originally envisioned. He said Supervisor Giacomini's proposal could give staff and the Planning Commission a workable guideline.
Supervisor John Kress supported Giacomini's recommendation, but Supervisors Harry Moore and Annette Rose did not. Supervisor Hal Brown was absent.
The supervisors will consider the issue further Oct. 22, and Giacomini predicted, "Hal Brown will be the decider."