COUNCIL ORDERS STUDY ON 'MANSIONIZATION'.

Byline: Susan Abram Staff Writer

BURBANK - The city will hire a consultant to study ways of protecting views from the homes of hillside residents who say Burbank's existing ordinance is too lenient and paves the way for ``mansionization.''

Residents along hillside neighborhoods such as Via Alta and Thurber Place have said a modified ordinance is needed to prevent home buyers in the area from turning smaller, 1950s-style houses into two-story mansions that obstruct neighbors' views.

``A number of people, primarily in the hillside area, say people are buying smaller houses and building larger ones,'' said City Planner John Bowler. ``We still allow a 35-foot-high house, with 60 percent lot coverage, which compared to other cities is quite generous.''

The City Council on Tuesday allocated $7,500 to conduct community meetings on the issue.

Bowler said a study would determine how to create a balance between those who want to expand their homes and those who hope to preserve their views.

Via Alta resident Alexis Hanson called the study a good first step.

Hanson and her husband, David, bought their hillside, 1950s ranch home five years ago. So far, two large homes have been built nearby, she said.

``Last night was a nice baby-step victory for us,'' Alexis Hanson said. ``This is a funky, 1950s neighborhood, and just because the houses don't cost millions of dollars doesn't mean we should not have protection.''

Susan Abram, [phone]

susan.abram(at)dailynews.com