While neighboring cities in San Mateo County work to attract hi-tech business and promote commercial development, Atherton seeks to protect its already established charm.

In fact, Atherton has no commercial development. It's all houses - and large ones at that, owned by the likes of football star Jerry Rice and State Controller Steve Westly.

The town has seen a boom in housing construction in recent years although there have been efforts to put limits on expansion projects. One particular issue involves building basements as a way for Athertonians to expand their living space without it counting against requirements on maximum residential construction.

The Council has put restrictions on basements after other residents complained about how building large underground rooms could damage heritage trees, pose drainage problems in a neighborhood or reduce landscape screening between properties.

However, city leaders are revisiting the matter.

Nestled between Menlo Park and Redwood City, Atherton is a beautifully scenic area full of elegant gardens, trees and glorious homes on estate-sized lots hidden along private lanes. The town of about 7,200 residents stretches from the flatlands at El Camino Real westward through the rolling hills until it reaches Interstate 280.

Although Atherton has no stores, its close proximity to such retail and dining destinations as the Stanford Shopping Center and downtown Menlo Park make it an even more attractive place to live - if you can afford it.