8A, Planning Case #12-013 - Variance at 1185 Benton Way

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ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION—August 8, 2012 7 4. Table—Motion to table Planning Case 12-013 for a variance at 1185 Benton Way: a specific reason and/or information request should be included with a motion to table. Commissioner Zimmerman noted the PUD at that time created smaller lot sizes than normally would be in a R-3 District. Commissioner Holewa asked if the City Council had approved the application in 2007. He asked if the City Council approves how long would the applicant have to complete the project and it is one year. Commissioner Holewa stated he would be voting in favor of this would not like to see this come back again. Councilmember Holmes asked if this is the exact same plan as presented in 2007. City Planner Meagan Beekman stated the plan and the conditions are the same. Commissioner Stodola asked if the decks are included in the lot coverage. Community Development Intern Matt Horton stated only the portion of the deck with a roof is included in the structural lot coverage. The back patio is not included. Commissioner Zimmerman stated this would not be an issue with a standard size lot as to the amount of structural lot coverage. Mr. Ed Bacig, 1185 Benton Way, Arden Hills appeared before the Commission. Vice Chair Thompson asked if there are any changes from the 2007 plan. Mr. Bacig stated the mud room connecting the garage is the only thing added. The landscaping would not be done. Vice Chair Thompson asked what the material would be for the back patio and Mr. Bacig stated pavers would be used. City Planner Meagan Beekman stated uncovered patios and decks are not considered as structures. Community Development Intern Matt Horton stated although a variance does not require a public hearing, a public meeting notice was prepared by the City and mailed to properties within three-hundred fifty (350) feet of the subject property. The City has not received any comments regarding this planning case. Community Development Intern Matt Horton noted the City received the completed application for this request on July 23, 2012. Pursuant to Minnesota State Statute, the City must act on this request by September 22, 2012 (60 days), unless the City provides the petitioner with written reasons for an additional 60-day review period. The City may extend the review period beyond the 120 days,with the applicant's permission. Vice Chair Thompson stated aspects of how the lots were laid out in the original development, smaller lot sizes, the amount of green space in the entire development. Commissioner Stodola stated she recently drove through the area and was impressed with the way the houses are becoming more individual. Commissioner Zimmerman stated if it would have been a standard R-3 lot no variance would be needed. Vice Chair Thompson noted the Hunters Park Association has approved this plan as well as the surrounding three neighbors. Commissioner Holewa moved and Commissioner Zimmerman seconded a motion to approve Planning Case 12-013 — Variance Request: Ed Baciu, 1185 Benton Way. Commissioners find that the circumstances in this planning case are unique to the