02-13-12-R Draft Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—FEBRUARY 13, 2012 5 the Zoning Code, similar to the Front Porch Ordinance, which would create circumstances where certain types of development could occur without the need for a variance. City Planner Beekman indicated Staff drafted language which was presented to the Planning Commission at their November 9, 2011, work session. The Planning Commission suggested a few modifications at that meeting. Staff presented a revised draft to the City Council at their November 28, 2011, work session. At that time, the City Council directed Staff to move forward with formally presenting the revisions to the Planning Commission and holding a public hearing. City Planner Beekman stated one of the most common issues that arise when residents call to inquire about home improvements is that their houses are already considered legally nonconforming. These homes were constructed during a time when setbacks were not as great as they are now, and any expansion of the house is not allowed without a variance. She reviewed a potential variance request stating the new provisions would assist with home improvements for nonconforming homes. City Planner Beekman explained the Planning Commission reviewed the proposed language change at their February 8, 2012, regular meeting and held a public hearing. At that meeting, the Planning Commission recommended approval of the zoning code amendment. Mayor Grant asked for the vote from the Planning Commission on this issue. City Planner Beekman stated the Planning Commission voted unanimously to approve the zoning code amendment. Councilmember Holmes questioned if there were any rear yard setback requirements within the zoning code amendment. City Planner Beekman indicated this was not written into the language change. She indicated a provision could be added to require a 30-foot rear yard setback. She explained the rear yard setback was rarely an issue for homes in Arden Hills. Mayor Grant stated several areas of the City were developed PUD and had a 30-foot front yard setback. He questioned if a garage in an L-shaped rambler could be brought up to match the front of the home. City Planner Beekman stated this would be allowed, that a garage could be added to the front of the home so long as it does not impede on the 30-foot front yard setback. Councilmember Holden questioned if this type of expansion would create front yard line of site issues for neighboring properties. City Planner Beekman indicated this was a hypothetical situation and each property would be reviewed by Staff before receiving a pp roval for any expansion. Councilmember Tamble questioned if the zoning code amendment addressed line of site concerns.