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NEW BUSINESS –8B 19.Detached accessory structures are permitted and a reasonable use within the R-2Single Family Residential Zoning District. 20.The lothas rather unique characteristics as the property slopes towards Lake Johanna approximately 18(eighteen)feet from west to east leaving limited options for expansion or movement of the accessory structure to an area that meets the setback regulations. 21.The proposed accessory structurewould be visible from neighboring properties; however, the proposed design and the use of quality materials for the detached structure that match the single family dwelling should minimize the impacts on surrounding property owners. 22.The proposed accessory structureis unlikely to have negative impacts to the property or to the neighborhood as a whole. 23.The proposed plans and requested variances for the accessory structuredo not appear to be based on economic considerations alone. Discussion The property is unique when compared to many properties in Arden Hills because of its topography. From Fairview Avenueto Lake Johanna Boulevard the property slopes approximately 18(eighteen)feet fromwest to east. Because of the lot’s topography and configurationof structures on the lot, options for expansion or the movement of the accessory structure to an area that meets the setback regulations is very limited. The proposed realignment and change in the roof orientation is reasonable in order for the applicant to construct a functional garage that is accessed from the existing driveway. Due to the scope of the project and the proposedchanges to the structure, the character of the neighborhood or the City is not expected to be negativelyaffected as a structure already exists in the general locationof the proposed structure. It does not appear that the variance request is based on economic considerations alone. A detached accessory structure is a permitted use in the R-2 Zoning District and is a reasonable request for the subject property. Recommendation The findings of fact for this variance request support a recommendation for approval. However, if the City Councilchooses to make a recommendation for denial, the Findings of Fact would need to be amended to reflect the reasons for the denial. The Planning Commission reviewed Planning Case 14-017 and recommends approval (4-1, Holewa) of the variance request for the property located at 3441 Lake Johanna Boulevard , based on the findings of fact and the submitted plans as presented in the July 28, 2014, Report to the City Council, as amended by the following ten (10) conditions: City of Arden Hills City Council Meeting for July 28, 2014 P:\\Planning\\Planning Cases\\2014\\PC 14-017 -Variance 3441 Lake Johanna Boulevard\\Memo_Reports_14-017 79 Page of