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City of Arden Hills Planning Commission Meeting for September 3, 2014 P:\Planning\Planning Cases\2014\PC 14-025 - Site Plan Review - 3657 Snelling Avenue\Memos_Reports_14-025 Page 6 of 8 12. The proposal is consistent with the Arden Hills Comprehensive Plan as it allows the reasonable use of residential property. 13. Detached accessory structures are permitted and a reasonable use within the R-1 Single Family Residential Zoning District. 14. The property is rather unique due to the placement of the existing single family dwelling in the rear of the lot approximately two-hundred (200) feet from the front property line. 15. The current placement of the single family dwelling leaves limited options for the construction of an accessory structure that meets all setback regulations and minimizes tree loss and final grading. 16. The proposed accessory structure would be visible from neighboring properties; however, the proposed location, design and the use of quality materials for the detached structure that are compatible in appearance to the single family dwelling should minimize the impacts on surrounding property owners. 17. The proposed accessory structure is unlikely to have negative impacts to the property or to the neighborhood as a whole. Discussion The property is fairly unique when compared to other properties in Arden Hills because of its topography, number of significant trees and the configuration of the single family dwelling on the lot. Because of the lot’s topography, natural drainage pattern, significant trees and the configuration of principal structure at the rear of the lot, options for the movement of the accessory structure to an area that meets all zoning regulations is very limited in order to minimize tree loss and grading on the property. Due to the scope of the project and the proposed addition of an accessory structure, the character of the neighborhood or the City is not expected to be negatively affected. Recommendation The findings of fact for the Site Plan Review support a recommendation for approval. However, if the Planning Commission chooses to make a recommendation for denial, the Findings of Fact would need to be amended to reflect the reasons for the denial. If the Planning Commission recommends approval of the Site Plan Review, staff recommends the following eight (8) conditions: 1. That the project shall be completed in accordance with the plans submitted as amended by the conditions of approval. Any significant changes to these plans, as determined by the City Planner, shall require review and approval by the Planning Commission and City Council.