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ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – April 6, 2016 6 14. That a detached accessory structure is a permitted accessory use and is reasonable within the R-2 Single Family Residential Zoning District. 15. The lot is unique in the fact that the lot’s width does not meet the City Code requirements. 16. The proposed accessory structure would be visible from neighboring properties; however, the placement would not be inconsistent in terms of setbacks and lot coverage requirements for typical lots in the surrounding neighborhood. The property owner would match the materials used for siding and roofing to the single family dwelling, which 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 as many properties within the area have accessory structures that encroach in the setback requirements. 18. The proposed plans and variance request for the construction of a new accessory structure does not appear to be based on economic considerations alone. City Planner Streff stated that the findings of fact for this variance request 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 this variance, Staff recommends the following five (5) 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. 2. That the accessory structure shall be permitted to encroach five (5) feet into the side yard setback along the east property line. 3. That the accessory structure shall not exceed fifteen (15) feet in height. 4. That a permit for the construction of the accessory structure/garage and a permit for the construction of the driveway shall be required. That the structure shall conform to all other regulations in the City Code. 5. That the exterior façade of the new accessory structure shall match the color and materials on the existing single family dwelling on property. The final façade shall be approved by the City Planner. City Planner Streff reviewed the options available to the Planning Commission on this matter: 1. Recommend Approval with Conditions 2. Recommend Approval as Submitted. 3. Recommend Denial 4. Table Chair Thompson opened the floor to Commissioner comments. Commissioner Zimmerman asked if the property met the City’s setbacks when constructed. City Planner Streff stated it was possible the garage was in conformance when constructed in the 1940’s. However, under the current standards, the garage was a non-conforming structure.