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City of Arden Hills Planning Commission Meeting for February 5th, 2020 P:\Planning\Planning Cases\2019\19-020 - 3159 Shoreline Lane - VA Page 4 of 6 deck would not alter the character of the neighborhood and 3) the new proposed deck will not adversely affect either abutting properties, nor affect the lake view or water runoff of any surrounding properties in the immediate area. c.Character of Neighborhood. The variance, if granted, will not alter the essential character of the neighborhood. According to the Applicants’ applicationPDWHULDOV, the existing neighborhood has homes with decksin the rear yard and a variety of different yard setbacks and proposed variance will notalter the character of the neighborhood. 3. Economic Consideration. Economic consideration alone does not constitute a practical difficulty. The proposed variance is not based on economic consideration. 4. Access to Sunlight. Inadequate access to direct sunlight for solar energy systems shall be considered a practical difficulty. A solar energy system is not proposed. Findings of Fact The Planning Commission must make a finding as to whether or not the proposed application would adversely affect the surrounding neighborhood or the community as a whole based on the aforementioned factors. Staff offers the following findings for consideration: General Findings: 1. City Staff received a land use application for a request to build a new deck behind the single family dwelling at the Subject Property 3159 Shoreline Lane. 2. The Subject Property is located in the R-2 One and Two Family Residential District. 3. A deck on a single-family detached dwelling is a permitted use in the R-2 district. 4. The Subject Property is non-conforming with the R-2 districts standards for minimum lot width requirements. 5. The rear setback to the property is determined by the Ordinary High Water Level (OHWL) for Lake Josephine, which is 50 feet. 6. The principle structure is 52 feet from the OHWL. 7. Decks, uncovered porches, ramps, and steps generally may extend six feet (6’) into required setbacks but in no case shall these encroachments be less than six feet (6’) from any lot line. 8. The proposed deck on the Subject Property would otherwise conform to all other requirements and standards of the R-2 district and Shoreland Management Regulations. 9. The proposed development would not encroach on any flood plains, wetlands, or easements. 10. A variance may be granted if the Applicant meets all three factors of the statutory test for practical difficulties.