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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—MAY 2612020 9 Councilmember Holden indicated the plans for the deck were beautiful but she could not support a large deck in the front yard. She understood the home currently had a deck, but she didn't support the expansion of the deck. Councilmember Holmes explained there were no decks in front yards in Arden Hills. She did not understand why this home did not have a porch. She explained she could support a front porch and bridge/walkway but did not support the oversized deck on the front of the home. Councilmember McClung stated he feels similarly. He reported the Council crafted a front porch ordinance and this was brought to the applicants' attention. He indicated the expansion of the deck was not something he could support. He encouraged the residents to consider a front porch. He explained he could not support the requested variance. He believed approving this variance would set a dangerous precedent. Councilmember Scott asked if the neighbors had provided any feedback on the request. Associate Planner Hartmann stated in general the neighbors supported the variance request for the expanded deck. Councilmember Scott discussed how the new deck railing system would have a more sleek design and would be less visible. Mayor Grant asked if this were a porch how far out could it go from the house. Associate Planner Hartmann reported per City Code a porch could extend out 10 feet from the house. He noted a deck could extend out from the front of a house 6 feet and the applicants were requesting 12 feet. Mayor Grant stated given the Ordinance the City had in place he would not be able to support the requested deck expansion. MOTION: Councilmember Holden moved and Councilmember Holmes seconded a motion to adopt Resolution 2020-023 denying Planning Case 20-004 for a variance at 1741 Venus Avenue based on the findings of fact and that the property already has reasonable use, there was not a covered porch, the City does not allow decks in the front _yard, and the proposed deck would encroach even further into the front _yard setback. Councilmember Holmes stated the deck was a problematic issue. She commented the walkway was not so much of a concern for her. She encouraged the applicant to come back to the City with a new plan. Mayor Grant questioned what the next step would be for the applicants if he plans were denied. Community Development Manager/City Planner Mrosla reported the applicants could come back with similar plans in six months or a new plan sooner than six months. He explained if the item were tabled the applicants could revise the plans.