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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL—AUGUST 10, 2020 6 Councilmember McClung stated he was having a hard time justifying this request. He explained the applicant could reconstruct the deck as is, or could even enlarge it slightly. He commented he did not understand what the requested one foot was getting the applicant. Mayor Grant discussed the gurney argument and how the deck request was for seven feet in order to accommodate a gurney. A roll call vote was taken. The motion failed 2-3 (Councilmembers Holden, Holmes and McClung opposed). MOTION: Councilmember Holmes moved and Councilmember Holden seconded a motion to deny Resolution #2020-030 Approving Planning Case 20-004 for a Variance at 1741 Venus Avenue. Councilmember Holden stated she believed the property owner already had reasonable use of and the one additional foot of deck space was not necessary. She commented there were no unique circumstances for this property. She explained the issue of fire department safety was not a valid reason to expand the deck. She did not believe the existing deck changed the character of the neighborhood but by altering the setback, this would impact the neighborhood. Councilmember Holmes reported the requested variance does not comply with the purpose and intent of the R-1 zoning district and the policies within the City's Comprehensive Plan. She explained a deck was not to encroach further onto the property line than was already been allowed. A roll call vote was taken. The motion carried 3-2 (Councilmember Scott and Mayor Grant opposed). 10. UNFINISHED BUSINESS None. 11. COUNCIL COMMENTS Councilmember McClung stated August 11 was Primary Election Day. He encouraged all Arden Hills residents to get out and vote. He discussed how absentee ballots could be requested for the General Election in November and noted this information was available on the City's web site. Councilmember Holmes explained the Valentine Hills neighborhood has had three cars that have been stolen and seven houses that have been vandalized in the last month and a half. She indicated her neighbors were quite concerned for their safety and asked if staff should be directed to speak to the Ramsey County Sheriff s office. Mayor Grant noted he received several calls regarding this matter and noted the Ramsey County Sheriff has been invited to the upcoming neighborhood meeting. He supported staff speaking with Ramsey County Sheriff to increase patrols in this area of the City.