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GREEN ROOF - AN INSPIRATION FOR THE COMMUNITY and ARDEN HILLS: Terry Pernsteiner - Contractor Kye Samuelson - homeowner Julia Samuelson - homeowner Thank you, all, for consideration of this unique and intentional approach to a critical project. We titled the note to intentionally align with the many communities across Minnesota that have already pursued green roof alternative programs for variances of code written into their current ordinances. The phrasing in other city ordinances is as follows: Green Roof – Installation of an extensive, intensive, semi intensive, or modular integrated green roof system, as part of point systems or alternatives to standard zoning ordinances – offering point systems or consideration. The other variances are offered for a green “wall” system in many localities on MN. The request: The inspiration for the green roof and wall systems is the replacement of the storage unit that was in this location for many years, but while in disrepair and thus needing replacement. This request is to allow a slightly larger than the 8’ by 8’ structure permitted in zoning. Again, the fact that other municipalities offer variances for green roof systems in their zoning and the hardship described below has us making this request. The variance request is to utilize MN building codes that call for Innovative Structure or design by using the green roof and wall systems to permit a variance. We have submitted the request based on the rationale below. Below is the description of the hardship of the property: There is a 30’ grade difference in 100 feet, which creates a very steep slope to transport lake items up to store in the garage. The grade is difficult enough to have warranted the construction of a switchback grass trail for a golf cart to bring elderly family members and those less physically-able from the driveway down to the lake. Please refer to the images with measurements submitted in the application for a visual of the topo and distances to see the dramatic drop. The reasonable nature of the request: The items used at lakeside are typical for a young family with efforts to share the lakeshore with their family, neighbors and community – paddleboards, tubes, waterskis, ropes, chairs and other play items for daily use. The paddleboards are minimum 10’ 6” to 12’, hence the proposal is to request a storage with the length of twelve feet and a width of eight to ten feet. Helping (not hurting) the character of the neighborhood: Aesthetics - The consideration is to build using a green/grass roof system and green wall system on at least one side of the structure. A core benefit of green on the roof and wall at this site is the aesthetic and pleasing view for neighbors and homeowners from any vantage point, with critical emphasis on the downward view for immediate neighbors and homeowner. Considering that storage shed would be thirty feet below the adjoining neighbors, the natural vegetation on the east-facing rooftop and wall would become part of the natural setting intentionally restored