12-07-22 PC Agenda Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – November 9, 2022 8 support the subject property having access to Snelling Avenue. He believed a modern home would not fit into the neighborhood and stated he would be in favor of the variances as requested. Commissioner Wicklund clarified for the record that the Planning Commission would make a recommendation to the City Council on this item and the final decision on this variance would be made by the City Council. Community Development Director Jagoe reported this was the case. She noted if the Commission wanted the applicant to reconsider the home on the lot, or the home size, action on the variance could be tabled to a future Planning Commission meeting. Chair Vijums stated the Commission could table action on this item in order to allow the applicant to reconsider his plans that meets or more closely meets the setback requirements. He indicated this would allow the applicant to come back with a design that more closely meets the design criteria of the City. Community Development Director Jagoe reported an extension would be required from the applicant if the Commission were to table action on this item. Further discussion ensued regarding how the right-of-way was measured for this property. Councilmember Holmes commented on the discussions the applicant had with the City Council at the October Work Session meeting. Commissioner Wicklund commented that either way this property was accessed, whether from Ridgewood Road or Snelling Avenue, the driveway would be steep. He stated he was not recommending action on this item be tabled because this would carry the action over into 2023 and a new City Council that was not familiar with this property. Chair Vijums questioned how the Commission wanted to proceed. Commissioner Blilie asked if the Commission could approve with a strong recommendation requesting the applicant to pursue other architectural designs to reduce the variances requested. Chair Vijums commented the applicant was requesting specific variances and the Commission had to make a decision whether or not to support the requested variances. Commissioner Blilie stated she would approve the variances at this time. Commissioner Collins explained he would support the variances as well. Commissioner Weber indicated he was torn on this request, but stated he believed he could support the request at this time. Commissioner Mitchell reported she would vote to approve the variances for this unique lot. She stated she would like to see the property utilized for a single family home. She commented the encroachment would be on the streets and not unto the neighboring homes. For this reason, she would be voting to support the requested variances.