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. . . ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - July 10, 2000 3 In the new proposal, the applicant took into consideration the Planning Commission's recommendation to eliminate the 8' x 14' section of the porch on the side ol'the house. However, it was not completely eliminated and an area of II 'x 6' x 2' -8' continues to remain on the northeast side ofthe house. In addition to this change, the southeast portion of the porch was enlarged to approximately 7' x 14' in the new plans. The house currently is 15.37 feet (where 40 feet is required) from the right-of-way line. The house was built (moved) prior to the current setback restrictions. It appears at one time (duc to some existing footings) there was a porch approximately 5 x 8 feet in front of the door. However, the original porch area was nonconforming and when it was removed, it lost its nonconforming rights and can not be rebuilt, per Section IX (J) ofthe Zoning Ordinance. The original variance was reduced on the northeast side of the structure by reducing the 8' x 14' foot section to 2' x II'. The proposed 2' encroachment is permitted into a required setback area (up to 3' as long as the encroachment does not bring the structure closer than 6' to the property line). However, this variance was increased on the southeast side of the structure at the same time that it was reduced on the northeast side. Ms. Chaput stated that the Planning Commission recommends denial of Planning Case #00-14, a corner side yard setback variance (12 feet where 40 is required) for a porch addition at 3491 Lake Johanna Boulevard, based on 2 findings. Councilmember Aplikowski stated that the Council had discussed the possibility of landscaping as a condition of approval on this planning case. Mayor Probst inquired whether that possible condition had been discussed with Mr. Mertensotto. He added the Council had discussed a finding of fact which would allow the Council to approve the variance, and some other issues as mitigating factors, one of which was the historic nature ofthe property of which the garage is not a part. Mayor Probst asked whether Mr. Mertensotto would be amenable to the possible condition that landscaping be completed at the back area of the property. Mr. Mertensotto stated he is in the process of removing old, overgrown trees near the garage and plans to plant evergreens there to provide more screening and reduce noise for the current residents. He added he has provided some screening to the southeast of the home. Mr. Mertensotto stated that the soil at tl1e north end of the property near the garage is poor due to sanding and salting of the roads, and grass will not grow there. Hc added he plans to screen the driveway area to give the residents more privacy. Mayor Probst asked whether Mr. Mertensotto would be willing to accept a condition that required him to work with City staff on an appropriate landscaping plan, and to commit to a timetable for completion. Mr. Mertensotto stated he would be happy to talk to staff and get some ideas. He added he hopes to reflect the prairie style of thc nearby park under construction.