CC 09-29-1997 - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - SEPTEMBER 29. 1997 5 . Mr. Ringwald stated the applicant could construct a six-foot addition onto the side of the garage without the need for a variance. He stated that, perhaps, the property itself may be the rationale to consider a square footage variance. Mayor Probst noted that the Council did talk about how to deal with situations in some of the older sections of Arden Hills where residents want to upgrade their property. Councilmember Hicks inquired regarding the request for a five-foot variance to the front setback and asked what the distance is between the existing garage wall and the proposed wall including the new steps. Mr. Ringwald explained that 12.5 feet are left, excluding the width of the steps. Councilmember Hicks stated he considers the steps to be a permanent part of the structure and, based on the drawing, both the existing garage walls will be closer to the lot lines than the house is. Mr. Ringwald reviewed the setback distances for each structure and advised the City usually does not consider sidewalks or steps as permanent structures which need to meet the side yard setback for accessory structures. Councilmember Hicks asked ifthe applicant can increase the existing garage by six feet without a square footage variance. Mr. Ringwald stated this is correct and noted that a five-foot front yard setback would still be needed. . Councilmember Hicks noted the garage probably cannot be attached to the house due to the steep grade. Mr. Ringwald agreed there would be a grade separation between the garage and the house. Councilmember Aplikowski asked if the current garage can house two cars. Mr. Ringwald answered affirmatively and provided a drawing of the proposed front garage elevation showing the use of a two-car garage door plus a service door to access the storage area. Councilmember Aplikowski stated she supports variances for older homes which allow the occupant to upgrade and remain in their home. She stated she would favor the requested variances. Councilmember Malone stated this characterization may not be accurate since the City does need rationale to consider a variance. He stated he does not believe rationale is present for the square footage variance request and, without that rationale, the City would invalidate the Zoning Ordinance. Mayor Probst noted the footprint ofthe house is less than 1,200 square feet and to be able to store items, there needs to be a reasonable location. Also, this lot is not even near the typical size of a residential lot . Councilmember Malone pointed out that even with a larger sized lot, the allowable square footage is the same.