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I I ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL - SEPTEMBER 30. 1996 22 t' where parking is needed from a functional aspect. Mr. Ringwald explained Staffs emphasis is not on the number of spaces required but, rather, minimization or avoidance of the need for a vanance. I Mayor Probst clarified the issue at hand is not the ability to develop the McGuire property but I the need to deal with whether the variance requests being made are appropriate as a solution to what is being proposed. He noted the options are to move forward to accept the revised proposal as being appropriate, move denial, or refer it to the Planning Commission for review of the I revised concept. Councilmember Aplikowski stated she is uncomfortable with this and would like more study I conducted. The motion carried (3 ayes-2 nays Aplikowski and Probst). I H. Planning Case #96-13, James Danielson, 3238 N. Hamline Avenue, Variance I Mr. Ringwald reported that the applicant is requesting approval of front and side yard setback variances to allow for the construction of a 22 foot by 24 foot detached garage. The front yard setback is proposed to be 12 feet while 40 feet is required and the side yard is proposed to be five Ie feet while ten feet is required. Mr. Ringwald stated the garage is proposed to be placed within a triangular area which is a former Ramsey County pump site. The present pump house will be removed. The detached structure will house a boat and a vehicle. I Mr. Ringwald reviewed discussion held by the Planning Commission and its recommendation I for denial of Planning Case #96-13, Variance, 12 foot front yard and five foot side yard setback variance (detached garage). I Councilmember Malone stated while the proposal may make sense and would diminish the existing irregularity, he is unable to determine a hardship to justify the request. I James Danielson, applicant, commented on the difficulty of proving a hardship and stated he believcs a unique situation exists unlike anything else in Arden Hills. He pointed out there is only one other pumphouse in Arden Hills and his adjoining neighbor supports this request I because it will improve his view of Hamline A venue from the north. Mr. Danielson pointed out the garage could be put in the front yard but other neighbors would object because that placement I disrupts their view of Hamline Avenue. He asserted this proposal results in a minimum reduction in grass area and no traffic impact. He reviewed several other structures which he believes have established a precedent and presented photographs of alternate sites. I Mayor Probst inquired regarding land transfer. Mr. Danielson provided a copy from Ramsey County which reflects the accurate property line and right-of-way line. t' Councilmember Malone noted the variance could be diminished ifthe garage were a smaller size. Mr. Danielson explained one purpose for the garage is to house a boat and car which is stored I