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ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – September 3, 2025 4 Senior Planner Fransen stated she was uncertain, but could investigate this further. Commissioner Bjorklund explained there was a water gauge on the east side of Tony Schmidt Park Beach that shows the rise and fall of the lake. Commissioner Birken questioned if the properties that have encroached into the shoreline impact zone have been to this degree. Senior Planner Fransen reported the four variance requests that were shared with Commissioner Burlingame did not encroach into the shoreline impact zone. She stated the variances requested were for front yard setbacks or for a non-conforming structure. Commissioner Birken asked how many properties on the lake encroached into the shoreline impact zone. Senior Planner Fransen commented she had not prepared an analysis with this information, but could research this topic further. Commissioner Birken inquired when the City would receive the DNR review. Senior Planner Fransen indicated this review was completed by the DNR and the DNR was not issuing any comments on this application. Commissioner Birken asked if some of the variances being requested were repeats from the last time this property was given a variance. She stated it was her understanding there would be no way to rebuild a house on this lot without variances. Senior Planner Fransen stated the same house could be rebuilt as is without needing variances. Commissioner Birken questioned if a City sidewalk or walking trail would impact this property. Senior Planner Fransen reported the Comprehensive Plan for Parks and Recreation has an identified pathway that would span Lake Johanna Boulevard to the north. She indicated this property was to the south. Commissioner Lindau asked if the lot area/FAR included the lake. Senior Planner Fransen explained the survey documents are measured to the ordinary high water level. Commissioner Bjorklund commented this property is taking two buildable lots from the 1930’s that were non-conforming. He indicated since the 1930’s shore impact zones have been placed on these lots. He questioned what the rights were of this property owner when it comes to development irrespective of the new zoning ordinances. He stated these lots precede the shoreland ordinance by many decades. He asked what the rights were of the existing property owner, regardless of what the setbacks, impact zones and shoreland impacts were. He explained he would like to learn more from the City Attorney about how the shore impact zone was setting a precedent on property owners. He discussed how permeable pavers could be used on this property to assist with meeting the City’s impervious surface requirements.