CCP 02-22-1999 - Laserfiche WebLink

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e e e ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION - FEBRUARY 3, 1999 DRAFT 15 build additional structure in the buildable area without being required to gain approval by the City: The Staff would conclude that the following findings relate to the requested front and side yard setback variance: 1. Circumstances Unique to the Property. The property in question is extremely deficient in lot width for the R-2 Zoning District. The parcel has between 27 to 29 feet in width, excluding the lake portion of the lot. 2. Minimization of Request. The applicant has narrowed the width of the proposed house addition, at the Staff's request, so as to provide for a five-foot setback on both sides of the home to protect the adjacent public's health, safety, and welfare. 3. A variance would allow a condition that is not consistent with the surrounding development. The proposed addition would allow this property to have a structure similarly sized to adjacent properties. However, based on the property's existing frontyard setback and the additional buildable area to its rear which other properties in the area to do not have available to them. If the variance requests are approved as submitted, the homeowner could then continue to build out the house to the west as long as they met the side and rear yard setbacks. Ms. Randall advised that the Staff recommends denial of Planning Case #98-37, side yard setback variance (5 feet 1 inches proposed, when 10 feet is required) and a front yard setback variance (30 feet proposed, when 40 feet is required) for a house addition, based on the "Findings - Front and Side Yard Setback Variance" section of the Staff report dated February 3, 1999. If the Planning Commission makes a recommendation on this Planning Case, it would be heard at the Monday, February 22, 1999, regular meeting of the City Council. Chair Erickson asked Staff if any comments were received from the neighbors regarding this variance request. Ms. Randall stated a letter had been received from the property owner to the north, Mr. William Stophlet, 3407 Lake Johanna Boulevard. Mr. Stophlet indicated in his letter that he had no objections to the setback variance and that he welcomes the improvement to the property. Chair Erickson asked if adding on to a non-conforming home is the reason for the front yard setback variance. Ms. Randall stated that this was correct. Chair Erickson requested confirmation that any addition to the home would require.a front yard setback variance, even if it were to meet the side yard setbacks. Ms. Randall stated that this was correct. Chair Erickson requested further explanation of the proposed five-foot side yard setbacks. Ms. Randall explained that in previous Planning Case considerations, Staffhad required a minimum setback of five feet in order to allow access between the properties.