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<br />e <br /> <br />e <br /> <br />e <br /> <br />Memo to Planning Commission <br />Planning Case #02-05: Guidant Site Plan Review I Variance Request <br />March 28, 2002 <br />Page 7 of 11 <br /> <br />I I. Aesthetics (Meets Code Requirements) <br /> <br />A colored building rendering is included for your review. At this point, there are no defined <br />design criteria in the Limited Industrial Zoning District. <br /> <br />In the applicant's project description, they indicate that the building materials will include a <br />combination of brick masonry, glass, and accents of architectural metal panel. While this project <br />is proceeding independent of the proposed master plan planned unit development, it certainly <br />will set the tone for future design to be integrated throughout the site. Building materials will <br />also be provided at the meeting for the Commission's review. <br /> <br />12. Additional Considerations <br /> <br />In addition to the building expansion, the site plan also includes a skyway connecting the training <br />center to Guidant Building E. Since Fernwood is still a public street, it is staff's opinion that the <br />applicant could not construct the skyway without some formal agreement. If Fernwood Avenue <br />is vacated, this will not be an issue. Accordingly, staff would recommend that the skyway not be <br />constructed until Fernwood Avenue is vacated, or an alternative arrangement is agreed to by the <br />City. <br /> <br />Variance Reqnest <br /> <br />The applicant is currently seeking a setback variance to build 21 feet from the property line when <br />55 feet is required. This involves the front yard setback off of Fernwood A venue. Ai> I indicated <br />previously, the setback variance will not be necessary if the property is platted and Femwood <br />A venue is vacated. Also, if a Master Plan Planned Unit Development were established in the <br />future, variances would not be necessary. Rather, the development would be viewed in its <br />totality. <br /> <br />Setback Variance <br /> <br />Setback Variance Criteria <br /> <br />The applicant is seeking both a height and setback variance. Each has their own specific criteria. <br />The following highlights both the State and City requirements for a setback variance. <br /> <br />A. State Requirements <br /> <br />Miunesota State Statute in Chapter 462.357, Subdivision 6, (2), defines "undue hardship" as: <br /> <br />"-.. means the property in question cannot be put to a reasonable use if used under conditions allowed <br />by the official controls, the plight of the landowner is due to circumstances unique to the property not <br />created by the landowner, and the variance, if granted, wiII not alter the essential character of the <br />