06-11-07 Item 7C, PC 07-012, Variance at 1486 Arden Oaks Drive

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The floor of the new garage I propose would be at a much lower level, about 2 feet over street level compared to the floor of the existing garage that is more than 8 feet above street level. The new garage would allow me to exit the garage and enter the street in my car under full control and without risk to people and vehicles in the street. Some of my neighbors expressed their delight about my intent to address the current situation through the construction of a low- level new garage. The Planning Commission decided at its meeting on May 2, 2007 to recommend the denial of my request. I urge you not to follow this recommendation and to grant the variance, since I believe the Planning Commission did not adequately consider the hazards that the current driveway poses for the safety of people living in, or visiting, the neighborhood. I believe that the safety issues created by the topography of my lot and the location of my lot on the street presents an instance where strict enforcement of the zoning code causes undue hardship. Use of my property with the existence of such a material safety hazard to the neighborhood is not reasonable, and not a prudent decision by the City for its own citizens. I have investigated alternatives to constructing a new garage as proposed. My builder advised me that the current garage floor cannot be lowered because any attempt to underpin the existing garage would endanger the structural integrity of the existing house. I so advised the Planning Commission. Attached is a letter from my contractor, Michael Lee who has done significant work in Arden Hills, further explaining the impracticability oflowering the existing garage floor. The suggested design for the new garage is aimed at limiting the visual impact on the neighborhood to a minimum and making the new garage blend into the existing front yard. The neighbors I have spoken with have expressed their approval of the design. The flat roof is intended to make the new garage less imposing; the flat roof is not intended to be used as a deck. My contractor advises that the railing around the roofwill be required as a safety matter, whether or not the roof is used as a deck. I will be attending the City Council meeting on June 11, 2007, at which my variance will be considered, and I will be happy to respond to any questions you may have. Thank you for your consideration. Yours sincerely, (/) 0 (1\ __ Il/} -:b~~ Encl. cc (with enclosures): James Lehnhoff, City Planner