08-13-07 Agenda Item 4C - Laserfiche WebLink

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.... LI.. <( or:: C ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION - AUGUST 1,2007 3 A. PLANNING CASE #07-016 - VARIANCE: RICHARD GONZALEZ: 3441 LAKE JOHANNA BOULEVARD Mr. Lehnhoff reported that the applicant submitted a revised variance request to construct a new dwelling with attached garage that encroaches 12 feet in the 30-foot rear setback for the principle structure. He then provided background information and said current findings of fact neither fully support nor deny approval. Chair Sand opened the floor to Commission questions. Commissioner Larson asked if the existing free-standing garage would remain, and Mr. Lehnhoff responded that it would. Chair Sand inquired as to whether the garage would be rebuilt as a one-story structure, and Mr. Lehnhoff responded that it could only be rebuilt to current or smaller dimensions. Chair Sand commented that there appeared to be need to note, should the Commission move to approve the application, any unique circumstances and criteria to be met for code. Commissioner Modesette stated she couldn't support the requested variance for the way the property is sited and expressed disappointment that the request was being made for one and that efforts aren't being made to site structures within the normal zoning code. Chair Sand asked whether the deck addition met criteria and was within the extended setback allowance. Mr. Lehnhoff responded that it does meet criteria and could possibly extend a few feet further into the determined setback. Commissioner Larson said he concurred with Commissioner Modesette and commented that the request for variance of a five-car garage is more than the lot can support. Chair Sand commented that last month one issue that came before the Commission was whether the setback variance could be reduced by making a two-car garage rather than a three-car garage and moving the house to the east. Chair Sand noted that the applicant chose not to remove the third stall and asked whether removing the third garage stall from the attached garage would make it possible for the building to meet the rear yard setback. Mr. Lehnhoff responded that if one of the garage stalls were removed, the proposal would be very close to meeting the required setback. It might be within 1-2 feet; however, there is additional space to work with on the front side ofthe property. Commissioner Larson suggested that alternatives be explored so the applicant doesn't have to come back to the City for a variance request. Commissioner Stodola moved, seconded by Commissioner Larson, to recommend denial of Planning Case 07-016 at 3441 Lake Johanna Boulevard based on findings of fact that it does not meet the criteria for special circumstances and unique circumstances do not exist. The motion carried unanimously (6-0).