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

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ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION - JULY 11, 2007 9 Although drainage can be an issue during major rainfall events, the gravel driveway is unlikely to significantly impact the existing stormwater issue in the neighborhood. The drainage issue does need to be addressed separate from this property over the long-term, Moreover, even with the gravel driveway counting as impervious surface, the property does not require a reduction in the 65 percent landscaping requirement. The findings do not support approval of this variance; therefore, Staff is not recommending approval of the variance to construct a partial gravel driveway, Mr. Lehnhoff indicated the applicant may want to consider pervious pavers in the proposed gravel portion of the driveway. Pervious pavers would be considered an improved surface, and it would provide a similar or, possibly, greater function for stormwater then the gravel driveway. Commissioner Holewa expressed concern about the address and emergency vehicle access. Commissioner Modesette stated she supported the western line being designated the rear property line and thus requiring a 30 foot setback for the principle structure, Chair Sand asked if this was a two car garage, would a variance be required, Mr. Lehnhoff responded he did not have those measurements. Chair Sand stated he did not believe they had to grant a variance for a third stall garage. He noted the variance would be made substantially less by eliminating the third stall, especially since he already had another garage. Commissioner Modesette asked if the entire structure could be moved closer to Lake Johanna would lessen the variance. Commissioner Zimmerman asked if they had any information as to whether the height would remain the same, Mr. Lehnhoff responded the accessory structure could not exceed the dimensions it was now. He did not believe it would exceed the 15-foot height limit. Commissioner Zimmerman asked if the current structure could be reconstructed in the same spot without a variance. Mr. Lehnhoffresponded it could. Chair Sand asked if the current house met the setbacks, Mr. Lehnhoffresponded it did. Chair Sand stated he would like to have this tabled to see how the house could be set on the property differently so it did not require such a variance requirement. He did not believe it was impossible to move the house to the east. Commissioner Modesette asked for further information of a five-stall garage, She wondered if something items could be stored inside, Commissioner Stodola expressed concern about the gravel driveway request. She did not believe a gravel driveway was necessary. Richard Gonzalez, 3441 Lake Johanna Blvd, applicant, stated he bought the property with the intention of redeveloping the property, He stated he did not want to clear the