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5.6 There is no mistaking that the proposed improvements will increase the impervious surface area on the parcel and impact drainage on the parcel. Whether or not a variance is requested, all additions that increase building footprints do affect drainage. However, the issue is not that there may be a drainage problem, but that options exist to mitigate/eliminate these potential problems, such as adding gutters and properly directing downspouts away from adjacent homes. 5.7 Section 1013.02 states: Where there are practical difficulties or lJIlUsllal hardships in the way of carrying out the strict letter of the provisions of this code, the city council shall have the power, in a specific case and after notice and public hearings, to vary any such provision in harmony with the general purpose and intent thereof and may impose such additional conditions as it considers necessary so that the public health, safety, and general welfare may be secured and substantial justice done. 5.8 State Statute 462.357, subd. 6 (2) provides authority for the city to "hear requests for varitlllcesfrom the literal provisions of the ordinance in instances where their strict enforcement would cause undue hardship because of circumstances unique to the individual property under consideration, and to grant such variances only when it is demonstrated that such actions will be in keeping with the spirit and intent of the ordinance. "Undue hardship" as used in connection with the granting of a variance means the property in question cannot be put to a reasonable use if used under conditions allowed by the official controls, the plight of the landowner is due to circll'tllstances unique to the property not created by the landowner, and the variance, if granted, wil/not alter the essential character of the locality. Economic considerations alone shall not constitute an undue hardship if reasonable use for the property exists under the terms of the ordinance.... The board or governing body as the case may be may impose conditions in the granting of variances to insure compliance and to protect" 5.9 Staff analysis of undue hardship factors is as follows: A. The property in question cannot be put to a reasonable use ifused under conditions allowed by the official controls: The Sieferman parcel has limited options when considering the proposed improvements. Options include downsizing the front porch encroachment, reducing the size of the family room addition, reducing or eliminating the future pool, elimination the reuse of the existing patio, and/or elimination of the rear yard shed. The Community Development Staff has reviewed the existing (immediate) site conditions, adjacent property situations, and the submitted proposal to determine potential impacts on adjacent properties and the neighborhood, as well as whether the request is reasonable and/or practical. Staff has concluded: 1) that it is reasonable and practical to allow an 8.5 foot encroachment into the front yard for a covered entry. We believe that this feature will offer the home a much needed amenity that does not currently exist and one that cannot be supported without a variance. A reduction in the size or encroachment would hamper its usefulness and there in no alternative location for a front entry porch constructed around the front door; PF3481 - ReA 06/16/03 - Page 4 of 8