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We, John and Christie Graham, are asking for a variance to upgrade our residence at 671 Skillman Avenue West. This variance would allow us to expand the front (south) exposure of the dwelling 12 feet from the existing structure. We are unable to expand to either the east or west due to constraints imposed by neighboring property boundaries. Because of the way the residence is situated on the lot, expansion to the north (back yard) is also constrained due to minimal access routes via our own property. Access to this area with heavy machinery required for foundation work and other construction would result in considerable damage to our neighbors' property, landscapes and driveways. The planned remodel to our home would bring our 1955 ranch-style house much closer to today's standards in functionality and living space, our primary motivation. However, maintaining residence in a modernized single-story home will also allow us to accommodate possible future needs by relocating laundry and other necessary facilities to the main floor. This is of particular concern to us as John has already undergone five hip replacements as well as one knee replacement. A new, more open floor plan will allow much greater ease in accessibility and mobility should that be required in our later years. We have vacillated often over the years between moving to larger space with more recent design amenities or remodeling our current small home. But having lived in Roseville in this home since 1978, we have a strong desire to stay in both the community and our current neighborhood. John works in Roseville; Christie is employed in nearby Arden Hills. We consider ourselves fortunate to have excellent long-standing relationships with close neighbors, yet also enjoy a good deal of privacy due to the location and depth of our lot. We have nurtured much care with both the inside and outside of our home, heavily landscaping the property with many flower gardens and areas attractive not only to us, but neighbors, passersby and visiting wildlife as well. We would very much hate to leave the results of many happy years of long yet rewarding efforts.