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5.3 The proposal by Mr. Koenig seeks approval to reconstruct the garage and driveway 3 feet into the required setback or to a point 2 feet from the property line. Currently the existing detached garage is as close as 5 inches to the side property line and the existing driveway is as close as 2 feet (in the area of the proposed replacement). 5.4 The City Planner has reviewed the proposal, concluding that at least one option exists to reduce overall impervious coverage on the parcel. However, the City Planner has determined that there are no reasonable, practical, or economical options available that dramatically reduce or eliminate the variance, without requiring a redesign of the proposal, removal of all or a portion of the existing patio, and/or the removal of all or a portion of the proposed storage slab. 5.5 Specifically, the proposed parking slab behind the new garage could be reduced in size to a design that accommodates just the wheel area of the vehicle or trailer via concrete strips 3 feet wide by 16 feet long or 96 square feet in size. 5.6 Section 1013.02 states: Where there are practical difficulties or unusual 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. 5.7 State Statute 462.357, subd. 6 (2) provides authority for the city to "hear requests for variances from 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 circumstances unique to the property not created by the landowner, and the variance, if granted, will 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" 5.8 The property in question cannot be put to a reasonable use ifused under conditions allowed by the official controls: The Koenig lot is narrow and offers no ability to construct a two stall wide garage adjacent the home. Detaching the garage from the home and placing it in the rear yard affords proper design, although position flexibility is limited given the (house) distance from the rear property line, existing side (east) stoop/step accessing the home, and the curve necessary to provide access via a driveway PF3 50 1 - RPCA 080603 - Page 3 of 6