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5.5 Section 1004.016 (Residential Dimensional Requirements) establishes mInImUm standards for residential parcels, which includes: an 85 foot minimum width along a public right-of-way; a 110 foot minimum depth; and 11,000 minimum square feet. 5.6 In Section 1013 the Code 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 Variance Board 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 if used under conditions allowed by the official controls: The Official Controls of the City prescribe that all single family residential parcels be a minimum of 85 feet in width along the public right-of- way. Mr. Albertson has a 200 foot wide parcel that could easily accommodate this requirement. However, to split off an 85 foot wide parcel creates a uniquely shaped parcel that is not the best design for the existing site conditions. Mr. Albertsons home was constructed in such a manner that it is impossible to split off a complete 85 foot wide by 200 foot parcel. Creating the 85 foot wide parcel would intrude into what is considered the existing home's front yard. Creating a parcel that is 69 feet wide seems more reasonable and practical given the existing site conditions. The Community Development Staff has determined that the property can be made more livable and put to a reasonable and practical use under the official controls, a 16 foot lot width variance is granted. PF3556 RPCA 040704 Page 3 of 5