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<br />Ann Frans, representing John Torgerson from ReMax Realty, stated the house has been <br />for sale for 2 years and that the house is less than 600 sq. ft. in size. Member Harms <br />stated the current proposal is a good idea to correct a bad problem. <br /> <br />Chairman Wietecki stated that the project is compatible with the existing neighborhood <br />and that the setback would be similar. Member Sandstrom asked if this variance would <br />create a structure which has more value in the addition than exists on the site currently. <br /> <br />Rick Jopke defined and clarified the non-conforming language of Section 11 of the Code. <br /> <br />Member Thomas stated the hardship for this project is a transition from an old seasonal <br />cabin to a year-round home requiring a variance. Member Sandstrom stated that the <br />rationale in the Ordinance was to allow the city the ability to combine lots to create more <br />valuable property. Member Harms stated that the cost of combining properties in this <br />area was prohibitive. <br /> <br />There was no public comment. Chairman Wietecki closed the public hearing. <br /> <br />MOTION: Member Harms moved, seconded by Member Thomas, to offer the <br />following findings and recommendations: <br /> <br />Whereas, the front yard setback of the Torgerson house is setback from a railroad right- <br />of-way and not a public road, and has little impact on the driving public, and <br /> <br />Whereas, the existing cabin is small, not liveable by current standards, and <br /> <br />Whereas, houses in the neighborhood have similar setbacks from the railroad right-of- <br />way, <br /> <br />Now, Therefore, be it resolved to recommend approval of the John Torgerson 25' foot <br />front yard setback to allow a new garage to set within 5' of the front property line, <br />provided the applicant secures a letter of approval from the existing property owner. <br /> <br />The Commission discussed in detail the criteria for a variance within Section 12.040 of <br />the City Code. Member Sandstrom noted that the finding in the motion is that the <br />structure will be in keeping with the surrounding properties. <br /> <br />Roll Call: <br /> <br />Ayes: <br />Nays: <br /> <br />Harms, Thomas, Sandstrom, Wietecki <br />Wall <br /> <br />(Member Wall stated the project is premature and other options are possible which <br />relieve the hardship). <br /> <br />4 <br />