4.1 BASR 05-24-2016 - Laserfiche WebLink

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RECEIVED APR 2 2 2016 We are requesting that a variance be given to allow us to build an old Victorian style front porch onto our house, YA*h was built in 1885. 131) The city attempts to maintain livablility in an area, by local citizens enjoying their surroundings. The porch addition would add enjoyment to all who came by, just as our Christmas lighting brings joy to everyone in our area at Christmas time. This wouid be a year-round spirit lifter. 132) If you walk through our neighborhood, you would see that we have a mixture of housing that over the years have all been up graded,, making this a pleasant, old neighborhood. The addition of the porch would add to the ambiance- Being an open porch, verses a three season porch,, it would in no way obstruct anyone's view. You will find that this is consistent with the City of Elk River Comprehensive Plan. Cl) The only reason that this porch will not meet city ordinance is because our home is 30 feet from our front property line, which is the limit. Otherwise there would be no concerns. As stated earlier, visibility will not be a problem for our neighbors because we are on a comer lot and own two city lots so there are not neighbors close by. The porch will look like it always belonged there. C2) As mentioned earlier, our house was built in 1885, long before wide paved streets were constructed. At that time, homes and dirt roads were constructed without any real city planning. C3) Allowing us to build this porch will allow us to have a genuine old front porch, like many old houses were meant to have. We would love to be able to sit on our front porch, as we have dreamed of since we bought this house, and visit with neighbors. We know this addition would really add to the essential character of the neighborhood. We sincerely hope that you will give this request strong consideration. If in doubt, we invite you to visit our home and neighborhood. Sincerely, Daryl and Lyn Hartman 1302 5th St. Elk River, MN 55330