5.1 BASR 09-26-2017 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Variance Request 8/28/2017 I) The proposed variance is in harmony with the general purpose and intent of the ordinance in that it will provide us a driveway without any direct impact on the surrounding natural resources. The new driveway would encroach on the nearby wetland setback requirements of 45 feet, by approximately 16.5 feet on each side of the driveway. The driveway itself would not be constructed on the wetlands at all, but would only encroach on the setback itself. This setback is a requirement set by the city of Elk River only. This is not a state mandate. This request does keep with the harmony of the general purpose and intent of the ordinance. 2.) The variance is consistent with the City of Elk Rivers Comprehensive plan in that it is keeping the natural demographics of the city's current wetlands, while providing the best possible outcome to protect wetlands and to minimize costs to the existing and future homeowners. The variance would allow for a focused development of already urbanized area and would nummize further encroachments into natural areas. The variance would also enhance the existing character and vitality of the neighborhood. We take great pride in our property and community and this variance would allow us to be able to build our home and raise our children in the community that we ourselves were raised in and have grown to love. The variance would be the most appropriate use of resources while sticking to the city's comprehensive plan of enhancement and development as well as preserving nature and our natural resources. 3.) The proposed variance would not directly impact the surrounding wetlands; it would simply be used as a driveway. The driveway would pass through this parcel of land in between both areas of wetland. The driveway would not replace any of the wetland to the East or West. 4.) The Variance has been requested after the cities initial request that a road be put in at a cost to the landowners. The cost to install this road has come in at $130,000, which makes the road excessive as it will only service two houses. This causes an economic hardship for both parties involved. Our suggested action is to purchase the property to the south, construct a driveway thru this property for our neighbor to the north. The proposed variance will not be detrimental to the surrounding public, wetland or overall appearance of the neighborhood_ if the road were to be put in a large percent of wetland would need to be taken out in order for a road to be constructed. Furthermore there is no other buildable property that could be serviced by the addition of a road. 5.) The proposed variance would not alter the essential character of the locality; ultimately this variance will allow the locality to stay the way it has been for the last 18 years. It will allow for the protection and preservation of native habitat and wildlife leaving the area in an untouched and peaceful state, that the neighborhood has come to enjoy and love about this area. The driveway that we are proposing to be constructed would only be 8-10 feet wide so it will have minimal impact on the property and would not replace any of the surrounding wetland. Sincerely, Tim & N ickie Smith 13329 1906' Ave NW r Elk River, MN 55330 Justen & Leezza Hemmelgarn 13349 190"' Ave NW Elk River, MN 55330 �`�