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Planning Commission Minutes July 28, 1992 Page 3 . small landing which leaves them barely enough room to open the door. They felt that the hardship would come from a safety standpoint as they have had an individual fall down the steps because of the small landing. Chairman Nadeau closed the public hearing. Chairman Nadeau stated that he disagreed with staff's recommendation as he felt a variance on a house should be more flexible versus variances for storage garages, etc. especially when safety is the major concern. He also felt that granting this variance would not be detrimental to the neighborhood. Commissioner Minton suggested a compromise by making the entryway smaller based on the safety issue as he felt this would be setting a precedent. Mr. Dehn stated that it would not be economically feasible for them to build the entryway any smaller. steve Rohlf, Building and Zoning Administrator, stated that the petitioners have asked for a 10' x 12' addition, and therefore, the Planning Commission is asked to act on that request. . COMMISSIONER JOHNSON MOVED TO RECOMMEND DENIAL OF THE VARIANCE REQUEST BASED ON THE FIVE STANDARDS ALONG WITH STAFF'S MEMO, ALSO THE COMMISSIONERS STRONGLY ENCOURAGE THE APPLICANT TO COME BACK WITH A NEW PLAN WHICH WOULD FOCUS ON THE SAFETY CONCERNS. COMMISSIONER MINTON SECONDED THE MOTION. THE MOTION CARRIED 4-1. Chairman Nadeau voted no. 7. Consider a Variance Request (Setback from the Elk River) by Bob & Louise Doncaster/P.H. Steve Rohlf, Building and Zoning Administrator, stated that Robert and Louise Doncaster of 18643 Yankton Street are requesting a 25 ft. encroachment on the 100 ft. setback from the ordinary high water mark of the Elk River to accommodate a garage. They are also requesting a variance for an encroachment on the front yard setback from Yankton. Mr. Rohlf explained that the Doncasters are proposing to build a 26' by 36' garage and gave some background information regarding the proposed garage. He stated that when the issue of the garage first came up, the setback was 75 ft. Staff is recommending approval as staff feels they meet the standards for a variance. Chairman Nadeau opened the public hearing. There being no one for or against the matter, Chairman Tralle closed the public hearing. Mr. Doncaster stated that due to their house being on a triangular lot and having set backs on all three sides, placement of their garage would better fit on the west side of their property. He stated that when they purchased the house it did not have a garage. At that time we were informed by the City that a garage is required to meet City code. . Mr. Rohlf stated that the DNR had reviewed the request and was also recommending approval.