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2 <br />cushingterrell.com <br />VARIANCE #1 SECTION 30 -895 DRIVEWAY SETBACK 10 FEET FROM PROPERTY LINE <br />The proposed site design relies on a 35.84 ft driveway desig n, within a platted 38.8 foot frontage width, that <br />is located 0.5 ft to back of curb from the property line on the north side of the driveway to allow for <br />emergency vehicle and delivery vehicle access . There is no parallels parcel line on the south side of the <br />driveway. <br />Approval Criteria: The variance is in harmony with the general purpose and intent of the ordinance. <br />The purpose of the driveway setback it to provide a safe and reliable property access without impacting <br />neighboring properties and to provide area for utility placement and adequate snow storage . The proposed <br />driveway location and driveway width ensures that emergency vehicles and delivery tractor trailers (WB -67) <br />can access the property off Zane Street efficiently and safely within the property boundaries . Vehicles turning <br />in and out of the proposed driveway have adequate space to access the driveway using industry turning radii <br />standards . Further, the proposed property access location does not impact the existing property access to <br />the north or prohibit efficient utility installation or adequate snow storage on the adjacent property. Utilities <br />will be provided to the subject property in a manner compliant with design standards and snow storage will <br />be accommodated entirely on site . <br />Approval Criteria: The variance is consistent with the City of Elk River comprehensive plan. <br />The approval of the d riveway setback variance and the proposed driveway width will facilitate site conditions <br />necessary for Les Schwab Tire Center to conduct normal business operations in an area of town planned for <br />commercial activity. The property is located within the Urban Service boundary, zoned Highway Commercial <br />(C3) and is guided by the Highway Business land use category and the Highway 10/169 Commercial <br />Economic Development Character Area as defined in the 2021 City of Elk River Comprehensive Plan Update. <br />Policies and recommendations for the Commercial Character areas are intended to strengthen and leverage <br />unique economic opportunities in Elk River and support job creation and the enhanced delivery of goods <br />and services in the city. The proposed location is an ideal si te for the new Les Schwab Tire Center , with an <br />approved variance and administrative relief, Les Schwab will join other national retailers, to provide service <br />and shopping opportunities for community members <br />Approval Criteria: Variances may be granted when the petitioner establishes that there are practical <br />difficulties in complying with the zoning ordinance. Economic considerations alone do not constitute <br />practical difficulties. Practical difficulties include, but are not limited to, inadequate access to d irect sunlight <br />for solar energy systems. Practical difficulties means that: <br />(1) The petitioner proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner not permitted by the zoning <br />ordinance; <br />The variance request for the driveway (35.84 ft wide) setback will facilitate the commercial use of <br />the property. Commercial uses are permitted within the Highway Commercial district. <br />Page 24 of 29