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Reasonable use of the property exists without a variance. The ordinance <br />allows both an ADU up to 1,000 sq.ft. and accessory structures up to 2,500 <br />sq. ft. Designing and constructing to standardized building dimensions is <br />understandable, but this also can be achieved by reducing the size of the <br />building from 47' to 44' therefore falling within the allowed square footages. <br />The property can accommodate these uses within ordinance limits and <br />exceeding them is not necessary to achieve reasonable use. <br />(2) The plight of the petitioner is due to circumstances unique to the <br />property not a consequence of the petition's own action or inaction; <br />and <br />The size of the attached garage is not a unique property condition but a <br />result of the home's design. Variances cannot be granted solely because of <br />personal preference or building economics. Many properties in Elk River <br />have smaller or larger garages; this condition is not unique and does not <br />justify exceeding code standards. <br />(3) The variance, if granted, will not alter the essential character of the <br />locality. <br />The proposed structure would be larger than permitted in the zoning district. <br />While indoor storage may improve site appearance, approval of a variance of <br />this scale could alter the character of the neighborhood by introducing <br />accessory dwellings that compete in size with primary residences. <br />Taking into consideration all the testimony and evidence received, including <br />statements from the applicant, staff reports, and the findings of the Board of <br />Adjustments, the City Council finds that the Applicant's proposal goes beyond the <br />intent of the ordinance and would alter the essential character of the locale. The <br />Applicant has not established that they met the requirements for a variance. The <br />variance would not be in the public interest. <br />DECISION <br />NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF <br />THE CITY OF ELK RIVER, MINNESOTA, based upon the information received and <br />the above Findings, the City Council of the City of Elk River hereby denies the Variance <br />Application V 25-13 to exceed the allowed square footage of Accessory Structure and <br />Accessory Dwelling Units in the R1a Single Family District at 21131 Vernon Street NW, Elk <br />River, MN, Elk River, MN. <br />Passed and adopted this 20r' day of October 2025. <br />ATTEST: <br />J J.: ietz, i� yor <br />[NATURE <br />.B'�EAEI <br />