6.2. SR 12-16-2002 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Memo to City Council December 16, 2002 Page 4 Other properties in the same district do not have the same characteristics (lot size, terrain, vegetation) that limit the land that is available to construct additional garage space. Other properties do have detached garages. The special conditions are not a consequence of the applicant's actions or inactions. The spedal conditions relate to the physical characteristics of the site and the location of the house, well and septic field. The house was purchased in its existing condition by the applicant. o The granting of this variance would not be injurious to or adversely affect the health, safety or welfare of the residents of the city or the neighborhood where the property is located. The removal of oak trees may in fact produce oak wild in the area if not done properly. Board of Adjustments Actions At the November 26, 2002 meeting, the Board of Adjustments fek that the loss of trees was not a significant hardship and stated findings for denial of the variance as "conditions of the criteria are not met, especially number three." One member did not feel that significant tree removal was more important than meeting the setback requirements. There was no public opposition at the public hearing. The Board of Adjustments voted 6-1 to deny both the applicant's proposal as well as staff Option A. The Board of Adjustments was not presented any testimony of the applicant's physical conditions. It was brought to staff's attention after the November 26, 2002 meeting. Recommendation Staff believes that the applicant's proposal has more architectural curb appeal over staff Option A. Option A will make the house appear to be a long narrow structure. With the applicant's proposal, the garage would be skewed creating visual interest to the faqade. Either option will require a variance. Staff recommends that the City Council grant the variance request, as proposed by the applicant, of the front yard setbacks from 35-feet to 23-feet on the Lowell Street side and from 35-feet to 18-feet on the 198th Avenue side. The recommendation is based on the following findings: S:KPLANNING\Case Files\V 02-08 Peril\V02-08 CC.DOC