HomeMy WebLinkAbout2008 01-03 Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting Minutes RegularMINUTE SUMMARY
Regular Meeting of the Edina Zoning Board of Appeals
Thursday, January 3, 2008, 5:30 PM
Edina City Hall Council Chambers
MEMBERS PRESENT:
Chair Michael Schroeder, Nancy Scherer, Ed Schwartzbauer and Mary Vasaly
STAFF PRESENT:
Kris Aaker and Jackie Hoogenakker
I. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES:
The minutes of the November 1, 2007, meeting were filed as submitted.
II. NEW BUSINESS:
B-08-1 Richard and Linda George
5145 Tifton Drive, Edina
Request: 1 foot side yard setback variance
Ms. Aaker informed the Board the subject property is a one story walk -out home
with an attached two car garage located on the south side of Tifton Drive. The
applicants are proposing to construct a 540 sq ft addition to the back of the home. A
survey of the property reveals that the home is located approximately 9 ft from the east
side yard instead of the required 10 ft. The addition is proposed to be 9 ft from the east
side lot line at the front corner and 11 ft from the side lot line at the back corner. The
side wall of the home is not parallel with the side lot line so the front corner of the home
is closer to the side lot line, (nonconforming), than the back corner, (conforming). The
room addition would be well within compliance at the back corner of the addition. The
back corner is proposed to be 11 ft from the side lot line. The lower level and the first
floor are exposed with the height of the addition from grade to the top of the first floor
proposed to be less than 15 ft. The homeowner would like to extend side wall into the
rear yard, however, the angle of the lot line/sidewall complicates the ability to conform.
Ms. Aaker explained the homeowners have stated that their wish is to build a
modest addition to the back of the house that will increase living space on the main and
lower level. The addition cannot be shifted farther south due to existing door placement
Ms. Aaker concluded staff recommends approval of the requested 1 ft side yard
setback variance for proximity based on the following findings:
1) There is unique hardship to the property caused by:
a. The existence of the nonconforming side wall.
b. The home was originally located closer to the east lot line with little
opportunity for adjustment due to door placement.
c. The addition will improve the existing conditions on site.
2) The variance would meet the intent of the ordinance since:
a. The variance would be similar to existing conditions and actually improve
setback distances.
b. The variance would maintain the residential character of the property and
the neighborhood.
Ms. Aaker added approval should also be based on the following conditions:
1) The addition shall be constructed as per the submitted plan dated December
11, 2007.
2) This variance will expire on January 1, 2008, unless the city has issued a
building permit for the project covered by this variance or approved a time
extension.
The proponents, Mr. and Mrs. George were present to respond to questions from
the board.
Member Scherer asked Ms. Aaker if staff has heard anything from adjoining
property owners. Ms. Aaker responded to date staff hasn't spoken with anyone from
the neighborhood about the requested variance.
Member Schwartzbauer moved variance approval based on staff findings
and subject to staff conditions. Member Scherer seconded the motion. All voted
aye; motion carried.
III. ADDITIONAL PUBLIC COMMENT AND ADJOURNMENT:
No public comment.
The meeting was adjourned at 5:50 PM
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