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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1996 01-04 Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting Minutes Regular. a a MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE EDINA ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS HELD ON THURSDAY, JANUARY 4, 1996 5:30 P.M., MANAGER'S CONFERENCE ROOM MEMBERS PRESENT: Chair, David Runyan, Len Olson, Charles Ingwalson MEMBERS ABSENT: Rose Mary Utne STAFF PRESENT: Kris Aaker, Jackie Hoogenakker I. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES: The minutes of the November 2, 1995, meeting were filed as submitted. II. NEW BUSINESS: B-96-1 R.J. Popehn Construction/Wayne W. Mills 5020 Blake Road Lot 1 & 2, Block 1, Taft Addition, Henn. County Request: A 12 foot frontyard setback variance and a variance from the maximum 1 '/z story requirement for accessory structures Ms. Aaker informed the Board the property is located south of Blake Road and consists of a 2 % story single dwelling unit on two platted lots. The property had been subdivided to allow for construction of a new home. The property owner is proposing a free standing garage/carriage house. The structure is a two story single stall garage with floor area above. The structure is proposed to be located 18 feet from the front boundary instead of the required 30 feet, and would overlap into the platted lot. The vacant lot would be occupied by building area so therefore would no longer be considered vacant. Ms. Aaker pointed out the Zoning Ordinance requires a minimum 30 foot frontyard setback. The structure is proposed to provide an 18' setback to the property boundary and a 38 foot setback to the edge of the road. The subject home is the only home fronting Blake Road, so the structure would not be located in front of any neighboring homes. In addition, there would be a 14 foot difference in elevation from the street elevation up to Mere the structure would be located. Ms. Aaker explained the property owners were hoping to project a "carriage house" look with the design of the new structure that would compliment the architecture of the existing house. The carriage house would be constructed of matching materials to the house. The structure would have little if any impact on the neighboring properties or Blake Road due to topography and mature trees. Other sites considered would require the removal of mature trees or an inconvenient location to the house. Ms. Aaker concluded given the structure would have little if any impact on the surrounding properties staff supports the request subject to two conditions: The structure is not used for residential occupancy as a separate house keeping unit. The structure remains without plumbing facilities. Mr. Prevey, architect for the proponents was present to respond to questions. Mr. Ingwalson said he is confused with the size of the variance requirement. He pointed out in reviewing the plans for the carriage house he noticed the proposed carriage house is 38 feet from Blake Road, and the variance request is for 12 feet. Ms. Aaker explained the right of way along Blake Road is 20 feet. Usually right-of-ways are five to 10 feet. Setbacks are measured from the property line, so the variance request appears larger because of the large right-of-way. Mr. Runyan asked the reason the carriage house is being constructed over the property line. Ms. Aaker explained the proponent has indicated he has no desire to construct another house on the new lot. Ms. Aaker noted the property was subdivided by the previous owner. Mr. Prevey explained the proponents wish to achieve additional storage area and enhance the character of the e)dsting structures by constructing a building that resembles a "carriage house". The carriage house will be constructed on an existing building pad which will keep tree loss and vegetation disturbance to a minimum. Mr. Steve Gilmore, 5025 Scriver Road introduced himself stating he does not have a problem with the proposal, and attended the meeting because of curiosity. Mr. Prevey pointed out during the summer months the proposed carriage house will not be visible. Mr. Runyan asked if the carriage house will be constructed with similar materials. Mr. Prevey said the carriage house will be constructed in a similar style with brick/slate and a cedar roof. Mr. Ingwalson said he has a concern with granting a variance for an accessory structure on a 38,000 square foot lot. He added he understands the logic behind the proposed location, but again, has concern. Mr. Prevey commented that he understands Mr. Ingwalson's concern, and pointed out if the carriage house were constructed in another location its impact would increase. Mr. Prevey reiterated the proposed carriage house will be constructed on an existing pad so disruption to the site is minimal. Mr. Runyan interjected during his visit to the site he observed that the topography (existing bank) and tree cover creates a natural buffer. He concluded, in his opinion, the proposed carriage house will have minimal impact, if any, on surrounding properties. Mr. Ingwalson said he can be persuaded to grant the variance request because of the topography, and the fact that the structure will be 38 feet from Blake Road. Mr. Olson moved to grant variance approval. Mr. Ingwalson seconded the motion. All voted aye; motion carried. Ill. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned at 6:00 p.m. wffiw�"13&100 '!'05049 v Mr., i