02-11-2019 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

CITY OF ORONO RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL NO. ________________________ 3 PRACTICAL DIFFICULTY ANALYSIS: 1. “Variances shall only be permitted when they are in harmony with the general purposes and intent of the ordinance . . . .” A single family residence is a permitted use within the LR-1A zoning district. 2. “Variances shall only be permitted . . . when the variances are consistent with the comprehensive plan.” The residential principal structure and associated amenities are residential uses which are consistent with the comprehensive plan guiding of this and surrounding properties for residential use. 3. “Variances may be granted when the applicant for the variance establishes that there are practical difficulties in complying with the zoning ordinance. ‘Practical difficulties,’ as used in connection with the granting of a variance, means that: a. The property owner in question proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner, however, the proposed use is not permitted by the official controls. The Owner is proposing to use the Property in a reasonable manner but the size and width of the lot is below the minimum lot size standards for the LR-1A District. b. The plight of the landowner is due to circumstances unique to his property not created by the landowner. The lot size and width were not created by the Owner and are unique conditions within the LR-1A District. The shape of the Property and the application of the average lakeshore setback are not created by the Owner. c. The variance, if granted, will not alter the essential character of the locality.” The proposed home and associated amenities will not alter the character of the neighborhood. 4. “Economic considerations alone do not constitute practical difficulties.” Economic considerations have not been a factor in the variance approval determination. 5. “Practical difficulties also include but are not limited to inadequate access to direct sunlight for solar energy systems. Variances shall be granted for earth-sheltered construction as defined in Minn. Stat. § 216C.06, subd. 2, when in harmony with Orono City Code Chapter 78.” This condition is not applicable.