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Laurel Wand Architecture 1718 Logan Avenue South Minneapolis, MN 55403 612 874 1086 1 p laurei@lauretuttand.com I e M 2090 Shoreline Drive Orono, MN 55391 Variance Application Practical Difficulties Form January 18, 2017 The grade elevations for a significant portion of the property are generally lower than the established 100 -year high water line of 931.5. The existing cabin is located in a floodplain below this elevation at the 930.5 contour line. There is no other area on the property that the proposed new structure can be located that will not be below the 931.5 contour line. This constitutes a peculiar and special condition, unique to this property. The property has been owned by the same family for approx. 100 years. The current owner hopes to maintain the property as it has been used over the course of its history and allow the next generation of the family to continue to use the property in the summer months, for years to come. The owner is willing to apply for a variance to the average lakeshore setback and to apply for a conditional use permit in order to replace the existing cabin according to current zoning rules and regulations. All means and methods will be used to construct the replacement structure to meet current requirements. The new structure will not require excavation or a change to the existing grade elevations. It will be supported by helical piers, with no basement or crawl space. All utilities and services will be located above the City of Orono's RFPE. The main level subfloor of the new structure will be set at 933.5, the MCWD's low opening minimum requirement. 9. "The conditions do not apply generally to other land or structures in the district in which said land is located." As outlined above, the property and structures at 2090 Shoreline Drive are unique and peculiar. Even though there are many varied and irregular properties located around the shores of Lake Minnetonka, it would be hard to name other parcels or structures that are characterized by similar conditions. This large parcel of land is still used as a summer only residence and is virtually invisible from adjacent properties and neighborhoods. The existing and proposed hardcover on the property comprises approx. 13% of the parcel. The two residential structures constitute only about 3% of the hardcover on the property. The owner has a desire to maintain and improve the property in a way that supports the original use of the property, for future generations of the family. The property has been stressed by rising water levels. Yet, the owner is committed to saving the property and enhancing the historic use of the property. 10. "The granting of the application is necessary for the preservation and enjoyment of Q substantial property right of the applicant." The granting of a variance from the average lakeshore setback, as outlined in Sec 78-1279 (6a), will allow the property owner to preserve the existing character of the property. The proposed new cabin will replace a substandard cabin with a residence that the owner's children and grandchildren can use for many years to come. The new structure will blend in with the existing structures, using many of the same exterior materials and details. To be able to locate the new cabin in the same place on the property as the existing cabin will allow the preservation of the existing topography, cause little disruption to the existing floodp[ain and wit[ not impact the delineated wetland along the north shore of the property. The property itself and the structures located on the property will remain nearly invisible from the adjacent properties. Hopefully, the property will continue to be enjoyed for another 100 years by the owner's heirs.