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PRACTICAL DIFFICULTIES DOCUMENTATION FORM <br /> LA21-000035 <br /> 11111 <br /> 1. The property owner proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner not <br /> permitted by the Zoning Chapter. <br /> Response: The property owner intends to update commercial signage in a tasteful and appropriate <br /> way consistent with the commercial nature of the property. Modifying canopy signage and lighting <br /> and replacing an outdated front-of-building sign will improve the success of the business and improve <br /> the appearance of the business and surrounding community. The proposed signage improvements are <br /> technically inconsistent with the current Zoning Chapter in limited ways that are not inconsistent with <br /> the purpose of the chapter or the comprehensive plan. <br /> The height of the canopy sign would be 30 inches, which is within the ordinance. Rather than two <br /> signs of 20 square feet, the canopy would be 3 sides at 12.7 square feet. <br /> The freestanding sign would be 97.6 square feet which exceeds the current ordinance and prior <br /> variance resolution with a vertical separation monument area of 141 square feet, which exceeds the <br /> current condition or the ordinance limitation of 67.5 square feet. <br /> 2. The plight of the landowner is due to circumstances unique to his property not created <br /> by the landowner. <br /> Response: The property is located at an unusual angle along West Wayzata Boulevard. The variance <br /> is necessary to improve visibility for an Orono-based gas station/ convenience store, especially in the <br /> case of the canopy which is uniquely visible from three sides. The new in-front signage is effective for <br /> traffic in each direction, and it permits the changing of prices remotely rather than by ladder during <br /> snow, rain, or wind storms. <br /> 3. The variance, if granted, will not alter the essential character of the locality. <br /> Response: The new signage is consistent in size and character with the existing signage, with the <br /> variance serving to improve function and safety and improve the overall character of the commercial <br /> strip along West Wayzata Boulevard. <br /> 4. Economic considerations alone do not constitute practical difficulties if reasonable use <br /> for the property exists under the terms of the Zoning Chapter. <br /> Response: The intended signage is not a result of economic considerations, per se, but intended to <br /> improve the appearance and effectiveness of the signage to support commercial operations consistent <br /> with the City's plans. <br /> 5. Practical difficulties include, but are not limited to, inadequate access to direct sunlight <br /> for solar energy systems. Variances shall be granted for earth-sheltered construction as <br /> defined in Minnesota Statutes, Section 116).06, Subd. 2, when in harmony with this <br /> Chapter. <br /> Response: N/A • <br /> 6. The Board of Appeals and Adjustments or the Council may not permit as a variance any <br /> use that is not allowed under this Chapter for property in the zone where the affected <br />