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CITY OF ORONO RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL NO. 7 1 9 1 ANALYSIS: "Variances shall only be permitted when they are in harmony with the general purposes and intent of the ordinance ...." The proposed variances are in harmony with the purpose of the Ordinance. The substandard lot has difficulties in its small size and width, and unique access circumstance over the easement on the rear. The garage location moves and improves a non -conforming existing setback on the west side moving the encroachment toward a lesser affected property to the east. The project results in an overall reduction in hardcover. 2. "Variances shall only be permitted ... when the variances are consistent with the comprehensive plan." The variances proposed to rebuild a detached garage on this nonconforming lot are consistent with the comprehensive plan. 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 request to permit re -construction of the detached garage on the substandard lot is reasonable. b. The plight of the landowneris due to circumstances unique to his property not created by the landowner. The substandard lot size is an existing condition, there is no available land with which to make the Property more conforming. The restricted driveway access and lack of off-site parking availability are challenges not created by the owners. There should be consideration for a setback variance approval for from the lot which is substandard in width and area requirements. The project has been designed with an effort toward limiting the additional hardcover without sacrificing functionality; c. The variance, if granted, will not alter the essential character of the locality. " The replacement garage is to be in a similar location as the existing garage keeping with existing character. The variances are requested in order to permit construction of a detached garage, which is reasonable. 4. "Economic considerations alone do not constitute practical difficulties." Economic considerations have not been a factor in the variance approval determination.