08-23-2021 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

CITY OF ORONO RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL NO. ________________________ 4 c. The variance, if granted, will not alter the essential character of the locality.” Camp TEKO has been part of the Orono community for over 50 years. Camp TEKO can be described as a longstanding piece of the City’s rural character. The 2019 master plan elements are intended to improve on that character. In addition, most of the proposed development is screened by existing vegetation from the lake and surrounding areas. The improvements will not alter the character of the area. 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. 6. “The board or the council may not permit as a variance any use that is not permitted under Orono City Code Chapter 78 for property in the zone where the affected person's land is located.” This condition is not applicable, as a summer camp is an existing, allowed conditional use in the LR-1B District. 7. “The board or council may permit as a variance the temporary use of a one-family dwelling as a two-family dwelling.” This condition is not applicable. 8. “The special conditions applying to the structure or land in question are peculiar to such property or immediately adjoining property.” The Property has many unique features such as wetlands, steep slopes, bluffs, and a unique lineal shoreline which is different from the neighboring residential properties. Because of the Property’s use, many of natural features will be preserved and protected. There are a variety of rules and regulations in place for protection and preservation which may not be in line with all uses. 9. “The conditions do not apply generally to other land or structures in the district in which the land is located.” The Property’s historical use as a camp and its unique natural features including wetlands, steep slopes, bluffs, and the natural shoreline make it unique in comparison to the neighboring residential properties. The 18 acre camp is unique within the zoning district and within the City. The challenges with respect to inclusion and accessibility due to the bluff, steep slopes, and beach characteristics are unique to the Property.