1990-07-12 Memo, Alley Vacation Variance

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Zoning File #1536 July 12, 1990 Page 2 alley. It is not clear from the letter whether the Harren's are the official representative of the 4 property owners, but they are certainly the most affected current resident served by that road. The applicant has approached the property owners surrounding the alley, and the only response so far has been from the Harren's, who suggest that until the alley is vacated, they have no strong desire to discuss selling their half to the applicant. This would appear to be somewhat counterproductive to the Planning Commission's June 18th recommendation. Discussion Absent any expansion to create more bedrooms or bathrooms, the revised proposal for remodeling, partial foundation replacement, and roof line expansion, should have no impact on the septic system, hence that issue is effectively eliminated. The existing house location near the north and west lot lines might be considered as a reasonable hardship to support a recommendation for approval of the revised additions. with the current property boundaries, applicant has no options available which would avoid needing a setback variance. Planning Commission must decide whether the revised proposal has a significant visual impact on surrounding properties, or whether other expansion options should be considered. Regarding the application for vacation, the Harren's petition suggests that if the alley is vacated, the portion adjoining Landmark Drive becomes "part of a lot with lake access". It would seem however that the west half of the alley would be acquired by the Landmark homeowners as an addition to the private road right-of-way, and (Outlot D), Outlot D is not a buildable lot with lake access. The City would in no instance consider that applicant's acquisition of the entire alley gives him any lake access rights. Only Lot 1, Block 1 and Lot 2, Block 2 of Bayside Landing, have lakeshore access over Outlot A. The Harren petition leaves applicant one petitioner short of the 3 petitioners necessary for proceeding with the vacation request. Also, before the Harren's petition can be considered, the City must be assured that the Harren's are the official representative for the Landmark Homeowners Association (if one exists). The Landmark Drive road outlot currently is listed in Hennepin County property information records as being owned by Austin and Diane Evans, the owners of vacant Lot 1, Block 1.