04-22-1996 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

/ / -----i" HARDSHIP/DESCRIPTION OF UNUSUAL PROPERTY CONDITIONS o Subject property is encumbered by several hardships: It is very small (8550 SF) ; dimensionally narrow and deep; the grade drops steeply from street-level; the condition of the obsolete existing dwelling is beyond reasonable repair; the property lacks adequate off-street parking while being located on a narrow roadway lined with narrow lots resulting in exceptionally poor on-street parking capacity. Originally constructed as a "lake cottage” with no garage, the tiny existing house is now over 73 years old. Its utility is adversely affected by deferred maintenance, areas of decay and structural failure, and functional obsolescence. Some unsafe conditions are also present. This building isn't a candidate for rehabilitation or expansion and should be replaced. Applicant therefore needs to replace the structure with modern improvements: a new dwelling which should reasonably include two-stall garage and additional off-street parking. Applicant's hardcover variance (46%) seeks to overcome the hardship of the lot's small size and steep terrain while allowing for a modest-sized modern residence, garage, and driveway for added minimum off-street parking. Applicant's proposed improvements call for a 25-foot front/street setback instead of 30 feet which (1) permits a more compact structure and building "footprint"; (2) reduces hardcover with shorter driveway than is the case with 30' setback; and (3), helps to overcome the hardship of the steep grade, while still accommodating off-street parking for four vehicles (two garaged and two in drive) . The minor side-setback and the 5' (25' vs. 30') front- setback variances seem more than offset by the fact that the proposed new structure is 15 farther back from the lakeshore than the existing house ..(which is at the 75' minimum) . The proposal maintains ample sideyard separations from neighboring buildings. With relatively modest "footprint", the overall proposed improvements represent a reasonable solution for substantially overcoming the hardships. These improvements would also enhance the neighborhood by (1) replacing the worn, outmoded building in a way that offers an attractive new home which meets the modern needs for year-round permanent residency without disproportions! "over-building" or adverse impact on adjoining properties; and (2), by providing adequate off-street parking for four vehicles (two garaged, two in 25' driveway).