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Narrative: <br /> <br />Subject: Request for Variance for Landscaping Steps and Retaining Walls within Lakeside 75' Setback <br /> <br />Dear Members of the Orono City Council, <br /> <br />We are writing to formally request a variance to install landscaping steps and retaining walls within the <br />75' lakeside setback of the property of Jereme and Stephanie Tom at 2601 Casco Point Road. Our <br />request is driven by the need to address an issue related to hillside erosion, which is negatively <br />impacting their lakeside shed and a significant oak tree on their property. <br /> <br />The hardship they are experiencing is two-fold: <br /> <br />Lakeside Shed Erosion: The existing hillside erosion has led to a buildup of soil around the lakeside shed, <br />causing damage to its structure. The soil accumulation has resulted in rotting wood and damaged siding, <br />compromising the safety and integrity of the shed. Installing a retaining wall will help mitigate further <br />soil accumulation and erosion, thus safeguarding the lakeside shed from further deterioration. <br /> <br />Preservation of Oak Tree: They have a mature oak tree on the hillside of their property that is not only <br />an important aesthetic feature but also contributes to the ecological balance of the area. However, the <br />ongoing erosion has begun to expose the tree's root structure, jeopardizing its health and longevity. To <br />preserve the oak tree and its root system, we’re proposing to install a retaining wall to stabilize the soil <br />and prevent further erosion. <br /> <br />In granting us a variance for the installation of landscaping steps and retaining walls within the lakeside <br />setback, we are committed to ensuring that the project complies with all necessary environmental and <br />safety regulations. We will employ the best practices to minimize any potential adverse impact on the <br />surrounding environment and the lake. <br /> <br />We kindly request your consideration of our request and your understanding of the critical nature of <br />these issues. Granting this variance will not only help us address the immediate concerns related to the <br />lake hillside but also contribute to the long-term preservation of the natural beauty of the area. <br /> <br />We appreciate your attention to this matter and welcome any site visits or additional information you <br />may require to assess our request thoroughly. We look forward to your favorable decision and would be <br />happy to attend any relevant hearings or meetings to discuss our request in more detail. <br /> <br />Thank you for your time and consideration. <br /> <br />Outdoor Excapes of Lake Minnetonka on behalf of Jereme and Stephanie Tom <br />BC#653834 <br />