05-23-1994 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Zoning File #1919 April 14, 1994 Page 3 create a walkout situation on this relatively flat lot that has a steep bluff in the 0-75 zone. At least three plan revisions were made in an attempt to meet all code requirements. However, as some issues were resolved, others were encountered. Once it was discovered that the submitted hardcover calculations were calculated incorrectly, applicants were notified that a variance would be required. A variance application was submitted, and during review of the application staff has concluded that there are si.x specific variances that must be addressed, although the public hearing was published merely for the hardcover variance. That in itself raises some question as to the validity of this hearing, although the immediate neighbors have been notified of the variance application and abutting neighbors have seen the proposed plans. Staff anticipates that a number of the adjacent neighbors wall be in attendance at the Planning Commission meeting. Variance Review Lot area/lot width The lot area and lot width variance is inherent in any substandard lot situation where an existing house is removed and new one is proposed to be constructed. At 60* wide and approximately 1/3 acre, this lot is practically the smallest building site in the immediate neighborhood (see plat map). However, a house existed on the property for many decades, and improvements have been made through the years. This was obviously the Buceys’ homestead property and denial of lot area and width variances (hence denial of buildability of the lot), would certainly be a hardship for the property owners. Unfortunately, the small lot size magnifies the degree of variances required in order to rebuild. Lot coverage by structures The 1990 "accessory structures" ordinance amendment included limiting lot coverage by structures to 15% of total lot area for lots less than 2 acres in area. The pre-existing lot coverage by structures was 18.4% including house, garage, and boathouse. The new proposal increases lot coverage to 22.6%, due to the addition of decks and a connecting link between the garage and house. Are there sufficient hardships demonstrated to justify this magnitude of lot coverage by structures? Hardcover Pre-existing hardcover in the 0-75’ zone is 7.9%, and no changes are proposed That hardcover includes a boathouse as well as stairways and walkways.