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Zoning File #1968 <br />September 15, 1994 <br />Page 3 <br />The DNR has been notified of the application and as of this writing has not submitted <br />comments. <br />Potential for Alternate Access Locations <br />Staff has discussed with a number of potential buyers of this property the possibility of <br />gaining access from adjacent properties rather than developing a new driveway on the steep <br />roadside slope. Perhaps the most likely alternative would be a shared driveway with property <br />to the west. However, staff is unaware whether the Bangert's have approached neighboring <br />property owners regarding the possibility of such an access easement, and are led to believe the <br />Bangerts would like to avoid a shared driveway. <br />Issues for Discussion <br />• Absent the access issue, is there sufficient hardship for granting the lot area and width <br />variances? If variances were not granted, how would this property be used? <br />• Should variances be granted for hardcover, tree removal and extensive grading in the 0- <br />75' setback zone? <br />• From a "visual impact" standpoint, if the driveway is constructed, what specific plantings <br />will be added to soften the impact of the retaining walls and remaining steep slopes? <br />• The City Engineer's letter clearly shows great concern about the safety of this driveway <br />and its impact on neighboring properties and the road, as well as slope stability concerns. <br />Please review his comments. If the driveway proposal is approved, a revised plan <br />addressing all the Engineer's concerns should be submitted by applicant and approved <br />by the City Engineer before this is presented to the City Council. <br />• If Planning Commission concludes that the negative impacts of this proposed driveway <br />outweigh the justifications given for granting the necessary variances, what other options <br />does the property owner have? Is Planning Commission interested in withholding <br />approval until property owner or applicant have explored all other options? Is Planning <br />Commission convinced that all other possibilities have been exhausted? <br />• Please review the applicant's letter of request carefully. <br />Options for Action <br />1. Recommend approval subject to the applicant providing a revised plan addressing the <br />issues of concern noted in City Engineer Glenn Cook's letter of September 14, 1994. <br />