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PRACTICAL DIFFICULTIES DOCUMENTATION FORM <br />LA25-000041 <br />1. The property owner proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner not permitted <br />by the Zoning Chapter. <br />Response: The proposed use—construction of a single-family residence—is entirely reasonable and <br />represents the fundamental use intended for R-1 zoned property. The home's size and design are <br />consistent with neighborhood standards. The only aspect not permitted is the average lakeshore <br />setback, which is constrained by the unique positioning of neighboring homes and severe topography. <br />Building in the proposed location represents the most reasonable development approach given the <br />site's physical constraints. <br />2. The plight of the landowner is due to circumstances unique to his property not created <br />by the landowner. <br />Response: The practical difficulties are entirely due to pre-existing conditions: <br />Severe topography: The steep slope from street to lake existed naturally and was not created or <br />exacerbated by the owner <br />Neighboring home positions: The southern neighbor's home sits unusually far from the lake, creating <br />an anomalous average setback line <br />Existing non-conformities: The current home's non-conforming status predates current ownership <br />These unique circumstances combine to create a situation where strict compliance would require <br />environmentally destructive site alterations. <br />3. The variance, if granted, will not alter the essential character of the locality. <br />Response: Granting the variance will preserve, not alter, the locality's essential character by: <br />Maintaining the wooded, natural aesthetic through preservation of 89% of trees <br />Aligning with the established development pattern of properties to the north <br />Avoiding the construction of multiple tall retaining walls that would dramatically change the property's <br />appearance <br />Increasing separation from the nearest neighbor from 49' to 76' <br />Proposing a home design consistent with existing neighborhood architecture <br />4. Economic considerations alone do not constitute practical difficulties if reasonable use <br />for the property exists under the terms of the Zoning Chapter. <br />Response: This variance request is based on environmental and topographical constraints, not <br />economic considerations. While compliance would require expensive retaining walls and site work, the <br />fundamental issue is that reasonable use cannot be achieved without: <br />Destroying 70% of the property's mature forest <br />Creating significant environmental impacts <br />Fundamentally altering the property's natural character <br />These physical impossibilities, not cost concerns, drive this variance request. <br />5. Practical difficulties include, but are not limited to, inadequate access to direct sunlight <br />17 <br />PC <br />Exhibit C