1974-05-10 Memo, Setback of Existing Homes

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2. RE5TbRAT101\1 Many villages within the area of the ,Minnehalri (:Peek Watershed District have geared their variance grants in the direction of'1tcstoration. For example, in well -run Woodland Village on Lake Minnetonka, it is almost i,npossihle to procure a variance except in the instance of replacing .1 structure, improving by demolishing the old and building the new. A little over a year ago when we demolisli(xi five old houses and four garages on this property and divided it into just two lots, the residents along West Ferndale Road were highly pleased and complimentary. We were even informed that the Village of Orono would have looked favorbaly upon as many as three houses to replace the five that were demolished on 45(1 feat of lakeshore. Since then, we have proceeded on the basis of Restoration, or replacement. Fifty-seven large truckloads, most of them thick clay soil and underground concrete and debris, were hauled away at the time of demolition. Most of them are being replaced with black dirt, many not at all. Dore than $5,000 has been spent on plantings and stone walls in an attempt to beautify an area that had been permitted to run down over the years. We have been in constant contact with the Village Inspectator and the Village Zoning Administrator who have been very helpful in guiding our efforts. They even consulted with the engineer who serves Cie Village of Orono. And they have given valuable advice and suggestions. l setback of the Orono ordinances is 35 feet from the lake, so we felt 1'ree to proceed on the basis of 40 feet. And this is the setback line of the main house (which the Proposed House will replace) of the five that were demolished. Much of the work that has been accomplished would have to he ripped out, especially a $1,000 stone wall, if the setback were to be 75 feet. A two -year -old well with submersed pump which we hope to use has been the guide in all plans. It could not be used if' the house is set back to the newly subscribed 75 feet. Also, the levels of the previous house as well as the previous yard levels have been planned. I.