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_ �, t. � � <br /> William H.and Laura D.Koch <br /> Variance Application <br /> 3251 Casco Circle <br /> July 20,2011 <br /> Page 2 of 5 <br /> Finally, we would like to construct a lakeside patio for the rear of the house. A version of <br /> such a patio was shown as having been approved by the City on the plans provided to us when <br /> we bought the house. In fact, last year, the City(Evelyn Turner) had said we could build a small <br /> patio without any further review. That direction, we have now been told, was in error. Still, we <br /> would like to construct a permeable paver patio on the lakeside of the house, incorporating a <br /> stormwater retention system that will help ensure the lake and water quality are protected. We <br /> are working with a recognized leader in the field of designing stormwater management systems <br /> in such projects. We believe this new stormwater collection system will actually improve the <br /> quality and quantity of stormwater control over the status quo by capturing, slowing, and <br /> � directing more stormwater into our two existing rain gardens. <br /> 1. "The property owner proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner not <br /> permitted by the Zoning Chapter." � <br /> We are not proposing to use the property in any manner inconsistent with the current <br /> zoning of a single-family residence. Our proposed projects will not negatively impair <br /> anyone's use of their own property, or anyone's use of the lake. In short, our projects are <br /> consistent with the uses employed by all of our neighbors. <br /> 2. "The plight of the landowner due to circumstances unique to his property not <br /> created by the landowner." <br /> As mentioned above, we have a deteriorated driveway that was installed as part of the <br /> initial construction (with which we were not involved) involving substandard pavers and <br /> substandard installation. The design of the driveway also does not allow for "easy" use <br /> of one of the two garages. " <br /> Additionally, the hill going to the lake is at the highest point of any property on Carman <br /> Bay. The existing steps and retaining walls are near the end of their useful life, and we <br /> would rather have a purposeful plan to address those systems before there is a failure <br /> requiring an emergency response. <br /> This factor is inapplicable with respect to the patio. ' <br /> 3. "The variance, if granted,will not alter the essential character of the locality." <br /> We live in a residential, lakeside community of single-family homes. The projects, <br /> individually or collectively, will not alter the character of the area in any way. The <br /> driveway, of course, is needed to access the house from the road. The steps to the lake <br /> are needed to access the lake, which is allowed under state law. And, the patio, would <br /> simply provide us an uncovered outdoor space to enjoy the lake — looking up and down <br /> � the shore, every other house appears to have a patio or large deck facing the lake. Our � <br /> proposed patio would not be visible from the lake, and would be largely set back behind <br /> existing trees or building lines such that it will not even be visible from inside our <br /> adjoining neighbors' homes. Indeed, even if our northern neighbors (with whom we are <br /> ����0�/�� <br /> F ,���I 19 2011 <br />