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� � a 1 <br /> William H.and Laura D.Koch <br /> Variance Application <br /> 3251 Casco Circle <br /> July 20,2011 <br /> Page 3 of 5 <br /> friends) are out enjoying their deck, they would not see our patio. And our southern <br /> neighbor, a retiree living alone, has a fence along our property line that will — especially <br /> with our trees — block our patio from view. Of course, just as with their own outdoor <br /> spaces, our patio would be visible if our neighbors stood in their backyards and looked <br /> back toward our house — just as their above-ground decks are visible to us. There is <br /> nothing about the proposal that is inconsistent with the local area. <br /> 4. "Economic considerations alone do not constitute practical difficulties if reasonable <br /> use for the property exists under the terms of the Zoning Chapter." <br /> There is no direct economic consequence related to the variance, except for the large out- <br /> of-pocket expenses we will be incurring. We had no expectation of having to replace the <br /> driveway. While we expected that "someday" the steps and the retaining walls might <br /> need to be replaced, we did not envision the large amount of work (engineering, removal, <br /> planting plan, Conditional Use Permit, etc.) that would entail. Even the patio is a larger <br /> expense then we would have expected given the need (environmentally, regulatory, and <br /> ethically) to ensure we effectively manage stormwater runoff to protect the quality of the <br /> groundwater and the lake. We moved to Orono for the lake, and we have no intention to <br /> hann it. Additionally, we moved to Orono so our children could enjoy growing up in the <br /> community, and would have wonderful memories when they return with their own <br /> children—we are not builders looking for momentary maximization of our investment in <br /> our property and the community. . . <br /> � 5. "Practical difficulties include, but are not limited to, inadequate access to direct <br /> sunlight for solar energy systems. Variances shall be granted for earth sheltered <br /> construction as defined in Minnesota Statutes, Section 116J.06, Subd. 2, when in <br /> harmony with this Chapter." <br /> Not applicable. <br /> 6. "The Board of Appeals and Adjustments or the Council may not permit as a <br /> variance any use that is not allowed under this Chapter for property in the zone <br /> where the affected person's land is located." <br /> Not applicable. � <br /> 7. "The Board or Council may permit a variance the temporary use of a one-family <br /> dwelling as a two-family dwelling." � <br /> Not applicable. <br /> 8. "The special conditions applying to the structure or land in question are peculiar to <br /> such property or immediately adjoining property." <br /> . ����I��� <br /> ,I11� 19 2011 <br /> CITY OF ORONO <br />