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� G ? r <br /> William H.and Laura D.Koch <br /> Variance Application <br /> 3251 Casco Circle <br /> July 20,2011 <br /> Page 4 of 5 <br /> This consideration only applies.with respect to our steep hill to the lake. Both of our <br /> immediate neighbors have above-ground steps leading to the lake. Our proposal <br /> accomplishes the same access, witli limited impact with the soil. Additionally, our <br /> proposal would return the hill to a more natural slope that is not visually "cut up" by <br /> retaining walls. While we understand from City staff that we could replace the existing <br /> steps without need for a Conditional Use Permit or variance, to not address the retaining <br /> walls at this time would be a mistake. The walls are deteriorating. We have a plan that <br /> will remove the retaining walls while retaining the integrity of the hill and returning it to <br /> its more natural slope; we believe City staff agrees it makes sense to address the retaining <br /> walls at this time. <br /> 9. "The conditions do not apply generally to other land or structures in the district <br /> where the land is located." <br /> One need only ride a boat up and down the western shore of Carman Bay to see our hill is <br /> unlike any other (although it is, of course, quite similar to our immediate neighbors) —it <br /> is the highest point on that shore with the most vertically exposed shoreline. To the <br /> extent it is similar to our immediate neighbors, they akeady have above-ground steps <br /> leading to the lake—as well as rip-rap along the shoreline. <br /> 10. "The granting of the application is necessary for the preservation and enjoyment of <br /> a substantial property right of the applicant." <br /> The driveway provides us access to our garages from the road. :It is not an extravagant <br /> design. There is no turnaround or circle, or even a backup apron. It is truly all that is <br /> needed to safely and effectively use the driveway to get our cars in and out of the <br /> garages. Additionally, we are currently well under the approved hardcover in this portion <br /> of our property. <br /> The steps and underground retaining wall system is needed to allow us access to the lake. <br /> We have no access to the lake other than down our hill. The current system is dangerous <br /> — it has' a variety of rises and runs for the in-ground steps, which are deteriorating and . <br /> slippery, without the benefit of any railings. (By way of example, we had an experienced <br /> contractor out to the site —who was warned about the steps — who took a tumble down <br /> _ the hill off the step while he was reviewing the site. This is, unfortunately, a more <br /> common occurrence than we would like.) <br /> The patio project will allow us to more fully enjoy the exterior of our home and property, <br /> while not leading to any increased visual "noise" or clutter for those on the lake or even, <br /> in fact, our neighbors. <br /> 11. "The granting of the proposed variance will not in any way_impair health, safety, <br /> comfort, morals, or in any other respect be contrary to the intent of the Zoning <br /> Code." <br /> �������� <br /> . � � - ,lUl 19 2011 <br /> CITY�F c)Rr�n�n <br />