Resolution 6722 - Laserfiche WebLink

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��p CITY OF ORONO RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL ��4 ti�'~fi NO._�� -- xESHo�` 2. "Variances shall only be permitted . . . when the variances are consistent with the comprehensive plan.° Residential entrance monuments at the required setback are consistent with the Comprehensive Plan. 3. "Variances may be granted when the applicant for the variance establishes that there are practical difficulties in complying with the zoning ordinance. `Practical difficulties,'as used in connection with the granting of a variance, means that: a. The property owner in question proposes to use the property in a reasonab/e manner, however, the proposed use is not permitted by the o�cia/controls. The entrance monument improvement itself is reasonable, given an appropriate location. The existing placement is unreasonable and does introduce unnecessary structures in close proximity to a street, inherently increasing risk to the traveling public. b. The plight of the landowner is due to circumstances unique to his property not created by the landowner. The narrowness of the private road serving a total of 10 residences was not created by the Applicants. The entrance monuments were recently constructed and could have been constructed to meet the required setback. The placement of the monuments on the Property was created by the Applicants. Alternative to placing the structures within the drive circle, the structures could be placed on the outside of the drive, and back, meeting setback goals. c. The variance, if granted, will not alter the essential character of the locality." There are entrance monuments similarly situated throughout the City. The character of the neighborhood is not driven by the placement of minor, accessory structures. The City received public comment stating that approval of the variance to permit the substandard setback will adversely impact the character of the neighborhood. 4. "Economic considerations alone do not constitute practical difficulties."The relocation of the entrance monument structures adds cost to the Applicants. Economic considerations may not be a factor in the variance approval determination. 5. "Practical difficulties also include but are not limited to inadequate access to direct sunlight for solar energy systems. Variances shall be granted for earth-sheltered construction as defined in Minn. Stat. § 216C.06, subd. 2, when in harmony with Orono City Code Chapter 78."This condition is not applicable. 3