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MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF APPEALS MEETING <br /> HELD JUNE 25, 1997 <br /> Grace suggested rather than tabling their decision that the Board take some time for consultation. <br /> Kohnen stated that he based his decision on Mr. Olson's classification. <br /> Roelofs stated he was unsure about supporting the B-2 classification but feels the occupancy should <br /> be reclassified as there have been definite changes in the character of use. By the change in use, it <br /> gets reclassified. If it can't be reclassified that way, he would agree with B-2 and the need to <br /> reclassify. <br /> Bellows noted it is a fact that the use has changed over the years. There was a phase of elementary <br /> education and adult education but was not continuous. There have been shifts in use. She would <br /> also look at the intent. <br /> Roelofs reiterated that he felt it should be reclassified and hoped there would be a way to work out <br /> the sprinkler system issue. Oman informed the Board that the City has reduced the amount of water <br /> supply necessary because of the response time of the Fire Department. Another option would be to <br /> look for a repeal of the code that requires the sprinkler from Council. <br /> Bellows asked if Oman could grant any period of time to pursue options. Oman stated there was no <br /> option to allow E occupancy without a sprinkler system. Once the code is adopted, it must be <br /> enforced. Council does not have the authority to grant exceptions to the code. Kohnen asked how <br /> Oman felt about the code. Oman responded it should remain in place. There are volunteer fire <br /> departments with large public areas to cover for response time. <br /> Bellows asked if they could occupy the building if they didn't use or closed off the second floor. <br /> Oman responded they could if Schneider reduced the building to one story. <br /> Schneider felt all three Board members were arriving at the same conclusion for different reasons. <br /> He has studied the issue thoroughly and there are no alternatives. The City Council can't grant <br /> exemptions and the building official must enforce the code if there is a change in use. <br /> Erickson asked if they could get a temporary certificate of occupancy until they can work out a <br /> solution for the school. If the vote is for a change in occupancy classification,the Kid's Art Studio <br /> has no place else to go and the Environmental School has no other options. <br /> Schneider asked if students were allowed to be in the high school even though it is not sprinkled. <br /> Oman responded they had not asked for a change in occupancy use. Schneider noted that there are <br /> three triggers for upgrading including new construction,remodeling or a change in occupancy. The <br /> school has done remodeling so he questioned why they had not been required to add a sprinkler <br /> system. Oman responded that the new Link caused two other buildings to be sprinkled. <br /> 13 <br />