02-20-2018 Planning Commission Packet

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ESH0 CITY OF ORONO RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL ANALYSIS: NO. 6627 1. "Variances shall only be permitted when they are in harmony with the general purposes and intent of the ordinance." The variances are minimal and generally consistent with the intent of the ordinance. 2. "Variances shall only be permitted when the variances are consistent with the comprehensive plan." The requested variances are consistent with the residential goals within 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 reasonable manner, however, the proposed use is not permitted by the official controls. The construction of the detached garage in the proposed location and additions to the cabin are reasonable on this wooded, 2+ acre residential property. b. The plight of the landowner is due to circumstances unique to his property not created by the landowner. The Property's location (at the point of the island); the separation between the subject cabin and the neighboring cabins; the existing tree stands combined with the elevation and setback of the existing cabin on the Property in relation to the lake result in a unique circumstance not created by the landowner allowing for a the detached garage and cabin additions to be almost completely screened from views off the Property. The variance, if granted, will not alter the essential character of the locality. " The garage and cabin additions will be screened adequately year-round, will be keeping with the style of the cabin, and will screened from views from off of the Property. 4. "Economic considerations alone do not constitute practical difficulties." The Applicants have not requested consideration based on economic criteria. 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 criteria is not applicable.