03-19-2018 Planning Commission Packet

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Letter View PRACTICAL DIFFICULTIES DOCUMENTATION FORM LA18-000016 1. The property owner proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner not permitted by the Zoning Chapter. Response: Conditions vary from site to site, but there are steeper lake shore slopes on many properties that require steps and walls to provide useable steps to the lake. With the desire to make the step safer and more usable for older and younger residence lower step height is required. This requires a few more steps and possible a little more wall. The end result is that it may slightly increase the hard surface in the 0-75 ft area of the property. 2. The plight of the landowner is due to circumstances unique to his property not created by the landowner. Response: Yes, the natural grade is steep and that means it will require walls supporting the step slabs. 3. The variance, if granted, will not alter the essential character of the locality. Response: Yes, The new steps are winding down the slope and will be well planted to minimize the view of steps on the hill. 4. Economic considerations alone do not constitute practical difficulties if reasonable use for the property exists under the terms of the Zoning Chapter. Response: True, the owner has chosen a more expensive solution to improve the look, function and durability of the area. 5. Practical difficulties 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 Minnesota Statutes, Section 116106, Subd. 2, when in harmony with this Chapter. Response: Not Applicable 6. The Board of Appeals and Adjustments or the Council may not permit as a variance any use that is not allowed under this Chapter for property in the zone where the affected person's land is located. Response: True, the only reason for this Variance is because there is a need to add some hard surface to accommodate step slabs to be places on the upper or lower side to retain the bank. 7. The Board or Council may permit as a variance the temporary use of a one-family dwelling as a two-family dwelling. Response: Not Applicable 8. The special conditions applying to the structure or land in question are peculiar to such property or immediately adjoining property. Response: True, generally people need to create access to the lake and it requires some addition of hard surface to construct the stairs. 9. The conditions do not apply generally to other land or structures in the district in which said land is located. Practical Difficulties Documentation Form(4).htm[3/19/2018 3:39:36 PM]