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Letter View <br /> Exhibit B <br /> LA18-000019 <br /> PRACTICAL DIFFICULTIES DOCUMENTATION FORM PC <br /> LA18-000019 <br /> 1. The property owner proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner not permitted by <br /> the Zoning Chapter. <br /> Response: The current house and property conditions do not allow for building options to the north or <br /> south as this would require additional variances and impact the current neighboring home/lot. This lot is a <br /> non-conforming lot and cannot be redeveloped without triggering more variances. The lot as it exists is best <br /> suited for the same/similar structure as was originally built on the property. The retention of this type of <br /> historical lake Minnetonka home, with its lakeside front porch, also remains the main goal of the <br /> homeowners. The intention is build a new version of the home that has been there. <br /> 2. The plight of the landowner is due to circumstances unique to his property not created by the <br /> landowner. <br /> Response: The Hill <br /> In order to safely utilize the property, it could be argued that the house and garage should not be moved <br /> away from the lake towards the street. In order to maintain enough acceleration space to get cars up the <br /> driveway to the Casco Point Road, it would be undesirable to move the house backwards on the site (as it is <br /> already difficult during extreme weather conditions) <br /> Moreover, because of the steep slope of the hill at the street side of the property, it is unrealistic (as well as <br /> undesirable) to place a new garage within this area, as it possible a car coming down the hill could slide into <br /> the structure if not given enough space. <br /> 3. The variance, if granted, will not alter the essential character of the locality. <br /> Response: The clients goal is build a very similar home to what is currently on site. Stlye and size are <br /> similar in nature. We have considered both neighbors and their views to the lake in our design. We are <br /> moving the home back from its current position by 3.5'. We are also reducing the massing of the porch area <br /> vs. what is currently the porch area. The existing porch has more walls than windows and has a large roof <br /> on the 2nd story covering it. On the proposed new home, we have narrowed up the porch, as well as making <br /> it all windows, which will allow for less house massing. We also have significantly scaled back the 2nd story <br /> roof structure to make it less impactful from a visual standpoint. <br /> 4. Economic considerations alone do not constitute practical difficulties if reasonable use for <br /> the property exists under the terms of the Zoning Chapter. <br /> Response: The cost of remodeling this home to bring it up to 2018 standards does not make financial sense <br /> compared to the value of a new home. <br /> 5. Practical difficulties include, but are not limited to, inadequate access to direct sunlight for <br /> solar energy systems. Variances shall be granted for earth sheltered construction as defined in <br /> Minnesota Statutes, Section 116106, Subd. 2, when in harmony with this Chapter. <br /> Response: Not applicable <br /> 6. The Board of Appeals and Adjustments or the Council may not permit as a variance any use <br /> that is not allowed under this Chapter for property in the zone where the affected person's land <br /> is located. <br /> Response: Not applicable <br /> 7. The Board or Council may permit as a variance the temporary use of a one-family dwelling as <br /> a two-family dwelling. <br /> Practical Difficulties Documentation Form(1).htm[3/15/2018 1:13:32 PM] <br />