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MINUTES SPECIAL CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 4, 1981 PAGE 2 plans for the driveway, garage and home addition would enhance the neighborhood and would be an asset. Mayor Warkentien stated that the City in the past has not granted variances to persons unless that person presents a signed statement from the adjoining neighbors indicating approval. In this case Mrs. Johnson did oppose the variance and there were others in attendance who also were in .opposition. Mayor Warkentien objected to a state- ment made at the Planning Meeting which stressed that the City must intensify the use of property in the Northome area. He did not agree with that concept and would, himself, object to a driveway Ouch as is proposed) next to his residence. He also commented on a housemen the City where a large addition was allowed and then the family moved with- in a year. Mayor Warkentien stated he would not vote to grant the variance. Councilmember Steele expla.ia-~ed he was at the Planning Commission Meet- ing and had talked dirs. Johnson and Butala and had walked the property. He stat~._ c:te would be against allowing the driveway as there viable alt_~:w~arives such as building to the back of the house or turning the exiting garage into living area and not parking the cars in a garage. He also stated that the proposed plans would not be an enhancement .for either property and that the property to the east would have a depreciation of the evaluation in an amount of approximately $10,000 (as he was informed by Mrs. Johnson). Councilmember Eggert in- quired as to where the depreciation figure came from and Councilmember Steele replied Mrs. Johnson had told him the quote was from a real estate agent who did appraise her property. Councilmember Larson asked Attorney Allen if the Council can legally deny or approve a variance or conditional use on .the basis of approval or disapproval by neighbors. Attorney Allen replied that it can be used as a factor but, probably, cannot be the sole reason for rejection or approval. Mayor Warkentien gave the names of the three adjoining neighbors who had indicated approval of the variance (Arthur Bjoraker, 1529 W. Hoyt, A. G. Timmers, 1523 Hoyt, and Thomas Jones, 1534 W. Iowa). Mr. Butala stated he had reviewed all the options in the past 6 months and the plan presented is the only one acceptable to him (including cost). He stated he felt the plan would enhance the neighborhood and that he had observed a number of similar types of garage installations in the City which did not have an adverse effect on the neighborhood. He also stated he was very determined in the matter and felt this was the most cost effective way to accomplish what he is attempting to do. Mayor Warkentien commented that he did not feel that Mr. Butala was attempting an addition which would be an eyesore or that he is over extending his need for a driveway, but that the neighbor next door has the right to privacy in her bedrooms and that are other ways in which the matter could be handled. t: VARIANCE (cont.)