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Susan Hoyt, City Administrator Page 2 order, even though the structure is substantially complete. Efforts were undertaken to mollify Mrs. King through the use of lighting, landscaping, and other efforts. These were to no avail. Several of my neighbors have signed a statement approving construction of the four car garage. In addition, several of my neighbors, including Mrs. King, already have oversized garages. The garage does not intrude into the alley, nor impair access to my or any other property. Throughout this process, the city staff has been most helpful and cooperative in attempting to resolve this issue. I have been informed by the City that this process could result in approval of the existing structure, down sizing of this structure to a garage approximately the size of Mrs. King's, or in fact down sizing to 600 square feet. I removed a totally good two car garage based on the premise that I could construct a four car garage. Demolition and construction to date have cost approximately $10,000.00. If finished, the four car garage will cost approximately $12,000.00 (not including interior finishing). It did not and does not make economic sense to go through the expense that I have incurred to date to add one more stall, i.e. a third car which would result from adown-sizing. While reducing a four car garage to a three car garage sounds relatively simple, there are a number of construction difficulties such as pouring new footings, removing an interior wall, to name a few that makes this undertaking expensive. My builder estimates that it will cost an additional $9,400.00 to "down-size" the garage. I am submitting the neighbor's statements with this application. I have already submitted plans showing the location of the building and topography when the building permits were approved. I will have additional materials to present at the planning commission meeting scheduled for January 25, and the subsequent city council meeting of the 27th. I am requesting a variance to permit completion of the substantially completed four car garage. I sincerely believe that the original error in granting me permits was compounded a number of times and was not brought to my attention until the basic exterior structure was completed. I have been a resident of Falcon Heights since June 1, 1991, and have already spent $27,000.00 on my home doing necessary upgrades. The garage, when totally finished, will represent an expenditure of $15,000.00 - $16,000.00. I believe myself to be a conscientious, concerned property owner who is attempting to add to the value of our residence and maintain the quality of life found in this community. Sincerely, Thomas R. Brace •