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from the house, acknowledging that this might require removal of one or more trees. Commissioner Lageson suggested building a separate workshop and rebuilding the garage on the current footprint, • which would allow the owner to keep the existing non-conformity. Commissioner Rodich suggested an addition to the existing garage. The applicant said that he was unwilling to consider other options because of cost and inconvenience. Commissioner Heideman expressed concern about maintaining the existing nonconformity as it means the owners' cars are parked on the public right of way portion of the driveway and setting a precedent for the other non-conforming garages on Garden. Commissioner Harris agreed that zoning standards need to be maintained where that is possible, and in this case, legal options do exist. She would recommend denial. Commissioners Ryan and Mercer-Taylor both felt that no substantial hardship is demonstrated and that the case does not meet the standards for granting the variance. After some additional discussion, Harris moved, Mercer-Taylor seconded, to recommend denial of the two variances. Motion passed with 4 in favor, 2 opposed. The final decision will go to the City Council in July, most likely July 13. INFORMATION AND ANNOUNCEMENTS: Staff Liaison Jones informed the Commission that the Black Bamboo restaurant variances were approved by the City Council in July, and that the owner is still seeking financing for the project. City Administrator Worthington gave an update on the Falcon Heights Town Square redevelopment project. According to Sherman Associates, the new multi-family building has had the "fastest lease- • out rate" of any of their projects. There have been some parking issues. The City is working with Sherman Associates to resolve the parking problems. Ground will be broken for the townhomes after the State Fair. Plans for the townhome phase have been submitted to the City and permits will probably be granted in mid-September. Four tenants have leased commercial space in the new building. One commercial unit remains which could be divided into two units. The sidewalk will be extended down Snelling as planned to provide access to the park. ADJOURNMENT The Planning Commission meeting was adjourned at 7:58 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Deborah Jones, Staff Liaison City of Falcon Heights -Planning Commission Meeting of August 23, 2005 -Page 2 of 2