02-22-2012 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL FEBRUARY 22, 2012 The City Planner reported that the Variance request is for residential accessory storage of firewood, boat and trailer, and utility trailer in the front yard of a property. The Planner noted that access to 298 Rose Lane is via the unimproved Rose Lane right -of -way from Savage lane. Derek Anderson, the property owner, is requesting the Variance given the unique access to the property as well as the side yard grades which he believes makes it impractical to store these materials in his rear yard, where they would be permitted to he stored by Code. The Planner noted that storage in the rear yard of this property would be more highly visible to more surrounding properties than where the property owner is proposing the storage in the northeast corner of the property. The Planner indicated that when considering a Variance, the City is required to make a finding that there are practical difficulties with the location that meets the Code, and that the proposal is a reasonable use of the property. The Planner noted that current Variance language is more flexible that the previous hardship language The Planner indicated the proposed storage location is reasonable given the circumstances and unique conditions of the property as well as the general character of the neighborhood. He recommended approval of the Variance based on the suggested findings of fact and recommended conditions listed in his February 3, 2012 report. The Planner noted that the Planning Commission dealt with a number of issues at their meeting and recommended approval on a 4 to 2 vote with the following modifications: 1. Firewood storage of up to 4 cords of wood at any one time, and no more than 6 feet in height; 2. Recommendation remains the same. 3. Storage of one boat and trailer and one utility trailer with lengths of each to be no more than 30 feet or heights of 6 feet. 4. Screening can be either fencing or shrubs along the front lot line to screen the storage area from properties to the north. Shrubs would have to be at least 6 feet in height. Derek Anderson, 298 Rose Lane, reported that due to the elevation of his property, it is difficult to get into the back yard. Anderson noted that on the west side of his house, there is 6 feet between the retaining wall and the property line; therefore, he could not get a vehicle into the back yard without going onto the neighbor's property. Anderson noted that the wood pile is screened by existing trees on the property. Anderson also pointed out that the utility trailer is currently parked in front of the property. The boat and trailer are not on the property at this time, but will be brought back and parked adjacent to the wood pile. 5