07-27-11 Council Agenda - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION JULY 14, 2011 requires that variances be permitted when they are in harmony with the general purposes and intent of the ordinance and consistent with the comprehensive plan. Variance may be granted when the applicant for the variance establishes that there are practical difficulties in complying with the zoning ordinance. Practical difficulties mean that the property owner proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner not permitted by the zoning ordinance; the plight of the landowner is due to circumstances unique to the property not created by the landowner; and the variance will not alter the essential character of the locality. The City can now determine the reasonableness of a variance request, The Planner indicated that Mr. Stanke has indicated that he has security concerns relative to his property and has also noted that the shape and shallow depth and location of the building on the property interfere with his ability to store his trailer on the site in compliance with the Code. Mr. Stanke is requesting that he be able to store the trail in front of his building from April I5th through October 15th' of each year. The trailer will be stored off -site outside of that time period. The Planner indicated that City staff is recommending approval of the Variance subject to the conditions outlined in their July 8, 2011 report. Staff is also recommending approval of proof of parking for the site, noting that additional parking could be provided on the site if it is determined it is needed during the time periods the trailer is stored on the site. Roger Stanke, 209 Ryan Drive, reported that he has owned his property in Ryan Industrial Park since 1974. Stanke pointed out the Legislative changes to the way variance requests are considered and requested approval of his variance request. Stanke reported that Stanke Motorsports is Little Canada's only professional team, and the trailer in question is used to house a racing car, parts, and tools. The contents of the trailer are very valuable and security is important. Stanke reported on some recent attempted break -ins to the trailer. Stanke pointed out that by parking the trailer in front of the building it will be very visible from the street. Stanke indicated that there will still be adequate parking in his parking lot for employees and customers. Duray asked about staff's comments relative to Landscaping on the west side of the property. Stanke reported that some of the trees are looking a little rough due to all the snow received last winter. He has been told, however, that these trees will come back. Fischer asked if the use of the trailer must be tied to the use of the property. The City Planner indicated that the trailer must be accessory to the business on the property. Stanke noted that Stanke Motorsports is an - 5 - 10