10/05/1998 Park Board Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Planning&Zoning Board August 12, 1998 Page 8 Chair Schaps verified that the amendment refers to a driveway width at the curbs. Mr. Johnson asked why the width was originally set at 26' and if the Public Work Department recommended that width. Ms. Wyland stated she could not recall why the width was set at 26'. She explained that the building inspectors are in favor of this amendment. A problem has occurred with residents widening their driveways without City approval. Mr. Powell noted that with wider driveways more snow needs to be plowed. There is less storage area for plowed snow. Mr. Trehus indicated driveways that are 36' wide would appear odd. Mr. Corson asked if the amendment would apply to commercial also. Ms. Wyland indicated the amendment would apply to all Residential Zones. Chair Schaps asked about restrictions regarding an impervious surface. Mr. Brixius stated the requirements are set at 65% lot coverage. Chair Schaps asked if the City enforces that requirement. Ms. Wyland stated the City does not run into many problems regarding that requirement. Mr. Dunn stated he believes the amendment is a step in the wrong direction. He asked who is asking for the amendment. Ms. Wyland indicated residents who have a three or four car garage are asking for the change. Mr. Dunn stated he would like to see hard evidence, facts regarding lot size, and a summary of how many residents are requesting the change. Ms. Wyland stated the lot size of the residents requesting the change are typical City lots. Mr. Corson noted that wider driveways would not look good throughout the City. Chair Schaps pointed out the restrictions regarding driveway width refer to the curb, not up to the garage. Ms. Wyland stated the building inspectors are much more aware of the frequency of requests for a wider driveway. The building inspectors have asked for the amendment. Mr. Corson explained that a cul-de-sac with four homes and each with a driveway 36' wide would be an excessive amount of concrete. Mr. Dunn stated he would rather see a variance regarding this issue. Mr. Johnson asked why the amendment calls for 36'. Ms. Wyland explained that 36' is the length of a three car garage. The City has had a problem with residents pouring the concrete before they obtain City permission.