05/13/1998 P&Z Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Search

• • • Planning & Zoning Board May 13, 1998 Page 13 D. Charles Votel, 7306 24th Avenue North, Variance Ms. Wyland indicated that the application involves a request for a variance on the number of accessory buildings and total square footage. Mr. Votel has a 10 1/2 acre parcel of property in the R -BR Zoning District. He currently operates an apple orchard on the site and another 10 acre parcel on the opposite side of the roadway in Hugo. The options include the following: 1. Increase the size of one outbuilding by 552 square feet, thereby requiring a variance only for the number of accessory buildings. 2. Allow the construction of a 552 square foot accessory building, thereby requiring a variance for the number of accessory buildings. 3. Allow construction of an additional accessory building at 768 square feet, thereby requiring a variance for the number of accessory buildings and an additional 215 square feet of accessory building. Mr. Dunn asked if there was an option that would not require a variance. Ms. Wyland indicated that allowing the applicant to add on to the barn or garage would not require a variance. However, the applicant wants more space than adding on would allow. Mr. Dunn asked if the Board's motion would be all inclusive, or if the applicant had to return in 30 days for another approval. Ms. Wyland stated that the motion would be all inclusive. Charles Votel, 7306 24th Avenue North, presented the Board with a picture of his farm. He stated that adding on to the barn or garage does not suit his needs. He would like to have a building that is more appealing for customers to come and purchase the fruit. Acting Chair Johnson asked how he currently markets his apples. Mr. Votel explained that he has a fruit stand which is actually an old chicken coop. He stated there is not much traffic going through the farm, except for possibly on a Saturday or Sunday. Mr. Votel indicated that his business is split by 50% wholesale and 50% retail. Mr. Dunn stated that the farm is very beautiful with very well kept buildings. He would like to see the new space be just as nice, noting this farm could be a model for other farms. Mr. Trehus expressed his concern regarding legalities. He wondered if this was a sufficient exception to grant a variance.