08/25/1997 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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• • COUNCIL MINUTES AUGUST 25, 1997 6. That the proposed actions will be in keeping with the spirit and intent of the ordinance. The DNR does allow an exemption when adjoining properties have a lesser setback. Ms. Wyland indicated that although Mr. Johnson s construction plans have not been finalized and minor changes may surface, this request was reviewed by the Planning and Zoning Board at its August 13, 1997 meeting and the Board recommended approval of the variance to construct this addition. Council Member Neal requested clarification of the actual difference between the average setback and that requested. Ms. Wyland explained that the average is 40 feet, and Mr. Johnson is requesting 46 feet for his sun room and deck. Council Member Bergeson stated that the Johnson property is located at a high enough elevation to dispense with any concern about construction adequately elevated above the water. Ms. Wyland added that neighboring property owners have submitted correspondence indicating their approval of the proposed addition. Council Member Kuether moved that the variance for the John Johnson property, 6657 East Shadow Lake Drive, be approved. Council Member Neal seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously. Consideration of Variance and Site Plan Review, Lino Elementary School, 725 Main Street - Ms. Wyland explained that Independent School District 831 is requesting a site plan review and variance to allow for the construction of a larger parking area and bus lane at the Lino Elementary School, 725 Main Street. The existing parking lot in front of the building can handle approximately 31 cars with spaces for 29 provided on the north/east side of the building. A parking area and bus lane is being requested that could accommodate between 135 and 145 cars set back 10 feet from the front property line and increasing the parking on the north/east side of the building by 10 spaces. The Zoning Ordinance requires a setback of 15 feet which would allow for only 117 to 127 cars in this expanded space, according to the School District s architect. The City s current parking requirements call for a minimum of 201 spaces for a facility of this size. Ms. Wyland pointed out that, when considering this variance request, the variance criteria presented in the immediately preceding item must be considered. Although it is obvious the school needs additional parking, this criteria must be met in order to justify a variance. Ms. Wyland stated that Staff recommended approval of the site plan review to allow expansion of the parking lot and bus lane. Additionally, she indicated that the site plan should be revised to allow for a larger parking area on the north/east corner of the property. With this area for expansion, Ms. Wyland indicated Staff did not believe a hardship exists to justify the granting of a variance. Also, with the level of traffic on Main Street, Staff believes a 15 -foot setback is minimal. The following conditions should be incorporated into the site plan review: 13