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There would appear to be an option of using a mound system, thereby reducing the areal extent of <br />the "drain field" and attaining the 20 foot set back from the house. Use of mound system waste <br />treatment has not been a preferred solution in Lake Elmo, and was not even legally possible until <br />2000 when the City Code was amended consistent with Minnesota Rules 7080 in that regard. Even <br />then, mound systems (with their inherent tendency to freeze, and other potential issues) are <br />generally considered the solution of last resort in Lake Elmo. <br />Based on the foregoing it appears to staff that Findings to support a hardship can be made in this <br />case, as follow: <br />1. The property can not be put to reasonable use without the granting of the variance <br />requested. The existing home must be served with private septic and a new drain field <br />location is required. <br />2. The variance requested results from circumstances unique to properties where historic <br />platting has resulted in parcel area insufficient to support proper septic system <br />replacements without variance from septic setback standards adopted after the parcels <br />were platted and homes constructed. <br />3. Granting of the variance will not change the essential character of the neighborhood. <br />Planning Commission Actions Requested: <br />Motion to recommend approval of a variance at 7949 Hill Trail to construct a replacement septic <br />drain field within 15 feet of an existing structure where a 20 foot setback is required by Section <br />700 of the City Code based on plans staff -dated. March 9, 2006, and the Findings of the Planning <br />Staff Report of March 9, 2006. <br />Oda-, <br />Charles E. Dillerud, City Planner <br />Attachments: <br />1. Location Map <br />2. Air Photo <br />3. Applicant's Documentation <br />