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Mounds View Planning Commission April 7, 1999 • Regular Meeting Page 3 additional living space, and has constructed a deck and a below-ground pool, which prohibits any further expansion in this area. Ericson noted the seven criteria established for consideration of a variance which proves a hardship, noting a variance may only be granted in those cases where the Code imposes undue hardship or practical difficulties to the property owner. Ericson indicated that a hardship may exist in this case since the lot itself is 100 feet wide and shared by two units (side-by-side duplex). He advised the applicant has added onto the back side of the twinhome and a deck and pool also exist. The size of the dwelling is 540 square feet which does not provide a lot of living space. Thus the request for a side yard setback for a bedroom to be constructed in conjunction with the garage. Ericson explained the intent of the Code to maintain more separation between intense uses. Ericson cited the criteria which needs to be met and indicated that overall staff believes there is a legitimate indication of hardship but whether sufficient to grant a variance is under consideration tonight. Staff recommended the Planning Commission discuss those issues and then direct staff to either draft a resolution to grant, or draft a resolution to deny the variance request. Ericson advised staff received only one comment after sending out the required notices to • properties within 350 feet. The comment was from the property owner across the street, who maintained that the subject property is one of the nicest on the block and he was in favor of allowing the expansion as proposed. Ericson stated the Planning Commission can either direct staff to prepare a resolution approving the variance request or denying the variance request. Don Norris, applicant, stated he had nothing to add to staff's presentation. Commissioner Johnson asked if there is another structure within five feet of the property line. Ericson explained a garage is attached to the twinhome but staff believes an adequate buffer exists. Commissioner Kaden reviewed the site plan drawing and asked if much of the bedroom is attached to the home and if it is accessible from the house. Ericson stated he is unsure of the amount of feet providing the connection but estimated it to be four feet. Mr. Norris explained this will be a regular bedroom and the connection area is wide enough for a doorway. Commissioner Miller asked if an outdoor access will be provided. Mr. Norris stated there will be a sliding glass door providing access from the bedroom to the deck. • Chair Peterson asked the applicant if he owns other units in this neighborhood. Mr. Norris stated he does not but has talked to that landowner who asked how much room would remain between the garages. He advised there will be 14 feet of separation so the landlord did not object to