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Mounds View Planning Commission April 7, 1999 • Regular Meeting Page 4 granting of the variance request. Chair Peterson stated he is glad to see these types of improvements being made to the dwellings. Mr. Norris stated they hope others will follow suit and improve their property. Miller stated she viewed the property and understands how this could be a definite improvement. However, the Planning Commission is charged with having to determine whether the criteria exists to grant a variance. Commissioner Stevenson stated this reminds him of a property on Sherwood Road where a garage was constructed. He agreed the Planning Commission is charged with upholding the Code unless the seven criteria are met. He stated he reads into the criteria that it would be allowed and, in his judgement, he believes the criteria have been met so he will support the variance request. Commissioner Hegland stated whenever you improve an existing property that makes it exceptional and extraordinary due to the existing limitations you need to work within. He stated he believes that consideration is applicable here since this project will result in a definite improvement. Hegland stated his support for the variance request. 111 Chair Peterson asked for an indication whether staff should be directed to prepare a resolution of approval or denial. Commissioner Johnson stated he supports the request since it will result in an improvement to the property. Commissioner Braathen concurred. Chair Peterson stated that he also believes it is important to assure the seven criteria are met and he believes, in this case, they are met. He stated he believes some leniency is appropriate when the consideration is with an existing development rather than a new development. He stated he believes this project will result in a benefit without harmful effects to the neighborhood. Commissioner Laube stated he is wiling to vote for approval but questions whether the shed will be retained. Mr. Norris advised that the shed was recently moved to the renter's side of the property. Commissioner Kaden stated he believes the benefits of this project will outweigh the concerns so he will vote for approval. Chair Peterson explained that if the strict criteria are not followed, it results in establishing a • precedent that could be cited during future considerations. He explained that with garage size variances, several Code changes have been made as well so the Planning Commission has to consider whether this is a routine situation or a unique situation.