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Mounds View Planning Commission June 1, 2005 Regular Meeting Page 3 ________________________________________________________________________ several improvements to the front of his property, including putting up new lights and re-doing the driveway, and would like to add the extra space at the same time. Chair Stevenson noted that on the application Mr. Vasilakes mentioned wanting to store other vehicles, probably things that would not go in and out on a daily basis. Mr. Vasilakes indicated that was correct. Chair Stevenson stated the City likes to have people store their things inside as it beautifies the city; however, they also have to look at the other houses on the block. He indicated that from an aerial view it is obvious that no one else on the block has a structure that sticks out in front, and he believes it would be an eyesore to the neighborhood. He noted that at the same time he would like to provide a way for Mr. Vasilakes to store his vehicles. Mr. Dahlberg noted that he bought his property in 1966 and had a single-car garage, but wanted a double-car garage. He stated he had to get a variance to built three-feet from the lot line, and wondered if this would be an option for Mr. Vasilakes. Planner Prososki noted that the existing garage is only 10 feet from the property line now, so even reducing the setback requirement there would not be enough space to add another stall. Commissioner Hegland asked for clarification on what the front-yard setback is in this area. Planner Prososki responded that the prevailing setback for this neighborhood is 35 feet. She explained that the property line begins fifteen feet from the street and the house is 35 feet from the property line. Mr. Vasilakes stated the idea of going to the side is not appealing to him because it is the only access he has to his back yard, noting there are big pine trees on the other side of the property. Commissioner Meehlhause asked what would prevent the construction of a detached garage in the backyard. Mr. Vasilakes indicated his wife is not in favor of that option. Commissioner Hegland indicated that he believes there are other options that would allow the applicant to meet the code. Commissioner Hull suggested Mr. Vasilakes add a small amount to the front of the existing garage and the remainder of the needed space to the back, commenting that it would preserve some of the view from the three-season porch. Planner Prososki indicated there is only two feet available in front of the garage to the prevailing setback. Commissioner Scotch indicated that aesthetically a new garage could be five to seven feet further in front and look okay in relation to the neighborhood; however the requested sixteen feet added to the front is too much. Mr. Vasilakes commented that he has seen a lot of houses in Mounds View with a garage in front, with a porch and walkway along the side of the garage. Commissioner Meehlhause noted that in those cases the garage was likely aligned with the fronts of the other houses in that area.