PL PACKET 01172012 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Variance Application: Supplemental Written Statement Silverwood Park December, 2012 Three Rivers Park District - Silverwood Park is seeking a variance to St. Anthony City Zoning Ordinance 152.159 (C) "Lake Setback" to allow the park to construct a 12' x 18' Canoe /Kayak rental building 83 feet from Silver Lake. (see attachments for site layout and structure design) Fishing piers, trails and canoe racks are already in place immediately adjacent to the proposed construction site. Construction of the building will allow the park to operate a safe and effective canoe rental operation for park visitors. Compliance with the 200' setback called for in city ordinance would cause the following practical difficulties: The intent of the project is to create a base of operations for canoe and kayak rental at Silverwood. This is in keeping with the park's operational model as a recreation site. We feel that it is reasonable to locate a small building supporting these activities in close proximity to the rental and boat launch area. This location is approximately 80 feet from the lakeshore and will allow rental attendants to effectively assist park patrons as they rent and launch canoes and kayaks. 2. Compliance with the setback ordinance would place the building well up the lakeside hill and result in rental attendants staffing a location a considerable distance from the actual launch area, and where trees and shrubs block the view of the lake. This would prevent direct observation of renters and adversely impact attendants' ability to see and quickly respond to emergency situations such as capsized boats. Attendants need to be able to clearly observe and respond to any emergencies as quickly as possible. 3. Rental operations will require attendants to set -up a safety boat and to bring rental equipment to the shore area each day. Outboard motors and safety equipment, as well as kayaks and paddleboards, will need to be transported between the building and lakeshore daily. The steepness of the lakeshore would makes this difficult if the storage shed were located at the 200 foot setback point. Locating the storage building nearer to the water's edge, on level ground reduces carry lengths and chances of staff injury when transporting heavy items. 4. Structure design will mimic the natural tones and design of the existing visitors' center (see attached plans and photos) and is intended to blend with the surroundings as much as possible. Plantings of native trees, shrubs, and flowers in the immediate area surrounding the shed will further camouflage the building from view. 5. Economic considerations are not a part of this request, efficiency of operations as well as staff and participant safety are the prime drivers.