06-19-2003 Planning Commission Meeting

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STAFF REPORT Application: Variance to remodel and construct an addition to an existing home on East Twin Lake. Applicant:Mark and Andrea Neva Background Information: The Nevas are requesting a variance to rebuild their existing 672 square foot single-story residence on East Twin Lake. East Twin Lake is a General Development(GD)lake,which means that it is required to have a minimum 75-foot setback from the OHWL and a maximum impervious coverage of 25 percent. The Nevas would like approval to move the property to sit 69 feet from the shoreline,compared to its current 63-foot distance. They would also like approval to create a 697 square foot addition to the existing property,and move the existing structure 6 feet north and 6 feet west. There is a forested area to the west of their lot,and neighbors to the east have given their support to the proposed changes since they will have the most visual impact. It is apparent in the variance application that the Nevas have worked hard to preserve the character of the area and the environment with their proposed plans. This option for construction keeps the structure at a single story while still accommodating physical growth. Other options they may pursue in lieu of the variance may include a second story to a new structure,which could negatively impact the view from the lake as well as adjacent neighbors. Applicable Statutes: Section 25.040 discusses minimum lot requirements and setbacks for a General Development(GD)lake. Section 25.070 states: "Any uses of shorelands in existence prior to the date of enactment of this Ordinance that are permitted within the applicable Zoning District,but do not meet the minimum lot area,setbacks or other dimensional requirements of this Ordinance are substandard or non-conforming uses. Substandard or non-conforming uses shall be allowed to continue. A structural alteration or addition to a substandard use that will increase the substandard dimensions may be allowed by land use permit if the following apply: 1. Conforming on-site sewage treatment systems and water supply facilities may be installed; 2. Additions or alterations shall not exceed cumulatively,fifty percent(50%)of the square footage of outside dimensions of the structure as it existed on the date of enactment of this ordinance as documented in records in the office of the Crow Wing County Assessor,and for reasons of structural integrity allowing for basements under additions where a basement exists on the original structure. 3. Additions or alterations shall not proceed water ward with the exception of decks as specified in Section 25.060 of this Ordinance; 4. The height of the proposed addition,or completed structure,shall not exceed the height of the existing structure by more than four feet. 5. No additions shall be allowed to nonconforming accessory structures. CITY OF PEQUOT LAKES PAGE 2 JUNE 2003 STAFF REPORT