Agenda - Council - 08/13/2002 - Laserfiche WebLink

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-104- width xvas in error. City Ordinances require lot width measured at the front setback line. Staff had measured the lot width at the property line. By measuring at the front setback line (40'), Mr. Longfield exceeds the 200 foot lot width and will not need a variance. Staff also discussed with Mr. Longfield the possibility of making the deficient lot bigger. Options were explored, but in the end, Mr. Longfield asked that his original request be considered. At their July 11, 2002 meeting, the Board of Adjustment considered the request. After discussion of the matter, the Board of Adjustment denied the variance request and adopted findings of fact consistent with that decision. Mr. Longfield has filed a written appeal to the City Council of the Board of Adjustment's decision in compIiance with City Ordinances. He noted the Board of Adjustment had denied the variance request based on findings of fact adopted on July 11, 2002. Principal Plarmer Trudgeon noted staff has also provided the Council with neutral findings of fact to approve the request. Robert Longfield, 177th Avenue NW, stated he worked with the property at the end of the road that was landlocked so he gave up the property and there was no money exchanged plus he had to add money to develop the road. He stated they tried to reserve a 2.5 acre lot ~vhich made his property short. Mr. Longfield stated there are two houses on the 35 acre parcel. Councilmember Hendriksen stated there are parcels all over Ramsey less than 2.5 acres if you don't include the right-of-way and it is common to calculate that into the acreage. He stated it has been the practice to grant variances when granting right-of-way diminishes the size of the lot. He stated he received a variance to construct a garage for lot size after the County took right-of- way. Councihnember Hendriksen stated the Planning Commission followed the letter of the law but not necessarily the spirit based on what has happened in Ramsey for a very long time. He stated he is willing to introduce the findings of fact and approve this once discussion is concluded. Councilmember Zimmem~an asked if the lot is ten acres in size and the main concern is to have four lots. Mr. LOngfield stated he does have ten acres but no current plans for development. Councilmember Zimmern~an stated the only reason to ask for this is to assure the rest of the property is divisible by 2.5 acres. Mr. Longfield stated they want to assure it meets City standards. Councilmember Kurak asked about the drainfield and septic tank. Mr. Longfield explained there are four trunks on the west side and one will have to be moved to the east side when the lot is split off. Councilmember Kurak asked if that is a possibility and would not create a problem with the septic system. City Council/July 23, 2002 Page 22 of 30 I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I I