Agenda - Council - 09/13/2004 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Case #3 Request for a Variance to Expand a Lawful Non-conforming Accessory Structure that is Nearer the Front Property Line than the Home; Case of Michael Mettler Presentation Community Development Director Frolik explained City Code states that for properties less than two acres in size, accessory structures must either be located in the side or rear yard of the property and may or may not be located nearer the front property line than the home. She indicated the subject property is approximately 1.73 acres in size and currently has a lawful non- conforming detached garage that is closer to the front property line than the home. She stated Mr. Mettler would like to expand this detached garage to provide additional indoor storage of personal vehicles and equipment. Community Development' Director Frolik advised the subject property is approximately 400 feet in length and the home is setback from the front property line almost 300 feet. She stated the proposed addition would be setback from the front property line approximately 175 feet and would be further back from Sunfish Lake Boulevard than both the principal structUres and the two adjacent lots. Community Development Director Frolik stated Staff is recommending approval of the variance to construct the addition on the detached accessory structure nearer the front property line than the home. Public Hearing Chairperson Nixt opened the public hearing at 7:12 p.m. Gerald Kalstabakken, 15324 Sunfish indicated another neighbor wanted to come as well but had other plans. He stated he is against this request because Mr. Mettler has too many vehicles, and he does repair work there. He and the other neighbors want to keep it as a residential area, but Mr. Mettler has about a dozen vehicles and trailers there, with them coming and going all the time. Michael Mettler, applicant, stated he applied for this variance because the existing garage is too small, and he wants a 10 foot door. He indicated he has four vehicles that are collector cars, which he has had for years, and alt the vehicles on the property belong to him except for one his step-daughter owns and one that he is keeping for his uncle. He stated he did not have his own house until last year, and agreed there are 10 to 11 cars there, but indicated when the garage is up the situation will improve. Mr. Mettler stated he usually works on his vehicles in the winter. He has three cars that are ready to sell and have collector plates, and commented that if any of the neighbors would take the time to talk to him, he would explain the situation 'to them. He indicated he is an electrician, and keeps many electrical supplies on his property. He stated he wants to add on to the existing garage because it is cheaper and will add value to the property. He indicated there was Board of Adjustment/September 2, 2004 Page 4 of 6 -267-