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that he finds it difficult to support the variance because convenience is not an element of the <br />variance criteria. He stated that all residential properties have easements and therefore does not <br />find that unique. <br />Senior Planner McGuire Brigl stated that variances do not set precedent and are individual to the <br />property. She recognized that while most residential properties have drainage and utility <br />easements, those are not counted in setbacks. She explained that the drainage and utility <br />easements are simply included in the setbacks required from the property line, whereas this is a <br />road easement. <br />Commissioner VanScoy asked if there would never be any further development in this area, as <br />he believed that is an opportunity in the future. He explained that if the area is developed, the <br />screening would be removed. <br />Chairperson Bauer recognized that while the existing property owners may have no desire to <br />subdivide, future property owners may. He asked if the Commission could suggest that the City <br />strongly look to vacate the road easement. <br />Senior Planner McGuire Brigl stated that the Commission could choose to approve the variance <br />if desired, and then direct staff to look into vacating the road easement and noted that she would <br />not suggest making one action contingent upon the other. She noted that neither property can <br />currently subdivide. <br />Deputy City Administrator Gladhill stated that if the goal is to vacate the easement, this is a step <br />that would allow the applicants to move forward with their request and staff can continue to <br />pursue the vacation of the easement. <br />Commissioner Anderson stated that the variance is required because the side yard is turning into <br />the front yard. He asked if there is a way to make the side yard the actual side yard, as a <br />variance would not be required. <br />Deputy City Administrator Gladhill confirmed that if the easement is vacated, that would <br />provide that resolution but noted that is a lengthy process and therefore staff suggested this step <br />to allow the applicants to move forward during the building season. <br />Chairperson Bauer noted that granting the variance would allow the applicants to move forward <br />with construction while the City goes through the process of vacating the easement. <br />Motion by Commissioner VanScoy to Deny Resolution #20-060 Approving the Issuance of a <br />Variance to Construct a Detached Accessory Building within the Required Front Yard Setback at <br />the Property at 5805 148th Ln NW. <br />The motion failed for lack of a second. <br />Planning Commission/ April 2, 2020 <br />Page 5 of 7 <br />