Agenda - Planning Commission - 08/26/2021

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Commissioner Anderson asked for clarification on the location of the wetland setback/buffer. City Planner Anderson commented that the wetland setback/buffer is not applicable in this development. Commissioner Anderson asked if the shed could be moved west without additional issue. City Planner Anderson commented that in this neighborhood there is no wetland setback, the property owners just have to stay out of the drainage and utility easement. Commissioner Anderson asked if the applicants moved the structure west and a little south to avoid the trees, would that be acceptable. Senior Planner McGuire Brigl noted that would be acceptable for the Planning Commission but the encroachment agreement would still need to be reviewed and approved by the City Council. She noted that there are quite a few small lots in Ramsey, which can be challenging, but this is not unique as staff receives at least two complaints about this type of issue per month where sheds are placed in the wrong location. She noted that staff is always a resource property owners can use to determine where shed placement would be allowed. Commissioner VanScoy stated that generally speaking, when reviewing variance requests, he looks at whether there is an alternative. He stated that the issue of cost is not a consideration for a variance. He stated that it is important to be consistent and fair to all residents. He appreciated the issue that the property owner has and trying to get things done, but noted that there are other places where the structure can be located to meet the requirements and therefore could not support the variance request. Chairperson Bauer stated that he drove by the property and agreed that it is not very visible from the street, noting that there are also wetlands behind which screen the view. Commissioner Walker stated that looking at the aerial does not provide an accurate representation of the backyard. He noted that the shed sits on beams and is not on the ground, therefore water will flow easily under the shed. He stated that the applicant also purchased trees to screen the shed for the neighbor. He noted that there has not been any public comment received in opposition of the request. He stated that it is a very good looking and well-built shed and did not have an issue granting the variance. Senior Planner McGuire Brigl stated that while public comment was not received from the notification, staff did come upon this issue based on a complaint that was received through code enforcement. Motion by Commissioner Walker, seconded by Commissioner Dunaway, to Adopt Resolution 421-178 Approving a Variance to Side Setback for a Detached Structure at 7474 163rd Avenue NW. Planning Commission/ July 22, 2021 Page 7 of 22