7.b)2) Staff Report-Crane Variance Extension� J
SCANDIA
Staff RepoVt
Date of Meeting: April 21, 2015
To: City Council
From: Kristina Handt, City Administrator
Re: Variance Extension for 19107 Layton Ave
Background:
The City Council approved a variance for 19107 Layton Ave, Marine on St. Croix, MN 55047
on March 19, 2013. The property had been recently purchased by Bryan and Karen Crane. Per
Chapter 1, Section 6.7 of the Development Code, variances are good for one year. If the project
is not commenced within one year, the variance expires unless the applicant applies for an
extension before that time. In March 2014, the Cranes applied for and were granted a one year
extension from the Zoning Administrator. On March 17, 2015 the Cranes applied for another
extension. They provided an explanation of their legal troubles and why the extension is needed.
Since a one year extension had already been approved by the Zoning Administrator, the next
extension must be reviewed by the Planning Commission and approved by the City Council.
On April 7, 2015 the Planning Commission reviewed this request and is recommending an
extension until March 19, 2017.
Issue:
Should the Cranes' variance for 19107 be extended until March 19, 2017?
Proposal Details:
The Cranes are requesting a two year extension on their variance approval. This will give them
time to recover from legal troubles, work with a new builder, and finalize building plans. No
additional variances are being requested.
Options:
1) Approve a two year extension to the Cranes' variance expiring March 19, 2017.
2) Approve an extension to the Cranes' variance for a different period of time.
3) Do not grant an extension to the Cranes' variance for 19107 Layton Ave.
Recommendation:
Option 1.