4. Letter re Nelson variance 121919Dear City Officials,
We are re-submitting a request to construct a single-family principle structure on a 0.47ac (100’ x 200’)
lot located at 18630 Norell Avenue North. The property has a 1-story principle structure built in 1901
and 3 accessory buildings. The current principle structure is only setback 8” from the road edge. It is
our intent to remove the principle structure and all accessory buildings to allow for the construction of
a new single-family principle structure.
A variance for this application is needed for your review and approval. The reasons for this request
include;
- Principle structure must be constructed as slab-on-grade. A basement on this lot is not an option.
- A five-foot high retaining wall runs the length of the property, just feet from the road edge. This causes
snow removal concerns and issues with the house location and its proximity to the road.
- In 2018, a side-yard setback ordinance was changed from 10 feet to 20 feet. This reduced the buildable
envelope by more than 16% and resulted in multiple unforeseen or expected variances after the design of
the home.
During this process, we have made numerous modifications and attempts to meet past and present
ordinances to remain in good standing with our neighbors and the community. We have solicited
feedback and incorporated recommendations from Landmark Survey, the City Administrator, our
home designer, and TKDA that are reflected in the proposed layout.
In order to best protect the lake, we are relocating and repositioning the principle structure. Although
we were unable to eliminate the need for a variance, we have reduced the intensity of the variances
needed. This is evident by;
- Increasing the distance from the OHWL by 5.6 feet from 73.5 feet to 79.1 feet
- Maximizing the buildable envelope by placing the structure within 99% of the approved space
- Lowering the coverage ratio by 104 square-feet from 24.99% to 24.40%
- Positioning the principle structure to meet a side-yard setback.
Other factors for your consideration;
- Process has taken us through multiple iterations that originally took us from only one variance to now
multiple variances
- Garage orientation does not get southern exposure for winter melt
- Driveway is smaller and reduces size and space for off-street parking
- Septic tank relocation will add additional costs and potential concerns
Respectfully,
Chad and Amy Nelson
12768 170th street north
Marine on St. Croix, MN
Home: 651-433-8203