13-21 NarrativeD
John Arthur
Homes
To: Bob Generous
City of Chanhassen
October 4, 2013
As a supplement to the attached application, the applicant, John Arthur Homes (JAH) provides the
following additional information:
JAH is the builder of record for the remaining homes (14 total) in the Lakeside second addition,
purchased from Land Hold Co. Inc. (an affiliate of Charles Cudd). The subject property lots 1, 2, and 3 of
block 1, are the last homes to be built in the Lakeside second addition, and the only homes JAH will
construct along the golf course. No other three unit buildings have been built in Lakeside, by any other
builders adjacent to the golf course, and none are planned. JAH was not aware that the PUD ordinance
for Lakeside requires a fifty foot set back from the golf course for three unit buildings, versus only thirty
foot for two unit buildings. JAH does not see any practical reason for a twenty foot difference in setback
for one additional unit.
JAH investigated the possibility of moving the building closer to the front yard property line, but its
current condition (see sketch plan) is as far forward (5ft from the front property line) as possible without
requiring a one hour rated firewall assembly along the front garage wall. This is not possible to achieve
at the front of the garage with an operable door.
JAH, as a small startup company is also unable to modify (shrink) its current design as it would ruin the
integrity of the design, alter the floor plan significantly, and cause considerable financial burden and
time delay to JAH. Additionally, one of the homes has already been sold with an estimated completion
date. JAH is desirous of constructing this building (the last building to be built by JAH in Lakeside) in
order to complete the development and meet its contractual obligations to Land Hold Co. Inc. (the
current land owner) and its customers. JAH believes that this setback modification will not alter, change
or be apparent in any way to negatively impact surrounding homes, front street scape, or rear yards
from what has been previously built in two unit buildings adjacent to the golf course. We respectfully
request approval of this variance.
Thank yo
Art Plan e
President, John Arthur Homes