Narrative3616 Red Cedar Point Road
Variance Request - setback from the lake Minnewashta
To whom it may concern:
lam the current owner ofthe above mentioned property. The existing cabin is roughly 100
years old and we have been making some minor modifications to make it bit more liveable. To
date, we have not added onto the existing structure but would like to add/extend the current
deck to make it more useable.
I am asking the city of Chanhassen to consider allowing me a eighteen (18) foot setback
variance from the lake to construct a lake side deck. Our total setback would be at fifty-seven
(57) feet versus city ordinance of seventy-five (75) feet.
Written justification of how this request complies with the findings for granting a variance
pursuant to Section 20-58 as follows;
1. Variances shall only be permitted when they are in harmony with the general purposes
and intent ofthis chapter and when the variances are consistent with the
comprehensive plan. This variance request is consistent with the comprehensive plan.
2. Where there are practical difficulties in complying with the zoning ordinance. "Practical
difficulties," as used in connection with granting of a variance, means that the property
owner proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner not permitted by this
Chapter. Practical difficuhies include, but are not limited to, inadequate access to direct
sunlight for solar energy systems. lt is impossible for us to have a useable deck on the
lakeside without the variance.
3. That the purpose of the variation is not based upon economic considerations alone. The
request is not based upon economic considerations at all. We are asking for the
variance so that we may enjoy the property from a quaint sized deck - more of quiet
enjoyment than anything economically based.
4. The plight of the landowner is due to circumstances unique to the property not created
by the landowner. The existing home sits as-is to the lake. Currently it is non-
conforming and with the constraints between the road and the lake, it is reasonable to
ask for a variance to create a reasonable size deck.
5. The variance, if granted, will not alter the essential character ofthe locality. The
variance request and proposed deck will be in harmony ofthe existing surroundings.
Many surroundings properties have the same constraints and have been granted
variances for similar situations. lt is lakeside and there are other properties that also
have decks that do not conform. lastly, the request will not impair other properties
from enjoying their properties.
The deck will be consistent in height as the existing stoop of the lakeside. lt is approximately 4'
from the ground as we walk from our first floor to the proposed deck. Because it is more than
30" offthe ground, we will be required to have wood railing around it's perimeter.
Additionally, it will have steps to grade
By granting the variance, this property will remain consistent with the harmony of its
surrounding neighborhood.
We appreciate your consideration.
Dave and Jennie Melin
Red Cedar Point, LLC
3627 Red Cedar Point Road
Chanhassen, Mn 55317