Staff believes the essential character of the neighborhood, which is primarily single family residential, would not be adversely affected by this variance. The front porch will be designed and constructed to complement the existing home and neighborhood. The purpose of the addition is to create additional outdoor space for the Applicant and does not change the use of the property. The proposed setback has existing precedent in the neighborhood already. There are homes in the neighborhood with porches who have current setbacks less than the required 25 feet, ranging from 17-24 feet.
D.
Whether the variance would adversely affect the delivery of governmental services (i.e. water, sewer, refuse, police/fire);
PRELIMINARY STAFF FINDINGS:
There is no reason to believe governmental services would be adversely affected due to the granting of the variance. (See attached comment forms.)
E.
Whether the property owner purchased the property with knowledge of the zoning restriction;
PRELIMINARY STAFF FINDINGS:
Staff has no information as to the owner’s knowledge at the time of purchase.
F.
Whether the property owners’ predicament feasibly can be obviated through some method other than a variance;
PRELIMINARY STAFF FINDINGS:
Due to the size and existing layout of the lot, the Applicant cannot construct a porch without a front yard setback variance. As noted, the Applicant has designed their project carefully to minimize the need for additional variances.
G.
Whether the spirit and intent behind the zoning requirement would be observed and substantial justice done by granting the variance;
PRELIMINARY STAFF FINDINGS:
The spirit and intent of the setback requirement is to ensure reasonable buffers between homes, property lines, and neighbors. While the Applicants seek to vary the requirement by 3 feet, City staff believes the proposal respects the spirit and intent of the zoning requirement.
H.
Any other relevant factors.
PRELIMINARY STAFF FINDINGS:
None.
STAFF COMMENTS
If granted, staff requests the following conditions of approval: