Recommend approval of a variance to increase the maximum size of a detached accessory building from 750 sq. ft. to 957 sq. ft., subject to compliance with all City Codes, the conditions of Resolutions No. 2013-13 and 2015-107,  and the following additional conditions:

1. The exterior of the garage shall be constructed of materials that are compatible with the exterior of the home.
2. A natural resources management permit (NRMP) shall be obtained prior to any tree removal or site-disturbing activity.
3. The driveway to the new garage shall be paved if the garage is used for storage of motorized vehicles.
4. The variance shall be valid for two (2) years from the date of approval.

Dr. Thomas Leach, 8460 -133rd Street Court, was granted a variance to construct a 1,248 sq. ft. detached accessory garage at the January 24, 2013, City Council meeting, with conditions as stated in Resolution No. 2013-13.  A variance approval is valid for one year, so the variance approval lapsed before the shed could be built. 

At the August 13, 2015, meeting, Dr. Leach requested reconsideration of the variance, but reduced the size of the detached garage from 1,248 sq. ft. to 957 sq. ft.  Again the variance was granted with conditions as set forth in Resolution No. 2015-107.  Circumstances occurred that did not allow for the Dr. Leach to construct the garage.  The variance granted in 2015 has subsequently lapsed.

Dr. Leach requests reconsideration of the variance in order to construct a 957 sq. ft. detached garage, consistent with the previously approved plans.  The findings from the previous variance requests remain true today:

1. The Leach property is 3.3 acres.  Of that, approximately two acres of lawn is maintained.
2. All landscape maintenance equipment is for personal use and not for a commercial use or home occupation.
3. All setback requirements are met.
4. The location of the building in the rear yard will screen the building from the street and the heavily wooded site will screen adjacent properties, maintaining the character of the neighborhood.
5. The total area of all garages, including the existing attached garage and proposed detached garage, does not exceed the size of the footprint of the house.