Edina Planning Commission Approves Variance for Garage Addition Amidst Cul-de-Sac Challenges
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Meeting Type:
Planning Board
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Meeting Date:
10/16/2024
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Recording Published:
10/16/2024
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Duration:
24 Minutes
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State:
Minnesota
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County:
Hennepin County
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Towns:
Edina
- Meeting Overview:
The Edina Planning Commission approved a 10.9-foot front yard setback variance for a proposed two-story garage addition on Grove Street. The decision came after a presentation from city staff highlighted the unique challenges posed by the cul-de-sac location and existing infrastructure constraints.
The homeowners on Grove Street sought the variance to add a garage stall, a sport court, and an office space above the garage. The property’s location on a cul-de-sac, along with a large Excel Energy High Line easement and adjacent railroad tracks, limited expansion opportunities. The existing home is already slightly non-conforming due to the cul-de-sac’s curvature, which pushes the setback deeper into the lot.
The Commission’s discussion focused on the unique difficulties of building on cul-de-sacs, where front lot lines vary, and the limited expansion possibilities due to the power line easement. Members found that the proposed addition was consistent with the neighborhood’s character and met the city’s variance requirements. They also noted that the proposal would not alter the essential character of the neighborhood, as the design matches the existing house and uses similar materials.
City staff recommended approval based on findings of practical difficulties associated with the cul-de-sac’s layout and the unique constraints of the lot. The Commission agreed, emphasizing the practicality of adding a second garage stall and the minimal impact on neighboring properties.
No objections were raised during the public hearing process, and feedback collected via Better Together Edina was uniformly positive. The Commission noted that these variances have been granted in similar situations in the past, particularly for properties affected by cul-de-sac configurations.
James Hovland
Planning Board Officials:
Ryan Daye, William Bornstein (Secretary), Clare Hahneman, Meriwether Felt, Lou Miranda (Vice Chair), Bonnie Padilla, David Alkire, Sarah Hu (student), Quincy Smith, Jimmy Bennett (Chair), Alex Schultze (student), Cary Teague (Staff Liaison)
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Meeting Type:
Planning Board
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Meeting Date:
10/16/2024
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Recording Published:
10/16/2024
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Duration:
24 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
Minnesota
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County:
Hennepin County
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Towns:
Edina
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