The city has approved a variance request by Hope Lutheran Church, 1667 Frank SE, to build an addition that will be 8 feet from the west property line. Churches are required by code to provide a minimum 50-foot setback from any lot line abutting a residential district.
The addition will include a fellowship hall, kitchen and restrooms.
Some residents have expressed opposition to the project with concerns ranging from an increased parking strain in the area and stormwater drainage to the effect the addition will have on aesthetics and property values.
The variance request was approved with the following conditions:
- Drainage must be reviewed and approved by the city engineer
- The remainder of the north parking lot must be paved within 12 months of the start of the project
- The church must install a six foot tall, opaque privacy fence
Also last night, commissioners approved a variance request by Margaret Moes, 1435 4th St SW, to construct an attached garage 25’ 4” from the north property line, where code requires a 30’ rear yard setback.
In other business, the city approved a conditional use permit requested by Evangelina Aguirre to construct two apartment units at 149 Dakota S., which is in an area zoned general business district.
Approval was granted on the condition that two parking spaces in the rear of the building be made available for parking.