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City of Hastings 3ODQQLQJ&RPPLVVLRQ0LQXWHV±1RYHPEer 28, 2011 Page 3 of 4 th Commissioner Vaughan asked if the applicant could change his address to 4 Street to avoid (thus designating the area south of the home as the rear yard) to avoid any conflicts with the 35% rear yard coverage? He asked that staff review the greenspace requirements with the Planning Commission at a future meeting date. Director Hinzman stated the setback requirements have been used to create greenspace and cautioned against using homes that preexisted the zoning code as examples. Commissioner Estenson stated the 35% requirement came after the subject home was moved into place. The applicant could attach the garage to the building and not be subject to accessory structure requirements; the attachment would not be aesthetic given the historic home. Commissioner Bullington questioned whether a garage should be built on this property; it might detract from the historic nature of the area. The location of the garage would violate the letter of the zoning ordinance. He cautioned setting a precedent in this instance. Commissioner Estenson stated that he agreed in being cautious in setting precedent, but believed the reasons for granting a variance in this instance, as presented in the staff report had merit. Vice Chair Stevens asked for clarification of the setback requirements if the garage was attached to the house. Director Hinzman stated it would be subject to the primary structure requirements. Vice Chair Stevens stated he believes the east side of the home (location of the garage) should be determined to be the rear. Commissioner Estenson asked how other cities designate front and side of properties. Director Hinzman stated Hastings City Code appears consistent with other cities. He further stated this was an unusual circumstance where the house was located in the center of the lot. Commissioner Bullington stated he is concerned with setting a precedent. He further stated that in some cities you are not allowed to place a garage on certain lots. Commissioner Messina stated that the neighborhood surrounding the application has two car garages. Placing a similar garage at this location would be consistent with the neighborhood. Motion by Vaughan to recommend approval of the Variance to the Minimum Accessory Structure Setback from Primary Structure, subject to the findings of fact of the staff report. Second by Estenson. Upon vote taken, Ayes 5, Nays 1 (Bullington). Motion carried. Commissioner Vaughan asked that the minutes from the meeting be presented to the City Council and that the Planning Commission review greenspace requirements at a future meeting. 5.Other Business Director Hinzman updated the Planning Commission on upcoming meeting items.