In a recent government meeting, discussions centered around a proposed residential development on a non-conforming lot located at 19422 Rivers Road, Avon, Minnesota. The property, situated within the shoreland and floodplain overlay district of 2 Rivers Lake, is subject to a 100-foot setback requirement from the ordinary high water level (OHWL) due to its classification as a recreational lake.

The applicants, Rhonda Skirmer and Bernie Miller, are seeking to remove existing structures on the property and construct a new 2,059 square foot dwelling with an attached garage, which would be positioned 63 feet from the OHWL. This request represents a significant 37% deviation from the required setback. The property, which was purchased in 2022, currently features a 1,209 square foot dwelling built in 1973 and a 704 square foot detached garage constructed in 1979.

The meeting revealed that the property is part of a larger discussion regarding environmental concerns, as 2 Rivers Lake is listed as impaired for mercury and fish. The applicants have submitted a septic design for a new system to accommodate the proposed home, which is crucial given the property's history of compliance issues with sewage treatment systems.

Concerns were raised by board members and local associations regarding the potential impact of the new construction on the surrounding environment, particularly in relation to tree removal and stormwater management. The Friends of 2 Rivers Lake Association expressed no objections to the proposed adjustments, highlighting an ongoing project to redefine the OHWL closer to the lake, which could facilitate the applicants' plans.

The board is expected to deliberate further on the variance request, weighing the environmental implications against the applicants' desire to develop the property. The outcome of this meeting could set a precedent for future developments in similarly constrained areas.