Zoning Board splits on 2821 Brookwood Terrace: side‑yard variance denied, steep‑slope exception approved

The Minneapolis Zoning Board of Adjustment on Oct. 16 denied a requested reduction of the minimum interior side yard at 2821 Brookwood Terrace but approved a variance allowing development within 40 feet of a steep slope in the Shoreland Overlay District.

The action came after a public hearing in which the applicant’s architect and the homeowners described a plan to expand and modernize a rear garage and associated living space, while neighbors raised concerns about tree removal, loss of light, and proximity to a planned hiking trail along Minnehaha Creek.

City planning staff told the board the property is zoned UN1 (Urban Neighborhood 1) and in the BFI1 (Built Form Interior 1) overlay and noted the site also lies within the Shoreland Overlay District for Minnehaha Creek. Staff’s report recommended denial of the interior side‑yard variance (reducing the required 5‑foot setback to 3.1 feet) but concluded that, with conditions, the proposal could meet standards for the shoreland/steep‑slope finding.

Architect Mike Eckert of Arcos Architecture and Design, presenting for the applicants, said the project would enlarge the existing 18‑by‑22‑foot garage to roughly 28 by 23 feet and add enclosed living area above. Eckert said the larger garage is intended to accommodate modern vehicles and storage and that, if…