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Council approves contested accessory dwelling unit at 15815 Minnetonka Boulevard after split vote
Summary
After debate and a prior failed motion, the council approved a conditional-use resolution allowing an oversized ADU at 15815 Minnetonka Boulevard (applicant’s proposed ~2,400 sq ft structure). Several council members said the project exceeds typical ADU size norms and voiced concerns about precedent; the motion passed by roll call.
Council reconsidered the accessory dwelling unit (ADU) request for 15815 Minnetonka Boulevard. Staff had recommended denial because the proposed ADU substantially exceeded typical ADU size limits (staff noted ADUs are commonly limited to 1,000 square feet or 35% of the principal dwelling) and said the proposal did not meet the intent of an ADU as written in code.
Council members debated fairness and precedent. Council member Calvert said she was uncomfortable setting a precedent: "It just doesn't even resemble an ADU ... it does not fit our ordinances," and said she planned to vote no. Council member Romilly reiterated fairness and precedent concerns and noted prior similar proposals the council had turned down.
Council member Maxwell moved to adopt the resolution approving the ADU and Council member Wilburn seconded. The roll call produced a divided result: Maxwell (yes), Wilburn (yes), Calvert (no), Romilly (no), Coakley (no), Foster Bolton (yes), Shaq (yes). The motion carried.
Staff included conditions of approval addressing landscape security (financial surety) to ensure plantings establish; the resolution and findings were prepared to reflect council direction to grant approval despite staff’s earlier recommendation to deny.
Why it matters: the approval authorizes an ADU that council members said exceeds typical size norms for accessory units; opponents cited precedent and equity concerns, while supporters pointed to the unique lot size and setbacks and asked the council to honor the applicant’s request. The decision may inform future ADU review and the city’s zoning code rewrite.
