Council advances preliminary design planning and approves variances for residential garage and church addition

Administrator John Pechman told the council the city engaged ISG and Bolton & Menk to produce proposals for redesign of Karmel Avenue and Liberty Lane but found the proposals were not directly comparable due to differing design standards and assumptions. He said staff would seek a not-to-exceed cost estimate from one firm to prepare a preliminary concept design that could standardize project proposals and cost estimates; the council directed staff to return with cost information at a future meeting.

Associate Planner Leah Nelson presented a variance request from David and Kate Edin to install a 32' x 44' detached garage at 10670 Lincoln St. The request sought to exceed the Shoreland Overlay District impervious surface limit (seeking 29% coverage, down from a nonconforming 31%). Nelson said the applicants would remove the existing garage and portions of driveway to reduce impervious surface, and staff and the Planning Commission recommended approval subject to conditions. Council member Craig Meyer noted the proposed garage will provide a storm-shelter function and accessibility for a wheelchair-bound household member. The council approved Resolution 26-05-04 authorizing the variance.

Nelson also presented a setback variance and design review for a 4,000 sq. ft. addition to Maranatha Assembly of God at 10963 Lake Blvd. The project requested relief from rear-yard and Highway 8 right-of-way setbacks due to site constraints and proposed to relocate children’s ministry programming to above-grade space for safety and accessibility. The Board of Adjustments and Appeals recommended approval; staff noted parking via a shared agreement and conformity with impervious-surface limits. Council approved the setback variance and the subsequent design review; both motions carried unanimously.