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Crosslake panel approves amended variance for Westra lakeside home after debate; vote 4‑1
Summary
After extended discussion about septic constraints, building envelope and tree preservation, the commission approved amended setbacks for a proposed 3,463‑sf dwelling at 12210 Ivy Lane: lake setback amended to 58 feet (75 required), ROW setback to 26.8 feet (35 required), and a 400‑sf patio in SIZ2, with conditions including erosion controls, tree preservation and an elevation certificate.
The Crosslake Planning Commission debated and then approved an amended variance for the Julie A. Westra Living Trust property at 12210 Ivy Lane on May 22. The approved package amends the lake setback to 58 feet (75 feet required), amends the road right‑of‑way setback to 26.8 feet (35 feet required) and permits a 400‑square‑foot patio within Shore Impact Zone 2, all subject to conditions.
Staff (Jody Grund) summarized application materials, including a revised certificate of survey dated April 30, 2026, an updated septic design and a compliance inspection. Builder Schmidt explained design constraints posed by the lot, noting septic and well locations constrain options; Schmidt said the design was intended to balance setbacks and neighbors’ expectations. Commissioners pressed for moving more of the structure into the building envelope to better protect the lake and preserve trees.
Commissioner Joseph O’Leary said the proposal asked for too much density for the lot, characterizing it as “asking for too much.” Chair David Fuhs and others urged the applicant to redesign to place more square footage inside the building envelope, but the builder said the owner was unwilling to change the request. After discussion and a short recess, Commissioner David Nevin moved and Joseph O’Leary supported approval of the amended dimensions.
The approval covers a 3,463‑square‑foot structure (2,139 sf dwelling, 1,071 sf attached garage, 253 sf entry) with a 400‑square‑foot patio. Conditions require working with staff and a landscaper’s input to review and implement an SWMP/erosion controls, preserve lakeside trees (including two large red pines at the northwest corner), remove items listed for removal on the revised survey, and provide an elevation certificate by a licensed surveyor confirming regulatory flood protection elevation for the lowest floor. The motion carried 4‑1.
Commissioners and staff noted the approval still carries the two‑year substantial completion deadline and that future water‑oriented accessory structures will need separate permits and review.
