Planning Commission schedules public hearing for variance at 300 Concetta Trail

The City of Eagle Lake Planning Commission on May 18 scheduled a public hearing for a variance request from Jeff and Leah Bridger for 300 Concetta Trail, a property in an R-1 zoning district. City Administrator Jennifer Bromeland told the commission the Bridgers asked to place an accessory shed 2 to 3 feet from the rear property line; city code requires a five-foot rear yard setback for sheds and a concrete pad regardless of size.

Bromeland summarized the applicants' memo, saying the lot's slope and lower rear elevation direct drainage toward a ravine and limit buildable space. She said strict compliance with the five-foot setback would force the shed into a less suitable area of the yard and could interfere with natural drainage. Bromeland said adjacent property owners, including the neighbor directly west, had been consulted and expressed support for the request.

Commissioner Tom Barna moved to schedule a public hearing on the variance request for 6:00 p.m. on Monday, June 15; Commissioner Richard Garvey seconded the motion. The motion carried with Commissioners Aaron Stubbs, Tom Barna, Jan Hughes, Michael Hughes, Richard Garvey and Vice Chair Ray Beckel voting in favor.

The commission noted that all property owners within 350 feet of the subject parcel will receive notice of the hearing. The public hearing will be the next formal opportunity for neighbors and other members of the public to speak for or against the variance. If the hearing proceeds, any final decision on the variance will be made following that public process.

Next steps: Notices will be mailed to properties within 350 feet and the commission will consider public comment and staff recommendations at the June 15 hearing.