Council approves small setback variance for Newlander Avenue lot

Lindstrom — The City Council unanimously approved a variance Tuesday that will let a property owner build a new single-family home and attached garage at 12954 Newlander Avenue closer to the street than the zoning code normally allows.

City Planner Kendra told the council the lot is in the Shoreland Overlay District of South Lindstrom Lake and is legally nonconforming in width. "The applicant is requesting a variance to reduce the required corner side yard setback from 30 feet to 15 feet," Kendra said, noting the existing cabin already sits at an 18-foot setback so the proposed house would extend about three feet farther toward the street.

Kendra said the applicant revised plans to shift a 23-foot driveway north of nearby catch basins and proposed surmountable curb and gutter details to address drainage. Council members pressed staff on utility easements and the location of a sewer line that crosses the lot; Kendra said the survey will include the sewer and other easements.

Council member Dave moved to approve the variance with conditions that the driveway be constructed in compliance with city code and that the city engineer sign off on the final driveway and drainage work; the motion was seconded and passed unanimously.

The approval permits a modest encroachment relative to the existing structure and requires the applicant to meet the city’s code provisions and ensure the proposed work does not disturb the catch basins or existing utility easements. The applicant joined the meeting online and told the council they were available to answer questions.

Next steps for the project include submitting final survey documentation and any required easement language before building permits are issued.