Planning commission approves Bakke variance for Barbara Lake dwelling and deck

The Crow Wing County Planning Commission approved a variance Feb. 20 allowing applicants James and Lori to build a two-story dwelling with attached garage, a 490-square-foot deck and a 336-square-foot porch closer to Barbara Lake than the standard OHW setback.

Chris, planning staff, told the board the revised survey submitted Feb. 14 shows the proposed dwelling would be 62 feet from the ordinary high-water mark where 150 feet is required, the deck would be 50 feet and the porch 60 feet. The board reviewed staff's findings of fact and the four recommended conditions; a motion to approve the variance with those conditions carried. The applicant confirmed they must obtain required land-use permits before construction and acknowledged the board's approval is final and that future changes would require a new application.

Board members asked clarifying questions about exact setback numbers and site history; staff noted the application had been tabled at the prior meeting so the applicants could revise the plans and push structures further from the lake. The board said the approval was contingent on the stated findings and conditions in the staff packet.