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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMarch 28 Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to participate in all public meetings sponsored by the City of Wheat Ridge. Call Sara Spaulding, Public Information Official, at 303-235-2877 at least one week in advance of a meeting if you are interested in participating and need inclusion assistance. BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT A G E N D A March 28, 2024 Notice is hereby given of a public hearing to be held before the City of Wheat Ridge Board of Adjustment on March 28, 2024, at 7:00 p.m., in the City Council Chambers of the Municipal Building, 7500 W. 29th Avenue, Wheat Ridge, Colorado. 1. CALL THE MEETING TO ORDER 2. ROLL CALL 3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE 4. PUBLIC FORUM (This is the time for anyone to speak on any subject not appearing on the agenda.) 5. PUBLIC HEARING A. Case No. WA-24-01: An application filed by Persistence Sample for approval of a 16-foot-5-inch (65.67%) variance from the required 25-foot side yard setback for an attached garage in the Residential-Two (R-2) zone district. and located at 3795 Holland Street. B. Case No. WA-24-02: An application filed by Valiant Spaces LLC for approval of a 7.5-foot (50%) variance from the required 15-foot side yard setback for a residential addition and attached garage in the Residential-One (R-1) zone district and located at 23 Skyline Drive. 6. OLD BUSINESS 7. NEW BUSINESS A. Approval of Minutes – October 26, 2023 B. Upcoming Dates C. Member Updates 8. ADJOURNMENT CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE PLANNING DIVISION STAFF REPORT TO: Board of Adjustment MEETING DATE: March 28, 2024 CASE MANAGER: Alayna Olivas-Loera, Planner II CASE NO. & NAME: WA-24-01 / Sample ACTION REQUESTED: Approval of a 16-foot, 5-inch variance (65.67%) from the required 25-foot side yard setback for an attached garage in the Residential-Two (R-2) zone district. LOCATION OF REQUEST: 3795 Holland Street APPLICANT: Persistence Sample OWNER: Persistence Sample APPROXIMATE AREA: 10,585 square feet (0.243 acres) PRESENT ZONING: Residential-Two (R-2) PRESENT LAND USE: Single-Unit Residential ENTER INTO RECORD: (X) CASE FILE & PACKET MATERIALS (X) ZONING ORDINANCE Location Map Site Board of Adjustment 2 Case No. WA -24-01 / Sample JURISDICTION: All notification and posting requirements have been met; therefore, there is jurisdiction to hear this case. I. REQUEST The applicant is requesting approval of a 16-foot, 5-inch variance (65.67%) from the required 25-foot side yard setback for an attached garage in the Residential-Two (R-2) zone district to allow for the conversion of an existing carport into an attached garage at 3795 Holland Street. Section 26-115.C (Variances and Waivers) of the Wheat Ridge City Code empowers the Board of Adjustment to hold public hearings to hear and decide upon variances from the strict application of the zoning district development standards that are in excess of fifty (50) percent of the standard. II. CASE ANALYSIS The site is located on the southwest corner of W. 38th Avenue and Holland Street (Exhibit 1, Aerial). Access onto the property is taken from Holland Street. The property is zoned Residential-Two (R-2). Adjacent properties to the west, east, and south are also zoned R-2. The R-2 zone district provides for high quality, safe, quiet and stable, low-density residential neighborhoods. The adjacent property to the north is zoned Residential-One (R-1) (Exhibit 2, Zoning Map). The subject lot is approximately 141 feet deep, from east to west, and approximately 80 feet wide, from north to south. It is approximately 10,585 square feet (0.243 acres) in size, according to the Jefferson County Assessor. The subject property contains an existing single-unit dwelling and two carports, all built in 1955. There is currently no garage on the property. The applicant is requesting the variance in order the convert one of the existing carports into an approximately 567-square foot attached garage. The proposed attached garage would be located in the exact location of the existing carport on the northeast side of the property (Exhibit 3, Site Plan). The property is a corner lot and therefore has increased setback requirements of 25 feet on both street frontages. The existing carport is considered legally nonconforming because of its current setbacks and because it was constructed before the City of Wheat Ridge existed. The carport complies with all other standards including height and size. The carport is served by an existing driveway off of Holland Street. Per Section 26-625 of the code, a carport or patio which is open on at least three sides is allowed to encroach into the setback to some extent. However, once a carport is converted to a fully enclosed garage, it is required to meet the minimum setbacks. In this case, the setback variance is being requested in order to enclose the existing carport on the north side of the property, such that the proposed garage would have a substantially similar footprint and setback. The garage is proposed to accommodate a single car, with space for storage (Exhibit 4, Elevations). The garage’s maximum height is proposed to be 9 feet-8 inches tall to the midpoint, which would comply with the primary structure height standards of 35 feet to the midpoint. The garage would be required to meet all other development standards of R-2. Board of Adjustment 3 Case No. WA -24-01 / Sample R-2 Development Standards: Required Proposed Height 35 feet (max.) 9 feet-8 inches Side Setback (north) 25 feet (min.) 8 feet-7 inches Side Setback (south) 5 feet (min.) 25 feet + Front Setback (east) 25 feet (min.) 25 feet + Rear Setback (west) 5 feet (min.) 5 feet + Overall Lot Coverage (sum of all structures on lot) 40% (max.) / ~ 4,234 sq. ft. (max.) ~28.4% / ~ 3,007 sq. ft. The applicant did consider converting the second existing carport at the rear of the property. The conversion of the second carport would have still required a variance for the southern side setback . Additionally, use of the second carport for a garage would require the applicant to access the property from W. 38th Avenue which posed safety concerns. The applicant had also considered building a new garage but ultimately landed on the conversion due to cost, to avoid having to access the property from W. 38th Avenue, and to avoid having to remove existing landscaping and usable backyard space. The proposed location of the garage is likely the least impactful and the most consistent with historic conditions. Public Comment The property was posted for 10 days and letters were sent to adjacent property owners notifying them of the application. One comment in support of the request was received prior to the distribution of this staff report. III. VARIANCE CRITERIA In order to approve a variance, the Community Development Director must determine that the majority of the “criteria for review” listed in Section 26-115.C.4 of the City Code have been met. Staff provides the following review and analysis of the variance criteria. The applicant also provided a response to the criteria in Exhibit 6, Criteria Responses. 1. The property in question would not yield a reasonable return in use, service or income if permitted to be used only under the conditions allowed by regulation for the district in which it is located. If the request was denied, the property would continue to yield a reasonable return in use as the property would still function as a single-unit dwelling with adequate parking. Staff finds this criterion has not been met. 2. The variance would not alter the essential character of the locality. The request would not alter the essential character of the area. Some nearby properties also contain structures with similar setbacks. The existing condition would not be changing, the footprint of the garage would not deviate from the existing carport, and the garage would be Board of Adjustment 4 Case No. WA -24-01 / Sample shorter in height than what is allowed by the code. The applicant is also proposing to utilize a design and materials that match those of the existing house. Many homes in this neighborhood were built without garages and to the extents of the required setbacks. A property southeast from the subject property had a variance approved under case number WA-83-27 to allow for a carport at a 13-foot front setback, and another variance under case number WA-22-07 approved for a carport at a 3.5-foot side setback and a 12.5-foot front setback at the property immediately to the east, so the proposal is consistent with conditions in the neighborhood. While there are two other alternatives (converting the second carport at the rear of the property or constructing a new garage), one would still require a setback variance and the other may negatively impact the essential character of the area by requiring the removal of mature trees, landscaping, and usable backyard space, which are a defining and valued features in established Wheat Ridge neighborhoods. Additionally, both alternatives would require the applicant to access the property from W. 38th Avenue rather than the current condition, from Holland Street, which is a safer access point. Staff finds this criterion has been met. 3. The applicant is proposing a substantial investment in the property with this application, which would not be possible without the variance. The proposed conversion is a substantial investment in the property, and it would not be possible to convert the existing carport without the variance. Although other locations are possible, constructing a garage in those alternative locations would require the removal of mature trees, landscaping, and usable backyard space. The removal of the trees and landscaping, and the significantly higher cost of constructing an entirely new structure would render the project financially infeasible. Staff finds this criterion has been met. 4. The particular physical surrounding, shape or topographical condition of the specific property involved results in a particular and unique hardship (upon the owner) as distinguished from a mere inconvenience if the strict letter of the regulations were carried out. The lot has a change in grade to the north and the existing carport sits lower than the house and higher than W. 38th Avenue limiting where a structure can be placed. Multiple mature trees exist at the rear of the lot which also creates a unique hardship. The trees would be required to be removed if a garage were to be constructed in another location. The property is a corner lot, and current zoning standards require 25-foot setbacks from both streets which reduces the developable area of the lot (Exhibit 3, Site Plan). The placement of the home relative to the larger northern setback physically also limits alternatives for a garage. Staff finds this criterion has been met. Board of Adjustment 5 Case No. WA -24-01 / Sample 5. The alleged difficulty or hardship has not been created by any person presently having an interest in the property. The applicant is not responsible for the existing location of the house, the carport, or the presence or location of mature trees and landscaping, which existed well before the applicant acquired the property. Staff finds this criterion has been met. 6. The granting of the variance would not be detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to other property or improvements in the neighborhood in which the property is located, by, among other things, substantially or permanently impairing the appropriate use or development of adjacent property, impairing the adequate supp ly of light and air to adjacent property, substantially increasing the congestion in public streets or increasing the danger of fire or endangering the public safety, or substantially diminishing or impairing property values within the neighborhood. The request would not be detrimental to public welfare and would not be injurious to neighboring property or improvements. It would not hinder or impair the development of the adjacent properties. The adequate supply of air and light would not be compromised as a result of this request. The request would not increase the congestion in the streets, nor would it cause an obstruction to motorists on the adjacent streets. The conversion would not impede the sight distance triangle and would not increase the danger of fire. It is unlikely that the request would impair property values in the neighborhood. Staff finds this criterion has been met. 7. The unusual circumstances or conditions necessitating the variance request are present in the neighborhood and are not unique to the property. Unusual conditions are present in the neighborhood and are not unique to the property. This particular neighborhood is well established and features dense landscaping and mature trees both of which are present on the subject property. A steep grade exists in the neighborhood, starting at the subject property and impacting properties heading south on Holland. The grade change affects this particular property in that the topography would make constructing a new garage at the rear difficult, not only in location but financially as well. Additionally, most of the dwellings in the neighborhood were built in the mid-1950s, without covered or enclosed vehicular storage on the property, and such an investment (carport or garage, attached or detached) is appropriate for a contemporary homeowner and would not be possible without a variance. Staff finds this criterion has been met. 8. Granting of the variance would result in a reasonable accommodation of a person with disabilities. Board of Adjustment 6 Case No. WA -24-01 / Sample This variance does not impact the ability of the lot to accommodate a person with disabilities. Staff finds this criterion is not applicable. 9. The application is in substantial compliance with the applicable standards set forth in the Architectural and Site Design Manual. The Architectural and Site Design Manual does not apply to single and two-family dwelling units. Staff finds this criterion is not applicable. IV. STAFF CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Having found the application in compliance with the majority of the review criteria, staff recommends APPROVAL of a 16-foot, 5-inch variance (66.67%) from the required 25-foot side yard setback for an attached garage in the Residential-Two (R-2) zone district to allow for the conversion of an existing carport into an attached garage at 3795 Holland Street. Staff has found that there are unique circumstances attributed to this request that would warrant approval of a variance. Therefore, staff recommends approval for the following reasons: 1. The variance would not alter the essential character of the neighborhood; the proposed location of the garage is likely the least impactful option and is the most consistent with historic conditions. 2. The applicant is proposing a substantial investment which would not be possible without the variance. 3. The particular physical surrounding, shape or topographical condition of the specific property involved results in a particular and unique hardship, notably the presence of mature trees, a change in grade, and the corner lot configuration. 4. These unique physical hardships have not been created by anyone having an interest in the property. 5. The granting of the variances would not be detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to other property or improvements in the neighborhood in which the property is located. 6. The unusual circumstances or conditions are present in the neighborhood and are not unique to the property. With the following conditions: 1. The design and architecture shall be consistent with representations depicted in the application materials subject to staff review and approval through review of a building permit . 2. A building permit shall be submitted to the Building Division within 180 days of variance approval. Board of Adjustment 7 Case No. WA -24-01 / Sample EXHIBIT 1: AERIAL Board of Adjustment 8 Case No. WA -24-01 / Sample EXHIBIT 2: ZONING MAP Board of Adjustment 9 Case No. WA -24-01 / Sample In the site plan provided by the applicant, the red shading depicts the carport that is proposed to be converted into a garage and which is accessed off of Holland Street. The blue dashed line shows the setbacks. Because the lot is on a corner, larger 25-foot setbacks apply to both frontages making it difficult site a new garage. EXHIBIT 3: SITE PLAN Board of Adjustment 10 Case No. WA -24-01 / Sample Elevation of the carport looking south and west, respectively. Elevation of the carport looking east. EXHIBIT 4: ELEVATIONS Board of Adjustment 11 Case No. WA -24-01 / Sample Persistence Sample 3795 Holland Street Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 We are requesting the variance in order the convert one of the existing carports into an approximately 567-square foot attached garage. The proposed attached garage would be located in the exact location of the existing carport on the northeast side of the property. The Carport will meet all other development standards of R-2. Currently, the carport is fully exposed to the public and 38th. Being by two bus stops and down the street from a school, we have no storage for things to be put away without being tampered with from the public (ex: things have been stolen or broken due to lack of coverage and bein g overexposed). The current carport is also covering our main access to our house, which we would like that to have more coverage and security as well. Using the current carport would make it more cost effective to use existing slab and footprint. If we were to use the back carport, you would have to remove a minimum of 4 mature trees, completely remove all landscaping that borders the driveway, potentially move the entire Xcel electrical pole that services our neighbors just to turn into the garage, as wel l as then you run into having a completely blind exit and entrance onto a busy 35 mile an hour road, being 38th. This deeming it to be completely reckless and not actually a value add to the property and waste of resources. We considered the back carport but as said above there were too many factors, cost of removal of landscaping, and then access being illogical as 38th is a busy road and having a safe access point and driveway at the front of our home where home access actually is, was the smarter, more cost effective and overall best valued investment. Adding a whole new garage structure was slightly considered but immediately denied as there is no place for it to go on the land, unless you wanted to use 38th as the main access again, which was not even remotely something anyone would think would be a good idea. It would also still include the following: removal of mature trees, removal of landscaping, impeding on yard space, moving of electrical posts, and added costs. For all these reasons, we knew that converting the front carport was the best use of space and resources all while providing the security and integrity of the home. EXHIBIT 5: WRITTEN REQUEST Board of Adjustment 12 Case No. WA -24-01 / Sample Review Criteria: Variance A variance provides relief from the strict application of zoning standards in instances where a unique physical hardship is present. Per Section 26-115 of the Wheat Ridge Municipal Code, the reviewing authority (Community Development Director, Board of Adjustment, Planning Commission, or City Council) shall base its decision in consideration of the extent to which an applicant demonstrates that a majority of the following criteria have been met: 1. The property in question would not yield a reasonable return in use, service or income if permitted to be used only under the conditions allowed by regulation for the district in which it is located. N/A 2. The variance would not alter the essential character of the locality. The variance will not alter the essential character of the locality. 3. The applicant is proposing a substantial investment in the property with this application, which would not be possible without the variance. The cost of the conversion is a substantial investment and is not possible without the requested variance. 4. The particular physical surrounding, shape or topographical condition of the specific property results in a particular and unique hardship (upon the owner) as distinguished from a mere inconvenience. Given that this is a corner lot, the setbacks are increased to the north. There is a grade change on the north side and there are mature landscaping and trees present. 5. If there is a particular or unique hardship, the alleged difficulty or hardship has not been created by any person presently having an interest in the property. The hardship was not created by the present owners and has existing since the house was built. 6. The granting of the variance would not be detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to other property or improvements in the neighborhood in which the property is located, by, among other things, substantially or permanently impairing the appropriate use or development of adjacent property, impairing the adequate supply of light and air to adjacent property, substantially increasing the congestion in public streets or increasing the danger of fire or EXHIBIT 6: CRITERIA RESPONSES Board of Adjustment 13 Case No. WA -24-01 / Sample endangering the public safety, or substantially diminishing or impairing property values within the neighborhood. The granting of the variance will not be detrimental to the public nor to neighbors in any way. In no way does the conversion of the carport compromise safety or property values nor does it risk increasing congestion of public streets. The proposed variance wi ll make parking easier at the residence and the design will match the existing house . 7. The unusual circumstances or conditions necessitating the variance request are present in the neighborhood and are not unique to the property. The circumstances necessitating the variance request are present in the neighborhood and are not unique to the property. 8. Granting of the variance would result in a reasonable accommodation of a person with disabilities. [Does not typically apply to single- or two-family homes.] N/A 9. The application is in substantial compliance with the applicable standards set forth in the Architectural and Site Design Manual. [Does not typically apply to single- or two-family homes.] N/A Board of Adjustment 14 Case No. WA -24-01 / Sample EXHIBIT 7: SUPPORTING PHOTOS View of the existing carport looking south from W. 38th Avenue. View of existing carport access. Vehicle access difficult due to low clearance. Board of Adjustment 15 Case No. WA -24-01 / Sample View of the secondary driveway from W. 38th Avenue. Vehicular access onto the property is not taken from this point due to safety concerns. Board of Adjustment 16 Case No. WA -24-01 / Sample View of the second carport at the rear of the property. Conversion of this structure for a garage space would require access to be taken from W. 38th Avenue and would still require a variance for the southern side setback. WHEAT RIDGE BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT CERTIFICATE OF RESOLUTION CASE NO: WA-24-01 CASE MANAGER: Alayna Olivas-Loera, Planner II APPLICANT NAME: Persistence Sample LOCATION OF REQUEST: 3795 Holland Street WHEREAS, the application Case No. WA-24-01 was not eligible for administrative review; and WHEREAS, the property has been posted the fifteen days required by law and in recognition that there were/were not protests registered against it; and WHEREAS the relief applied for may/may not be granted without detriment to the public welfare and without substantially impairing the intent and purpose of the regulations governing the City of Wheat Ridge NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Board of Adjustment application Case No. WA-24-01 be, and hereby is, APPROVED. TYPE OF VARIANCE: Request for approval of a 16-foot, 5-inch (65.674%) variance from the required 25-foot side yard setback for an attached garage on property zoned Residential-Two (R-2). FOR THE FOLLOWING REASONS: 1. The variance would not alter the essential character of the neighborhood; the proposed location of the garage is likely the least impactful option and is the most consistent with historic conditions. 2. The applicant is proposing a substantial investment which would not be possible without the variance. 3. The particular physical surrounding, shape or topographical condition of the specific property involved results in a particular and unique hardship, notably the presence of mature trees, a change in grade, and the corner lot configuration. Commented [LM1]: This seems like our thesis. Can you insert this into your presentation? I’ve added as a custom reason for approval. 4. These unique physical hardships have not been created by anyone having an interest in the property. 5. The granting of the variances would not be detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to other property or improvements in the neighborhood in which the property is located. 6. The unusual circumstances or conditions are present in the neighborhood and are not unique to the property. 7. … 8. … WITH THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS: 1. The design and architecture shall be consistent with representations depicted in the application materials subject to staff review and approval through review of a building permit. 2. A building permit shall be submitted to the Building Division within 180 days of variance approval. 3. … 4. … or, NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Board of Adjustment application Case No. WA-24-01 be, and hereby is, DENIED. TYPE OF VARIANCE: Request for approval of a 16-foot, 5-inch (65.674%) variance from the required 25-foot side yard setback for an attached garage on property zoned Residential-Two (R-2). FOR THE FOLLOWING REASONS: 1. … 2. … Voting requirements for reference: Per City Code and BOA Bylaws, the following number of votes are required in order to grant any variance, waiver, temporary building or use permit, any interpretation or flood plain special exception permit or any matter requiring decision by the planning commission or the city council. If a resolution or motion fails to receive the required number of votes in favor of the applicant, the action shall be deemed a denial, and a resolution denying the request shall be entered in the record. Members Present Votes Needed to Approve 8 6 7 6 6 5 5 4 All other actions require only a simple majority, including continuance of a case. CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE PLANNING DIVISION STAFF REPORT TO: Board of Adjustment DATE: March 21, 2024 CASE MANAGER: Alan Sielaff, Plans Reviewer/Zoning Inspector CASE NO. & NAME: WA-24-02 / Hammerschmidt ACTION REQUESTED: 7.5-foot (50%) variance from the required 15-foot side yard setback for a residential addition and attached garage in the Residential-One (R-1) zone district LOCATION OF REQUEST: 23 Skyline Drive APPLICANT: Valiant Spaces LLC OWNER: Darin Hammerschmidt APPROXIMATE AREA: 29,266 square feet (.672 acres) PRESENT ZONING: Residential-One (R-1) PRESENT LAND USE: Single-Unit Residential ENTER INTO RECORD: (X) CASE FILE & PACKET MATERIALS (X) ZONING ORDINANCE Location Map Site Administrative Variance 2 Case No. WA-24-02 / Hammerschmidt JURISDICTION: All notification and posting requirements have been met; therefore, there is jurisdiction to hear this case. I. REQUEST The applicant is requesting approval of a 7.5-foot (50%) variance from the required 15-foot side yard setback for a residential addition and attached garage in the Residential-One (R-1) zone district and located at 23 Skyline Drive. Section 26-115.C (Variances and Waivers) of the Wheat Ridge City Code empowers the Community Development Director to decide upon applications for administrative variances from the strict application of the zoning district development standards that are not in excess of fifty (50) percent of the standard. However, upon receipt of a written objection, the variance request is required by code to be heard by the Board of Adjustment through a public hearing process. A written objection on this request has been received causing the case to be referred to the Board of Adjustment. II. CASE ANALYSIS The site is located between Skyline Drive and Hillside Drive (Exhibit 1, Aerial) with the existing home taking access from Skyline Drive to the east. The property is zoned Residential-One (R-1). Adjacent properties to the north, south, east, and west, are also zoned R-1 (Exhibit 2, Zoning Map). The subject property was previously comprised of two lots that were recently consolidated into one. The lot has an irregular shape and includes overhead transmission lines and an associated 68-foot overhead transmission easement on the western portion of the property. No development is allowed within the easement. The lot is approximately 290 feet deep from street to street, with 130 feet of frontage on Skyline Drive and 45 feet of frontage on Hillside Drive. The lot is approximately 80 feet wide at the narrowest point in the middle and is crossed by the transmission lines at its widest point in the rear portion of the lot. It is 29,266 square feet (.672 acres) in size (Exhibit 3, Hammerschmidt Consolidation Plat). The subject property contains an existing single-unit dwelling built in 1956. The R-1 zone district provides for high quality, safe, quiet and stable low-density residential neighborhoods. Building coverage is limited to 25% of the lot area. Building placement must be outside of the setbacks, which include a 30-foot front setback from Skyline Drive and due to the double frontage, a 30-foot rear setback from Hillside Drive. 15-foot side setbacks apply to all interior property lines on the north and south. The applicant is requesting the variance in order the construct a 1,730-square-foot single-story rear addition that includes a sunroom, office, and attached garage that will be accessed from Hillside Drive. The proposed addition and attached garage would be located on the southern portion of the property (Exhibit 4, Site Plan). The addition is proposed to be a one-story structure and will be slightly shorter than the existing 16-foot 1-inch height of the existing house. The proposed design will preserve existing trees while accommodating an internal courtyard feature. Architectural floor plans and elevations have also been provided (Exhibit 5, Floor Plan and Elevations). The addition would be required to meet all other development standards of the R-1 zone district. Administrative Variance 3 Case No. WA-24-02 / Hammerschmidt R-1 Development Standards:Required Proposed Height 35 feet (max.) Approximately 15 feet (16 feet 1 inch to top of existing roof) Side Setback (south) 15 feet (min.) 7.5 feet Side Setback (north) 15 feet (min.) 15 feet Front Setback (east) 30 feet (min.) 30 feet Rear Setback (west) 30 feet (min.) 118 feet Overall Lot Coverage (sum of all structures on lot) 25% (max.) / ~ 7,316 sq. ft. (max.) ~21.4% / ~ 6,262 sq. ft. The applicant considered an alternative two-story design for the proposed addition, but due to a variety of factors, a single-story addition was selected in part as a more compatible design with the existing neighborhood (Exhibit 6, Narrative). Public Comment The property was posted for 15 days and letters were sent to property owners and residents within 600 feet notifying them of the application. As of the writing of this staff report, four (4) objections have been received, two (2) by phone call and two (2) written objections by email. The two emails have been included in Exhibit 7, Neighbor Objections. This includes additional written material and photos provided from the neighbor at 21 Skyline Drive who describes concerns about impact to the character of the area that generally includes 15-foot setbacks throughout the neighborhood and concern for the particular impact to her property when alternative designs can be accommodated. The objection from 16 Skyline Drive addresses the variance approval criteria. III. VARIANCE CRITERIA In order to approve a variance, the Board of Adjustment must consider the extent to which the majority of “criteria for review” listed in Section 26-115.C.5 of the City Code have been met. Staff provides the following review and analysis of the variance criteria. 1.The property in question would not yield a reasonable return in use, service or income if permitted to be used only under the conditions allowed by regulation for the district in which it is located. If the requests were denied, the property would continue to yield a reasonable return in use as the property would still function as a single-unit dwelling. Staff finds this criterion has not been met. 2.The variance would not alter the essential character of the locality. While the variance does result in a smaller setback than is seen in much of the neighborhood, the proposed addition has been designed to align with the existing development pattern in the neighborhood by prioritizing a single-story height and preservation of mature trees in order to maintain the essential character of the area. Because the existing home and the property line are Administrative Variance 4 Case No. WA-24-02 / Hammerschmidt not parallel, the proposed variance area is triangular in shape and has minimized impact to the property frontage as much as possible. From an architectural standpoint, the addition is proposed to be compatible with the character of the existing home in terms of height and roof design. The applicant has proposed only clerestory windows on the south façade to minimize the privacy impact on neighbors (Exhibit 5, Elevations). Staff finds this criterion has been met. 3. The applicant is proposing a substantial investment in the property with this application, which would not be possible without the variance. The proposed addition is a substantial investment in the property, but as has been discussed alternative designs are possible even if potentially more impactful or more difficult to construct. It would be possible to construct a usable addition of similar size without the variance. Staff finds this criterion has not been met. 4. The particular physical surrounding, shape or topographical condition of the specific property involved results in a particular and unique hardship (upon the owner) as distinguished from a mere inconvenience if the strict letter of the regulations were carried out. There are several unique physical features that create a hardship: unusual lot shape, an oversized utility easement, and the presence of mature trees. First, the lot is irregular in shape, due to both the curvilinear layout of streets in this neighborhood and the recent consolidation with the adjacent lot to the west. Both lots were originally wedge-shaped, which means the existing home is not parallel with the side lot lines; this makes it difficult to site an addition without encroaching into a setback. Because the original two lots do not share the exact same rear lot line, the consolidation of the two lots resulted in a narrow pinch point in the middle of the property which also limits the location of a rear addition to the existing home. Another unique condition is the presence of the overhead transmission lines and the associated 68-foot wide easement. The rear portion of the subject property was never developed with a single-unit home because of the disproportionate impact of the overhead lines on this lot. The easement traverses the entire neighborhood but in most other cases, it covers front yards or straddles lot lines allowing parcels to be developed. While the overall size of this lot is large, the developable area is significantly diminished by the easement and lot shape (Exhibit 8, Buildable Area). Lastly, within the developable area of the lot are several mature trees that further constrain options for an addition. These are shown in the site plan and in the images provided by the applicant in Exhibit 6, Narrative. The proposed design seeks to preserve the existing mature tree and integrate it into the proposed courtyard patio. Staff finds this criterion has been met. Administrative Variance 5 Case No. WA-24-02 / Hammerschmidt 5. The alleged difficulty or hardship has not been created by any person presently having an interest in the property. The applicant is not responsible for the irregular shape of the lot, the location of the existing home relative to the side lot lines, nor the location of overhead transmission lines which existed well before the applicant acquired the property. While the property was consolidated by the applicant, it did not create any conditions that are more restrictive than before. The consolidation actually helped facilitate more options for an addition by allowing the addition to extend toward Hillside Drive over the rear lot line that previously separated the two parcels. Staff finds this criterion has been met. 6. The granting of the variance would not be detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to other property or improvements in the neighborhood in which the property is located, by, among other things, substantially or permanently impairing the appropriate use or development of adjacent property, impairing the adequate supply of light and air to adjacent property, substantially increasing the congestion in public streets or increasing the danger of fire or endangering the public safety, or substantially diminishing or impairing property values within the neighborhood. While the submitted objections express concerns, it is staff’s opinion that the proposed single- story addition does not interfere with public health, safety or welfare. The request would not hinder or impair the development of the adjacent properties. The adequate supply of air and light would not be compromised as a result of this request. The request would not increase the congestion in the streets, nor would it cause an obstruction to motorists on the adjacent streets. The conversion would not impede the sight distance triangle and would not increase the danger of fire. Staff finds this criterion has been met. 7. The unusual circumstances or conditions necessitating the variance request are present in the neighborhood and are not unique to the property. Unusual conditions are present in the neighborhood as several lots nearby are also wedge- or irregularly-shaped or impacted by overheard transmission lines which have created the need to facilitate other setback variances in the area. Staff finds this criterion has been met. 8. Granting of the variance would result in a reasonable accommodation of a person with disabilities. This variance does not impact the ability of the lot to accommodate a person with disabilities. Staff finds this criterion is not applicable. Administrative Variance 6 Case No. WA-24-02 / Hammerschmidt 9. The application is in substantial compliance with the applicable standards set forth in the Architectural and Site Design Manual. The Architectural and Site Design Manual does not apply to single and two-unit dwellings. Staff finds this criterion is not applicable. IV. STAFF CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Having found the application in compliance with the majority of the review criteria, staff recommends APPROVAL of a 7.5-foot variance (50%) from the required 15-foot setback in the Residential-One (R-1) zone district to allow for a residential addition and attached garage to the existing home. Staff has found that there are unique circumstances attributed to this request that would warrant approval of a variance. Therefore, staff recommends approval for the following reasons: 1. The variance would not alter the essential character of the neighborhood. 2. The particular physical surrounding, shape or topographical condition of the specific property involved results in a particular and unique hardship, notably an irregular lot shape, overhead transmission lines, and mature trees. 3. These unique physical hardships have not been created by anyone having an interest in the property. 4. The granting of the variances would not be detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to other property or improvements in the neighborhood in which the property is located. 5. The unusual circumstances or conditions are present in the neighborhood and are not unique to the property. 6. The proposed single-story design with a variance is likely less impactful than an alternative two-story design without a variance. With the following conditions: 1. The location of the addition and attached garage shall be consistent with representations depicted in the application materials subject to staff review and approval through review of a building permit. 2. Existing trees as depicted on the site plan shall be protected and preserved during construction. Best practices to maintain long-term tree health for the applicable species are encouraged. 3. A permit application for the structure shall submitted to the Building Division within 180 days of variance approval. Administrative Variance 7 Case No. WA-24-02 / Hammerschmidt EXHIBIT 1: AERIAL Administrative Variance 8 Case No. WA-24-02 / Hammerschmidt EXHIBIT 2: ZONING MAP Administrative Variance 9 Case No. WA-24-02 / Hammerschmidt EXHIBIT 3: HAMMERSCHMIDT CONSOLIDATION PLAT Administrative Variance 10 Case No. WA-24-02 / Hammerschmidt EXHIBIT 4: SITE PLAN Administrative Variance 11 Case No. WA-24-02 / Hammerschmidt EXHIBIT 5: FLOOR PLAN AND ELEVATIONS Administrative Variance 12 Case No. WA-24-02 / Hammerschmidt EXHIBIT 5: FLOOR PLAN AND ELEVATIONS Administrative Variance 13 Case No. WA-24-02 / Hammerschmidt EXHIBIT 6: NARRATIVE Darin & Jamie Hammerschmidt 23 Skyline Drive Wheat Ridge, CO 80401 February, 28th 2024 City of Wheat Ridge Community Development Department Attn: Lauren Mikulak/Board of Adjustments Dear Board, This letter is regarding the 23 Skyline Drive Administrative Variance Hearing schedule for March 28th. We purchased our home in July of 2015. We fell in love with the single level ranch homes and large trees in the neighborhood, but what drew us to our particular home was the size of the lot. At the time of purchase, our oldest daughter was 7 months old and knowing that our family would grow, we felt like the lot size would allow our family options to expand if necessary. In addition, we have always had a goal of building an additional attached garage with access from Hillside Drive. My wife and I now have three daughters (9,7,5) and although our home has 4 bedrooms, we need a space that could be used as an office/guest room. Since Covid, I spend roughly 40% of my week working from home. I have learned a lot about building code (easement/right-of-way, bulk plane, setback, maximum lot development, plat consolidation etc.) since purchasing the home. We were fully aware of the set-back restrictions imposed by Wheat Ridge building code and the Xcel 34’ Right of Way from either side of the center transmission line. Due to these restrictions, we held a pre app meeting with the community development department on September 22nd, 2020. The current design originated from feedback that I received during the pre-app meeting. A lot of prep work, time and money has gone into getting this project ready to submit for permits over the last 3 ½ years…with the expectation that the current design would not need administrative variance approval based on the feedback I interpreted from the pre-app meeting. Whether I misunderstood or I was misinformed during our meeting is not relevant for this discussion (background notes can be referenced in my file). I wasn’t initially planning to design the project to encroach in the 15’ setback as I didn’t think it was an option. I feel this is important to mention as it addresses a few points in Ms. Wojewoda’s objection submission. We have been working with our designer and contractor for almost two years. Hopefully you can tell from our design that our intent has been thoughtful. Even though our home sits on 6/10’s of an acre; we have only had two design options worth considering that would meet our goals. Details below: EXHIBIT 6 14 o Plan A – Current Design  Pros • More budget friendly. • Does not require my family (Wife and 3 little girls under the age of 9) to move out of our home for an extended period of time. • 6–7-month construction process. • Keep our large Ash Tree in the backyard.  Cons • Encroaching 7.5’ in the SW corner of the property line which would require an administrative variance approval. o Plan B – Second Story w/ Garage and Breezeway  Pros • Enhances our mountain view from the addition of the second story. • Provides more usable living space for our family than Plan A. • Conforms to code and would not require a variance from Wheat Ridge.  Cons • Would require my family to move out of the house for roughly 6 months. • 2 Story homes are out of character for the neighborhood. • Would inhibit the view of my southern neighbor on Skyline Dr. • Adds a substantial amount of time to the construction process so the job would take roughly 12-14 months. • Substantial increase to the project cost. • Would need to remove the large Ash Tree in our back yard. • Potentially need to involve Xcel for right of way approval. We thought it may be helpful to provide additional context to Ms. Wojewoda’s objection comments. Our hope is that our comments assists in understanding our thought process as to why we are attempting to move forward with Plan A vs. Plan B. Objection #1 - Our lot is .63 acres; however, given our goal is to have the addition attached to our current home our options are limited. Building west from the north side of the property would not work due to being attached to our primary bedroom. Building west from the center of our home is not an option as we wish to keep the large Ash tree directly west of our back patio. Thus, leaving us with the option to extend west from the south side of our property. We have 2 design options that would accomplish these goals. Listed above. Objection #2 EXHIBIT 6 15 - In my opinion, keeping the addition to a single story would be more in line with Paramount Heights’ “Character of Locality”. In either design option, there will be a development extending down the southern property line, it’s just whether the project encroaches or not. Objection #3 - See objection #1. In addition, we do have another option that would conform with code. We hope that you understand why we chose to lead with Plan A vs. Plan B. Objection #4 - Inconvenience vs. Hardship is up for interpretation. One could argue that when comparing the pros/cons of the two options, Plan B provides more inconveniences/hardships for all parties involved. Objection #5 - I do not disagree with Ms. Wojewoda regarding this objection. I created this hardship due to the conversation that occurred with Community Development during my pre-app meeting. Objection #6 - Throughout Ms. Wojewoda's comments in objection #6, she refers to the “visual impairment” that the variance would inhibit along the property line. Below are pictures of what the property line used to look like a few years ago and what it looks like now. Any development along the property line, variance or not, would be difficult to see through the vegetation overgrowth, especially in the summer months. I understand that this point may not be relevant to the discussion, but I find it interesting that all of sudden Ms. Wojewoda is concerned about the visibility along the fence line when it has looked like the pictures since we moved in. - It is not my intent to negatively impact Ms. Wojewoda’s (or any neighbor’s) property value. Whether any project along the fence line would negatively/positively impact Ms. Wojewoda’s property value or whether the variance will negatively/positively impact Ms. Wojewoda’s property value is debatable, and two separate discussions. We could argue that the vegetation overgrowth along the property line negatively impacts our property value. We could also argue that an investment of this magnitude in our property could have a positive impact on my surrounding neighbor’s property values. What is relevant for this conversation is, does encroaching 7.5 feet make a difference when comparing A vs. B? - The realtor’s comments never discussed whether the variance would affect Ms. Wojewoda’s property value, they only discussed how properties with a view historically have been more attractive to potential buyers than properties without a view. The realtors also didn’t address an unobstructed view vs. an obstructed view. From the photos Ms. Wojewoda’s provided, the view is obviously obstructed, if it even exists at all. EXHIBIT 6 16 - Once again, when comparing A vs. B, we believe encroaching in the back corner of the lot inhibits less visual impairment than adding a second story that would tower over the vegetation along the property line. **Us cleaning out the vegetation over growth a few years ago** Objection #7 - Agree to all of Ms. Wojewoda’s points except that we are unwilling to construct the addition to conform. In summary, we have always felt we had a good neighborly relationship with Ms. Wojewoda. It has come to my attention through this process that Ms. Wojewoda left our conversation with more questions than answers. I feel terrible that Ms. Wojewoda feels threatened/bullied by my approach. I don’t know how I would have handled the conversation differently, however. To Ms. Wojewoda’s defense, the hearing date may be the first time she is learning about “Plan B”. I struggled with how to present the plans to Ms. Wojewoda and felt like if I presented two options it could feel like an ultimatum. Thus, I only discussed the option we hoped to move forward with. Not once did I ask Ms. Wojewoda or any other neighbor to sign anything. We didn’t purchase our property because we love mowing an acre of grass. We bought the property because we felt it could provide us with the necessary options to accommodate our family if/when it grew to where we are today. This project is not intended to be an investment. EXHIBIT 6 17 We never plan to rent out any part of our home. I am not doing this project to increase the sale value because we don’t ever intend to sell our home (Our entire family followed us here, so we’re stuck ����). We would really like Plan A to work, but it is not our intention to be a burden to our neighbors/neighborhood. We hope you can see our vision to create more usable space for the home we love, while keeping the integrity of the neighborhood in mind, mature landscaping, and mid-mod design. EXHIBIT 6 18 March 3rd, 2024 Attn: Board of Adjustment Committee Members Please find this letter as part of the formal letters of support for the Hammerschmidt addition case, located at 23 Skyline Drive, Wheat Ridge, CO 80401. We have been working with Hammerschmidt’s for over a year now in efforts to secure project approval and permitting to begin construction on the addition. In our experience, the Hammerschmidt’s have made every effort to make the impact of this change to their home as neighbor friendly as possible. We believe they have gone to great lengths in fact to ensure that the benefit of the community was taken into consideration and have worked closely with the city to ensure that we understood the requirements. Furthermore, they have invested countless hours in planning, designing, and spending thousands of dollars in fees for the preparation of the project submittal. Their resolve and motivation for its mutual success for all involved has been admirable. As the General Contractor for the project, we will make every effort to support these motivations to make this a successful project. We will work closely with the city to meet its standards and to make the impact for our neighbors as little as possible. We will do what we can to work closely with the city and its building department to construct the addition in a manner that is fitting for the standards set by the city. Please feel to reach me directly with any questions, comments or concerns. Thank you, Tom Martinez President/Founder 720.234.5207 EXHIBIT 6 19 Administrative Variance 14 Case No. WA-24-02 / Hammerschmidt EXHIBIT 7: NEIG HBOR OBJECTIONS 20 EXHIBIT 7 21 EXHIBIT 7 22 EXHIBIT 7 23 EXHIBIT 7 24 EXHIBIT 7 25 EXHIBIT 7 26 EXHIBIT 7 27 EXHIBIT 7 28 EXHIBIT 7 29 EXHIBIT 7 30 EXHIBIT 7 31 EXHIBIT 7 32 EXHIBIT 7 33 EXHIBIT 7 34 EXHIBIT 7 35 EXHIBIT 7 36 EXHIBIT 7 37 Caution: This email originated from outside the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe. Report any suspicious activities to the IT Division. Thank you. You don't often get email from gil2022@goodlifeincolorado.com. Learn why this is important From: Gil Harari <Gil2022@GoodLifeInColorado.com> Sent: Wednesday, March 20, 2024 11:01 PM To: Zoning Division <zoning@ci.wheatridge.co.us> Subject: Case WA-24-02 Variance for Setback Gil Harari 16 Skyline Dr. Wheat Ridge, CO 80215 720-383-4445 Dear Board of Adjustment, This letter is in reference to Case WA-24-02. I am opposed to granting a variance for setback for the following reasons. Thank you for allowing me to provide feedback. Per Section 26-115 of the WRMC the majority of the stated criteria must be met and NONE of those criteria are met: 1)The current residence including the adjacent plot of land next to the current residence yield a perfectly reasonable return in use as both a residence and a yard, THEREFORE THIS POINT IN THE CRITERIA HAS NOT BEEN MET 2) The variance would very much alter the character of the neighborhood. The proposed size would be much larger than any property or home on the block if not the whole neighborhood. Additionally, it would encroach on the neighbor who is losing almost 8ft of space and EXHIBIT 7 38 privacy. It also sets a ba d precedent for the rest of the neighborhood, THEREFORE THIS POINT IN THE CRITERIA HAS NOT BEEN MET. 3) The applicant can still invest in the property just fine without the variance to the setback as the area included in the setback is a small percentage of the proposed improvement, THEREFORE THIS POINT IN THE CRITERIA HAS NOT BEEN MET. 4) There is no related hardship imposed by the land. If anything, the abundance of land is the opposite of a hardship, THEREFORE THIS POINT IN THE CRITERIA HAS NOT BEEN MET. 5) There is no hardship that requires a variance to the setback, THEREFORE THIS POINT IN THE CRITERIA HAS NOT BEEN MET. 6) The proposed variance setback is detrimental and substantially and permanently impairing to the use of adjacent property, impairing the adequate supply of light and air to adjacent property, THEREFORE THIS POINT IN THE CRITERIA HAS NOT BEEN MET. 7) The circumstances of the requested variance are unique to the requestor of the variance and are not present in the neighborhood THEREFORE THIS POINT IN THE CRITERIA HAS NOT BEEN MET. 8) There are no reasonable accomodations to a person with disabilities that are a factor in this request and this request applies to a single or two unit home, THEREFORE THIS POINT IN THE CRITERIA HAS NOT BEEN MET. 9) Does not apply as this request applies toq single or two unit home, THEREFORE THIS POINT IN THE CRITERIA HAS NOT BEEN MET. Aside from the criteria for a variance not being met, the requested variance would encroach on the adjacent property and be visibly different in size and design, upsetting the adjacent properties and setting a poor precedent for the neighborhood and city. Thank you Gil Harari Please confirm receipt of this email. Thank you. EXHIBIT 7 39 Administrative Variance Case No. WA-24-02 / Hammerschmidt EXHIBIT 8: BUILDABLE AREA 40 WHEAT RIDGE BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT CERTIFICATE OF RESOLUTION CASE NO: WA-24-02 CASE MANAGER: Alan Sielaff, Plans Reviewer/Zoning Inspector APPLICANT NAME: Valiant Spaces LLC LOCATION OF REQUEST: 23 Skyline Drive WHEREAS, the application Case No. WA-24-02 was not eligible for administrative review; and WHEREAS, the property has been posted the fifteen days required by law and in recognition that there were/were not protests registered against it; and WHEREAS the relief applied for may/may not be granted without detriment to the public welfare and without substantially impairing the intent and purpose of the regulations governing the City of Wheat Ridge NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Board of Adjustment application Case No. WA-24-02 be, and hereby is, APPROVED. TYPE OF VARIANCE: 7.5-foot (50%) variance from the required 15-foot side yard setback for a residential addition and attached garage on property zoned Residential-Two (R-2). FOR THE FOLLOWING REASONS: 1. The variance would not alter the essential character of the neighborhood. 2. The particular physical surrounding, shape or topographical condition of the specific property involved results in a particular and unique hardship, notably an irregular lot shape, overhead transmission lines, and mature trees. 3. These unique physical hardships have not been created by anyone having an interest in the property. 4. The granting of the variances would not be detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to other property or improvements in the neighborhood in which the property is located. 5. The unusual circumstances or conditions are present in the neighborhood and are not unique to the property. 6. The proposed single-story design with a variance is likely less impactful than an alternative two-story design without a variance. 7. … 8. … WITH THE FOLLOWING CONDITIONS: 1. The location of the addition and attached garage shall be consistent with representations depicted in the application materials subject to staff review and approval through review of a building permit. 2. Existing trees as depicted on the site plan shall be protected and preserved during construction. Best practices to maintain long-term tree health for the applicable species are encouraged. 3. A permit application for the structure shall submitted to the Building Division within 180 days of variance approval. 4. … 5. … or, NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that Board of Adjustment application Case No. WA-24-02 be, and hereby is, DENIED. TYPE OF VARIANCE: 7.5-foot (50%) variance from the required 15-foot side yard setback for a residential addition and attached garage on property zoned Residential-Two (R-2). FOR THE FOLLOWING REASONS: 1. … 2. … Voting requirements for reference: Per City Code and BOA Bylaws, the following number of votes are required in order to grant any variance, waiver, temporary building or use permit, any interpretation or flood plain special exception permit or any matter requiring decision by the planning commission or the city council. If a resolution or motion fails to receive the required number of votes in favor of the applicant, the action shall be deemed a denial, and a resolution denying the request shall be entered in the record. Members Present Votes Needed to Approve 8 6 7 6 6 5 5 4 All other actions require only a simple majority, including continuance of a case. Board of Adjustment Minutes October 26, 2023 1 BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT Minutes of Meeting October 26, 2023 1. CALL MEETING TO ORDER The meeting was called to order by Chair PAGE at 7:03 p.m. This meeting was held in person. 2. ROLL CALL Board Members Present: Dan Bradford Michael Griffeth Paul Hovland Thomas Burney Betty Jo Page Larry Richmond Laura Sicard Alternates Present: Alastair Huber Board Members Absent: Jesse Pearlman Staff Members Present: Jana Easley, Planning Manager Cole Haselip, Management Analyst Tammy Odean, Recording Secretary 3. PUBLIC FORUM No one wished to speak at this time. 4. PUBLIC HEARING No cases to be heard. 5. OLD BUSINESS 7. NEW BUSINESS A. Amending the Board of Adjustment Bylaws Mr. Haselip gave a brief, informative presentation regarding the amending of the Board of Adjustment Bylaws. Board of Adjustment Minutes October 26, 2023 2 In response to a few questions about the amending of the bylaws, Mr. Haselip confirmed that some of what is not found in the bylaws is in the Code. There was a minor discussion in which Mr. Haselip clarified a few points from his presentation and also confirmed the Pledge of Allegiance will be added to the Bylaws as part of the Agenda. It was moved by Board Member HOVELAND and seconded by Board Member BRADFORD to adopt amended bylaws for the Board of Adjustment as presented by staff. B. Approval of Minutes - October 27, 2022 It was moved by Board Member GRIFFETH and seconded by Board Member BURNEY to approve the minutes as written. The motion passed 7- 0-1 with Board Member HUBER abstaining. C. Updates Ms. Easley gave an overview and timeline for the upcoming Comprehensive Plan Update. In response to a question from Board Member PAGE, Ms. Easley said she has no comment on the proposed Co-housing development because the project has just been submitted for review. She added that Valvoline received their Certificate of Occupancy (CO) and is open for business and Parallel Apartment also received their CO and tenants are moving in. Ms. Easley mentioned to the Board that staff will keep them apprised of the next meeting which is unknow at this time. 8. ADJOURNMENT It was moved by Member GRIFFETH and seconded by Member HOVLAND to adjourn the meeting at 8:03 p.m. Motion carried 8-0. __________________________ _____________________________ Betty Jo Page, Vice Chair Tammy Odean, Recording Secretary