11 ATTACHMENTS - Laserfiche WebLink

Ms. Rondash replied that there were none. She added that all five fences on the property were built without permits. Commissioner Blank stated that he is normally insensitive to concerns of applicants who build without City approval; however, building a fence six inches taller than the approved six-foot, six-inch fence is not much of a difference to require that six inches be shaved off the top of the fence to make it the same height as the adjacent fences. He noted that a variety of fencing styles in a neighborhood is not unusual, and this fence is well-built, the design looks nice, and it meets all the codes. He indicated that he is inclined to say this is a challenge, but he will support staff's recommendation to deny the appeal and allow the fence. Commissioner Pearce prefaced her comments by stating that neighborhood issues are the most challenging to deal with because it is an emotional issue and is difficult for all concerned. She indicated that she lives in an older neighborhood, and every section of her fence is a little bit different from one another. She stated that she will try to judge this application based on the Municipal code, if it is aesthetically appropriate and safe. She added that she feels for everyone involved but agrees with Commissioner Blank that there is not enough material to require the applicant to tear the fence down. Commissioner Olson stated that he has been through this process twice when he and his neighbor decided to build a seven-foot tall fence between their properties and did not realize that it required a permit. He added that the second time, it was a six-foot tall fence right down the property line he shared with another neighbor, and each of them paid for half of the cost and agreed to finish their sides of the fence the way they chose. He noted that the newfence is a great improvement over Mr. Pretzel's fence as shown on the picture, and it is beyond him how the fence could be left that way for a long time He stated that he would support'denying the appeal. Commissioner Pentin concurred with the statements of the previous Commissioners. Commission O'Connor stated that he was not quite sure why the old fence looks shorter than the extension which is,supposedly six feet tall. He noted that if this section is to remain, there would be a one-foot step up with the seven-foot tall fence, which would not be a big deal and could be remedied with landscaping. He added that the new fence looks well-built. Chair Narum agreed. She stated that she has two to three fences across her backyard that all look different, but she and her neighbors agreed with one another, paid their share of the installation, and mutually maintain the fence. DRAFT EXCERPT: PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, 12-14-2011 Page 5 of 6