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VE-119-86 ZONING ADJUSTOR SPOKANE COUNTY, WASHINGTON IN THE MATTER OF A VARIANCE FROM THE FRONT- ) YARD SETBACK REQUIREMENT OF THE COMMERCIAL ) FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS ZONE. '(VE-119-86);) AND DECISION - PRING CORPORATION ) SUMMARY OF APPLICATION: The applicant proposes to expand an existing office building to within 3 feet of the front property line. Section 4.10.080 d. 1. of the Spokane County Zoning Ordinance requires a 39 foot setback at this location. Authority to consider and grant such a request exists pursuant to Sections 4.03.020 64. & 4.25.030 b. of the Spokane County Zoning Ordinance. LOCATION: The project is located in the Spokane Valley, north of and adjacent to First Ave. between Sargent Rd. and Sipple Rd. in the northeast quarter of Section 19, Township 24, Range 44. The address is E. 8618 Sprague Ave. and the Assessor's Parcel number is 19541-0401. DECISION OF THE ZONING ADJUSTOR: Based upon the evidence presented, circumstances associated with the project proposal, the language of the Spokane County Zoning Ordinance regarding variances and applicable court decisions, the Zoning Adjustor DENIES the requested variance. , PUBLIC HEARING: After examining all avai lable information on fi le with the appl ication, visiting the subject property and surrounding area, the Zoning Adjustor conducted a public hearing on January 14, 1987, which was continued until January 28th, 1987, rendered a verbal decision on January 28th, 1987, and a written decision on February ~i'W , 1987. FINDINGS OF FACT 1. The proposal is located on the north side of First Ave., in the Spokane Valley between Sargent Rd, to the east and Sipple Rd. to the west at the present location of the Toyota Sales Office Bldg. and is further described as Assessors Parcel #19541-0401, being more completely described in Zoning Adjustor File #VE-119-86. 2. The proposal consists of expansion of the Toyota Sales Office Bldg. southward to within three (3) feet of a newly established right-of-way/property line. The existing office building exists to within approximately 3 feet of a heretofore existing property/right-of-way 1 ine. This heretofore existing right-of-way was 82 feet wide at this location. The County recently sold sixteen (16) feet of the north part of this First Ave. right-of-way and fourteen (14) feet of the south part of this First Ave. right-of-way to the Pring Corporation. The applicant now wishes to expand the Toyota Office Bldg. southward into the newly acquired private property (forrrer right-of-way) to within 3 feet of the new right-of-way/property 1 ine. The bui lding would be a two story building, almost identical in appearance to the existing office bui lding and compatible with the showroom immediately to the east. The entire RECEIVED FEB 091981 . SPOKANE ODUN'Ty ENGINEER FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND DECISION PAGE 2 Pring Corporation: VE-119-86 block formed by Sprague Ave. to the north, Sargent Rd, to the east, First Ave. to the south and vacated Bessie Rd. to the west contains only two structures, the showroom to which is attached the existing office building. The remaining entire block is established as new and used car display space. The display space is uncovered, open display of approximately 208 cars, trucks or mini-motor or micro-motor homes. 3. The adopted Spokane County Future Land Use Plan designates the area of the proposal as Major Comnercial and the proposal is consistent with the County's entire Comprehensive Plan, including the Future Land Use Plan. 4. The site is zoned Commercial which would allow the proposed use upon approval of this application. The lot, and in fact the entire block, is a"double f rontage" lot. These parcels extend through the block from Sprague Ave. at the north to First Ave. at the south. The Zoning Ordinance provides that such double frontage lots should, nonetheless, adhere to the frontage requirements on each respective street. Hence, with a 52 foot wide right-of-way a setback of 39 feet (65 minus 26) is the standard to be met. The existing office building was approximately 32 feet closer to the old First Ave. property line than allowed. The adjustment southward of the property 1 ine by 16 feet then establ ishes the existing office bui lding as being 19 feet from the front property line of First Ave., whereas the Ordinance requires a 39 foot setback. 5. The existing land uses in the area of the proposal include other Appleway/Toyota businesses either f ronting on or backing up to First Ave. One block to the west exists Mc Collum Ford, who's service center doors abutt the west terminus of this section of First Ave. To the imnediate east is an older brick building owned by Wilson Honda. Wilson Honda and the other Appleway Chevrolet buildings (west of the proposed location) all exist on an approximately comon bui lding 1 ine with the existing office bui lding. The right-of-way to the east-of Sargent Rd, remains at it's 82 foot width and Wilson Honda then would apparently be 3-4 feet from the right-of -way. 6. Fi le exhibit "A" shows a vicinity map (A-1) and the site plan for the block involving the construction (A-2). Exhibit "6" shows the Appleway Master Plan, indicating in light blue the various buildings owned by Appleway; also showing the proposed addition more or less in the middle of the master plan. Exhibit "C" shows essentially the same as exhibit A-2, except that the Zoning Adjuster has explored the addition of the new offices to the north side of the existing office building as opposed to the south side of the existing office building. The exhibit "C" suggests the possible loss of ten (10)'new car display spaces or, moving the 10 new car display spaces farther to the north, indicates a loss of no new car display spaces if the same addition is added to the north side of the building. Exhibit "D" is the proposed First Ave./Sipple Rd. improvement and vacation plan prepared by the Spokane County Engineer's Office. 7. Exhibit "D" was prepared as a result of a 3-way Road Improvement District agreed to by the County, Mc Collum Ford and Pring Corporation. The plan shows a 40 foot curb-to-curb First Ave. improvement with no parking places, except for approximately 16 diagonal parking stalls shown in the easterly end of the north side of First Ave., in the vicinity of the Toyota Office Bldg. and Showroom. This agreement, which led to the vacation of 16 feet of the north side of First Ave. right-of-way and the proposal to go ahead with the road improvement district did not include any knowledge of or agreement regarding new office space by any of the three parties involved. 8. If the offices were added to the south side of the office structure, as proposed, the new two-story office sturcture would extend 16 feet farther south than the common 1 ine of bui ldings for the bui ldings east of Sargent Rd. and the rest of the Appleway Chevrolet buildings to the west. 9. The Pring Corporation did pay the County an amount of $52,000.00 to purchase the newly acquired frontage along First Ave. However, there were no "strings attached" or promises that there would be variances granted to extend bu i ld i ngs f urther southward. ~ . FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND DECISION PAGE 3 Pring Corporation: VE-119-86 10. Two letters of opposition were received, both of their contents quite similar and indicating they were business persons in the area who had a long standing interest in First Ave. in the vicinity of the Pring Corporation's property. They expressed satisfaction with the road improvement district and the agreement reached between Mc Collum Ford, the County and the Pring Corporation, but expressed opposition to intrusion of a bui lding into the newly acquired setback area on the north side of First Ave. The letter (mailgram) from Wilson Honda requested a continuance of the hearing until after February 5th in order to allow more direct involvement by Wilson Honda. No one except the Pring Corporation spoke in favor of the application. 11. The applicant also testified that First Ave. at this location essentially is a service road and does not serve a viable function as a through-traffic thoroughf are. Mc Collum Ford, on the other hand, countered that this road was used extensively by customers leaving their service center and by their mechanics who test drove vehicles on this road as they headed toward and returned from other locations for the test drives. The Pring Corporation also suggested the use of the Toyota Service Center Bldg. as a precedent. Nowever, the Zoning Adjustor notes that it is not on the same side of the street and is a building with a greater setback than the requested 3 foot setback. In the service center instance, the variance was granted to within 21 f eet 8 inches of the property line (reference VE-7-77 & VE-33-73). 12. The applicant's advocacy for the variance was based upon an expressed need to expand their sales office space to better serve customers. The applicant stated that to expand northward into the parking lot, as opposed to expansion to the south, would reduce the amount of space available to serve customers. Originally the space immediately north of the office building was shown on drawing as "customer parking", but later it was changed to "new car display space". The applicant also expressed the position that since the present building was built to within 3 feet of the then property line, the building could therefore be expanded to within 3 feet of the new property line since this would therefore be a grant of a similar priviledge available to or known to be existing in the area. Pring Corporation additionally testified that a transformer located near the northwest corner of the showroom would have to be moved if the building were expanded to the north as opposed to the south. 13. In an effort to find why the existing office building had been allowed to be built within 3 feet of the property line, the Zoning Adjustor worked with Tom Davis of the Building & Safety Dept. Mr. Davis researched the bu i 1 d i ng permi ts on f i 1 e i n the Department of Bu i 1 d i ng & Safety. He reported that the bu i 1 d i ng permi t for the ex i st i ng bu i ld i ng was granted i n March of 1978. The setback had been originally marked at 36 feet on the permit, which had been crossed out and replaced with an 18 foot dimension, which had finally been crossed out and replaced with a 4 foot figure. There was no Planning Department sign off or authorization indicated on the Building permit. 14. Prior to the hearing on January 14th, the Zoning Adjustor examined the various aerial photographs and oblique aerial slides pertaining to the property. The following is a summary of that information. a. June 14, 1974 - Photographs show there is no office building existing; however, there was a large parking lot at the rear of a row vf bui ldings fronting on Sprague Ave. b. September 10, 1976 - Aerial photographs indicated no building in the vicinity of the existing office building. A large parking lot with buildings fronting on Sprague Ave. still remain. c. Approximately October 15, 1977 - S1 ide -sti 11 indicated no bui lding at the office or showroom location. Nowever, clearing of the entire block was evidently taking place, including the removing of the buildings f ronting on Sprague Ave. The ground was being apparently prepared for paving as a parking lot. A FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND DECISION PAGE 4 Pring Corporation: VE-119-86 d. Approximately October 15, 1978 - Slide shows existing office building in place with no showroom having been constructed to the east at that time. 14. At the first hearing on January 14th the Zoning Adjustor continued the hearing to January 28th for the following reasons: a. to contact Ron Wilson of Wilson Honda to invite further comnent, since he had expressed a substantial safety hazard existing and a desire to apparently make an appearance at a continued hearing after his return to the one on February 5, 1987; b. a desire on the part of the Zoning Adjustor to clarify with the County Engineer's Office whether or not the Engineer's Office would object to a building; and parking locations being requested by the applicant west of the proposed bui lding; and c. to allow the applicant to present any information available on any authorizations granted by the Planning Department for the existing Toyota Office Bldg. to have been located only 3 feet from the then existing property line. 15. Between the two public hearings, the following occured and is reported in a memorandum to the file dated January 21, 1987. a. The Zoning Adjustor discussed with Bob Mc Cann and Verril Smale of the County Engineer's Office the design of the First Ave. improvements. The County took no position with regard to a shift in the location of the parking stalls on the north side of First Ave. and had no problem with the building proposed in the variance application by the Pring Corporation. The County Engineer's Office was taking a neutral position with regard to any disagreement between Mc Collum Ford and Pring Corporation, basically feeling that either the proposal with the building extension and variance or without it would be consistent with the agreement reached regarding the road improvement district. b. The Pring Corporation brought to the Planning Department a set of plans which were construction drawings marked as received on March 24, 1978 by the Spokane County Building Codes Department. A copy of the site plan is marked as exhibit D in the file. This exhibit "D" indicates approval on March 24, 1978 by John Sweitzer then of the Planning Commission staff. The drawing clearly shows a building setback line from the property of approximately 3 to 4 feet. As reported in the January Zlst memorandum to the file, Mr. Sweitzer was available in the Planning Department on the same day these plans were delivered. The Zoning Adjustor engaged him and Mr. Horobiowski, the present Zoning Administrator, in a conversation in an attempt to understand how or why the building was approved with only a 3 or 4 foot setback. Neither gentlemen was able to reconstruct or eitherwise explain how the building would have been legally approved at that location. It is on alignment with the buildings nearest to the west and the nearest building to the east, which suggests possibly the application of Section 4.10.090 of the Spokane County Zoning Ordinance. This section of the Zoning Ordinance al 1 ows for a bu i ld i ng to be constructed on the comnon setback of bu i ld i ngs on 65% of the lots both within a block on the same side of the street and within 200 feet in each ci`rection from the site. The buildings to the east and the west would not have so qualified in 1978, in that they were not in the same block, with the possible exception of a corner of the Chevrolet building to the-west which was across Bessie Rd. Bessie Rd. was not officially vacatzd on March 24, 1978, although the agreement to vacate had probably been reached before that and it was only a matter of the paperwork taking place. The general conclusion was that an oversZght had been made with regard to approving the location of the building, at least with respect to the zoning laws on the books at the time. c. Although a letter of January 16th was sent to Mr. Ron Wilson of Wilson Nonda, Mr. Connelly, legal counsel for Mc Collum Ford advised the FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND DECISION PAGE 5 Pring Corporation: VE-119-86 Planning Department that they had contacted Mr. Wilson, who was on vacation at that time. Mr. Wilson said he had no more comments to offer. 16. Mc Collum Ford representative, Mr. Connelly testified that the RID agreements that Mc Collum Ford entered into did not show the building as proposed in the variance nor did the drawing show any parking between the west end of the existing office building and vacated Bessie Rd. They also testified that there is an existing history of congestion which will have to be overcome, regardless of the paving of the road and establishing of curbs and no parking areas. Mr. Connelly testified that setbacks are for view-preseration, aesthetics and safety reasons and that the reclaimed setback of 19 to 20 feet would be a positive factor, but still less than half the required setback. Mc Collum stated their concern that this would set a precedent for other Pring Corporation buildings along First Ave. Mc Collum Ford representatives also questioned what special circumstances were applicable to this property which would warrant it receiving a special privledge, pointing out that the site was absolutely flat and the building expansion could be located on the north side, or on the west side. Mr. Connelly pointed out that Mc Collum Ford has done considerable expansion on it's nearby site, as well as auto dealership expansion on the north side of Sprague Ave., and has not sought variances, but has complied with all setback regulations. They stated they thought it would be materially detrimental to the safety of the area and would therefore be setting a precedent which would endanger the public safety. They also stated that any eventual establishment of Second Ave. to handle part of the east/west arterial traffic now on Sprague Ave, would create a greater traffic demand on First Ave. as persons would seek their (Mc Collum's) service center via Sargent and First Ave. off of Second Ave. Mc Collum Ford representatives claimed that the only purpose for the variance is an economic one, not unlike having a claim that a building is too small for it's intended use and wishing therefore, to expand the building into the setbacks; in this case expanding the structured use on the entire block into the setback areas, and that such economic justification is generally not supported by law and would be a special privledge not available to others in the area. Mr. Connelly sited Sherwood vs. Grant County, 40 Wn. App. 496, 699 P.2d 243. Mr. Connelly said in a later rebuttal that the solution to expanding a business is not to seek variances f rom the rules, but to acquire more useable land, such as Mc Collum Ford has done. His implication was that acquiring land as Pring did by buying it from the County was for the purpose of establishing authoriaed setbacks and should not be viewed for purposes of building area. (It is noted that the land was acquired from the County by Pring Corporation at a cost of $52,000.00). 17. In rebuttal testimony, the applicant stated that the congestion on Sipple Rd. is created by Mc Collum's actions, thereby forcing traffic to First Ave. and creating the congestion that is alledged to be the fault of Pring Corporation. The applicant reported that the parking bans and a limited number of curb cuts would be enough to ensure the safety of the area in general and reduce, if not eliminate, congestion. 18. The proposal is exempt from the provisions of Chapter 43.21C RCW pursuant to WAC 197-11-800 (6) (b). 19. The applicant has been made aware of the recomnendations of various County/State agencies reviewing this project and has indicated he can comply wi th those recomnendat ions. 20. The proper 1 ega 1 requ i rements for advert i s ing of the heari ng before the Zoning Adjustor of Spokane County have been met. . 21. Readings from the Spokane County Zoning Ordinance: 4.03.020 64. variance; and Section 4.25.030 b. (1), (2), (3) and (4) with particular attention to reasons which generally do not substantiate a variance and definitions unique to understanding variances. 22. Readings: St. Clair v. Skagit County 43 Wn. App. 122; Sherwood v. Grant County 4 Wn. App. 4969 699P. 2d 243; and Lewis v. Medina 87 Wn. 2d 199 548P.2d 1093. a FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND DECISION PAGE 6 Pring Corporation: VE-119-86 23. Any conclusion hereinafter stated which may be deemed a finding herein is hereby adopted as such. From the Findings, the Zoning Adjustor comes to these: CONCLUSIONS 1. The variance will constitute a grant of special privleges inconsistent with limitations on other properties in the vicinity and similar zone. Other properties in the area involving new construction and similar circumstances would be subject to a 35 foot setback under the Zoning Ordinance, unless reasons existed to grant a variance and one were, in fact, granted. (Spokane County Zoning Ordinance 4.25.030 b.) 2. The variance will not ensure the intent and purpose of the Zoning Ordinance is achieved with regard to location, site design, appearance, landscaping etc. The purpose and intent of the Zoning Ordinance, among other things, is to establish and utilize setbacks as appropriate for the purposes of aesthetic considerations and safety. The initial act of vacating a portion of the north side of the First Ave. right-of-way creates a setback which has been heretofore nonexistent to the south of the existing office building. Granting the variance would eliminate the positive benefits to the public health, safety and general welfare of having created a setback where one had not previously existed. (Spokane County Zoning Ordinance 4.25.030 b.) 3. Granting the variance will not protect or preserve the public interest and general welfare. In particular, the public interest and general welf are would not be served by granting an exception to the setback standard in a situation where there exists no special circumstances applicable to the property. Loss of a newly acquired front-yard setback (still less than 112 the required) is not in the public interest. (Spokane County Zoning Ordinance 4.25.030. b.) 4. Strict application of the Zoning standard of a 35 foot setback in the Comnercial Zone does not create an unreasonable burden in light of the purpose to be served by the standard. The results of this denial allows the existing building to remain the nearest structure to the street. In so doing, it does not achieve the setback standard of 35 feet. However, it does create a setback area which previously did not exist. The Zoning Adjustor'.s opinion is that the same objective the sponsor hopes to create by expanding to the south can be achieved by expanding to the north with a"mirror-image" plan. The floor plan of the two-story office building consists of an east/west running center hallway served by stairs at either end off of which are offices on both sides. With a northward expansion, there would be a minor loss of exterior space in the form of 16 feet of space on the north side of the bui lding, an area presently, for the most part, existing in sidewalk, 3 inch river rock and landscaping. The Zoning Adjustor's opinion is that the 10 proposed parking stalls indicated as new car display space could still'be achieved in the parking lot whi le leavi.ng a 15 foot circulation isle between these 10 ca'r spaces and the next car display spaces to the north. Therefore, there does not appear to be an unreasonable burden created. (Spokane County Zoning Ordinance 4.25.030 b. (2) i.) 5. It does not appear to be the case that a broader public need or interest would be served by granting verses denying the variance. The strongest point advocated by the applicant was that customers of the Pring Corporation would be better served by having, apparently, more new car display space. In either situation, that is, with or without the expansion of the building to the south, the same number of First Ave. parking spaces will exist by three way agreement between Pring Corporation, Mc Collum Ford and the County. (Spokane County Zoning Ordinance 4.25.030 b. (2) iii.) 6. The case for the variance was supported by references to the existing building's location at 3 feet from the setback line. The Zoning Adjustor has L . • ~ FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND DECISION PAGE 7 Pring Corporation: VE-119-86 determined that, although this construction was "authorized" to be 3 feet from the then existing property line, it appears to not be legally-founded in the Zoning Ordinance utilized at the time the building permit was granted. The other examples in the area are nonconforming precedents, referring particularly to Wilson Honda and the Chevrolet buildings to the west. (Spokane County Zoning Ordinance 4.25.030 b. (3) i.) 7. The approval of the variance would establish a precedent adversely affecting the zoning design for the area and the County as a whole, supported neither by the Zoning Ordinance, nor state law nor court cases as explained by 1ega1 counsel. 8. The Zoning Adjustor's understanding is that the case for a variance was based substantially upon a lack of reasonable economic return or a claim that the existing space is too small; the "space" referred to being the new and used car display area. This is specifically stated in the Zoning Ordinance as a reason which should not be used to justify a variance. There was not a clearly defined practical difficulty, other than inadequate display space set forth by the applicant. If this is the case, the applicant has created this situation by virtue of their own design and layout of their property and faci 1 ities. A self-created practical diffuculty is not recognized as justification for approval. (Spokane County Zoning Ordinance 4.25.030 b. (3). iii.) 9. Any finding hereinbefore stated which may be deemed a conclusion herein is adopted as such. DECISION From the foregoing Findings and Conclusions, the Zoning Adjustor DENIES the proposal. . DATED TNIS G~ DAY OF FEBRUARY, 1987. ~ A Thomas G. Mosher; ICP Zoning Adjustor, S okane County Washington . FILED: 1) Applicant 2) Parties of Record . 3) Spokane County Engineers Office 4) Spokane County Nealth District 5) Spokane County Utilities Dept. 6) Spokane County Dept. of Building & Safety 7) Planning Dept. Cross Reference File and/or Electronic File. NOTE: ONLY THE APPLICANT OR AN OPPONENT OF RECORD MAY FILE AN APPEAL WITHIN TEN (10) CALENDAR DAYS OF THE ABOVE DATE OF SIGNING. APPEALS MAY BE FILED AT . THE SPOKANE COUNTY PLANNING DEPARTMENT, N. 721 JEFFERSON ST., BROADWAY CENTRE BLDG., SPOKANE, WA 99260. (Sections 4.25.090 and 4.25.100 of the Spokane County Zoning Ordinance). 0084z/2-87 ~ ♦ , ZONING ADJUSTOR SPOKANE COUN7Y9 WASHINGTON IN THE MAT7ER OF A VARIANCE FROM THE FRONT- ) YARD SETBACK REQUIREMENT OF THE COMMERCIAL ) FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS ZONE. '(VE-119-86);) AND DECISION PRING CORPORATION ) SUMMARY OF APPLICATION: The applicant proposes to expand an existing office building to within 3 feet of the front property line. Section 4.10.080 d. 1. of the Spokane County Zoning Ordinance requires a 39 foot setback at this location. Authority to consider and grant such a request exists pursuant to Sections 4.03.020 64. & 4.25.030 b. of the Spokane County Zoning Ordinance. LOCATION: - The project is located in the Spokane Valley, north of and adjacent to First Ave. between Sargent Rd. and Sipple Rd. in the northeast quarter of Section 19, Township 24, Range 44. The address is E. 8618 Sprague Ave. and the Assessor's Parcel number is 19541-0401. DECISION OF THE ZONING ADJUSTOR: Based upon the evidence presented, circumstances associated with the project proposal, the language of the Spokane County Zoning Ordinance regarding variances and applicable court decisions, the Zoning Adjustor DENIES the requested variance. PUBLIC HEARING: Af ter exami n i ng a 1 1 ava i 1 ab 1 e i nformat ion on f i 1 e wi th the app 1 i cat i on, visiting the subject property and surrounding area, the Zoning Adjustor conducted a public hearing on January 14, 1987, which was continued until January 28th, 1987, rendered a verbal decision on January 28th, 1987, and a written decision on February ~iiy , 1987. FINDINGS OF FACT 1. The proposal is located on the north side of First Ave., in the Spokane Valley between Sargent Rd, to the east and Sipple Rd, to the west at the present location of the Toyota Sales Office Bldg. and is further described as Assessors Parcel #19541-0401, being more completely described in Zoning Adjustor File #VE-119-86. 2. The proposal consists of expansion of the Toyota Sales Office Bldg. southward to within three (3) feet of a newly established right-of-way/property line. The existing office building exists to within approximately 3 feet of a heretofore existing property/right-of-way line. This heretofore existing right-of-way was 82 feet wide at this location. The County recently sold sixteen (16) feet of the north part of this First Ave. right-of-way and fourteen (14) feet of the south part of this First Ave. right-of -way to the Pring Corporation. The applicant now wishes to expand the Toyota Office Bldg. southward into the newly acquired private property (former right-of-way) to within 3 feet of the new right-of-way/property line. The building would be a two story building, almost identical in appearance to the existing office building and compatible with the showroom inmediately to the east. The entire ~ RECEIVED FEB p 9 1981 . SPOKANE OOUNTY "GINEER . • FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND DECISION PAGE 2 Pring Corporation: VE-119-86 block formed by Sprague Ave. to the north, Sargent Rd. to the east, First Ave. to the south and vacated Bessie Rd. to the west contains only two structures, the showroom to which is attached the existing office building. The remaining entire block is established as new and used car display space. The display space is uncovered, open display of approximately 208 cars, trucks or mini-motor or micro-motor homes. 3. The adopted Spokane County Future Land Use Plan designates the area of the proposal as Major Comnercial and the proposal is consistent with the County's entire Comprehensive Plan, including the Future Land Use Plan. 4. The site is zoned Corrmercial which would allow the proposed use upon approval of this application. The lot, and in fact the entire block, is a"double f rontage" lot. These parcels extend through the block from Sprague Ave. at the north to First ave. at the south. The Zoning Ordinance provides that such double frontage lots should, nonetheless, adhere to the frontage requirements on each respective street. Hence, with a 52 foot wide right-of-way a setback of 39 feet (65 minus 26) is the standard to be met. The existing office building was approximately 32 feet closer'to the old First Ave. property-line than allowed. The adjustment southward of the property 1 ine by 16 feet then establishes the existing office bui lding as being 19 feet f rom the front property line of First Ave., whereas the Ordinance requires a 39 foot setback. 5. The existing land uses in the area of the proposal include other Appleway/Toyota businesses either fronting on or backing up to First Ave. One block to the west exists Mc Collum Ford, who's service center doors abutt the we,st terminus of this section of First Ave. To the imnediate east is an older brick building owned by Wilson Honda. Wilson Honda and the other Appleway Chevrolet buildings (west of the proposed location) all exist on an approximately common bui lding l ine with the existing office bui lding. The right-of-way to the east of Sargent Rd. remains at it's 82 foot width and Wilson Honda then would apparently be 3-4 feet from the right-of -way. 6. File exhibit "Au shows a vicinity map (A-1) and the site plan for the block involving the construction (A-2). Exhibit "B" shows the Appleway hlaster Plan, indicating in light blue the various buildings owned by Appleway; also showing the proposed addition more or less in the middle of the master plan. Exhibit "C" shows essentially the same as exhibit A-2, except that the Zoning Adjuster has explored the addition of the new offices to the north side of the existing office building as opposed to the south side of the existing office building. The exhibit "C" suggests the possible loss of ten (10)*new car display spaces or, moving the 10 new car display spaces farther to the north, indicates a loss of no new car display spaces if the same addition is added to the north side of the building. Exhibit "D" is the proposed First Ave./Sipple Rd. improvement and vacation plan prepared by the Spokane County Engineer's Office. 7. Exhibit "D" was prepared as a result of a 3-way Road Improvement District agreed to by the County, Mc Collum Ford and Pring Corporation. The plan shows a 40 foot curb-to-curb First Ave. improvement with no parking places, except for approximately 16 diagonal parking stalls shown in the easterly end of the north side of First ave., in the vicinity of the Toyota Office Bldg. and Showroom. This agreement, which led to the vacation of 16 feet of the north side of First Ave. right-of-way and the proposal to go ahead with the road improvement district did.not include any knowledge of or agreement regarding new office space by any of the three parties involved. 8. If the offices were added to the south side of the office structure, as proposed, the new two-story office sturcture would extend 16 feet farther south than the comnon 1 ine of bui ldings for the bui ldings east of Sargent Rd. and the rest of the Appleway Chevrolet buildings to the west. 9. The Pring Corporation did pay the County an amount of $52,000.00 to purchase the newly acquired frontage along First Ave. However, there were no "strings attached" or promises that there would be variances granted to extend bu i 1 d i ng s f urther southward. 1 ♦ FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND DECISION PAGE 3 Pring Corporation: VE-119-86 10. Two letters of opposition were received, both of their contents quite similar and indicating they were business persons in the area who had a long standing interest in First Ave. in the vicinity of the Pring Corporation's property. They expressed satisfaction with the road improvement district and the agreement reached between Mc Collum Ford, the County and the Pring Corporation, but expressed opposition to intrusion of a bui lding into the newly acquired setback area on the north side of First Ave. The letter (mailgram) from Wilson Honda requested a continuance of the hearing until af ter February 5th in order to allow more direct involvement by Wilson Honda. No one except the Pring Corporation spoke in favor of the application. 11. The applicant also testified that First Ave. at this location essentially is a service road and does not serve a viable function as a through-traffic thoroughf are. Mc Collum Ford, on the other hand, countered that this road was used extensively by customers leaving their service center and by their mechanics who test drove vehicles on this road as they headed toward and returned from other locations for the test drives.. The Pring Corporation also suggested the use of the Toyota Service Center Bldg. as a precedent. However, the Zoning Adjustor notes that it is not on the same side of the street and is a building with a greater setback than the requested 3 foot setback. In the service center instance, the variance was granted to within 21 feet 8 inches of the property line (reference VE-7-77 & YE-33-73). 12. The applicant's advocacy for the variance was based upon an expressed need to expand their sales office space to better serve customers. The applicant stated that to expand northward into the parking lot, as opposed to expansion to the south, would reduce the amount of space available to serve customers. Originally the space immediately north of the office building was shown on drawing as "customer parking", but later it was changed to "new car display space". The applicant also expressed the position that since the present building was built to within 3 feet of the then property line, the building could therefore be expanded to within 3 feet of the new property line since this would therefore be a grant of a similar priviledge available to or known to be existing in the area. Pring Corporation additionally testified that a transformer located near the northwest corner of the showroom would have to be moved if the building were expanded to the north as opposed to the south. 13. In an effort to find why the existing office building had been allowed to be built within 3 feet of the property line, the Zoning Adjustor worked with Tom Davis of the Building & Safety Dept. Mr. Davis researched the bu i 1 d i ng permi ts on f i 1 e i n the Department of Bu i 1 d i ng & Safety. He reported that the building permit for the existing building was granted in March of 1978. The setback had been originally marked at 36 feet on the permit, which had been crossed out and replaced with an 18 foot dimension, which had finally been crossed out and replaced with a 4 foot figure. There was no Planning Department sign off or authorization indicated on the Building permit. 14. Prior to the hearing on January 14th, the Zoning Adjustor examined the various aerial photographs and oblique aerial slides pertaining to the property. The following is a summary of that information. a. June 14, 1914 - Photographs show there is no office building existing; however, there was a large parking 1ot at the rear of a row of buildings fronting on Sprague Ave. b. September 10, 1976 - Aerial photographs indicated no building in the vicinity of the existing office building. A large parking lot with bui ldings fronting on Sprague Ave. still remain. c. Approximately October 15, 1977 - Slide still indicated no building at the office or showroom location. Nowever, clearing of the entire block was evidently taking place, including the removing of the buildings fronting on Sprague ave. The ground was being apparently prepared for paving as a parking lot. . . • FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS ANO DECISION PAGE 4 Pring Corporation: VE-119-86 d. Approximately October 15, 1978 - Slide shows existing office building in place with no showroom having been constructed to the east at that time. 14. At the first hearing on January 14th the Zoning Adjustor continued the hearing to January 28th for the following reasons: a. to contact Ron Wilson of Wilson Honda to invite further comnent, since he had expressed a substantial safety hazard existing and a desire to apparently make an appearance at a continued hearing after his return to the one on February 5, 1987; ` b. a desire on the part of the Zoning Adjustor to clarify with the County Engineer's Office whether or not the Engineer's Office would object to a building; and parking locations being requested by the applicant west of the proposed building; and c. to allow the applicant to present any information available on any authorizations granted by the Planning Department for the*existing Toyota Office Bldg, to have been located only 3 feet from the then existing property line. 15. Between the two public hearings, the following occured and is reported in a memorandum to the file dated January 21, 1987. a. The Zoning Adjustor discussed with-6ob Mc Cann and Verril Smale of the County Engineer's Office the design of the First Ave. improvements. The County took no position with regard to a shift in the location of the parking stalls on the north side of First Ave. and had no problem with the building proposed jn the variance application by the Pring Corporation. The County Engineer's Office was taking a neutral position with regard to any disagreement between Mc Collum Ford and Pring Corporation, basically feeling that either the proposal with the building extension and variance or without it would be consistent with the agreement reached regarding the road improvement district. b. The Pring Corporation brought to the Planning Department a set of plans which were construction drawings marked as received on March 24, 1978 by the Spokane County Building Codes Department. A copy of the site plan is marked as exhibit D in the file. This exhibit "Du indicates approval on March 24, 1978 by John Sweitzer then of the Planning Commission staff. The drawing clearly shows a bui lding setback 1 ine from the property of approximately 3 to 4 f eet. As reported in the January 21st memorandum to the file, Mr. Sweitzer was available in the Planning Department on the same day these plans were delivered. The Zoning Adjustor engaged him and Mr. Horobiowski, the present Zoning Administrator, in a conversation in an attempt to understand how or why the building was approved with only a 3 or 4 foot setback. Neither gentlemen was able to reconstruct or eitherwise explain how the building would have been legally approved at that location. It is on alignment with the buildings nearest to the west and the nearest building to the east, which suggests possibly the application of Section 4,10.090 of the Spokane County Zoning Ordinance. This section of the Zoning Ordinance allows for a bui lding to be constructed on the comnon setback of bui ldings on 65% of the lots both within a block on the same side of the street and within 200 feet in each airection from the site. The buildings to the east and the west would not have so qualified in 1978, in that they were not in the same block, with the possible exception of a corner of the Chevrolet building to the-west which was across Bessie Rd. Bessie Rd, was not officially vacated on March 24, 1978, although the agreement to vacate had probably been reached before that and it was only a matter of the paperwork taking place. The general conclusion was that an oversight had been made with regard to approving the location of the building, at least with respect to the zoning laws on the books at the time. c. Although a letter of January 16th was sent to Mr. Ron Wilson of Wilson Honda, Mr. Connelly, legal counsel for Mc Collum Ford advised the ~ ~ FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND DECISION PAGE 5 Pring Corporation: VE-119-86 Planning Department that they had contacted Mr. Wilson, who was on vacation at that time. Mr. Wilson said he had no more comments to offer. 16. Mc Collum Ford representative, Mr. Connelly testified that the RID agreements that Mc Collum Ford entered into did not show the building as proposed in the variance nor did the drawing show any parking between the west end of the existing office building and vacated Bessie Rd. They also testified that there is an existing history of congestion which will have to be overcome, regardless of the paving of the road and establishing of curbs and no parking areas. Mr. Connelly testified that setbacks are for view-preseration, aesthetics and safety reasons and that the reclaimed setback of 19 to 20 feet would be a positive factor, but still less than half the required setback. Mc Collum stated their concern that this would set a precedent for other Pring Corporation buildings along First Ave. Mc Collum Ford representatives also questioned what special circumstances were applicable to this property which would warrant it receiving a special privledge, pointing out that the site was absolutely flat and the building expansion could be located on the north side, or on the west side. Mr. Connelly pointed out that h1c Collum Ford has done considerable expansion on it's nearby si.te, as well as auto dealership expansion on the north side of Sprague Ave., and has not sought variances, but has complied with all setback regulations. They stated they thought it would be materially detrimental to the safety of the area and would therefore be setting a precedent which would endanger the public safety. They also stated that any eventual establishment of Second Ave. to handle part of the east/west arterial traffic now on Sprague Ave, would create a greater traffic demand on First Ave. as persons would seek their (Mc Collum's) service center via Sargent and First Ave. off of Second Ave. Mc Collum Ford representatives claimed that the only purpose for the variance is an economic one, not unlike having a claim that a building is too sma 11 for i t' s i ntended use and wi shi ng theref ore, to expand the bu i ld ing i nto the setbacks; in this case expanding the structured use on the entire block into the setback areas, and that such economic justification is generally not supported by law and would be a special privledge not available to others in the area. Mr. Connelly sited Sherwood vs. Grant County, 40 Wn. App. 496, 699 P.2d 243. Mr. Connelly said in a later rebuttal that the solution to expanding a business is not to seek variances f rom the rules, but to acquire more useable land, such as Mc Collum Ford has dvne. His implication was that acquiring land as Pring did by buying it from the County was for the purpose of establishing authorized setbacks and should not be viewed for purposes of building area. (It is noted that the land was acquired from the County by Pring Corporation at a cost of $52,000.00). 17. In rebuttal testimony, the applicant stated that the congestion on Sipple Rd. is created by Mc Collum's actions, thereby forcing traffic to First Ave. and creating the congestion that is alledged to be the fault of Pring Corporation. The applicant reported that the parking bans and a limited number of curb cuts would be enough to ensure the safety of the area in general and reduce, if not eliminate, congestion. 18. The proposal is exempt from the provisions of Chapter 43.21C RCW pursuant to WAC 197-11-800 (6) (b). 19. The applicant has been made aware of the reconmendations of various County/State agencies reviewing this project and has indicated he can comply with those recomnendations. 20. The proper legal requirements for advertising of the hearing before the Zoning Adjustor of Spokane County have been met. 21. Readings from the Spokane County Zoning Ordinance: 4.03.020 64, variance; and Section 4.25.030 b. (1), (2), (3) and (4) with particular attention to reasons which generally do not substantiate a variance and definitions unique to understanding variances. 22. Readings: St. Clair v. Skagit County 43 Wn. App. 122; Sherwood v. Grant County 4 Wn. App. 496, 699P. 2d 243; and Lewis v. Medina 87 Wn. 2d 19, 548P.2d 1093. / . FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND DECISION PAGE 6 Pring Corporation: VE-119-86 23. Any conclusion hereinafter stated which may be deemed a finding herein is hereby adopted as such. From the Findings, the Zoning Adjustor comes to these: CONCLUSIONS 1. The variance will constitute a grant of special privleges inconsistent with limitations on other properties in the vicinity and similar zone. Other properties in the area involving new construction and similar circumstances would be subject to a 35 foot setback under the Zoning Ordinance, unless reasons existed to grant a variance and one were, in fact, granted. (Spokane County Zoning Ordinance 4.25.030 b.) 2. The variance will not ensure the intent and purpose of the Zoning Ordinance is achieved with regard to location, site design, appearance, landscaping etc. The purpose and intent of the Zoning Ordinance, among other things, is to establish and utilize setbacks as appropriate for the purposes of aesthetic considerations and safety. The initial act of vacating a portion of the north side of the First Ave. right-of-way creates a setback which has been heretofore nonexistent to the south of the existing office building. Granting the variance would eliminate the positive benefits to the public health, safety and general welfare of having created a setback where one had not previously existed. (Spokane County Zoning Ordinance 4.25.030 b.) 3. Granting the variance will not protect or preserve the public interest and general welfare. In particular, the public interest and general welf are would not be served by granting an exception to the setback standard in a situation where there exists no special circumstances applicable to the property. Loss of a newly acquired front-yard setback (still less than 1/2 the required) is not in the public interest. (Spokane County Zoning Ordinance 4.25.030, b.) 4. Strict application of the Zoning standard of a 35 foot setback in the Comnercial Zone does not create an unreasonable burden in light of the purpose to be served by the standard. The results of this denial allows the existing building to remain the nearest structure to the street. In so doing, it does not achieve the setback standard of 35 feet. However, it does create a setback area which previously did not exist. The Zoning Adjustor'.s opinion is that the same objective the sponsor hopes to create by expanding to the south can be achieved by expanding to the north with a"mirror-imageu plan. The floor plan of the two-story office bui l ding consists of an east/west running center hallway served by stairs at either end off of which are offices on both sides. With a northward expansion, there would be a minor loss of exterior space in the form of 16 feet of space on the north side of the bui lding, an area presently, for the most part, existing in sidewalk, 3 inch river rock and landscaping. The Zoning Adjustor's opinion is that the 10 proposed parking stalls indicated as new car display space could still 'be achieved in the parking lot while leaving a 15 foot circulation isle between these 10 car spaces and the next car display spaces to the north. Therefore, there does not,appear to be an unreasonable burden created. (Spokane County Zoning Ordinance 4.25.030 b. (2) i.) 5. It does not appear to be the case that a broader public need or interest would be served by granting verses denying the variance. The strongest point advocated by the applicant was that customers of the Pring Corporation would be better served by having, apparently, more new car display space. In either situation, that is, with or without the expansion of the building to the south, the same number of First Ave. parking spaces will exist by three way agreement between Pring Corporation, Mc Collum Ford and the County. (Spokane County Zoning Ordinance 4.25.030 b. (2) iii.) 6. The case for the variance was supported by references to the existing building's location at 3 feet from the setback line. The Zoning Adjustor has FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND DECISION PAGE 7 Pring Corporation: VE-119-86 determined that, although this construction was "authorixed" to be 3 feet from the then existing property line, it appears to not be legally-founded in the Zoning Ordinance utilized at the time the building permit was granted. The other examples in the area are nonconforming precedents, referring particularly to Wilson Honda and the Chevrolet buildings to the west. (Spokane County Zoning Ordinance 4.25.030 b. (3) i.) 7. The approval of the variance would establish a precedent adversely affecting the zoning design for the area and the County as a whole, supported neither by the Zoning Ordinance, nor state law nor court cases as explained by legal counsel. ~ 8. The Zoning Adjustor's understanding is that the case for a variance was based substantially upon a lack of reasonable economic return or a claim that the existing space is too small;pecifically the "space" referred to being the new and used car display area. 7his is stated in the Zoning Ordinance as a reason which should not be used to justify a variance. There was not a clearly defined practical difficulty, other than inadequate display space set forth by the applicant. If this is the case, the applicant has created this situation by virtue of their own design and layout of their property and facilities. A self-created practical diffuculty is not recognized as justification for approval. (Spokane County Zoning Ordinance 4.25.030 b. (3), iii.) 9. Any finding hereinbefore stated which may be deemed a conclusion herein is adopted as such. DECISION From the foregoing Findings and Conclusions, the Zoning Adjustor DENIES the proposal. , DATED THIS G~ DAY OF FEBRUARY, 1987. ~ / Thomas G. Mosher ICP Zoning Adjustor, S okane County Washington . FILED: 1) Appl icant . Z) Parties of Record . 3) Spokane County Engineers Office 4) Spokane County Health District 5) Spokane County Utilities Dept. 6) Spokane County Dept. of Bu i 1 d i ng & Saf ety 7) Planning Dept. Cross Reference File and/or Electronic File. NOTE: ONLY THE APPLICANT OR AN OPPONENT OF RECORD MAY FILE AN APPEAL WITHIN TEN (10) CALENDAR DAYS OF THE ABOYE DATE OF SIGNING. APPEALS MAY BE FILED AT THE SPOKANE COUNTY PLANNING DEPARTMENT, N. 721 JEFFERSON ST., BROADWAY CENTRE BLDG., SPOKANE, WA 99260. (Sections 4.25.090 and 4.25.100 of the Spokane County Zoning Ordinance). 0084z/2-87 ~ 1 d f ~ J ~ - ' SPOKANE COUNTY ZONING ADJUSTOR - PU3LIC HEARING ~ AGENDA: February 11 , 1987 ~ TIME: As set forth below ~ PLACE. Spokane County Planning Dept., N. 721 Jefferson St., 2nd floor hearing room , f'ROPOSAL ' The appl i cant requests a variance from fence requi rernents for an Auto/Wrecking ' Yard to ailow no fence whatsoever, whereas Section 4.24.060 (l), (2), (3) and ? (5) of the Spokane County Zoning Ordinance requires a 6 foot tall, solid color, ~ sight-obscuring fence to contain all stored materials so as to not be visible ' from any public right-of-way. The zone classification is Unclassified. SITE SIZE: Approximately 9.6 acres ~ i ~ APPLICANT: John F. Lindsay (Playfair Used Tires) ~ E. 4230 Central Spokane, WA 99202 ; rr rr * * ~ ~r * * * * * * * * ~ rr ~ * * ~ ~ * * ~ * ~ rr * * * * w * * ~ * * * * ~ * * * * ~ j 2. VE-119-86 VARIANCE FR0M REQUIREMENTS OF FRONT-YARD ~ (This item will be heard at 2:00 SETBACK REQUYREMENTS { p.m. or as soon thereafter as uenerally located in the Spokane Valley, ; possible) north of and adjacent to First Ave. and between Bessie and Sargents Rds, in the ~ NE 1/4 of Section 19, Township 24, ~ Range 44. i ~ PROPOSAL: Continued from January 14, 1931 hearing. ~ ~ SITE SIZE: 70,800 sq. ft. ~ APPLI CANT : Pri ng Co rporat i on ~ E. 8618 Sprague Ave. ~ Spokane, WA 93206 ~ ~ AGENT: David Lindquist ; N. 919 Skipworth ' Spokane, WA , * * * ~ * ~ * * * * * * * * * * ~ * * * * * * * * * * * * ~ * * * ~ ~ * ~ * * * * * * ; ~ 3. VE-4-87 VARIANCE FOR BUILDING SET8ACK (A) ~ (This item will be heard at 2:30 VARIANCE FOR CANOPY SETBACK (a) ; or as soon thereafter as Generally located north of and adjacent to ; possible) Boone Ave. and west of and adjacent to Pines ; Rd. in the NEL 1/4 of Section 16. Township 25, ~ Range 44. ~ ~ PROPOSAL: The applicant requests two variances. ~ ; A. The applicant requests a variance to allow a building to be located 25 ~ feet from the front property line whereas 4.09.070 of the Spokane County Cont ; Zoning Ordinance requires a 35 foot setback. . C,~ . . ~ ~Sf'OKANE COUVTY ZONING AOJUStOR . , PU(3L 1 C NEAR I NG ) . ~ f~~~~rt OVwI• tOY~1 .Ou1 ~JA l! AGENDA: Febrvary 11. 1981 TIHE: As set forth below; hearing opens at 1:15 p.m, PLACE: Spokane County Plannlng Departraent. N. 721 Jefferson St. Broadway Centre 91dg.. 2nd floor hearing room . Spokane. WA 99260 APPLICATIOyS WILL BE HEARO IN THE FOIIOwING QROER, EXCEPT THAT ITEMS CARRIED OYER fROM PREVIOUS HEARINGS WILL BE NEARD FIRST. LEGAL DESCRIPTIONS AND PROJECT OETAIIS FOR TNESE PROJECTS ARE AVAILA3lE IN TNE PLa1VNING OEPARTMENT FILES. APPEALS OF ANY OF THE OCEISIONS ON TNE BELOu LISTED CASES MAY ONLY 6E FILED 8Y TNE APPLICANT OR AH OPPONNENT OF RECORD. (Sections 4.25.090 and 4.25.100 of the Spokane County Zoning Ordlnance.) A Determination of Non-Significance (ONS) has been issued FOR EACH PROPOSAL iaariced with an A DNS is a decision, based.upon information available at the time the DNS was i ssued, that no Envi ronmenLal Itapact Statement ha3 been ordered to be prepared because it was Judged that there was not likely to be a significant adverse impact to the physi cal envi ronment, aritten cacriments- re9arding the ONS: (1) are due by the close of business hours, February 9, 1987; (2) should reference the speciflc file number; and (3) should be addressed to Ithe Spokane County Planning Department, North 721 Jefferson Street, Spokane. WA 93260. Additionally, comments on the ONS and any other environ- mentdl documents may be made at the public hearing, the time and place of whtch 1s set forth herein. Contact the Planning Oepartment Staff for ntore lnformation. . • [509) 456-2205. * 1. CUW-40-86 (Companlon Case Vk1-125-86) C4NDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR AUTO WRECKING/JUNK (This item will be heard at 1:15 p.m. or as soon thereafter as Generally located west of.and:adjacent to possible) Hayford Rd. in the SE 1/4 of the NE 1/4 of Section 12, Township 25. Range 41. PROPOSAL: ne appficant requests a Conditional Use Permit for an auto wrecking/junk yard for tire storage area. Sections 4.13.120 (a) and 4.24.060 of the Spokane County Zoning Ordinance allowr such a use in the Unclassified Zone upon issuance of a Conditlonal Use PermiL. SITE SIZE: Approximately 9.6 acres APPLICAyT: John F. Lindsay ( P1 ayfai r Used Ti res ) E. 4230 Central Spokane, WA 39202 * « * ~r • ~ rr ~ . ,r * ~ « ~ ♦ * * . . ~ t ♦ rr .r ~ * * ~ « * * ~r rr ~r r • ~r t ♦ w k w w t ,r * VW-125-86 (Companion Case CUW-40-86) VARIANCE FROM CONOITIONAL USE STANDARO FOR ( Thi s i tem wi 11 be heard at 1:15 ~U b WRETKING/JUffFM0 FENCE S p.m, or as soon thereafter as tenerally located west of and a jacent to posslble) Hayford Rd, in the SE 1/4 of the NE 1/4 of Section 12. Townshlp 25. Renge 41. 7-7 ( ~ ` N ~A1~1 ~ Z ~ ` ~ ~ ~ MAII .,.iQ, f'•~v-~,~i~_ frP. , . ~ 'ti , VE ~ - 19M86 ~ s N t." 2 ~ 1 ~ . • O Y i2~ ? ` . SPRA VE 4 23 - . • • a . ~ N . Q _ ~r I ~ a ~ .t . ' ' . i ~ ~ ~ • , . ~ ~ J ~ _ ` ~•fr. ,E'dsec%If ~ ~ . Sono tor%um . ~ ~ / Q ~ ~ _ ► t Adt. ~ - ~9 : . N S°~i ,p r ~ T• - 1 ~ o• . .,b ' l ~ ~r ♦ ~ 77 a i ~ I► r v ~ ! {Z7 ' • l ~ I ~ ~ ~ ~ooo ~ • { ~ ~ \ i SPOKANE COUNTY 2ONING ADJUSTOR - PUBLIC HEARING . AGENOA: January 14, 1987 TIt4E: As set forth below PLACE: Spokane County Planning Oept., N.•721 Jefferson St., 2nd floor hearing room 3. Continued, VN-121-86 SITE SIZE: 21, 248 sq. ft. APPLiCANT: Shasta, A Partnership N. 8414 Wall Spokane, WA 99208 AGENT: Jim Olson - Ph 0467-6767 4• -VE-119-86: ~ VARIANCE FROM R~E QU,~IREi~I"NTS OF FRO~~T-Y~aRD This item will be heard at 2:00P.m. E EgUf~IEMENTS ( or as soon thereafter as possibje) Generafly located'~n the Spokane Valley, north of and adjacent to First Ave. and between Bessie and Sargents Rds. in the . NE 1/4 of Secti on 19, Townshi p-,2;k. ,-Z Range 44. PROPOSAL: The applicant requests reiaxation of the front yard setback requirement of the Commercial Zone to ailow a building to be built with only a 3 foot setback from the First ave. property line; whereas Section 4.10.080 (d) of the Spokane County Zoning Ordinance requires a 39 foot setback at this site. NOTE: Any approval of this application shall be conditioned upon a 16 foot 0 inch vacation of the north side of -F}.rst •Ave....as. per Reso-lL-tion No.. 86-0806. SITE SIZE: 70,800 sq. ft. APPLICANT: Pring Corporation E. 8618 Sprague Ave. . Spokane, WA 99206 AGENT: David lindquist N. 919 Ski pworth Spokane, WA Ph #926-9555 5. CUW-39A-81 CNANGE OF COHDITIONS FOR A CONOITIONAL (This item wiil be heard at 3:00 USE M p.m. or as soon thereafter as possible) -tontinued from Oecember 16, 1986 hearing: see attached Notice of Continuance. APPLICaNT: Carl A. Maak Westerlyj'5 acres fronting orr Nayford Rd. Rt 4, Box 173 is included in this hearing. Companion Spokane, WA 99204 case Vw-124-86 will also be heard at the same time. . Cont. -2- . . A , OFFICE OF COUNTY ENGINEER ~ SPOKANE COUNTY, WASHINGTON ~ DotP January 12 19 87 , Inter-office Communication To Spokane County Zoning Adjustor from Robert S. Turner, Spokane County Engineer ~ \ Subjeti Agenda Items Scheduled for Public Hearing January 14, 1987 1. VE 114-86 House - Please see comments of 12-12-86 ~ 4 2. VN 118-86 Cellular One - Please see the attached comments which pertain to the a private road which serves this proposal. ► 3. VN 121-86 Olson - Proposed sign must be located outside of the County road right-of-way. It must be constructed in such a manner so as not to interfere with the sight distance at the driveways which serve this development. ~ 4. VE 119-86 Pring Corp. - We have no comments to make concerning the variance re- » quest. The conditions of the right-of-way vacation have been satisfied by the applicant. 5. CUW 39A-81 Maak - I have discussed the proposal with the applicant. He has indicated that the facility will not increase in size or scope over the existing . operation. : Mr. Maak has stated that traffic generation is kept at a minimum because they . service accounts and pick up tires with his trucks. During the "busy season", the site will generate three to four small truck loads of tire and one semi- truck load of shredded tires per day. A few truck loads from independent deal- . ers are to be expected. While it does not appear as if the proposal will have an adverse impact upon the County road system, it is difficiult for us to evaluate the proposal. We do not « have any trip generation data for a use such as this. Consequently, we would ~ like to request the f ollowing condition of approval. . That prior to use of the property as proposed, the applicant shall sign and record Spokane County Notice to the Public No. 6 for Hayford Road. Thfs document provides that the owners, heirs, grantees and assigns agree to join the creation of a Road Improvement District (RID) or County Road Project (CRP) for the improvement of Hayford Road. . The recording of this document will permit future upgrading of the road should it become necessary. The cost of the improvements would be assessed to the owners of property at the time improvements were to be made. BMc/set . r ~ . • ~ << t~ ' p PLANNING DEPARTMENT I , BROAOWAY CENTRE BUILDING N 721 JEFFERSON STREET PNONE 456-2205 SPOKANE, WASHINGTON 99260 • . t•. , ` , ;',r ; SPOKANC COUNTY GOURT NOUSC 11~(L~fCC~[~` /1*-9 i.~ i!~ ~1 ~b. DEC 2 SPOE(AW' r9-11;r„ Bave Lindquist, Architect - N. 909 Pines Rd. Spokane, WA 99206 RE: Pring Corporation variance on lst Avenue; VE-119-86 Dear Mr. I.inquist: Aftier discussion with Verrii Smale and I?ick Hoover of the County Engineers Office and Rob Binger of the Civil FroaeCUting Attorneps Office, we have decided tA process the ° Pring Gorporation's variance application. There was some question as to whether they had standing tA appip far the variance since the vac:ation of the land which they intend to use has not pet oocuted. A teading of Gommissioners Resolution 86-0806 and the Septembet 12, 1986 memotandum of undetstanding between McGollum Fotd, Pring Corporation and the County indicates that the vacation is subj ect to a payment or possibly the ezchange of land. Sinoe this has not happeued as of the 22nd of December, ownership bp Pring Corporation is not a reality. Henoe, the proposal is t~~chnicallq tA build a building in the public right of way at the present time. As a resuit of several phone calis on Deoember 22, w have resolved a way to handle this. We will process the variance, as it was the intent of the Board of County Commissioners to vacate the right of way subject to some conditions of approvai being met. We wlll have you make correctians to the drawing indicated a 26 foot dimention from center of the right of way to the northside of the new right of way. The 16 foot vacation wili be clarified on pour drawing as being subj ect to conditions of approvai of County Commissionets Resolution 86-0806. 'I'he existing building setback from the existing property line wili be indicated as 3 feet, consistent with the Faagineers Office ralculation. Your proposed setback will be 3 feet ftom the new property line. Any variance' approval will be conditioned upon compliance with the Commissioners r • ~ Lindquist Ltr. (VE-119-86) Page 2 Resolutron 86-0806, with respect bo no building permits being authorized for issuance until the County Engineer has notified the Zoning Adjustor of the cornpietion of the vacation formality in its entirety. This letter in no way suggests that approval of a variance wiil be granted, only the terms under vvhich it would be granted, if it is granted. Cord* Thomas . os , A I CP, o n ustAr cc: Bob McCann, kane County Engineers Office Verril Smale, Spokane County Engineers Office. i+ y ,1 ` I PLANNING DEPARTMENT 6ROAOWAY CENTRE BUILOING N 721 JEFFERSON STREET 1 ' a PHONE 456-2205 ` ~ • , J. ~ • j~ I SPOKANE, WASHINGTON 99260 . , i - SPOnANC COUNTV COUpt HOUSC DEC 2 MEM0RANDUM : , I . , T0: The file VE-119-86; variance from setback requirements; Pring Corporation FROM/V! ovaas G. Mosher, AICP, Zoning Adjustor DATE: December 22, 1986 SUBJECT: Vacatian of ist Avenue as cruciai tA the application. It became apparent to the Zoning Adjustar on December 19, that the applicant was proposing to ao4struct a building an 16 feet af land aoquired as a resvlt of the vacation of the north side of 1 st Avenue at the site. I t turns out that the vacation executed by the Boatd of County Commissioners (alsa addtessed by a memotandum of understanding in oannection with vacation) County Commissioner Resolution 86-0806, was subject to payment or acquisition of land bp the oounty from the applicant. This has not yet occurred and hence the land upon which the building is proposed is not in private ownership, but is still in the public domain. The question arose as to whether or not the applicant had standing to submit an application to construct in the . right of way. A discussion with Verril Smale and Dick Hoover of the County Engineets Office and Rob Binger of the Civil Prosecuting Attorneys Office pointed us in the direction of aooepting and pfooessing the applicatian while notif'ying the applicant that the lack of compietion af the terms of vacation wuld manifest itself in anp decision to approve the variance. Th,at is, if the vatiance were tA be granted, the building permit wuld be conditioned for release upon written notice from the Countp Engineer thet the vacation had occurred and that the land had indeed passed from the public domain to the private sectot. oc: Bob McCann, Land Development CoordinatAr, SNkane County F.ngineet's Off°ice MEMORANUUM UF UNUERSTANDtNG IN CUNNEC'TIUN W1TH TEiE VACATION OE PORTIUNS UF FIK5T AVENUE AND IMf'ROVEMENT UF FiKST AVENUE ANU SIE'PLE itOAD CUUNTY ENGFNN;ER ROAD FILE N0. 2274 WHEREAS, The Board oE CounGy Commissioners nf Spokane County, Washingkon have been requested by the Pring CorporaCion to vacate portions of First Avenue between Sipple Road and Sargent Road; and WNEREAS, Objections to said 'vacation have been submitted by McCollum Ford Inc., an adjacent property owner; and WHEREAS, The County Engineer has recommended the vacarion of portions of First ; Avenue conditioaed upon certain road improvement requirements and access stipula- ' tions; and ' WEiEKEAS, The Board o.E County Commi.ssioners has accepted the recommendation of , the County Engineer and directed the conditions and requirements of said vacation approval be agreed to in writing by the parties involved. . ~ IT IS THEREFURE understood and agceed as follows: ~ l. The righi-of-way to be vacated shall be the South 14 feet and the North 16 feet of Firs[ Avenue berween Sipple Road and SargenG Road, except for cor- ner cut-offs at in[ersections as shown on the attached drawing entitled: First Avenue Vacation and Improvements, and made a part hereto, called "the drawing." 2. The improvements ro be constructed as a condition of approval of said vacation shalt be concrete curb and gutter and asphalt concrete pavement ' on Sipple Road from Sprague Avenue to Fi.rst Avenue, and on First Avenue ~ from Sipple Road to Sargent Road. The curb-to-curb width on First Avenue shall be 40 feet with widening for a parking bay, and the curb-to-curb width on Sipple Road shall be 30 feet plus widening for parking bays all as the same are shown on the drawing. Curbing to be type "B" cement , concrete curb. ~ 3. No parking as designated by the Board of County Commissioners shall be ~ allawed on Sipple Road or First Avenue except for the desigiiated parking bays. a ~ 4. Driveway access shall be as idenrified by the owners, approved by Spokane ~ Counry and shown on the attached drawing. No vehicular access to or from < the building at the NorCheast corner of Sipple Road and First Avenue shall Y be .located West of the beginning o.E ttie curb radius on First Avenue, as ~ shown on rhe drawing. Maximum of 3 openings and approaches shall be per- 4i mitted Erom the building to Firsr Avenue. The existing Nort}1 access door ~ on Sipple Road shall be used only for bonafide emergencies and not for j incidental access. I 5. Privare areas for car parking or display slia].1 be delineated along the ~ street right-of-way line by fencing or chained off to define public right- . of-way and limit continuous acress. ~ ~ 6. Prior to finalization of the vacarion Pring Corporarion and McColl.um Ford shall execute Road Improvement Uistrict (RID) agreements concerning the j improvement oE Fi.rst Avenue and Sipple Road in accordance with this memo- ; randum ancl the drawing. A Road Improvemen[ District will be iniriated by , Spokane Counry upon the completion of the vacation action, wi[h construc- ~ Cion contemplated in the Spring of 1981. Copies of the RID agreemenCs are i attached tiere[o for reference. Spokane Counry will participa[e 15% in the ; , Road Improvement Costs. i i 7. The County will authorize the imrnediare use by Pring Corporation of sur- ~ plus rtght-of-way on Second Avenue and Sipple Road Soukh of First Avenue, ' and will proceed with action to vacate thls right-of-way. The parties hereto concur in this action and agree not to object thereto. ~ DATED this 12th day of September, 1986. , APPROVED: PRLNG CURPORATBO• , `*'l U McCOLLUM FORD INC. BY: ACCEPTED: SPOKANE COUNTY , BY: " County Engineer ~ . ` • i L lJ 1 f L~ LLLI ` ~ SPOKANE COUNTY PLANNING DEPA,,~ENT . APPLICATIONS BEFORE THE ZONIfiG ADJUSTORIBOARD OF ADJUSTMENT Certi fi cate of Exemption Appl i catiori N ame o f Ap p 1 i c an t: P I w ~i~'qe L 1 t'l D a_v~T ~o t~ S t ree t Add res s: '='DPR,A►G vla Home: City: -f '.State: ~A- Z i p Code: 419 -%oU Phone:Work: q2~ •q~SS N ame o f P ro pe rty Owne r( s):o C~W_p REQUESTED ACT ION ( S)( Ci rcl e App rop ri ate Acti on Q!riance(s~ Conditional Use Permit Non-Conforming Lot/Use Waiyer of Violatiori Temporary Use/Structure Other: * * FOR STAFF USE UNLY 'e~.-= 3~ f*f * /Uf i s clovb/P dU~/9'IV~P 3 S *Ci te 0 rdi n an ce Secti on : y. iv Ol d Code : New Co de : ~ * *Sectiort /9 Township ~S Range Property Size: * * - *Existing Zoning: F.L.U.P. Desigriation: ~z * ~ *PSSA: S N UTA: (f) N ASA: ON FIRE DIST. :b-/ LEGAL CHECKED 6Y: , *Hearing Date: l Staff takirig iri Application: - * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * k ~r * * * * * * * * * i~ . E xi s ti n g U s e o f P rope rty G Describe Ir►tended Proposal :Wf, vsC (2 ~ ~ 11--Zo ^ L ti f , ~ r:~\ox ~h~ ~t~~ ,-j p . I -~-ap U~f . v ~ ~v ? Street Address of Property: Legal Descri ption of Property ( Irticl ude easement i f appl i cabl e) U Parcel Source of Legal: a I'' Total amount of ad,j oi rii ng 1 and cont rol 1 ed by thi s owrie r/sponso r: What interest do you hold in the property: / ~.1 -~y , - 3 3-'7 3 , t/E- 7'- 77 Please list prevlous Planning~epartment actions involving this propertyi V r y, G~t' ~ ~G• ~ or . 1 ~ I SWEAR, UNDER THE PENALT OF PERJURY, THAT: (1) I AM THE OWNER OF RECORD OR AUTHORI- ZED AGENT FOR THE PROPOSED SITE; (2) IF NOT THE OWNER, WRITTEN PEDIISSION FROM SAID OwNER AUTHORiZirIG MY ACTiONS ON HiS/HER BEHALF iS ATTACHED; AND (3) ALL OF THE ABOVE RESPONSES APdO THOSE OfV SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS ARE MADE TRUTHFULLY AND TO THE 6EST OF MY KNOWLEDGc. . ~ Si gried: . Add res s: 4~ Phone No.: q2lo cjd3zE~5 Date: -25•g&, . ^ NOTARY SEAL: Notary: _ Date : v / (over) i . t A. BU RDEN OF PROOF ' It i s necessary for the appl i ca»t or his/her representati ve to es tabl ish the reasons why the requested proposal shoul d be approved arid to 1 iteral ly put forth the bas i c case. Accordi ngly, you shoul d have been gi ven a form for your requested acti on ( vari ance, condi tional use, etc. ) desi gned to hel p you present your case in a way which addresses the criteria which the Zoning Adjustor must consider. Please fill the form out and return it with your application. If you didn't get a form, ask the Pl anriing Department persoririel for advi ce on how to proceed. B. SIGN-OFF BY COUNTY DEPARTMENTS . I1 COUNTY HEALTH DISTRICT A preliminary consultation has been held to discuss the proposal. The appli- can h been informed of requi rements and standards. k_ kl&lev • T i gnature Date) (Si gn-off Wai ved) ~ , COUNTY ENGINEER' S DEPARTMFNT A p rel i mi n ary cons ul tati on h as been hel d to di s cuss the p ropos al . The appl i- car~t ee 'r~f rmed of requi remerits arid standards. V47_\~ //ro~f7-~c Si gna ure) `--f Date) (Si gn-off Wai ved) 3: COUtJTY UTILITIES DEPARTMENT (Wai ve i f outsi de WMAB) []~A prelimi►iary/ msultation has been held to discuss the proposal. The appl i an~ f eeri i iformed of requi rements arid standards. X(Z",i-nature ' Dat (Si gn-off Wai ved) ~ The appl icant is requi red to discuss the proposal with to become iriformed of requi rements and standards. (Distri ct Si griature) (Date) (Si gn-off Wai ved) 4\. WATER PURVEYOq (Wai ve i f outsi de CWSSA) NAME: a) The p roposal i s/i s not 1 ocated wi thi n the boundary of our future servi ce area, b) The proposal is/is not located within the boundary of our curreiit distri ct. c) We are/are riot able to serve this site with adequate water. d) Satisfactory arrangements have/have riot been made to serve this proposal. (Si gri ature) (Date) (Si gn-off Wai ved) . - ~ Q. Y , . "~Y"~ t.~~ b✓~ r.- G U{ 6. APPLICANT'S FORM : NAME : FILE: I. YARIANCES A. Wi 11 the vari anc~/ authori ze a use 9t erwi s prohi bi ted i thi s zone? Yes ; No ; Comment: U12%e AZW4_l~ 6. Will special circumstances applicable to the pro ert. (such as size, shape, topography, surround~ngs) when combined wit he standards of the Zoning Ordinance, create practical difficulties for use of the property and/or deprive the property of rights and privileges comnon to other,propert'es in the vicin' y and si ili r zon classification? Yes No Comment: V% ~1es ~ ~ ~ :f 4D - ~ ~ + ~ daLG Juv, f ~ ~ C. Will the granting of the variance be materially detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to prope y or improvements in the vi ci ni ty and zone? Yes ; No ; Comnents: ~ Dt0A%y'1gJ4 t A-A, . ; 1 - . . l~ ~ ~ ~ A(~t, . ~001~ D. Does strict application of the zoning standard create an unreaso ble burden in light of p rpo e to be erved by the standard? Yes ~ No ; Comment: ~ ~ . c~~ ~ Se o^U! l.~ a ~4~9w4l lxvt Le ez_ • , U ~ ~/Lv ~~7*.~ ~,~t~G• E. Would relaxation of the ioning standard make a more environmentally sensitive or energy-conserving project or encour e continued or new use of an historic property? Yes ; No v/ ; Comnent: F. Will a broader, public need or 'nterest be served bgranting ver denying the variance? Yes No ; Comment . r f'v ia UU& . LU I Jr~~ A.-)t(" ,,V4 i~c G. Is the case for a variance supported by other like or sir ~'lar situations in the vicinity and in simil r zones? Y s 1/ ; o ; Comnent: A-L)Afludd.L ` V'GW A PAJ . . ~ f (continued on reverse side) ~ N. Will granting the variance adversely affect the overall zoning design, pl an or concept fJ~r ei ther the irm~edi ate area r the ent're, CQ~nty? Yes ; No 1/ ; Corrment: ~ o' Wj-Ci I~T ~ ~ ~ 4zp oe)ex' 1. Is the case for a variance substantially based upon a lack of reasonable economic return or claim that the ejisting structure is too sma 11 ? ye s ; No ; Commen t: S1vIA P ~ 10~ T , J. Will granting the variance be inconsistent with the gener purpose and intent of the Comprehensive Plan? Yes ; No ; Comment: K. Did the practical difficulty which gives rise to the variance request exist efore the prop ty w s ac uir d by the present owner Y s ; Wo ; Comment: 4~j b &&-v (t-L9, COA "A J L. Will the granting of the variance result in defacto zone reclassifica- tion; that is, the establishing of nearly all the pr' leges common to a different zone classification? Yes ; tJo ; Comment: M. Ooes the requested variance result in the circumvention of densit regulations designed to protect the Aquifer? Yes ; No Comrtient: , 0046z/Arch. 0002z 2 . SPOKANE COUNTY PLANNING DEPARTMEN"f LAPPLICATIONS BEFORE THE ZONING ADJUSTOR/BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT FILE CONTACT: HEARING DATE : L>2G , 17 1? -N0TE TO APPLICANT: Additional information may be required by the Planning Oepartment after the application is submitted. A. Additional Fee Requirements In order to assist you with your financial planning regarding this application, PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT OTHER DEPARTMENTS AND AGENCIES WITN WNICN YOU ARE REQUIRED TO CONSULT MAY CHARGE YOU AN ADDITIONAL FEE. The fees charged by the Planning Department only partially defer our administrative costs and are not shared with other departments or agencies. 6. Preliminary Submittal Prior to filing an application, the project sponsor shall become familiar with the current procedures and forms. Planning Department staff inembers are available for advice on current procedures, past actions which may affect the proposal and the Zoning Ordinance requirements. C. Scheduling an Application for Public Hearinq Complete applications received by the Planning Oepartment will be scheduled for public hearing on the earliest possible date. Staff will contact the applicant approximately 21 days prior to the public hearing, and provide the information needed to fulfill the notification requirements outlined in "E." below. D. Submittal Requirements The Planning Department staff requires that the following information be submitted at a minimum. NOTE: WE HAVE A FREE NOTARY SERVICE AT OUR OFFICE. . Completed application form (green) 2. Completed certificate of exemption form (yellow) (if required) 3. Completed environmental checklist (if required) 4. Assessor's section map for subject parcel and property within 300 feet (Obtained at the County Assessor's Office). If required by the Planning Department, obtain one (1) copy. The maps are to be submitted with the application form and other required information to the Planning Department. Outline the subject parcel. Adjoining Assessor's maps that are needed: 5. Statement of Attending Ph,ysician for Dependent Relative (if applicable) 6. affidavit of Dependent Relative Circumstances (if applicable) 7. Fees - Fees are itemiied as follows: Dependent Relative Conditional Use Permit $ 50.00 Conditional Use Permit Variance r75 . e ach) Waiver of Violation ries) ~ Environmental Checklist $ 75.00 _ L-A_$25.OQ...fe~ will be charged at the tTme of application conference and applied toward the final fee when the application is submitted. 0 . Site Plan - Submit four (4) copies of the proposal drawn to scale and indicating the following information: a. scale of drawing i, parking areas/spaces/ b, north arrow driveways c. vicinity map j, landscaping d, site area showing property boundaries k. fencing and dimensions l. topography of the site e. width and names of streets adjacent m. easement(s) affecting the to the site use of the property f. existing buildings n. septic tank, drainfield ~ g. proposed buildings (including and well exterior decks/balconies) showing o. dimensions from proposed ~ dimensions and distance to property structures to the ordinary , boundaries high water mark of all water h. height of all structures bodies within 200 feet . ~ • j _i y ~ • . • ~ - E. Notification Requirements ' The applicant is to provide notification as follows: Step 1: Al1 properties within three hundred (300) feet of the proposal sha11 be notified by the proponent. Utilizing the addresses obtained from the Planning Department or a Title Company and copies of the Agenda Notification prepared by the Planning Department, the applicant shall mail the Agenda Notification by first class no later than 12 days prior to the public hearing. ,p 2: The applicant shall provide the Property Owners List, Affidavit of Ste Mailing and all returned mails to the Planning Department two (2) days prior to the public hearing for inclusion in the file. F. Public Hearinq The applicant or a representative must be present at the public hearing. If the owner is not at the meeting, the "representative" must have written authori- zation from all owner(s) to act on their behalf. ~ + s ~ , h~~• J ~ •~.r~ ~ ~ , ,~o ~ i~ - . ~ J " ~ • ~ ` t ' - , y 1'~T~+^~ ~ . . _ • r► ~ 20 ~ _ _ . _ N.~ Z ~ ' • ~ 2 - . _ ~ ~ v t ,+~p' i t L J 9 g, • 1 ; ~ z , . Q ~d e c!%f W - , a~ fo~ , s . ~ • - ~ t -.~.-~t t ~ ' ~,~s.► ► _ . . • . ~ sa. p+~ ' i` i . ~ 1 Z t ~ .s - ~ ~ s • ~ ' l ~ ~ ~ w ' ► • ~ ~ ~ , ~ ~ ~,r ' • v , Q, s • , , . ~ ' ► • ~~r ' 1 ~ 1 ~ f t j:1440 ~ ~ _ . , - r ~ ~ - ~ • _s_. . ~ ~