BZA packet_05-27-2025May 27, 2025 — 7:00 PM
Council Chambers
1.Call to Order, Land Acknowledgement, and Attendance
Attendance by presence, not roll call
1.A.Oath of Office for New Board Members
1.B.Election of Officers
2.Consent Agenda
All matters listed under item 2 are considered routine in nature and will be enacted by one
motion. Individual discussion of these items is not planned. A member, however, may remove
any item to discuss as an item for separate consideration under New Business.
2.A.Approval of Agenda
2.B.April 22, 2025 Meeting Minutes
3.Public Hearings
3.A.4124 Beverly Avenue
4.New Business
4.A.Review of Board of Zoning Appeals Bylaws
5.Council Liaison Report
6.Staff and Board Member Updates
7.Adjourn
BZA REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
The public can make statements in person at this meeting during the public comment sections.
Individuals may also provide public hearing testimony remotely by emailing
planning@goldenvalleymn.gov by 3 p.m. on the day of the meeting.
City of Golden Valley BZA Regular Meeting May 27, 2025 — 7:00 PM
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MEETING MINUTES
1. Call to Order and Land Acknowledgement
• Vice Chair Orenstein called the meeting to order at 7 p.m. and read the Land Acknowledgement.
a. Members Present: Corrado, Orenstein, Parkes, Commissioner Segelbaum
b. Student Member: Vacant
c. Staff Members Present: Jacquelyn Kramer, Senior Planner
Steven Okey, Associate Planner
d. Council Liaison: Councilor Rosenquist
2. Consent Agenda
• Corrado made a motion to approve.
• Parkes seconded.
• Voted unanimously for approval .
3. Public Hearings
3.a. 2120 Unity Avenue
Applicant: Brad Schmertman, on behalf of the property owner
Request: requests a variance to reduce the side yard setback of the principal structure from 15
feet to 12 feet.
• Kramer presented the staff report.
• Orenstein opened the public hearing.
• Jim Ramsey lives directly across from Unity Avenue stated that he supports the
application. He noted that it in no way diminishes the property value of his home or any
neighbor’s homes.
• Orenstein asked if there were any written statements or anyone online who wished to
speak.
• Kramer confirmed that there were no written statements or any online comments.
• Orenstein asked the applicant to speak.
• Kramer stated that there is technical difficulty with the applicant being able to speak
online.
• Orenstein closed the public hearing.
• Orenstein asked if there were any other questions or comments.
• Parkes stated that she has no issue with the variance.
• Corrado stated that it is a very minor variance and he has no problem with it.
• Segelbaum stated that the variance request seems to meet the prongs of the practical
difficulties test that staff laid out. The two-car garage seems like a reasonable use. He
also noted that there are unique circumstances that are not the fault of the landowner.
He added that he appreciates the applicant only asking for a 3’ variance.
April 22, 2025 – 7 pm
City Hall: Council Chamber
Hybrid Meeting: Teams/Phone
2
City of Golden Valley BZA Meeting Minutes
April 22, 2025 – 7 pm
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• Orenstein added that he agrees with most of the comments made tonight. He noted
that the Committee has a long history of approving these types of variances. He stated
that all of the criteria seem to be met, so he is on board.
• Orenstein made a motion to approve the variance request.
• Parkes seconded.
• Vote was taken and approved unanimously.
4. Commissioner Updates: Councilor Rosenquist
• Rosenquist updated the Board on the City Council’s action to approve the variance
request for 6601 Plymouth Avenue North after it was appealed to the Council, which
was previously denied by the BZA at their last meeting.
• Rosenquist updated the Board, stating that there are a lot of bills before the legislature
that would eliminate local control of zoning and land use to some extent in residential
areas. She added that the City has signed a letter that the League of Minnesota Cities
has submitted opposing these bills for various reasons. She read aloud the letter and
stated some concerns regarding these bills.
5. Staff Comments
• Kramer stated that May 1 is the orientation and appreciation dinner for all Boards and
Commissions; they should have all received an invitation to this. She stated that in May
they will have new Board members.
• Parkes stated that this will be her last meeting.
6. Adjourn
• Vice Chair Orenstein adjourned the meeting at 7:32 p.m.
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Community Development
763-512-2345 / 763-512-2344 (fax)
Golden Valley Board of Zoning Appeals Meeting
May 27, 2025
Agenda Item
3.A. 4124 Beverly Avenue
Prepared By
Steven Okey, Associate Planner
Summary
Applicant Angela and Andrew Varpness request a variance from Section 113-88 Single-Family
Residential R-1 Zoning District, subsection (e)(1)(c) to reduce the required side setback by 1 foot 3
inches for a portion of the structure above 15 feet from the 13 foot 9 inch requirement to 12 feet 6
inch.
Section 113-88(e)2(c)2: In the case of lots having a width greater than 65 feet and less than 100 feet,
the side setbacks for any portion of a structure 15 feet or less in height shall be 12.5 feet. The side
setbacks for any portion of a structure greater than 15 feet in height shall be measured to an inwardly
sloping plane at a ratio of 2:1 beginning at a point 15 feet directly above the side setback line.
Recommended Action
Staff recommends the Board move to approve Waiver from Section 113-88 Single-Family Residential
R-1 Zoning District, subsection (e)(1)(c) to reduce the required side setback by 1 foot 3 inches for a
portion of the structure above 15 feet from the 13 foot 9 inch requirement to 12 feet 6 inch.
Recommended motion language : “I move to approve the variance request to reduce the side yard
setback along the western lot line by 1 foot 3 inches for a portion of the structure above 15 feet from
the 13 foot 9 inch requirement to 12 feet 6 inch, subject to the findings and conditions in the May 27,
2025, staff report.”
Public Notification
Notice was sent to all adjacent property owners as outlined in City Code Section 113-27(d)2. At the
time of the staff report, no comments were received from adjacent property owners.
Staff Contact Information
Prepared by:
Steven Okey
Associate Planner
sokey@goldenvalleymn.gov
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Reviewed by:
Chloe McGuire, AICP
Deputy Community Development Director
cmcguire@goldenvalleymn.gov
Supporting Documents
Staff Report
Resolution 25-0007
Plans
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Date: May 27, 2025
To: Golden Valley Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA)
From: Steven Okey, Associate Planner
Subject: Request for Variance to Golden Valley City Code – 4124 Beverly Avenue
Subject Property
Location: 4124 Beverly Avenue
Parcel ID Number: 1902924410021
Applicant/Property Owner: Angela and Andrew Varpness
Site Size: 0.39 acres, 12,742 square feet
Future Land Use: Low Density Residential
Zoning District: R-1 Single Family Residential
Existing Use: Single-family residence
Adjacent Properties: Single family homes
The property is a 80’x161’ lot on Beverly Avenue with an existing 900 square feet single-family
dwelling built in 1959. The principal building front setback is 35’, rear setback is 25’, and side
setbacks are 12.5’.
Site Image
4124 Beverly Avenue
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Planning Analysis
In reviewing this application, staff reviewed the request against the standards in Section 113-
27(c) of the Code, which provides the variance standards in compliance with Minnesota State
Statute Section 462.357. The burden of proof is on the applicant to show that the request is in
harmony with the general purposes and intent of this chapter and consistent with the
Comprehensive Plan.
Each variance application must be reviewed based on the unique circumstance of the
application. For that reason, no variance sets a precedent because no two circumstances are
identical. However, if the City finds itself granting numerous similar variances, the City could
consider amendments to the City Code.
Staff considered the following requirements in Section 113-27(c) when evaluating the variance
requests:
1. A variance may only be granted when the petitioner for the variance establishes that
there are practical difficulties in complying with this chapter. The term "practical
difficulties," as used in connection with the granting of a variance, means the applicant
shows compliance with the following:
a. The property owner must propose to use the property in a reasonable manner.
The applicant proposes to build an addition on an existing single-family home on
the property. The adjacent properties are single-family homes.
Staff finds that the proposed use of a single-family home is a reasonable use of
the property.
b. The landowners’ problem must be due to circumstances unique to the property
that is not caused by the landowner.
In the 900 square foot house, with its existing floorplan, the only place to add
additional living space that wouldn’t be accessed through one of the bedrooms is
to locate it on the west side of the home behind the garage. The applicant did
not design the existing home’s layout.
Staff finds that there are unique circumstances of the home that were not
caused by the landowner. Specifically, the layout of the existing home.
c. And the variance, if granted, must not alter the essential character of the locality.
The neighborhood is predominantly single-family homes built in the 1950’s and
1960’s, many of which are ramblers. The proposed addition keeps the existing
rambler’s front roofline intact. The flat roof addition is in keeping with the mid-
century modern style of the home and is comparable to a newer home across
Beverly Avenue.
Staff finds that variance, if granted, would not alter the essential character of the
neighborhood. The use is consistent with the rest of the neighborhood, and the
variance would allow construction of an addition consistent with the design and
style of the neighborhood. An alternative design with a peak roof was considered
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but would not have been in keeping with the home’s mid-century modern design
which would not have fit within the character of the neighborhood in addition
the overall height would have been greater.
2. Economic considerations alone do not constitute practical difficulties.
The practical difficulty is due to the location and layout of the existing house, rather
than any economic considerations related to expanding the existing dwelling.
3. The Board of Zoning Appeals may not grant a variance that would allow any use that is
not allowed under this chapter for property in the zone where the affected person's land
is located. The property is located in the Single Family Residential (R-1) zoning district.
The applicant proposes building an addition on a single-family house on the property,
which is a permitted use.
Staff finds the variance will not permit a use not allowed in the zoning district where the
property is located.
4. Variances shall only be permitted when they are in harmony with the general purposes
and intent of this chapter and when the variances are consistent with the Comprehensive
Plan.
Staff finds that the variance is in line with the purpose of the R-1 district, which is “to
provide for detached single-family dwelling units at a low density along with directly
related and complementary uses.” The variance is also in line with the goal of the 2040
Comprehensive Plan’s Housing Section objective to “Support the rehabilitation and
reinvestment of the housing stock as structures continue to age”
5. Finally, when reviewing a variance, the City must first determine whether or not there is
a practical difficulty and, if so, is the requested variance the minimum action necessary
to eliminate the practical difficulty?
Staff finds there are practical difficulties in complying with the zoning code. The existing
floorplan layout of rooms as well as the existing site with a large hill prevents another
location for an addition with the needed rooms that is all above grade. An alternative
would be to build all the rooms in a 1-story addition behind the garage. This would
create a larger footprint and would have a greater impact on the adjacent properties.
An additional design that was not pursued was a peaked roof that would have met the
standard but would have created a peak roof measuring 28 feet high versus the 18 feet
– 1 3/4 inches and this would have also created a greater impact than the chosen
design.
Given the findings, staff finds the minimum action necessary to eliminate the practical
difficulty would be to grant the variance.
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Staff Recommendation
The Board should review the applicants’ request and the findings needed to grant a variance.
Staff recommends the Board move to approve Waiver from Section 113-88 Single-Family
Residential R-1 Zoning District, subsection (e)(1)(c) to reduce the required side setback by 1 foot
3 inches for a portion of the structure above 15 feet from the 13 foot 9 inch requirement to 12
feet 6 inch
Recommended motion language: “I move to approve the variance request to reduce the side
yard setback along the western lot line by 1 foot 3 inches for a portion of the structure above
15 feet from the 13 foot 9 inch requirement to 12 feet 6 inch, subject to the findings and
conditions in the May 27, 2025, staff report.”
Next Steps
If the Board approves the variance request: the applicant will finalize construction plans and
apply for building permits.
If the Board denies the variance request: the applicant may appeal the decision to the City
Council per the process described in Section 113-27(d)(4). If the applicant does not appeal the
Board’s decision, or if City Council upholds the Board’s decision, the applicant will need to
revise their plans to comply with the current setbacks on the property before applying for
building permits.
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RESOLUTION NO. BZA-25-0007
A RESOLUTION APPROVING VARIANCE AT 4124 BEVERLY AVENUE
WHEREAS, property owners Angela Varpness and Andrew Varpness, request a variance to reduce
the required side setback by 1 foot 3 inches for a portion of the structure above 15 feet from the 13
foot 9 inch requirement to 12 feet 6 inch in the R-1 Single Family Residential Zoning District in order
to add additional living space to their existing home; and
WHEREAS, the proposed variance is situated upon lands in Hennepin County, Minnesota, legally
described as:
Lots 39 and 40, Glenwood Addition
WHEREAS, on May 27, 2025, the Golden Valley Board of Zoning Appeals held a public hearing on
the application; and
WHEREAS, based on the testimony, evidence presented, and files and records, the Board of Zoning
Appeals determined that the requested variance meets the requirements of City Code Section 113 -
27(c) necessary to be met for the Board to grant variances, and makes the following findings:
1. City Code Section 113-88(e)(c)2 requires lots having a width greater than 65 feet and less
than 100 feet, the side setbacks for any portion of a structure 15 feet or less in height shall
be 12.5 feet. The side setbacks for any portion of a structure greater than 15 feet in height
shall be measured to an inwardly sloping plane at a ratio of 2:1 beginning at a point 15 feet
directly above the side setback line.
2. The property owner proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner. The existing
principal use of the site is a single-family home. The applicant proposes to build an addition
on an existing single-family home on the property. The adjacent properties are single-family
homes.
3. The landowner’s problem is due to circumstances unique to the property that is not caused
by the landowner. In the 900 square foot house, with its existing floorplan, the only place to
add additional living space that wouldn’t be accessed through one of the bedrooms is to
locate it on the west side of the home behind the garage. The applicant did not design the
existing home’s layout.
4. The variance, if granted, will not alter the essential character of the locality. The
neighborhood is predominantly single-family homes built in the 1950’s and 1960’s, many of
which are ramblers. The proposed addition keeps the existing rambler’s front roofline
intact. The flat roof addition is in keeping with the mid-century modern style of the home
and is comparable to a newer home across Beverly Avenue.
5. The practical difficulty is due to the location and layout of the existing house, rather than
any economic considerations related to expanding existing home.
6. The Board of Zoning Appeals may not grant a variance that would allow any use that is not
allowed under this chapter for property in the zone where the affected person's land is
located. The property is located in the Single Family Residential (R-1) zoning district. The
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applicant proposes building an addition on a single-family house on the property, which is a
permitted use.
7. The variance request is in harmony with the general purposes and intent of the City Code
and the Comprehensive Plan. The variance is in line with the purpose of the R-1 district,
which is “to provide for detached single-family dwelling units at a low density along with
directly related and complementary uses.” The variance is also in line with the goal of the
2040 Comprehensive Plan’s Housing Section objective to “Support the rehabilitation and
reinvestment of the housing stock as structures continue to age”
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, BY THE BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS OF THE CITY OF GOLDEN
VALLEY, MINNESOTA, that this Board adopts Resolution No. BZA-25-0007 approving the variance to
reduce the required side setback by 1 foot 3 inches for a portion of the structure above 15 feet
from the 13 foot 9 inch requirement to 12 feet 6 inch at 4124 Beverly Avenue based on the findings
stated above.
Adopted by the Board of Zoning Appeals this 27th day of May, 2025.
_____________________
, Chair
ATTEST:
_____________________________
Steven Okey, Staff Liaison
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XXXXXX GRAPHIC SCALE( IN FEET )0Surveyor’s Notes603015JOB NO:__2025058___DRAFTED BY:_PMH_ CHECKED BY:_DSH_ VERTICAL DATUM: NAVD88 310 East Depot StreetLitchfield, MN 55355(320)693-3710dough.northstar@gmail.compaul.northstarsurveying@gmail.com1: Northstar Surveying prepared this survey without the benefit of a current abstract or title work. We reserve the right to revise the survey upon receipt of a current title commitment or title opinion.2: Northstar Surveying was not contacted to locate the size, location, or existence of any/all easements, right-of-way lines, setback lines, agreements or other similar matters. 3: Subsurface buildings, improvements and/or Environmental issues may exist on site that we were not made aware of and therefore were not examined or considered during the process of this survey. PROJECT ADDRESS4124 Beverly AvenueGolden Valley, MNHORIZONTAL DATUM:Hennepin CountyNAD83 (2011)CERTIFICATION: I hereby certify that this survey was prepared by me or under my direct supervision and that I am a Professional Licensed Surveyor under the Laws of the State of Minnesota._______________________________Doug Huhn Registration No. 43808 - In the Stateof Minnesota LEGAL DESCRIPTIONLots 39 and 40, GLENWOOD, Hennepin County, Minnesota.Containing 0.29 Acres, more or less.Subject to easements of record.Subject to any and all enforceable restrictive covenants.Found MonumentationSet 1/2 Inch by 14 Inch Iron Pipe with Plastic Cap Inscribedwith License No. 43808LEGENDUtility PolePaving StonesConcrete SurfaceGround ElevationFenceDATE OF FIELD WORK: May 2, 2025DATE OF MAP: May 6, 2025 REVISION:_____________ DATE________, 20___ REVISION:_____________ DATE________, 20___ 12
I hereby certify that this Survey, Plan or850860StorageShed62.5597.8490.8667.8089°02'39"BEVERLY AVENUE160.39158.6580.0280.008488528548568568588588628628648648648 6 6
868
18.291.069.0Top Found 869.0Gar Fl 864.7863.1862.5Top Found 865.1845.8865.6864.5861.8858.3857.2856.1856.5852.6858.4849.6843.6869.3868.3867.4869.2869.1868.7868.6869.7864.4864.5864.1864.4865.8865.4863.5862.9865.5864.5864.3863.0863.7865.0860.8857.2857.3861.0860.9860.7860.7860.2865.5864.9865.3867.2868.5865.3864.0868.9868.7868.6868.2867.6863.4862.3862.4862.5863.7864.3864.1864.0860.914.85.06.4powerpolepolepowerRock WallRock Wallcurb & gutter10.112.28.6Garage20.0House No. 4116House No. 420012.544.344.3GLENWOOD38394041ALLEYPROPERTY LINEPROPERTY LINEPROPERTY LINEPROPERTY LINEEXISTINGDRIVEWAYWOODED AREASETBACK, SEE SURVEY12' - 6"PROPOSED 2-STORYADDITIONPROPOSED DECKSETBACK, SEE SURVEY12' - 6"SETBACK, SEE SURVEY35' - 0"SETBACK, SEE SURVEY25' - 0" PRIMARY STRUCTURESETBACK12' - 6"PROPOSED LANDSCAPE WALLS PROPOSED LANDSCAPE WALLEXISTING HOUSEEXISTING GARAGEPROPOSED NEW ENTRY ADDITIONSee Survey10' - 0 3/4" +/-PROPERTY LINEPROPERTY LINEPROPERTY LINEDateProject NumberArchitectMechanical & Electrical EngineerEngineer's SealIssue / RevisionIssue:C 2019Structural EngineerCivil Engineer2/1/2025DD PROGRESS SETA1.0ARCHITECTURALSITE PLAN4/30/20252025.014124 Beverly Ave., Golden Valley, MN55422NOT for CONSTRUCTIONRESIDENCEAddressTelephoneNORTHSCALE:A1.01/16" = 1'-0"1SITE PLAN - PROPOSED ADDITIONNo. Description DateSEE SITE SURVEY FOR MORE INFORMATION13
A2.21A2.22A2.31A2.3211AA66CCDD1A3.01A3.0442EE2' - 0"33EXISTING 24" OVERHANG @ MAIN FLOORINFILL EXISTING WINDOW-6" (865.7')0" (866.3')8' - 9" V.I.F.2' - 0"DNNEW STAIR8' - 0" NEW OPENING9"2' - 0"NEW MUDROOMNEW LANDSCAPE RETAINING WALLS, TBDNEW DECK232 SFNEW ENTRY OVER EXIST. CMU FOUNDATION WALLSINFILL DOORNEW DOOREXISTING BASEMENT STAIRMAIN LEVELBBFF13' - 3"24' - 0"31' - 9"V.I.F. FROM EXIST. WALL11" +/-22' - 6" V.I.F.C.L. RIDGE OF EXISTING ROOF, ABOVENEW ADDITION, ABOVENEW LANDSCAPE RETAINING WALLS, TBDNEW LANDSCAPE RETAINING WALLS, TBDFIELD VERIFY CLEARANCE FOR GARAGE DOOR TRACK AND MOTORC.L. OF VAULTED CEILING, ABOVE7' - 9"NEW DOOR AND WINDOWSOVERHANG 2' - 0" EXISTUPEXIST. DRYVER VENTEXIST. SPRINKLER WATER LINENEW ADDITION FRAMING OVERHANGING NEW CRAWLSPACE BELOW, SEE BASEMENT PLAN55109 SFNEW HALLWAY &MUDROOM109254 SFNEW 4-SEASONPORCH110134 SFEXISTING KITCHEN10249 SFEXISTING ENTRYHALL10023 SFEXIST. HALL104307 SFEXISTING LIVING/DINING ROOM103135 SFEXISTING BEDROOM110549 SFEXIST. BATHRM106118 SFEXISTING BEDROOM210724 SFCLOSET105B10 SFClos.107B407 SFEXISTING GARAGE108W1W2W3W4W20W21W22W23W2410' - 11"11' - 8"10' - 10 1/2"10' - 10 1/4"W6GG2' - 10"12' - 0"W8W719' - 1"7"EXISTING CONC SIDEWALKNEW CONC STEPEXISTING CONC DRIVEWAY29 SFNEW ENTRY10119' - 11 3/4"18' - 0" +/-W512' - 8" , V.I.F.2' - 0"2' - 10"planting areaNORTHDateProject NumberArchitectMechanical & Electrical EngineerEngineer's SealIssue / RevisionIssue:C 2019Structural EngineerCivil Engineer2/1/2025DD PROGRESS SETA1.2FIRST FLOORPLAN4/30/20252025.014124 Beverly Ave., Golden Valley, MN55422NOT for CONSTRUCTIONRESIDENCEAddressTelephoneNo. Description DateSCALE:A1.21/4" = 1'-0"1FIRST FLOOR - NEWTo scale when printed at full-sized 18"x24" sheet.14
A2.21A2.22A2.31A2.3211A66CCDD1A3.01A3.04422EE33DNOPEN TO BELOW9' - 4" +/-8' - 9" V.I.F.2' - 0"EXISTING ROOFEXISTING ROOFEXISTING ROOFNEW ROOF AT NEW FRONT ENTRY POP-UP;SLOPE TO DRAIN TO SCUPPER AND DOWNSPOUT. EXISTING CHIMNEY4" / 1'-0"4" / 1'-0"4" / 1'-0"EXISTING GARAGE ROOFBBFFC.L. RIDGE OF EXISTING ROOF, ABOVERE-BUILT GARAGE ROOF 4" / 1'-0"11" +/-2' - 0"13' - 3"24' - 0"31' - 9"7' - 9"55desk263 SFNEW PRIMARYBEDROOM20445 SFNEW LANDING20185 SFNEW PRIMARY BATH20219 SFNEW W.C.203W13W12W11W10W14W15W16W17W18W19W9GGSHOWER 2' - 10"19' - 1"7"EXISTING ROOFEXISTING GARAGE ROOF12' - 8" , V.I.F.2' - 0"2' - 10"NEW STAIRclosetclosetcloset closetNORTHEXISTING GARAGE ROOFDateProject NumberArchitectMechanical & Electrical EngineerEngineer's SealIssue / RevisionIssue:C 2019Structural EngineerCivil Engineer2/1/2025DD PROGRESS SETA1.3SECONDFLOOR PLAN4/30/20252025.014124 Beverly Ave., Golden Valley, MN55422NOT for CONSTRUCTIONRESIDENCEAddressTelephoneNo. Description DateSCALE:A1.31/4" = 1'-0"1SECOND FLOOR - NEWTo scale when printed at full-sized 18"x24" sheet.15
A2.21A2.22A2.3111AA66CCDD1A3.04422EE33--BBFF55NEW SCUPPERAND DOWNSPOUTNEW SCUPPERAND DOWNSPOUTGG1/4" / 1'-0"1/4" / 1'-0"NEW CURB-MOUNTED SKYLIGHTNEW SLOED ROOF INFILL -SEE STRUCTURALEXISTING ROOF4" / 1'-0"4" / 1'-0"4" / 1'-0"4" / 1'-0"4" / 1'-0"4" / 1'-0"4" / 1'-0"NEW EPDM ROOFNEW EPDM ROOFNEW ROOF AT NEW ENTRY AREASLOPE TO NEW SCUPPER AND DOWNSPOUTEXISTING GARAGE ROOFEXISTING GARAGE ROOFEXISTING GARAGE EXTERIOR WALL @ GRIDLINE 6EXISTING GARAGE EXTERIOR WALL @ GRIDLINE 6EXISTING GARAGE ROOF31' - 9"12' - 8" V.I.F.2' - 0"2' - 10"2' - 10"19' - 1"7"11" +/-7' - 9"8' - 9" , V.I.F.2' - 0"13' - 3"NORTHDateProject NumberArchitectMechanical & Electrical EngineerEngineer's SealIssue / RevisionIssue:C 2019Structural EngineerCivil Engineer2/1/2025DD PROGRESS SETA1.4ROOF PLAN4/30/20252025.014124 Beverly Ave., Golden Valley, MN55422NOT for CONSTRUCTIONRESIDENCEAddressTelephoneNo. Description DateSCALE:A1.41/4" = 1'-0"1ROOF PLAN - NEWTo scale when printed at full-sized 18"x24" sheet.16
FIRST FLOOR0"16T.O. EXIST. ROOF13' -3 3/8"4SECOND FLOOR9' -4"ADDITION PARAPET21' -0"2ND FLOOR CEILING17' -4"2ND FLOOR CEILING17' -4"B.O. EXIST.CLNG.7' -6"10' - 0" EXISTING WEST WALL TO PROP. LINE12' - 6" CURRENT SIDEYARD SETBACK REQ.ZONING REQ. AVERAGE HEIGHTMAX. PITCHED ROOF28' -0"2EXISTING FIRST FLOOR 866.3'GRADE APPROX. 864.7'EXISTING SIDE YARD GRADE AT WEST WALL APPROX. 869.8'EXISTING FIRST FLOOR 866.3'ZONING REQ. MAX. FLAT ROOF25' -0"3518' - 1 3/4"2' - 10"4"AVERAGE EXISTING WEST SIDE YARD GRADE APPROX. 869.15'NEW FRONT ENTRYWAYEXISTING ROOFEXISTING ROOFPROPOSED ADDITION, SET BACK FROM EXISTING FRONT OF HOUSE15' - 0" , SEE ZONING REQ. 2'-0" / 1'-0"3' - 1 3/4"1' - 3"FIRST FLOOR0"FIRST FLOOR0"ACDT.O. EXIST. ROOF13' -3 3/8"T.O. EXIST. ROOF13' -3 3/8"SECOND FLOOR9' -4"SECOND FLOOR9' -4"ADDITION PARAPET21' -0"ADDITION PARAPET21' -0"2ND FLOOR CEILING17' -4"2ND FLOOR CEILING17' -4"B.O. EXIST.CLNG.7' -6"B.O. EXIST.CLNG.7' -6"ZONING REQ. AVERAGE HEIGHTMAX. PITCHED ROOF28' -0"EZONING REQ. MAX. FLAT ROOF25' -0"BFEXISTING SIDE YARD GRADE AT WEST WALL APPROX. 869.8'AVERAGE EXISTING WEST SIDE YARD GRADE APPROX. 869.15'NEW LANDSCAPE RETAINING WALL, BEYONDEXISTING GARAGE ROOFPROPOSED NEW ADDITIONNEW FRONT ENTRYWAY, BEYONDDateProject NumberArchitectMechanical & Electrical EngineerEngineer's SealIssue / RevisionIssue:C 2019Structural EngineerCivil Engineer2/1/2025DD PROGRESS SETA2.2EXTERIORELEVATIONS4/30/20252025.014124 Beverly Ave., Golden Valley, MN55422NOT for CONSTRUCTIONRESIDENCEAddressTelephoneNo. Description DateSCALE:A2.21/4" = 1'-0"1EXTERIOR ELEV - SOUTH (FRONT)SCALE:A2.21/4" = 1'-0"2EXTERIOR ELEV - WESTTo scale when printed at full-sized 18"x24" sheet.To scale when printed at full-sized 18"x24" sheet.17
FIRST FLOOR0"BASEMENT-8' -2"ACDT.O. EXIST. ROOF13' -3 3/8"SECOND FLOOR9' -4"ADDITION PARAPET21' -0"2ND FLOOR CEILING17' -4"B.O. EXIST.CLNG.7' -6"EZONING REQ. MAX. FLAT ROOF25' -0"BFapprox. to exist. garage door opener10' - 10"CRAWL SPACE FL.-4' -3 5/8"TBD ELEVATIONNEW CRAWL SPACENEW 4-SEASON PORCHNEW PRIMARY BEDROOMNEW MUD ROOMEXISTING GARAGE8' - 0"8' - 0"GNEW DECKNEW LANDSCAPE RETAINING WALLNEW LANDING NEW BATHROOMDateProject NumberArchitectMechanical & Electrical EngineerEngineer's SealIssue / RevisionIssue:C 2019Structural EngineerCivil Engineer2/1/2025DD PROGRESS SETA3.0BUILDINGSECTIONS4/30/20252025.014124 Beverly Ave., Golden Valley, MN55422NOT for CONSTRUCTIONRESIDENCEAddressTelephoneNo. Description DateSCALE:A3.01/4" = 1'-0"1Section- New Addition, looking EastTo scale when printed at full-sized 18"x24" sheet.18
DateProject NumberArchitectMechanical & Electrical EngineerEngineer's SealIssue / RevisionIssue:C 2019Structural EngineerCivil Engineer2/1/2025DD PROGRESS SETA9.2Sun Studies4/30/20252025.014124 Beverly Ave., Golden Valley, MN55422NOT for CONSTRUCTIONRESIDENCEAddressTelephoneNo. Description DateSCALE:A9.21Sun - Summer Solstice 8amSCALE:A9.22Sun - Summer Solstice 12pmSCALE:A9.24Sun - Winter Solstice 9amSCALE:A9.25Sun - Winter Solstice 12pmSCALE:A9.26Sun - Winter Solstice 9SCALE:A9.27Sun - Equinox 8amSCALE:A9.28Sun - Equinox 12pmSCALE:A9.29Sun - Equinox 8:30am:30am19
FIRST FLOOR0"16T.O. EXIST. ROOF13' -3 3/8"4SECOND FLOOR9' -4"ADDITION PARAPET21' -0"2ND FLOOR CEILING17' -4"2ND FLOOR CEILING17' -4"B.O. EXIST.CLNG.7' -6"10' - 0" EXISTING WEST WALL TO PROP. LINE12' - 6" CURRENT SIDEYARD SETBACK REQ.ZONING REQ. AVERAGE HEIGHTMAX. PITCHED ROOF28' -0"2EXISTING FIRST FLOOR 866.3'GRADE APPROX. 864.7'EXISTING SIDE YARD GRADE AT WEST WALL APPROX. 869.8'EXISTING FIRST FLOOR 866.3'ZONING REQ. MAX. FLAT ROOF25' -0"3518' - 1 3/4"2' - 10"4"AVERAGE EXISTING WEST SIDE YARD GRADE APPROX. 869.15'NEW FRONT ENTRYWAYEXISTING ROOFEXISTING ROOFPROPOSED ADDITION, SET BACK FROM EXISTING FRONT OF HOUSE15' - 0" , SEE ZONING REQ. 2'-0" / 1'-0"3' - 1 3/4"1' - 3"FIRST FLOOR0"FIRST FLOOR0"ACDT.O. EXIST. ROOF13' -3 3/8"T.O. EXIST. ROOF13' -3 3/8"SECOND FLOOR9' -4"SECOND FLOOR9' -4"ADDITION PARAPET21' -0"ADDITION PARAPET21' -0"2ND FLOOR CEILING17' -4"2ND FLOOR CEILING17' -4"B.O. EXIST.CLNG.7' -6"B.O. EXIST.CLNG.7' -6"ZONING REQ. AVERAGE HEIGHTMAX. PITCHED ROOF28' -0"EZONING REQ. MAX. FLAT ROOF25' -0"BFEXISTING SIDE YARD GRADE AT WEST WALL APPROX. 869.8'AVERAGE EXISTING WEST SIDE YARD GRADE APPROX. 869.15'NEW LANDSCAPE RETAINING WALL, BEYONDEXISTING GARAGE ROOFPROPOSED NEW ADDITIONNEW FRONT ENTRYWAY, BEYONDDateProject NumberArchitectMechanical & Electrical EngineerEngineer's SealIssue / RevisionIssue:C 2019Structural EngineerCivil Engineer2/1/2025DD PROGRESS SETA2.2EXTERIORELEVATIONS4/30/20252025.014124 Beverly Ave., Golden Valley, MN55422NOT for CONSTRUCTIONRESIDENCEAddressTelephoneNo. Description DateSCALE:A2.21/4" = 1'-0"1EXTERIOR ELEV - SOUTH (FRONT)SCALE:A2.21/4" = 1'-0"2EXTERIOR ELEV - WESTTo scale when printed at full-sized 18"x24" sheet.To scale when printed at full-sized 18"x24" sheet.20
21
22
23
24
1
4124 Beverly Ave., Golden Valley, MN 55422
Photos of existing houseWest 25
2
4124 Beverly Ave., Golden Valley, MN 55422
Photos of existing house
Area behind garage for proposed 2-story additionArea behind garage for proposed 2-story addition,
Showing neighbor’s house to the west
West
26
3
4124 Beverly Ave., Golden Valley, MN 55422
Photos of neighborhood context on Beverly Ave.
27
FIRST FLOOR0"16T.O. EXIST. ROOF13' -3 3/8"4SECOND FLOOR9' -4"ADDITION PARAPET21' -0"2ND FLOOR CEILING17' -4"2ND FLOOR CEILING17' -4"B.O. EXIST.CLNG.7' -6"10' - 0" EXISTING WEST WALL TO PROP. LINE12' - 6" CURRENT SIDEYARD SETBACK REQ.ZONING REQ. AVERAGE HEIGHTMAX. PITCHED ROOF28' -0"2EXISTING FIRST FLOOR 866.3'GRADE APPROX. 864.7'EXISTING SIDE YARD GRADE AT WEST WALL APPROX. 869.8'EXISTING FIRST FLOOR 866.3'ZONING REQ. MAX. FLAT ROOF25' -0"3518' - 1 3/4"2' - 10"4"AVERAGE EXISTING WEST SIDE YARD GRADE APPROX. 869.15'NEW FRONT ENTRYWAYEXISTING ROOFEXISTING ROOFPROPOSED ADDITION, SET BACK FROM EXISTING FRONT OF HOUSE15' - 0" , SEE ZONING REQ. 2'-0" / 1'-0"3' - 1 3/4"1' - 3"FIRST FLOOR0"FIRST FLOOR0"ACDT.O. EXIST. ROOF13' -3 3/8"T.O. EXIST. ROOF13' -3 3/8"SECOND FLOOR9' -4"SECOND FLOOR9' -4"ADDITION PARAPET21' -0"ADDITION PARAPET21' -0"2ND FLOOR CEILING17' -4"2ND FLOOR CEILING17' -4"B.O. EXIST.CLNG.7' -6"B.O. EXIST.CLNG.7' -6"ZONING REQ. AVERAGE HEIGHTMAX. PITCHED ROOF28' -0"EZONING REQ. MAX. FLAT ROOF25' -0"BFEXISTING SIDE YARD GRADE AT WEST WALL APPROX. 869.8'AVERAGE EXISTING WEST SIDE YARD GRADE APPROX. 869.15'NEW LANDSCAPE RETAINING WALL, BEYONDEXISTING GARAGE ROOFPROPOSED NEW ADDITIONNEW FRONT ENTRYWAY, BEYONDDateProject NumberArchitectMechanical & Electrical EngineerEngineer's SealIssue / RevisionIssue:C 2019Structural EngineerCivil Engineer2/1/2025DD PROGRESS SETA2.2EXTERIORELEVATIONS4/30/20252025.014124 Beverly Ave., Golden Valley, MN55422NOT for CONSTRUCTIONRESIDENCEAddressTelephoneNo. Description DateSCALE:A2.21/4" = 1'-0"1EXTERIOR ELEV - SOUTH (FRONT)SCALE:A2.21/4" = 1'-0"2EXTERIOR ELEV - WESTTo scale when printed at full-sized 18"x24" sheet.To scale when printed at full-sized 18"x24" sheet.28
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Community Development
763-512-2345 / 763-512-2344 (fax)
Golden Valley Board of Zoning Appeals Meeting
May 27, 2025
Agenda Item
4.A. Review of Board of Zoning Appeals Bylaws
Prepared By
Jacquelyn Kramer, Senior Planner
Summary
The Board of Zoning Appeals bylaws provide a list of duties and specific direction for the Board to carry
out their work as required in City Code Section 113-27. The Board is required to review their bylaws no
later than the second meeting after May 1 every three years. The Board may review the bylaws more
frequently as needed. The Board last amended and approved the bylaws on March 21, 2023.
Tonight, staff would like to review the current bylaws and provide an opportunity for Board members
to present recommendations for changes and amendments. These bylaws can be altered or amended
at any regular monthly Board meeting with a majority of members present, provided that notice of the
proposed changes and amendments is provided to each member at least 10 business days before the
meeting. The Council must review and approve any changes to, and has final authority regarding,
these bylaws.
Recommended Action
Please provide staff with feedback on potential amendments to the Board of Zoning Appeals bylaws. If
changes are proposed, staff would bring amendments to the Board for a vote in June.
Supporting Documents
Golden Valley Board of Zoning Appeals Bylaws
29
Amended and Approved March, 21, 2023
BYLAWS
Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA)
Article I: Purpose, Mission, and Prescribed Duties
The Board of Zoning Appeals shall have the powers as provided for in City Code Section 11.90, Subd. 4. In
conducting official business the Board shall:
• Hear and decide appeals only on matters provided for in Section 11.90 Subd. 4. B of the City Code
and M.S.A. 462.359 (4)
• Hear and decide appeals only where the petition meets the specific requirements of Section 11.90
Subd. 4. C “Procedure” of the City Code and only where notices as required by the Section have
been provided by the City
Article II: Membership, Appointments, Terms, and Officers
A. Membership
The Board shall consist of six members; four regular members, one non-voting youth member, and one
voting member of the Planning Commission. Regular members shall be residents of the City. Youth
members shall live or attend school within Golden Valley, the Robbinsdale Area District or Hopkins School
District and be enrolled in school grades 9 through 12. A vacancy shall be deemed to exist if a member
ceases to meet the residency requirements. One rotating Planning Commissioner serves as a voting
member of the Board to complete a quorum. In the absence of a regular member, a Planning
Commissioner may serve as an alternate.
B. Appointment and Terms
Regular appointments are effective May 1 of each year. Youth appointments are effective October 1 of
each year. The Council shall appoint four regular members of the Board for three-year staggered terms
and one youth member to serve a one-year term. The City Council shall appoint the members of the Board
and may fill vacancies for unexpired terms. A vacancy shall be deemed to exist if a member resigns of
ceases to meet the membership requirements. Board members shall be subject to the term limit
requirements in City Code § 2-125.
C. Officers
The Board shall elect the officers of Chair and Vice Chair by its voting members at its regular annual
meeting (no later than the second meeting after May 1 in each year). The Chair and Vice Chair positions
rotate and members may only serve two consecutive years as the Chair or Vice Chair. Should the office of
Chair or Vice Chair become vacant, the Board shall elect a successor from its membership at the next
regular meeting and such election shall be for the unexpired term of said office. Officers may also delegate
the duties of their position to other Board members as deemed appropriate by the Board. The Planning
Commission representative may not serve as the Chair or Vice Chair.
Chair responsibilities:
• work with staff liaison to develop meeting agendas
• conduct and preside at all meetings in a productive and time-efficient manner
• ensure the Board conducts its activities within the stated mission and bylaws of the Board
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BYLAWS – Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) 2
Amended and Approved March, 21, 2023
• monitor and ensure the progress of the Board
• report to the City Council
Vice Chair responsibilities:
• perform the duties of the Chair in the absence or incapacity of the Chair
• perform all other duties as prescribed by the Board
Article III: Meetings and Attendance
A. Meetings
All meetings of the Board shall be conducted in accordance with the Minnesota Open Meeting Law and
City code. This means all business and discussion occurs at a meeting which has been posted and is open
to the public.
The presence of a majority of all regular members currently appointed to the Board shall constitute a
quorum for the purpose of conducting its business and exercising its powers and for all other purposes. In
order to obtain a quorum, a Planning Commission representative must be present. A quorum of the
members should not discuss Board business by email, forms of social media, telephone, or informal
meetings. Board meetings may be cancelled by the staff liaison if there are no pending cases or other
items on the agenda for discussion.
The proceedings of meeting should be conducted using standard parliamentary procedure.
i. Regular Meeting
The regular meeting of the Board shall be held on the fourth Tuesday of the month at City Hall at
7:00 pm. The Board may, by a majority vote, change its regular meeting dates for any reason
provided proper public notice of the changed meeting is provided.
ii. Annual Meeting
The Annual Meeting of the Board shall be a regular meeting, typically the first meeting after May 1
of each year, at which time elections will be held.
iii. Special Meeting
A special meeting may be called by the Chair or whenever three members request the same in
writing. Staff shall give notice to each Board member, at least three days prior to any special
meeting, of the time, place, and purpose of the meeting.
B. Attendance
Absences in one year should not exceed three consecutive meetings or more than 25 percent of the total
meetings for the year. If a member is unable to attend a meeting, that member should contact the staff
liaison, who will inform the chair if a quorum cannot be attained and the meeting will be cancelled.
A standardized letter of warning will be sent from the City Manager’s office to any member after two
consecutive or two total absences for groups meeting once a month. For those meeting twice a month the
letter would be sent from the chair after two consecutive or five total absences. If a member exceeds the
allowable number of absences the City Manager’s office will send a standardized letter stating the
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BYLAWS – Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) 3
Amended and Approved March, 21, 2023
member must step down because of the importance of regular attendance and the number of citizens
interested in serving. If the City Manager’s office feels there are extenuating circumstances in a case of a
member who has not met the attendance requirements, an exception can be made.
Article IV: Rules
A. Conduct of Business
A monthly agenda shall be prepared and mailed to each of the members of the Board. Completed
petitions must be received at least 15 working days prior to the day of the meeting for which a hearing is
scheduled. Unless otherwise requested by the Board, the agenda of each regular meeting shall be as
follows:
A. Hearing of petitions or business carried from a previous meeting
B. Hearing of new petitions
C. Communications
D. Other business
E. Adjournment
The staff liaison shall prepare a written report and recommendation on each petition submitted to the
Board, which shall become a part of the official record.
All petitions and evidence received by the Board shall be reviewed and considered, and within a
reasonable time the Board shall make its written orders deciding the particular matter.
B. Recordkeeping
All minutes, required notices, and files on petitions of each case shall be in writing and shall be kept in
accordance with City procedures, Minnesota Statute and Rules regarding preservation of public records
and the Minnesota Data Privacy Act. All materials (including surveys and petitions) and decisions relating
to each case shall be filed with the Planning division.
The petition form referred to in the bylaws and section 11.90 of the City Code shall be that officially
adopted by the Board.
C. Annual Report
The Board staff liaison shall submit an annual report to the City Council summarizing the past year's
activities. The report may highlight information the Board feels appropriate to convey to the City Council.
D. Performance of Duties
Board members are expected to adequately prepare for meetings. Members unable to complete an
assigned task should notify the Board Chair as soon as possible. The Board staff liaison may ask the City
Council to review a Board member’s appointment based upon its assessment of significant non-
performance of duties.
Article V: Amendments and Revisions
The Board will review these bylaws no later than the second meeting after May 1 every three years. Members
may present recommendations for changes and amendments. These bylaws can be altered or amended at any
regular monthly Board meeting with a majority of regular Board members present, provided that notice of the
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BYLAWS – Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) 4
Amended and Approved March, 21, 2023
proposed changes and amendments is provided to each member at least ten business days before the
meeting. The Council must review and approve any changes to, and has final authority regarding, these
bylaws.
33