5117 23RD AVE W 2016-01-01 MF Import

� The existing retaining wall to be replaced is within subject buffer. Side setbacks are five (5')feet but are not encumbered by the retaining wall. Conclusion: The existing retaining system is inadequate and must be replaced. As shown on the site plan dated March 16, 2008, an alignment nearly matching the existing wall is proposed, thereby minimizing the irrpacts on the criticai area east of the site. 2. The proposed retaining wall does not pose a threat to the public health, safety and welfare on or off the subject lot. Findinas: The subject property is currently developed with a single-family structure and this proposai does not increase the developed area. The subject property has a steep slope (41%) in the rear of the home and a wooden retaining wall is Iocated approximately six (6) feet beyond the concrete slab at the rear of the homc: which tlie applicant is proposing to replace with a more permanent structure. Conclusion: The existing retaining syslem is inadequate and must be replaced in order to remedy the settlement occurring between the concrete slab and the top of the bluff on the subject sire. Public health, safety and welfare both on and off the site wili be enhanced as a result of the replacement of a structurally deficient retaining wail constructed of wood (railroed ties) situated at the top ot the steep slope. 3. Any alternatiois permitted to the requirements of the Zoning Code shall be the minimum necessary to allow for reasonable use of the property. ( Findin4s: The City of Everett Planning Department has received an application for a proposed retaining wall at 5117 23rd Avenue West which exceeds the maximum four(4) foot height limit in the side yard setback area. Section 39.150 of the Zoning Code allo�rfs rockeries and retaining walls in required building setback ��eas if the rockery or wall is: a. Not being used for direct structural support of a building; b. Is reasonably necessary to provide support lo a cut or slope; c. Will not obstruct or interfere with the vision of vehicles or pedestrians using the street or driveways; and d. Is 36" in height or less. In situations where it is necessary to build a rockery or retaining wall higher than 36" within the building setbacks, the Planning Director may authorize a higher rockery or retaining wall using Revie�•� Process II. The Planning director has approved the proposed retaining wal! at a maximum height of six (6) feet based upon a Geotechnical Study. (Review Process II #09-008) Conclusion: The ground sur(ace betw,:en the concrete slab and the �vooden retaining wall has set!led about four(4)to five (5) inches probabiy due to settlement of the soft fill in this area and probably outward movement of the retaining wall. NOTE: The slope is at abcut 41 degrees which is approximately the angle of repose of the till soils and is about 100 feet high. A six (6) foot retaining wall is necessary to remedy the existing problem due to the settlement of soft fill ( and the outward mov�ment of a wooden retaining wall at the top of a steep slope. _, C Z�`�