Board unanimously approves basement addition to existing West Lake Sylvia home

The Wright County Board of Adjustment unanimously approved on April 24 an application to add living space under a portion of an existing home at 15339 76th St NW on West Lake Sylvia.

Planner Aaron Ogle and consultant Bernie Miller said the property has prior variances dating to 1978 and 1994; the existing house sits closer to the ordinary high-water level than current rules allow. The proposed work would create living space in the lower level under a portion of the existing home without changing floor heights or expanding the footprint toward the lake; the new footprint was described at 65.5 feet from the ordinary high-water level and 14.4 feet from the southeast side yard. Miller said the project will reduce impervious surface coverage from about 27% to 25% by removing walkways and stairs.

No public opposition was recorded. Board members said the request made sense given the existing nonconforming footprint, and several referenced the property’s long history of variances and an existing certified drainfield. Member Mol noted there have been no complaints in 30 years and supported approval provided floor heights remain unchanged. The motion to approve was moved and seconded as recorded in the minutes and carried unanimously.