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Conditional Use Permit No. 2010-24 Variance No. 2010-04 January 24, 2011 Page 5 proposed tower and steeple is mirrored in smaller steeples elsewhere on the building, all of which create character defining features supportive of its modern Gothic architectural theme. These features are found on similarly-themed buildings and church structures. Section 41-233 of the SAMC establishes the maximum height of buildings to 27 feet and two stories in height in the R1 zone. The SAMC also provides for the ability to vary from the design standards contained in the code where there is a condition unique to size, shape, topography, location or surroundings of the site. In this case there are two features of the subject site that would warrant a variance from the regulation of the maximum height of buildings; the location of the facility along a Secondary Arterial Street and the unique contextual surroundings of similar sized buildings on the adjacent property. The following outlines the unique challenges that each of these circumstances creates. The project site is an interior lot located along McFadden Avenue, a secondary arterial street as defined by the Circulation Element of the General Plan. Additionally, the site shares its easterly property line with the Forty Martyrs Armenian Apostolic Church that has a 75-foot high church tower constructed in 1984. Although the site shares its westerly property line with single family residential uses to the west, the homes are oriented towards smaller residential collector streets which take access from Maxine Street and are located at least 80 feet from the proposed church building. To the north, the closest residence would be approximately 280 feet from the proposed structure. Additionally, the St. Barbara's Catholic Church, located just east of the site, also has a large 60- foot tall tower structure built in 2007 that serves as a significant architectural feature. Due to its location on a secondary arterial street and location immediately adjacent to two churches with significant architectural elements that exceed the height standard, the applicant is requesting the ability to construct a similarly sized tower appropriate for the modern Gothic architectural theme of the proposed church building. The tower element will create a sense of arrival and community for the congregation of the Calvary Lutheran Church while maintaining the quality of the surrounding visual environment which is harmonious in scale with surrounding structures in the area. The reconstruction of the Calvary Lutheran Church will complement several provisions of the General Plan. Further, it will allow the construction of a new church facility that will replace one that was damaged by fire. As a result, staff recommends approval of Conditional Use Permit No. 2010-24 and Variance No. 2010-04 as conditioned. 31A-7