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MINUTES OF THE <br /> ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING <br /> Monday,April 21,2014 <br /> 6:30 o'clock p.m. <br /> Sedgwick stated there are a number of options available and that they would be open to a different type of <br /> block. Sedgwick stated this particular block performs very well for Mn/DOT applications and was <br /> chosen for its self-engineering and because it has a great natural look to it. Sedgwick indicated she has <br /> seen a similar wall in the Minnetonka area and it looks fabulous. Sedgwick stated they can also color the <br /> stone any color they want. <br /> Lemke asked if the block sections are mechanically or chemically fastened together in any way. <br /> Sedgwick stated they are not and that each block weighs approximately 1,680 pounds,which will prevent <br /> the product from moving. Sedgwick stated the engineering value on any retaining wall is based on how <br /> the product is core filled and backfilled and that they have specified a clear aggregate with no fines to <br /> reduce the hydraulic pressure. <br /> Chair Leskinen opened the public hearing at 7:13 p.m. <br /> Bob Ponzetti, 2545 Kelly Avenue, stated he is also here representing one of his neighbors who is unable <br /> to attend tonight's meeting. Ponzetti asked what the horizontal wall will be constructed out of along the <br /> lakeshore. <br /> Curtis displayed a picture of the geo block. <br /> Sedgwick provided some manufacturer's information on the block to Mr. Hunz. <br /> Barbara Ponzetti,2545 Kelly Avenue, stated she understands the applicants are applying for a variance <br /> and asked what creates the need for a variance. <br /> Curtis stated the variance is for the installation of the retaining wall within 75 feet of the shoreline,which <br /> constitutes hardcover. Curtis pointed out the location of the current boulder retaining wall and the <br /> proposed wall. Curtis indicated the wall requires a hardcover variance and a conditional use permit is <br /> required to conduct the work within the 0-75 foot setback. <br /> Ponzetti noted there is a treehouse in that area and asked if it is considered hardcover. <br /> Curtis indicated it would be. Curtis noted the treehouse is currently not included in the hardcover <br /> calculations,but if the hardcover from the treehouse is included in the calculations,the site is still beneath <br /> 25 percent. <br /> Ponzetti asked if the treehouse is grandfathered in. <br /> Curtis stated it is difficult for the City to document something as a nonconformity if they are not aware of <br /> when it first appeared. Curtis noted the treehouse is not a Rainbow play structure and that the City does <br /> not require a permit for play structures. Curtis indicated she is not sure if anyone approached the City <br /> about constructing it before it was built but that it will be included in the hardcover calculations. Staff <br /> will make sure the property is not exceeding structural or hardcover levels but that the treehouse is looked <br /> at as being similar to the boathouse. <br /> Page 8 of 19 <br />