09/15/2014 Planning Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING Monday, September 15,2014 6:30 o'clock p.m. Hiller stated there has been an assumption that power will be available but that they will check on that to make sure there is adequate power for the area. Chair Leskinen opened the public hearing at 10:21 p.m. Bryce Johnson, 580 North Arm Drive, stated he would encourage the Planning Commission to keep an open mind on the park and that it has been a collaborative effort with the developer and the neighbors. Johnson stated he has noticed that there are approximately 640 properties within a one-mile walking distance of the park. The neighbors have been working with the developer and a landscape architect will be brought in to provide some ideas for vegetation and create a firm plan for the park to give a better understanding of what the long-term maintenance needs of the park will be. Johnson noted they did get quite a few pledges and funds originally for preserving Lakeview and that those funds can be used on the park. Johnson stated the group has an awareness that the City may not be looking to take on another park at this time. Johnson indicated it is their plan that the park would not create any burden for Orono but rather would be a really great example of people coming together. Johnson indicated they will continue to work on this concept and that he would appreciate any input and suggestions. Johnson noted this was a property that consisted of 145 acres that were available to the general public. The developer at first proposed a plan that would maintain approximately half of the property as a common area. While that was not a firm plan,that was the implication that was given to the general public. There was also talk about trails. As the plan evolved, it got to the point where, without the park there is not a single foot of common land or publicly available land. Johnson indicated the park would be a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge the legacy of that course and provide some historic information to the visitors to the park. Johnson stated the park does have significant support from the neighbors. Kelly Prchal, 4705 Watertown Road, stated she is speaking on behalf of some of her neighbors who were not able to come tonight. Prchal stated she applauds the collaboration between the developer and the residents for the park and that she supports the park concept. Prchal stated the developer has done a great deal of work moving forward after the initial contentious debate and that she would support maximizing the green space on this site. Prchal stated she would also recommend that the City look into the Page 50 of 59