11-19-2018 Planning Commission Packet

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING Monday,October 15,2018 6:30 o'clock p.m. Olson asked whether someone could proceed forward with a variance if they wanted to deviate from the exterior finish standards. Curtis indicated they would need a variance and that in Staffs view some argument could be made with the words consistent in design and color. As it relates to Section B, if an accessory building is streetward, Staff is looking for the color and design to be the same,but the property owner could ask for a variance if they did not want to use that material. Libby commented he likes this language but that it should be noted it will also increase the cost to the homeowner. Libby stated the Planning Commission may need to be prepared to see an increase in variances. Curtis noted economic difficulty is not a practical difficulty. Libby stated as soon as you get into custom features and materials, it could be tens of thousands of dollars in additional costs. Libby stated the City needs to be conscious that there will be a difference. Thiesse noted currently it is not allowed and this would allow it under certain rules. Olson asked what the definition of consistent is. Curtis stated the current definition says consistent design and color,and that if the principal structure has a pitched roof and is red, Staff would expect the accessory structure to have a pitched roof and red. Olson stated at some point it may be necessary to define the word consistent. Curtis stated that has not been an issue in the past and that the language relating to materials makes it easier. Lemke stated he has an issue with dictating design like that and that in his view the City is trying to say they want everything to look exactly alike,which is scary and may be difficult to do. Landgraver stated he agrees to some extent but that they are asking for whatever is being built is harmonious what other things on the property. Landgraver stated he is supportive of it. Lemke commented he likes the word harmonious rather than consistent. Erickson asked how often they see a Class B house where they contemplate a Class A accessory structure. Curtis stated in the situations where the City has granted variances to this setback,they have asked the property owners for architectural accessories. The requirement is not out of the realm of what the City is looking for,and the whole point of the architectural requirement is to help mitigate the closeness of the accessory building to the road rather than the home. Curtis stated she is attempting to mitigate the negative impact of that and would be open to different ways of doing that. Curtis requested the Planning Commission provide some direction on whether they feel those two districts are acceptable or whether any district would be acceptable.