02-19-2019 Planning Commission Packet

Home Browse Search

Narrative for the variance requests at 3369 Crystal bay Rd.,Orono for Joshua and Nicole Jabs 1) Summary. Given the unique lots on crystal bay road that don't meet lot area or lot width requirements,the property conforms to the general characteristics of other residences in terms of size and setback(in front of adjoining rear setbacks),while maintaining livability by focusing on conformance with characteristics of the neighborhood, restoring the lot to natural grading/ contours and removing largest existing non-conforming structures 2) Moving house back would increase hardcover for driveway and create issues with large structure on each side of property including tall existing carpark inside the 75' setback on the east side 3) The Rear variance improves on the existing property as the current garage is only 9.5'to the rear of property,the garage will be removed and property will then be 23.7'to the rear and carry a greater rear setback then either neighboring properties. 4) Height variance. This is a unusual property as the rear grade was flattened with retaining walls to build the existing non-conforming garage and we would like to restore the natural grade and contour of the area and neighboring properties.the grade of the property was modified significantly in the past and presents a challenge in the height restrictions and the rear yard livability. Again, bringing the grade closer to its natural state will significantly improve its fit with adjacent properties and provide a more realistic view for which to view the house height (flat lot vs graded lot)and the rear access (which both neighboring and most properties enjoy today). 5) Lot Area/Lot width :As with other lots on Crystal Bay Rd,the lot doesn't meet either the lot area or lot width requirements, but the proposed structure conforms with the overall characteristics of the street and meets both side setback and average setback requirements.