04-10-1995 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON APRIL 10, 1995 ( #7) PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION TO AMEND RESIDENTIAL CODE TO ALLOW SHELTERS FOR VICTIMS OF DOMESTIC • ABUSE Mayor Callahan provided an update on the application for a shelter to provide emergency housing for victims of domestic abuse and their families as well as counseling and support services for victims and the wider public of Orono and the surrounding cities. The Planning Commission and Zoning Administrator Mabusth were commended for their efforts in the extensive study and public information meetings regarding the shelter. It was determined that the proposed location was good with its proximity to amenities and various means of transportation. Applicant, Dan Hessburg, reported receiving a $10,000 grant from the McKnight Foundation to go towards the shelter. Jabbour commented that the review was more than site specific. The Council was looking at the possibility of a shelter in Orono overall, rather than particularly this site. Callahan said that the purpose of the present hearing was to consider if this type of shelter or use is appropriate anywhere under Orono's code. It was the recommendation of the Planning Commission to amend the code under residential zoning for this particular application or a similar situation. Callahan said that, although he understands the Planning Commission's recommendation to amend the existing residential code, he personally rejects the idea that the shelter should go into a residential zone as a concept of use. Callahan prefers that the area be rezoned commercial. A shelter representative asked for clarification to confirm what was Callahan's opinion. Hurr voiced that she preferred residential zoning with a conditional use within so many feet of residential area and would like to see the shelter go forth. Goetten felt that a CUP was a good option, but if not the general consensus of the Council, was willing to look at the issue in more detail. Jabbour concurred with Callahan on changing the zoning code. Jabbour would also like to see the shelter become a reality and felt the site was a good location for this use. Jabbour said he would have no problem with this site being commercial if the shelter did not transpire. Hurr voiced concern with the lack of a CUP in commercial zoning. Mabusth reported that the B4 zoning would also require a conditional use permit for this use. Professional office space is the permitted use in the B4, but is open to other uses such as retirement and nursing homes, with a conditional use permit. • 4