04-08-2019 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING Monday, March 18, 2019 6:30 o’clock p.m. _____________________________________________________________________________________ 4. LA19-000010 REHKAMP LARSON ARCHITECTS, 2587 KELLY AVENUE, VARIANCES AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT, 7:00 P.M. – 7:13 P.M. Jean Rehkamp and Sarah Nymo, Rehkamp Larson Architects, were present. Curtis stated the applicant is requesting a side setback variance to permit the reconstruction of an existing one-level, detached garage in a larger footprint at an improved but still substandard side yard setback. The existing 441 square foot garage is 2.5 feet from the side lot line and is proposed to be removed. The applicant is proposing a 4.3-foot setback for a new 744 square foot two-story garage. The required setback for an accessory building less than 1,000 square feet is 7.5 feet. A detached garage with recreation space is permitted, and a conditional use permit is requested so that a full bathroom with shower/bathtub can be installed. Supportive comments from the neighbor most directly impacted were received and have been included in the Commission’s packet. Staff recommends approval of the variance subject to conformance with the building official’s comments, the building code, and the comments of the City Engineer. Staff recommends approval of the conditional use permit. The property owners would be required to file a covenant agreeing that the structure will not be used as a dwelling until a permit is obtained allowing use of the building as a dwelling. The Planning Commission had no questions for Staff. Rehkamp stated this project was inspired by an existing 900 square foot cottage on the lot that has been there since the1900s. The cottage is in great shape. The property owners have three children and are hoping to have them visit this summer. The extra square footage comes from the desire to maintain the existing cottage and have some extra room for their children. Nymo noted the cottage already has one existing bathroom and the detached garage with a studio above it provides a little more room and privacy. Landgraver asked if the garage will mirror the cottage aesthetically. Rehkamp indicated the materials will match but that it will have a steeper roofline than the cottage so some living space can be gained. Landgraver asked if it is one and a half or two full baths in the garage. Rehkamp indicated it is two. Thiesse asked whether the retaining walls are new or existing. Nymo noted there are existing retaining walls there presently that will be modified. The garage could be built further into the property, but there is an egress/ingress easement with the adjacent neighbor, and they would also like to preserve the view of the cottage as you enter the property. Libby asked what steps will be taken to address the runoff.