02-12-2018 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING Tuesday, January 16, 2018 6:30 o'clock p.m. 2. This is lake access point #39 with the listed purpose of providing walking access to the lake. These lake access points are classified under the Parks, Open Space and Trail Plan in the Comprehensive Management Plan. In addition, the City Council just adopted a Resolution in Support of the City of Orono Keeping its Open Spaces, Playgrounds, Parks and Trails in Perpetuity. If the vacation is approved, the west end of the right-of-way has a city storm pond in it that would need protection. The options are that that right-of-way not be included in the vacation or the City could obtain an easement over the pond, associated pipes, and access way from the road to the pond. Staff received two written comments in opposition to this request. Planning Staff recommends denial of this application because it does not meet the goals of the Comprehensive Plan and the decision would be final. The Planning Commission had no questions for Staff. Eric Vogstrom, Applicant, stated he purchased the property in 2004 and constructed a house on the lot. Vogstrom indicated he spoke with Mayor Walsh about this last fall and the Mayor had suggested that he look into vacating the right-of-way because he felt it made sense in this situation since the area is pretty heavily wooded. Vogstrom indicated the property is at an angle and that he has been experiencing problems with snowmobilers cutting across his property to get to the lake. Vogstrom stated he has three small children and a dog and that the snowmobilers could pose a danger to them. Thiesse asked if he would continue to use as it he currently is. Vogstrom indicated he would continue to use it to access his dock. Schwingler asked if the applicant has erected any signs in an attempt to keep the snowmobilers out of his property.