07-10-2017 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Council MINUTES OF THE Exhibit C ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING 17-3943 Monday, June 19, 2017 6:30 o'clock p.m. 4. 17-3943 ALL ENERGY SOLAR ON BEHALF OF LARRY BARAN, 480 STUBBS BAY ROAD NORTH, VARIANCE, 7:03 P.M. — 7:13 P.M. Larry Baran, Applicant, was present along with Kristin Sakwitz of All Energy Solar. Barnhart stated the applicant is requesting a variance from the ordinance that requires solar energy systems to be roof mounted. The property owner would like to place solar panels on the ground to the north of the existing house. The property is over two acres in size and is exempt from hardcover limitations. Staff has conducted a preliminary review of the project for compatibility with the septic system and has determined that the project is not likely to impact the existing or future septic sites. Based on Staff's review, the proposed location of the solar panels is within a heavily screened area of the yard and maintains setbacks from adjacent property lines. In addition, the solar panels will be screened from Stubbs Bay Road. Barnhart noted the notification area is 350 feet, with the nearest home being located 375 feet away. Typically solar panels are mounted to the south to obtain the maximum amount of sunlight. The roof in this case does not face the south. The array of solar panels would be 11 feet high at the back edge and 45 feet across. Barnhart noted there are some wetlands in the area but that the solar panels will not impact that area and the project will not require a wetland delineation. The array of solar panels would be located behind the front of the house and more than 50 feet from the right-of-way of Stubbs Bay Road. Barnhart displayed a picture of the property from Stubbs Bay Road and noted the area is very well screened. Staff is supportive of the request. Thiesse asked what the City's intent was to only allow roof mounted solar panels. Page 1 of 3