09-11-2017 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Mike 4, - From: Sent: To: Cc: Subject: Kelly.Lowe2@sanofi.com Sunday, April 16, 2017 9:07 AM Mike Gaffron jrlowethird@gmail.com; mdbenedict@frana.com #17-3932 YMCA, 135 Orono Orchard Rd North Sketch Plan Review Mike Gaffron, Senior Planner Regarding #17-2932 YMCA of Greater Twin Cities, 135 Orono Orchard Rd North- Sketch Plan Dear Sirs and committee members, We would like the record to reflect our objection to the current sketch plan regarding the land at 135 Orono Orchard Rd. First and foremost they are looking to change the current zoning from rural to medium density development. Rural zoning was set about to maintain, to the greatest extent possible, the historic character of the rural area with land and parcels. Certain restrictions were set in place many years ago to protect the wetlands and natural characteristics of beautiful Orono while allowing for single family development that does NOT overload or adversely affect the natural wetlands and storm water filtration. Gordon James Homes states "this is the best practical solution and one that would be welcomed by the surrounding neighborhood." They couldn't be more wrong. This project in no way reflects our views we were very disturbed to read their proposal, and completely object to their development project put forth and any rezoning from rural development. As current Orono Orchard Rd residents we have complied with zoning laws on any property upgrades. They are looking to push long lake sewer and city water where current Orono property residents all have wells and septic as in line with our rural Orono zoning. We are opposed to having long lake city sewer and water pushed through and changing the zoning of this property. They are looking to fill in some of the wetland area (north side) , plow down current topography, add multiple retaining walls, and completely change the beautiful sweeping landscape that has been offered naturally. The project proposed would cause significant disruption to our property as the only entrance to and from this site would be next to our home. • We are completely opposed to the small lots sizes with large homes ranging from 4000-6000 sqft. The homes/lots sizes they have suggested do not at all fit with the three homes to the east of the project on Orono Orchard Rd, where there is substantial distance between each of our homes in keeping with the rural theme. + This plan completely disrespects current zoning, disrespects current distance between the existing Orono homes, disrespects the current topography, and disrespects the rural feel and beauty we as Orono residents enjoy, and why we continue to make substantial $$ investments in maintaining our homes and properties. Kelly and Jamie Lowe 105 Orono Orchard Rd N CC: Mike Benedict 25 Orono Orchard Rd N 1