12-11-2017 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING Monday, November 20, 2017 6:30 o'clock p.m. 3. #17-3980 SHAWN WISCHMEIER, 540 BIG ISLAND, AFTER -THE -FACT VARIANCE, 7:05 P.M. — 7:25 P.M. Shawn Wischmeier, Applicant, was present. Curtis stated the permit for the new home under construction was issued in May of 2017. Due to the remoteness of the Big Island property and winter weather approaching, the applicant made site preparations, brought materials to the property, and began construction of a 300 square foot shed prior to the issuance of a building permit this fall. The shed is located 6.7 feet from the principal structure where a 10 -foot setback is required. Construction on the shed has been stopped and the applicant has requested a setback variance. A detailed analysis of the practical difficulties was provided in the Staff report. However, while the applicant has provided a compelling argument supporting the placement of the shed, Staff finds few practical difficulties exist which support the requested variance beyond that of convenience. To date no public comments have been received. Planning Staff recommends denial of the variance. As the shed is only partially constructed, the applicant should be required to apply for a building permit for the shed and move it to a conforming location. Thiesse asked if there was a foundation previously there. Curtis indicated the foundation on the survey depicts the existing foundation. Thiesse asked if the shed is on frost footings. Curtis indicated it is. Shawn Wischmeier, Applicant, stated the floor of the shed or garage structure was part of the cabin building permit, which is why it is there. Wischmeier stated the reasons he is here is because he is asking