01-18-1994 Planning Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON JANUARY 18, 1994 • Mr. Jensen stated that this was a cabin which had been renovated and there was insufficient area within the house to provide for an adequate entryway or dining room. Chairman Schroeder inquired if the neighbors were in agreement with the proposal and Mr. Jensen stated he had submitted a letter that evening in support of the project from the neighbor immediately adjacent to the property who would be most affected by the proposal. Commissioner Lindquist commented he was concerned about the proposed proximity of the two structures. Commissioner Rowlette stated she was concerned about establishing a precedent if they recommended approval of the variance request. She inquired if the applicant would be willing to reduce the size of the proposed addition, thereby reducing the amount of the variance needed to construct the addition. Mr. Jensen stated they had considered other alternatives, but none would be feasible except that which was proposed. Commissioner Peterson moved, Rowlette seconded, to recommend approval of #1893 Variances for Christine Freeman, 2240 Shadywood Road, with the understanding that the new area calculations are correct and that hardcover variances are not needed, and with the disclaimer that if plastic or geo- technic fabric is found beneath landscaped areas, that the existence of such would be in violation of the conditions of approval, and will require immediate removal. Ayes 5, nays 2. 0 ( 0) #1894 GREG TRUCHINSKI, 1580 FOX STREET - AFTER -THE -FACT CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT /VARIANCES - PUBLIC HEARING • This item was pulled from the agenda at the request of the applicant. ( #4) #1896 ALLAN AND JUDITH KLOTCHE, 2760 SHADYWOOD ROAD - VARIANCE - PUBLIC HEARING Mabusth reviewed the staff report. Allan Klotche was present and requested the Planning Commission to approve his request. He stated they felt it was a sizeable lot and there was a fair amount of pavement in the existing driveway. They feel the addition will enhance the property and the neighbors are in support of the project. He stated the house was constructed in the 1950's and needs some remodeling. They proposed to remove some of the landscaping and have reduced the hardcover variance as low as possible. Discussion ensued regarding removal of a section of walkway which is obstructed by a pine tree. Mr. Klotche said that he would do that if the Planning Commission required it. Commissioner Nolan inquired if the applicant would consider removing one of two staircases coming up from the driveway. Discussion ensued regarding where more hardcover could be removed on the site to reduce the amount of the variance. Chairman Schroeder inquired if the applicant believed he could reduce the amount of the variance to 3 1. 1 % and Mr. Klotche responded he believed they could reduce it further, and he would work with staff to accomplish this. 5