10-16-1995 Planning Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON OCTOBER 16, 1995 ( #8 - #2065 Scotch Pine Lane - Continued) Marfield read these findings into the minutes and are part of this package. He noted that Scotch Pine is the one 3 -lot cul -de -sac that drains into the lakeshore, and it has been a 20- year effort to gain the grass and trees back to the property. Marfield said this was the only 3 -lot cul -de -sac with one lot in two parts divided by a road. Due to its location, the public is attracted to the road in order to gain access to the lake, yet there is none. Marfield said all three applicants are supportive of the proposal. He also noted that other properties in the area have more than one driveway access, where these properties have only the one access. Gaffron said another standard issue is with 3 lots currently abuting a public road and now Marfield's property will abut only an outlot. Gaffron said this creates a back lot configuration. He also noted the lot size being substandard with 1 acre lots in 2 acre zoning. Easements are also an issue. The existing utility easements would need rededication if changed. A letter from Minnegasco asks if Scotch Pine is vacated, an easement for their facilities should be granted over the existing roadway. NSP is not in favor of the proposal, but Gaffron is of the opinion that the easement could be worked out with NSP. • Gaffron noted that a drainage plan has been provided, but it has not been reviewed as of yet by the City Engineer. A catch basin would be eliminated and runoff would flow over land as area is reverted back to grass. Engineer's review would be required prior to presentation to the Council. • Gaffron said the neighbors to the east, the Levy's, ask for a 15' setback for the new driveway to the Toles property. GafFron said this was not a code requirement except that no grading is normally allowed within 5' of the lot line. Toles said he would honor this request. Gaffron voiced concern over the possibility of setting a precedent by approving a proposal which is in contrast to what is being currently asked of other subdivisions. Gaffron noted that CoRd 51 is defined in the Comprehensive Plan as a parkway, which functions as a collector. The code for collector roads does not require new lots to use an internal access, but the comprehensive plan suggests that this be done when it is possible. Gaffron indicated the Planning Commission should make specific findings of uniqueness if they approved the proposal. 10