10-16-1995 Planning Commission Minutes

Home Browse Search

MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON OCTOBER 16, 1995 0 ( #12 - #2079 Rick Perry - Continued) Mabusth reported that the property is located on the east side of Willow. The applicant had previously received approval for a setback variance for a garage located in front of the principal structure. It did not meet the current standards but was approved at a 5' side setback. The City did not address the need for a variance with garage placed in front of the principal structure. The existing garage was placed 6.4' from the side lot line. With the addition, the garage becomes an oversized structure, the structure is now subject to more restrictive area and setback standards. The .62 acre parcel is allowed 1000 s. f. of oversized accessory structure. The proposed garage would require an area variance of 77 s. f. or 7.7 %. The structure would now require a setback of 30' and is proposed at 6.4. Mabusth noted that the same hardships of the earlier application still hold true. There are steep topographies on the lot. The narrow lot limits access to rear of residence. The only gentle sloped areas are in rear yard where septic is located, and this area is needed for future septic needs. Peterson noted the dimensions of the oversize structure and lot coverage increasing from 13.5% to 18.1%. He asked the applicant why four additional garage stalls were needed. Perry said the stalls would be used for his collector cars. iMabusth noted that when the detached garage was approved, the applicant has stated he was going to convert the original garage space to living space. Perry said he did not do so as he and his wife did not have as many children as they had previously planned. He acknowledged that the proposal would increase his garage space to 6 stalls. Schroeder asked if the applicant was going to use the space for a business. Perry said no. Schroeder asked where he now places the vehicles. The applicant said 3 cars are in the tuck -under garage, one is being restored, and bikes and the like are sitting outside of the detached garage. There were no public comments. Peterson said he was personally opposed to the proposal as it was creating a huge oversize structure for a small lot. Lindquist agreed that this would be too much structure. The applicant asked if he built a structure keeping within the 1000 s.f allowable, if this would be allowed and no variances needed. Mabusth said side setback variance would still be required. Any structure placed in front of the principal structure requires a variance. The applicant felt that the garage would be a better alternative than leaving materials stored outside. Mabusth noted that there was alot of material outside now. The applicant said it was his desire to plant evergreen trees to hide the structure from view as well as installing a hip roof to lower the profile of the house. Mabusth asked the applicant about the power pole. Perry said he spoke with NSP, who said they would move the pole. 18