11-20-1995 Planning Commission Minutes

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u MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON NOVEMBER 20, 1995 ( #12 - #2087 Minnegasco - Continued) There were no public comments. Lindquist moved, Hawn seconded, to approve Application #2087 as submitted with the condition that if the lease if not renewed, the vaporizer could not remain. Pilon noted that the lease with the landowner is being renewed on a year -by -year basis. Vote: Ayes 5, Nays 0. ( #13) #2089 RICHARD MILLER, 4520 WATERTOWN ROAD - VARIANCES - PUBLIC HEARING - 11:07 -11:15 P.M. The Certificate of Mailing and Affidavit of Publication were noted. The Applicant was present. Gaffron reported that the application is for lot area and width variances for the existing lot located in the 5 acre zone. The property consists of 3.6 acre dry and 2.9 acre wetland for a total of 6.5 acres. A 28% lot area variances would be required. The width parallel to the front lot width is 4% short at 287' where 300' is required. Gaffron noted the 5 acre zoning was created in 1975 when a majority of the residents indicated they preferred 5 acre zoning to maintain the large lot sizes. Gaffron said there are very few small vacant lots in this zone. The property in question of 3 -1/2 acres is unique according to Gaffron. It has not been built on. Miller has owned the property since 1972. The buildable envelope requires a 100' front setback, a 50' side setback, and 26' setback from any wetlands. The driveway would come from CoRd 6. Septic testing has been done, and a site is available for a 5 bedroom home. Gaffron pointed out the likely building site. Gaffron questioned if the City does not grant the variances, does the owner have any reasonable use of the property. He noted that the assessor has given the property a lower value compared to buildable lots. Miller has paid $5,000 in taxes over 20 years. Gaffron asked if constructing a residence on this 3 -1/2 acres dry buildable (6.5 acre total) lot would change the character of the neighborhood. Gaffron commented that when the owner bought the property, the property conformed to the code of 1 acre zoning. Miller noted he is considering building on or selling the lot, and when the variance is approved, it may cause the taxes to increase. Peterson commented that the codes do change but noted the uniqueness of this property. • Miller said the homes and lots going towards CoRd 6 and Hwy 12 from his property are smaller. 26