02-20-1996 Planning Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON FEBRUARY 20, 1996 • ( #1 - #2017 John O'Sullivan - Continued) Mabusth reviewed the car wash, the entrance and exits for the improvements including the drive -in portion of the restaurant. She noted that the Engineer's report noted major concern with the cross action of traffic at the curb cuts. The applicant would need to review the traffic configuration with the City and County. Mabusth asked the Planning Commission to review the restaurant and convenience store use. There are 53 parking stalls planned with no credit given for the parking areas beneath the gas canopy. Mabusth asked the Commissioners to consider the number of uses on the site, structural coverage excess, and the compatibility of the uses and whether variances should be granted for new development. The structural coverage is proposed at 20.2% and is allowed at 15% in properties less than 1.99 acres. Schroeder asked Mabusth to review the zoning. Mabusth said the B -1 permits the uses, two through conditional use permits, restaurants and gas use. The retail is a permitted use but the car wash is not a listed use. Mabusth said the Council would also need to approve the locating of three gas stations at one intersection. John O'Sullivan introduced Erwin and Marlene Smith as his business partners. O'Sullivan said Jim Coen, one of his representatives, was a founder of Super America and was • knowledgeable regarding petroleum and codes involving petroleum. Rob Thompson, owner of C.I. Construction, who would be building the improvements, was also present. O'Sullivan noted that the project involves an independent, free - standing, unit for the Martin site only, and does not involve the church property, requiring no rezoning. He noted a future project would blend in the church property. In answer to a question from Schroeder, O'Sullivan said that the project for the church property would involve a business and professional type development. Schroeder noted that the use was not consistent with the zoning of the property, which is zoned LR -1 C residential. Coen said they were in conversation regarding that issue with the City. Mabusth advised that the Orono Staff has consistently advised applicant of difficulties involved with the rezoning of this property. O'Sullivan continued that the original O'Sullivan project was completed nine years ago on the property across the street and has included two major store remodels. He said he has used cutting edge technology, and the project has been considered an asset to the community. O'Sullivan said he purchased the Martin property 18 months ago. He said the traffic flows would be similar at the new project as the one currently in business, which was built on 3/4 acre site. The Martin project is 1 -1/2 acres of usable land. O'Sullivan said he has met with City Engineer Cook regarding concerns on the property and has dealt with the issues and requirements. He said Cook was satisfied with the site plan as presented. Staff has not received any confirmation from Cook. 2