03-18-1996 Planning Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON MARCH 18, 1996 (#6 - #2114 Clark Winslow - Continued) Mabusth said she, as well as the DNR, question what is lacking in the design that creates the need to redredge. Gustafson said the problem arose from construction; and with the property to the side now in turf and plantings, he does not expect the problem to arise as frequently. Mabusth questioned the lack of wetland vegetation. Gustafson said the vegetation has disappeared, but the purpose of the pond is to maintain open water. Mabusth did note that the original intent of the pond was to rid the area of odors and algae. Mabusth asked if the intent in opening up more open water area was to gain any vegetation. Gustafson said cattails could be replanted if the City would desire the maintenance of vegetation. Hawn later asked if the owner would approve cattail planting. Gustafson said it would be done if it was necessary. Peterson said he normally would prefer a pond to remain natural and be opposed to open water. With how this pond sits in the neighborhood, Peterson said it would be consistent to maintain the pond as open water. He would like to see cattails planted on the south side. Schroeder questioned the amount of dredging and the depth with relation to vegetation. • Gustafson said the depth would reflect on the slope of the pond. Gustafson said a 8:1 or 10.1 slope was necessary to allow emergent vegetation around the perimeter. The property location to the lake and the effect of pond runoff was considered. The culvert was said to be functioning. Peterson questioned the sprinkler running from the lake. Gustafson said the sprinkler is there to add water from the lake to the pond to maintain the water level, if necessary, but added that it was not used. Mabusth noted that this was never approved nor addressed in the original application. Hawn commented on the smell from the pond on the neighborhood necessitating the need to maintain more open water. She suggested a design be drawn to allow aquatic vegetation on the south side. Gustafson said it would be helpful to have dimensions if this was necessary. There were no public comments. Hawn moved, Schroeder seconded, to approve Application #2114 for conditional use permit and variance to permit the dredging and removal of 80 c.y. of spoils with the establishment of a high water level for said pond. The slope of the pond is to be maintained at a 8:1 slope with reimposition of aquatic and wetland vegetation in the area of the excavation. Vote: Ayes S, Nays 0. • 9