07-15-1996 Planning Commission Minutes

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• MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON JULY 15, 1996 ( 99 - 92154 John O'Sullivan/Erwin Smith - Continued) Gaffron said the issue is whether the property should be rezoned from residential to commercial. There is B -1 zoning on two sides of the property. The northern side is an existing 1/2 acre residential neighborhood. On the east side is an outlot containing a wetland area which is a density credit for the Lafayette Ridge neighborhood. The site itself consists of 4 tax parcels, portions of which are within the 1000' lakeshore setback. Hardcover regulations allow for 35% coverage over these portions of the property. Gaffron reported that the Comprehensive Plan calls for the City to encourage private development in the Navarre area but to not adversely affect the neighboring property. Woodland areas are to be maintained also. The plan calls for neighboring retail and professional services to be available. Gaffron reported that there is pressure on Orono and other cities to provide affordable housing and questioned whether this property might meet such a need. In reviewing the property, Gaffron said it could hold three 1/2 acre single family residences. With its proximity to the neighboring businesses, other options could be three 2 -unit duplexes or M -6 density housing. Gaffron asked that the Commission make their considerations in the scheme of enhancing the Navarre area and in consideration of the area as a whole. A study was begun in 1987 to review the Navarre area. Business owners were not interested • in pursuing any changes at that time. Peterson brought attention to the public information hearings conducted by O'Sullivan on the project. Peterson attended one of the meetings and noted favorable input from those in attendance. Peterson noted only one variance appeared to be required for this proposal. However, the issue of rezoning is serious and has rarely been changed in the history of the City. Peterson continued that if such rezoning was done, this is is a logical location but use is a different matter altogether_ The comments Peterson heard at the meetings favored the rezoning. The neighbors were said to view the proposal as a viable option. is Stoddard said he attended both meetings and saw overwhelming support for the proposal. He noted that something needs to happen with the vacated church property adding that the B -5 zoning was a less stringent application. As to the housing possibility, Stoddard said he understands the need but noted having a proposal at hand from a local businessman. Stoddard did acknowledge the need for review of a Navarre beautification plan or revitalization. Peterson responded that the business owners showed no interest when presented with such an idea. He added that the City would not proceed without that interest from the local businesses. 14