08-19-1996 Planning Commission Minutes

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• MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON AUGUST 19, 1996 ( #10 - #2166 Janet Kiernan - Continued) Kiernan said the abstract refers to the triangular piece as a part of the old road bed. The past owner applied for ownership of said parcel which had been condemned. Real estate attorney Christy informed the Planning Commission of the background of the parcel and the tracking of documentation to ownership to Kiernan. These documents were provided to Gaffron. Gaffron reported there are several factors requiring variances for this proposed construction including the large driveway, the addition encroaching the 75' setback and average lakeshore setback, and the issue of location of neighboring homes related to this property. The average lakeshore setback line is technically located through the middle of the house, although from a practical standpoint, there is no view to disrupt. The changes to the roof lines and existing rooms in house are partially located within the 0 -75' and within the required 30' side setback. The change is mainly in the roof line and not in structure. The hardcover in the 0 -75' setback is proposed at 6% with removal of a fireplace, patio, and sidewalk and addition of a semi - circular patio area. The proposal results in a net reduction of 54 s.f. Gaffron questioned whether a further reduction could be made. The applicants propose a 75 -250' setback area reduction from 27.5% to 26.8 %; however, the • reduction is a result of taking less than 100% credit for the proposed "grass pavers ". Gaffron noted that no application using grass pavers has been followed through in Orono. Once grass pavers are driven on, they are considered hardcover. Gaffron asked the Commission to consider whether this reduction should be credited. Gaffron reported other changes to hardcover. A major portion of the driveway next to the house will be removed. The driveway will be relocated to the side of the garage providing a safer access. Dave Zetterstrom of Hennepin County said the new location was an excellent site. This would add hardcover, however, next to the neighbor's serpentine wall. It also presents concern for drainage. The survey shows the garage addition would be located at a 10.7' street setback with the addition of two stalls. The code requires a 15' setback for a garage such as this that exceeds 750 s.f.. Gaffron said options include reducing the proposal down to three stalls or offsetting the garage to the east. Kiernan said the property is in need of major renovation. Her goal is to improve the property, and she is willing to make compromises. 18