09-16-1996 Planning Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON SEPTEMBER 16, 1996 ( #9 - #2177 Bob Melamed - Continued) Mabusth said the applicant has a somewhat different plan proposed than what is shown in the packet. The original plan proposes to build within the protected area using retaining walls and a curved roadway. The applicant's addendum notes the uniqueness of the site, the topography, and the narrowness of the building envelope. The applicant proposes that approval be sought from the neighbor to the west, the Simonds, the property owners receiving the most impact. In reviewing the pattern of the subdivision, Mabusth said properties with side loading garage and side driveway have had to come before the City. The Council approved an abbreviated review for these requests with the Planning Commission having the final say. If the application were to be denied or a tie vote obtained, it would go before the Council. Hawn asked if there was a homeowners association. Mabusth said the original developer, Sid Rebers, is part of the architectural review board. He sent a letter, which is part of the packet, noting the effort required to save trees, but asked that an agreement be reached with the neighbor to the west before approval given. Mabusth said she has received no comment from that neighbor, the Simonds. Melamed advised that he felt they were out of town. • Melamed advised the revised plan addresses the concerns of the Staff and results in an amended plan requiring no fill and a realignment of the house. Melamed said the trees were located on the plan after the site plan was completed. He commented that he is also the developer of French Creek, which was designed from the example of Sugar Woods to minimize the impact of construction on forested area. Melamed said the number one factor in the design of the development is to minimize the vehicular exposure to the street and number two factor was saving the trees. The plan was amended after the trees were located. All but one of the trees over 6" will be saved with the plan. Melamed said with front loading garage, he would have to clear a whole swath of trees. He said he has made an attempt to speak with the neighbors and asks that approval be given based on approval by the Simonds, who he also believes is currently out of town. Melamed also said he would add 8' Black Hill Spruce if additional screening is necessary. Norby said the original site plan required grading for retaining walls. Once the trees were located, the plan was amended to raise the house 2' to eliminate the retaining walls. There are now no retaining walls on the driveway side but one located in front of the property, which will follow the grade and be consistent in height. The height will vary from 1 -1/2' to 4' to 6' at the corner and may possibly be two walls. The retaining wall will be of field stone, which is similar to that used by the home to the north. Norby noted that with the drive at a 14' width, the grade has almost been reduced to zero. 16