09-16-1996 Planning Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON SEPTEMBER 16, 1996 • (#4 - #2159 James and Joann Jundt - Continued) McMillan asked if there would be changes to the vegetation. Jundt said the plans call for trimming only. Gaffron said the code normally asks for a staircase to come straight down in order to keep the hardcover to a minimum. The stairs now angle down across the slope and are partially hidden by vegetation. Smith noted that the number of staircases was previously reviewed. It was determined that if the property was broken down into parcels that the number of stairways would be acceptable. Hawn commented on the uniqueness of the property and the fact that only restoration was being performed, not new improvements. Hawn said she spoke with the gardener who said he used the far stairways alot in his work and the restoration would increase the safety. Hawn said she had no problem with the restoration. Jundt said it was their intent to return the property to what it once was and not change it. She said she had questioned whether the boathouse should be restored and was informed that it should be as it has historically value. She informed Mabusth when questioned that additional damage could occur if the repair was not made. Mabusth said, although the cost of repair may exceed 50% of value, she would be inclined to allow the repair because of the uniqueness. Stoddard asked how the valuation was determined. Gaffron said the assessor's value was usually taken from 1975 records. However, no value was established for this building in the records. A value for a comparable building of its size could possibly be used. Lindquist asked whether the Commission was including the boathouse or not in this application. Mabusth said there was a need to allow the structural repair to the roof, but the applicant would have to come back with more information on the foundation. Lindquist said he would need more information before he could vote on the issue and asked for an estimate. Mrs. Jundt said she thought it would be okay to repair the structure. Gaffron said it was a matter or defining whether and to what extent structural repair actually is needed. Gaffron said he would want the building inspector to look at the structure if the boathouse was included in the application. Lindquist said the Commission would only look at the sidewalk, retaining walls, and grotto, and would not include the boathouse in this approval. There were no public comments. r�