10-21-1996 Planning Commission Minutes

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• MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON OCTOBER 21, 1996 ( #9 - #2183 Charles Kramer - Continued) Berg asked what the purpose was for the open water. Kramer said it was his intent to attract waterfowl. McMillan reported that he needs to realize what surrounds the area, i.e., houses and dogs, and what privacy is there allowing ducks to be attracted to the area. Kramer said there are ducks and geese now. He added that he moved to the property 1- 1/2 years ago and intends to enhance what is there with the right input from experts. Schroeder asked if Smythe has visited the property. Mabusth said Smythe visited the property on this date and was of the opinion that the ponding should be discouraged as the area has not been degradated and is very unique. He did not see any problem with the pond in the northwest quadrant. Stoddard questioned if the open water area could be created in less than 100 cubic yards of spoils removal. Mabusth said a permit would not be issued as the City would restrict all land alterations within this wetlands as a finding and condition of the current conditional use permit. McMillan asked if there was any problem with a back yard wetland. Mabusth said no. Smith noted that the Commission has reviewed other ponds, questioned if there were • specific requirements, and how this pond compares to those mentioned. Mabusth said the ponds being referred to by Smith were protected wetlands and required a variance. It is not the case in this situation as this wetland is not a designated wetland. Smith noted that the Coffin property is unique and efforts were made by the City and developer to protect it. Smith said she was not comfortable with the information on what the ponds will be like. Hawn agreed with Smith. She would like to see specific drawings on how it will look over time. She also questioned how the ponding could be created without destroying the elm trees. Hawn would also like the updated plans to include what kinds of plantings will be used and where they will be located. Smith added that she would like to know the elevations of the plantings. Smith suggested a wetland specialist could provide that information. Kramer asked what the responsibility was of the Corp of Engineers. Mabusth informed him that it is their responsibility to look over land alterations for unprotected wetlands. She noted that the covenants obligate Kramer to have the Corp of Engineers review the alteration as it was classified during the subdivision. Kramer said the Corp of Engineers had no problem with the pond. Mabusth said they would have no problem until it involves filling. Kramer said he understood that development destroys such land but it is his intent to preserve it. Mabusth informed him that the plan before us would destroy plantings. • She noted the need for more detail as there is concern when equipment is sent into this wetland area. 16