10-21-1996 Planning Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON OCTOBER 21, 1996 i ( #3 - #2175 Frank and Susan Koubsky - Continued) When asked about neighbors comments regarding the remodeling, Koubsky said Gwen Gables was in favor of the proposal and Mr. Olson would like the garage moved back. It was noted that Mr. Olson's access is off Park Avenue with a Tonkaview address. Hawn asked if the Koubskys were comfortable with working within a time limit for the driveway removal. Koubsky said he was willing to work with that but noted his budget restraints. Time limits may be set as part of the conditions. Stoddard asked about removal of the shed. Koubsky noted their lack of storage space but said they would be willing to remove the shed as it is in the right of way. McMillan commented that she was of the opinion that the garage was in a good location but had concern with allowing two driveways to remain. The safety factor with access from North Shore Drive was noted. Mrs. Koubsky said it is unsafe during the winter due to its steepness but has been improved upon. Schroeder suggested one year for removal of the driveway. Koubsky said it would cost $4,00045,000 to remove it. Mabusth said the driveway can be barricaded by berming or fencing if cost for removal of bituminous drive is of issue. Schroeder said the Planning • Commission was more interested in removal of hardcover. Mabusth reiterated the safety issues involved and the need to cease access from North Shore Drive. This would involve a change in address to also occur. It was noted that the City cannot legally deny access from the County Road. Stoddard suggested removal and reseeding of the driveway. Mrs. Koubsky commented that there was the ability to add on to their present garage but they were trying to accommodate the changes desired by the City. The Koubskys said it would be different if their house was larger. During discussions, Stoddard said he would like to work with the applicants. Hawn said five years was too long to wait for the removal of the driveway. Hawn said she understood the need to do the remodeling in stages but was not comfortable with allowing two driveways to remain within the steep topography of the property. She also noted runoff to be a concern. Schroeder saw the plan as sensible but also questioned the timing and expressed concern over two driveways remaining. The issue of safe access is of considerable concern for the City. Access is difficult in winter. Mabusth said it had been her understanding from early discussions with applicants that the driveway was going to be removed and the address changed to Tonkaview. It was noted that if the applicant added a stall to their current garage, it would still use the same access which is not a desirable solution. Koubsky noted that the ditches were removed in the roadway causing the access to become safer. • 4