01-21-1997 Planning Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON JANUARY 21, 1997 • ( #5 - 42199 Rick's Super Vau - Continued) Mabusth reported that the property will meet the 12% green space required under the B -3 zoning code. An attempt was made to add green space within the parking area but proved too difficult. The business lost 8200 s.f of land in 1987 to the County for road improvement. The pylon sign had to be relocated back onto the property at that time. The applicant has agreed to plant trees along Kelly Avenue and along the bank lot line on the higher elevation. Since the elevation drops sharply northward on the subject property, the trees will be visible from the County roads. A letter from a neighboring resident on Kelly Avenue expressed concern over the proposed addition. Lindquist read the letter into the record which noted opposition to the expansion due to loss of green space and increase in drainage problems. Bloomquist responded that he has worked with a gardener the past several years and the trees on the property are becoming larger and more noticeable. He added that he is replacing hardcover with hardcover in order to expand his inside use and add a pharmacy. Mabusth said the 1991 application asked for excavation of a pond above the 940' elevation within the conservation easement area. The City Engineer reported that the pond is adequate to handle the additional increase of 1600 s.f. of paving. Mabusth said Mrs. Nadler's concern was consistent with calls from several other neighbors who noted problems of flooding during heavy rains. It has been determined that the flooding was most likely caused by a • plugged culvert. Mabusth reported that Staff will investigate that problem. Mabusth noted there was also a concern from the neighbors in having to view a dumpster. Bloomquist reported that it was located inside the loading dock area and loaded through a chute. He reported there are trees 5 -6 high to camouflage the dumpster. There previously had been an open dumpster located on the other side of the building. Bloomquist added that he assigns employees to clean up trash found around the property. Lindquist informed Bloomquist of the recent discussions regarding the beautification of the Navarre area asking for his assistance. Bloomquist noted that the outside decor will be a pre -cast split block. The signs are located high on the building and are well lit. The canopy will also be repainted. • 15