03-31-1997 Planning Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON MARCH 31, 1997 CONTINUATION OF PUBLIC HEARING • SPRING HILL GOLF CLUB The impacts on the Big Woods was discussed. The DNR letter acknowledging the Big Woods as being within the site and its impending impact was noted. The golf course would change the nature of the woods and a loss of forest canopy would occur. Gaffron reviewed the specific impacts of fragmenting the Big Woods from the golf course construction, noting it would also occur with residential subdivision construction. The list is contained in the March 20 memo. Gaffron noted the City has no tree/forest preservation ordinance outside of the designated Shoreland district ordinances, and the golf course proposal would not fall under the realm of the ordinances for subdivisions. The tree /frost regulations that exist were reviewed. It was noted that Orono cannot regulate the portion of the Big Woods located within Medina. There are also no known ' • State or Federal regulations prohibiting the proposed plan within the Big Woods. Gaffron reviewed the opportunities for and ramifications of the City attempting to prevent any fragmentation of the Big Woods. The fist is contained within the March 20 memo. Gaffron reviewed preservation of woodlands addressed in the Orono Comprehensive Plan (also included in the March 20 memo). Gaffron noted the concern over clearing of 50% of the Big Woods for the golf course and comparing it with 2 acre sewered housing. He noted comments received from the EAW Document, the Comprehensive Plan goals and policy all indicate the need to preserve the Big Woods. Gaffron said Staff had no recommendation at this time as the issues are not yet understood. While there is no code under which to regulate the Big Woods impact, the use of the CUP can limit the impacts. He suggested the Big Woods be protected • through placing conditions on the conditional use permit. 13