04-21-1997 Planning Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON APRIL 21, 1997 • ( #2 - #2201 Adams, Fieger, Robb - Continued) Schroeder moved, Smith seconded, to approve Application #2201 permitting private septic system connection through pipes within the City right -of -way including conditions 1-4 as noted. He noted any subsequent neighborhood projects may pose a risk to the pipes and cost of repairing damage would be at the expense of the applicants. Fieger asked if the City would render a recommendation regarding engineering. Schroeder said they could assist in this manner. Vote: Ayes 7, Nays 0. ( #3) #2205 ALLEN SCHEFFERS, 2540 CASCO POINT ROAD - CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT - CONTINUATION OF PUBLIC HEARING 7:47 -7:58 P.M. The Applicant was present. Van Zomeren reported that the application is for a conditional use permit to allow for excavation of a pond in a flood plain area to remain. Permits have already been obtained from the MCWD to excavate for a wildlife pond. The CUP from the City for the excavation was not obtained. The applicant has previously obtained a CUP for fill importation in excess of 100 cubic yards. The application had been tabled to allow for snow cover to melt to view the property and determine the effect of the encroachment on the right -of -way. Van Zomeren indicated the review has shown the pond to hold water. She reviewed the impact on the 100' right -of -way. The pond has resulted in an improvement in neighborhood drainage. Van Zomeren said Staff recommends approval with conditions: 1) the pond maintain a 3:1 slope for safety purposes; and 2) the pond be maintained without impact to the right -of -way. The applicant had no comments. There were no public comments. Smith asked that the Commission be consistent in their direction regarding a natural landscape for the pond. The applicant said he plans to enhance the pond by cleaning it up and deepening it. He said his plans call for sodding with grass to the edge of the pond. He also intends to add wildflowers, day lilies, and random rock. He presented a landscaping plan. Smith asked that the landscape include cattails, reeds, and prairie vegetation. She indicated the City would like ponds to have a natural look, not sculpted, and be conducive to wildlife. isMcMillan asked if the road was to be widened. Gappa said the road width is sufficient.