06-21-1997 Planning Commission Minutes

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• ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES FOR JULY 219 1997 ( #23 - #2263 Brook Park Realty - Continued) Gaffron reviewed the memo regarding wetlands, hardcover limitations, engineering issues, and sewer and water connection charges. There is a concern about possible wetland encroachment along the west side. The wetlands require confirmation and may require some restoration. There is a 35% hardcover limit for a PRD in the LR -1C District. A letter is included from the City engineer regarding the proposal. The preliminary determination for sewer and water connection charges is approximately $3800 per unit. The memo also outlines PRD standards for consideration. Gaffron informed the Commissioners that under a PRD they have the opportunity to create what they would like to see for such a development and give direction to the developer. The applicants were asked to comment. Bill Gleason indicated that they had been unaware of the limitations on the property being adjacent to the LR District. It is their plan to develop affordable housing through higher density. A portion of the development plan is laid out on neighboring property not yet acquired or part of this proposal. He noted there is a driveway currently crossing over wetlands. The wetlands will • be preserved. Entry into the property would be from Livingston Avenue. Gleason said his goal is to provide a lower unit cost through higher density. He proposes a unit would cost about $135,000 or less if the 48 unit density was allowed. Gleason said they would redo the plan if the 48 unit plan was not allowed. Each unit will include two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a double garage, central air conditioning, and appliances. There will be a front entry with garage entry on the other side. There will be four units per building. There were no public comments. • Smith asked if the applicant had reviewed the letter from the City Engineer. Gleason said he had no issue with the contents of the letter. He said he thought the driveway may be a problem. John Gleason asked what would be involved with restoration. Gaffron said it would likely include reexcavation and revegetation. Gaffron said the driveway has been a long standing issue for the City as it encroaches on property being developed and needs to be resolved. He felt it was resolvable. Hawn asked what the cost figures are for affordable housing. Gaffron said the top of the affordable range is a $120,000 valuation, which results in the estimated $135,000 cost per unit not meeting the affordable criteria. More density would be required to reduce the cost. 2