09-15-1997 Planning Commission Minutes

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• ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES FOR SEPTEMBER 15,1997 ( #4 - #2298 Conley Brooks, Jr., and John Brooks - Continued) Attorney, Bob Mitchell, referred to the definition of hardcover and the lay of the land. He noted the peculiar parcel at 905 West Ferndale was approved for home reconstruction within the last 20 years. Schroeder noted the percentage of hardcover at 905 West Ferndale is increasing because the amount of land is decreasing. Conley Brooks, Jr., said he is attempt to create a more sensible arrangement and improving views. He says a scenic easement could be obtained that allows for maintenance of vegetation for the future. He would like to have that responsibility in lieu of the adjacent neighbor having it. Brooks reported that the area in the lagoon between the peninsula and the shore is mucky, and acquiring this piece of property would allow for a swimming area. Brooks said it would be superfluous for 905 West Ferndale to own it and would make logical sense. He has no plans to improve the peninsula and would not object to combining the parcels. He has a scenic easement with John Brooks. This will also improve the views for Mr. Floyd and other neighbors. • Fl 960 West Ferndale reviewed the nine basic points and During public comments, Robert Floyd, p issues of concern that he noted in a letter received by the Planning Commission at the meeting. Floyd said a problem with the plan is the instability of the property lines and setting a precedent within Orono regarding redrawing of the area. He is concerned with what happens in the future. Floyd said the City should inform its citizens of what is occurring allowing for others to have considered this option. Floyd said he did not think it was possible for this scenario to occur. Floyd is concerned that this arrangement would present a feeling that property lines are temporary in nature. He indicated the code stipulates that adjacent property owners have to be considered. He noted the goal of the code is to preserve the valuation of the land. He noted the care of the waterway needs utmost consideration. Floyd reviewed problems. He noted the view from over the maple trees is a concern when the trees mature. The channel was noted to be difficult in its habit of filling with sand. A point on Lot 13 was removed to enable navigation of the channel. He questioned what would occur in the future. Floyd questioned whether all of the issues have been reviewed. He referenced the future of the parcel and other subdivisible parcels. He asked what criteria is used. He noted he would be interested in acquiring some of the land in the future and fears that information he would need would not be available. He asked that consideration be given for how such matters would be handled and who would be able to purchase the properties. His concern is with preservation of the land. Floyd • was concerned that the Planning Commission has not been given the time to review the issues he addressed in his letter. 19