11-17-1997 Planning Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON NOVEMBER 17, 1997 • ( #7 - #2314 John Bessesen - Continued) Van Zomeren said, if the City's intent is to allow duplex housing, it first needs to be determined where that housing should be located and then place it in the zoning. She does not feel it makes sense where the use is currently allocated. She says it is important to buffer the industrial and commercial areas with higher density but is not the best method to achieve this end. The zoning situation for the subject lot needs to be revised before the lot is eligible for a conditional use permit. Van Zomeren is concerned that the "duplex credit" is a moving target because it changes based on commercial or industrial zoning. Van Zomeren reported that there are alot of small lots where duplexes can currently be located under the duplex credit process. She feels this should not be encouraged. The church property rezoning that occurred in 1996 changed the 200' eligibility and needs to be eliminated in her opinion. Van Zomeren asked if the non - conforming structure should be demolished and the area zoned for duplex. The presence of Outlot A at the lakeshore precludes single family development, according to the applicant. Research found that the reasoning behind the outlot had to do with a concern over multiple docks on the wetlands. Van Zomeren said the most restrictive way to change the ordinance to allow the property to have a duplex constructed on it would be through the B -3 district. This would not • affect the existing duplexes. John Bessesen had no comments at this point. The hearing was opened for public comments. Todd Jones, 2501 and 2503 Kelly Avenue, reported that his property is adjacent to the subject property. Jones said he is unclear on what four lots are affected. Van Zomeren explained where the lots are located. The 400' limitation would add two single family lots to the south. Jones said he cannot see the single family lots being utilized for the duplex use. He agrees the site is blighted and understands the problem with setback. He believes the opportunity for duplexes would be good for the city. He believes the plan is reasonable and would clean up the property. Austin Evans, 2497 Kelly Avenue, lives north of the subject property in a townhome, and cited the text amendment. He said the subject property has been on the market for five years and its current condition is not in keeping with the neighborhood. He understands the economical problems with providing a single family residence. He feels changing the zoning to accomplish the request is extreme. He feels changing the existing duplexes zoning allowing one dwelling unit on 1/2 acre is more feasible. Evans feels the only use of the property as it is now is to have the City condemn it and make it a park. Evans • believes all the residents along Kelly Avenue would support the redevelopment to a duplex. 11