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9 <br />MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION <br />WORK SESSION HELD ON DECEMBER 15, 1997 <br />noted that hardcover variances in Mound have increased with the hardcover regulations <br />added. Smith noted that while the code is restrictive, the opportunity to get variance <br />approval is good so residents take the chance. Stoddard felt Staff and Commission were <br />in agreement over issues but felt there may be issues that should be reviewed by the <br />Commission. Schroeder noted that all residents have the right to file for a variance. <br />Gaffron voiced concern that if residents are informed of the standard and yet understand <br />changes can be made to that standard, what then is the standard. <br />Smith asked if there were variances where restrictions may be too tight but still be in <br />keeping with the code. Gaffron said that might be a possibility but is limited. He does <br />not believe a side variance should ever be allowed on a small lot. <br />Smith reviewed that there are four choices that can be made: The Comprehensive Plan <br />can be revised; the code can be made less restrictive; no changes made; or deny variance <br />requests for areas that are cut and dried. Van Zomeren noted that the State law requires a <br />hardship be shown to allow a variance. <br />Lindquist brought forward the issue of lake lots. Van Zomeren asked if the goal is to <br />intensify lots, noting lots with small cabins being replaced with large homes. Lindquist <br />said the 1500 s.f. allowance for structural coverage can be adhered to on these <br />substandard lots. <br />Schroeder questioned why a harder stand would be taken regarding variances now. Smith <br />said it would show consistent with the Comprehensive Plan. Schroeder felt the 1500 s.f. <br />allowance for structural coverage is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan. He noted, <br />16 <br />