01-20-1998 Planning Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON JANUARY 20, 1998 (#19 - #2326 Orono Development - Continued) GaffIon, while acknowledging guidelines, said additional work is required on the plans. Tom Dillon noted that the 11,000 s.f building is less than what was previously planned. He anticipates a 5-6 month construction period. Dillon feels the two egress locations on CoRd 19, with the southern egress being shared with Culver's, is an improvement for the property. He noted the service window location is toward the rear of the building being the best location for both the building and the neighborhood. Dillon felt the hardcover issue was difficult to solve with the slopes, elevations, and pond. He noted the lack of flexibility with the property being within two lakeshore zones. He indicated the ponding and filtration to marsh areas will aid water quality. Dillon asked for clarification on the 20' setback requirement from Olive Avenue. It was his belief the setback would be at 23' and meet the requirement. Dillon noted he has not answered all of the concerns but will work with Staff. Mike Sepena reviewed the site plan. He referenced the confining steep elevations, which drop, for a minimum depth. Changes to this and the driveway are being kept to a minimum to reduce the need for fill. He indicated the 10'wall does taper upward. The 5' variance to the front yard setback is necessary, according to Dillon, to maintain lineal • integrity. He felt if Shadywood Road was expanded, this site is only one of many that would be affected. Gaffron clarified the setback issue. John Erickson comments that the Shadywood setback is unrealistic as the property falls away to the back. He thought the plan for planters would be an improvement. Erickson feels Olive Avenue is so narrow that it is practically a bike path now. He did not believe the neighbors would object to the parking extending to the back of the building and would most likely be the area where employees would park. Erickson is in support of bushes planted separating the retaining wall from his property, which he says would be a vast improvement to what currently exists. There were no other public comments. Schroeder agreed that a 20' setback would not be possible. McMillan said she would like to see more green space, however. Dillon said the area in front of the building on the County right-of-way is all green space, along with other areas he pointed out. Sepena also noted the open areas on the corners where landscaping could be located. Dillon said he would work with Staff on a landscaping plan. 37