08-17-1998 Planning Commission Minutes

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ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES FOR AUGUST 17, 1998 #2403 TERRY (#2403 CLARK, Continued) Van Zomeren stated residences under two acres located in the LR-1A zoning district are allowed 15 percent structural hardcover or 1,500 square feet, which they currently exceed. There were no public comments. Weber stated they have gone through a similar analysis that Van Zomeren has just recited and arrived at the conclusion that the addition should be built on the flattest part of the site so it would not encroach any closer to the lake or encroach into the bluff area. Weber commented the proposed addition is designed to increase living space, and noted the Applicant gave an easement to the City for a lift station last year. Weber stated the previous variances were requested by the prior owner. Chair Smith stated she has reviewed the property, and inquired whether the addition could be added to the rear of the residence. (Charles Schoeder leaves at 8:55 p.m.) Van Zomeren commented the street setback is 50'. Clark stated there is a very steep grade behind the house up to the garage. Stoddard remarked the Planning Commission needs more information concerning encroachment into the bluff area to determine the impact this proposed addition would have on the bluff. Van Zomeren stated there is a 30' setback to the top of the bluff, noting the proposed addition is S forward of the bluff. City Staff has a concern with grading or land alteration in the 0-75' zone as it relates to the bluff. Van Zomeren remarked the previous resolution granted total hardcover in the amount of 2,652 square feet, with this application proposing 2,734 square feet in total hardcover. There were no public comments. Chair Smith inquired whether the Applicant was familiar with Staffs recommendations and their concerns that this addition will have on the lakeshore. Lindquist stated the Planning Commission has concerns about adding hardcover in the 0-75' setback, and inquired whether the Applicant will be proposing to add a garage in the future. Clark stated she would like to keep the addition away from the bluff as much as possible. Weber commented they are trying to keep the addition as simple as possible, noting the former applicant proposed to completely remodel the existing residence. Chair Smith indicated the Planning Commission has a concern about the impact in the 0-75' setback, noting the majority of the residence lies within that zone. Chair Smith inquired whether the addition could be reduced at all or whether the Applicant could go up with the addition. Hawn inquired whether the addition could be added to the other side. Weber stated that particular site was chosen due to the flatness of the land and to lessen the impact on the lake and bluff. Weber indicated they understand the City's policies, noting that variances are granted for compelling reasons. Lindquist stated the impact to the lake is the higher priority in his opinion and would be hard pressed Page 12