08-17-1998 Planning Commission Minutes

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1 ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES FOR AUGUST 17, 1998 (#2410 PETER BOYNTON, Continued) Van Zomeren stated the Applicants are requesting variances for street, hardcover and average lakeshore setback. A conditional use permit is also required because the Applicant is proposing to significantly change the grade in the 0-75' setback, which was originally not requested by the Applicant nor included in the legal notification. There are multiple issues with this application that still need to be addressed before any recommendation can be made by City Staff. Boynton stated originally the house was built as a cottage back in 1920, has a hand dug basement, and needs to be torn down. The request for variances to setback are being sought because the house cannot be built without them. Boynton requested the Planning Commission give guidance on what hardcover and setbacks would be acceptable. Schroeder inquired if the house was torn down and a new structure built, how would the application be handled. Van Zomeren stated if the house is reconstructed, the lot would be treated as a vacant lot and would need to meet all the requirements for that lot. Schroeder suggested the Applicant design a house that conforms to all the variances. Boynton stated in his opinion the land is unbuildable without variances. Stoddard stated he would like a footprint for the house that doesn't call for variances. Boynton commented he could possibly utilize the existing foundation, noting in 1978 an addition to • the house was constructed with a good foundation, which comprises approximately one-third of the foundation. Gaffron stated once a house is torn down, any grandfather rights are forfeited. Chair Smith questioned whether the Planning Commission could act on this application at the present time. Van Zomeren remarked typically the Planning Commission does not approve of grading in the 0-75' setback with no additional structure in the 0-75'setback. Chair Smith asked for public comment on this application. Cathy Lee, 1965 Fagerness Point Road, stated she was under the impression the house has to be moved back, noting she would prefer the house on the existing footprint to keep the house in line with the rest of the houses on the road. Van Zomeren commented Staff needs more information on the adjoining properties as well as a new survey which outlines the proposed structure and hardcover. Lindquist suggested the Applicant try to limit the house to 1,500 square feet and 25 percent total hardcover. Cathy Lee remarked the area is on a pennisula and moving the house back would not affect drainage into the lake. • Lindquist moved, Smith seconded, to table Application #2410, 1973 Fagerness Point Road, to allow the Applicant time to submit revised plans. VOTE: Ayes 6, Nays 0. Page 18