Laserfiche WebLink
ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING <br /> MINUTES FOR SEPTEMBER 21, 1998 <br /> • <br /> (#2420 Robert Ryan, Jr., continued) <br /> This property lies within the RR-1 B zoning district, and is comprised of 1.62 acres. The <br /> neighborhood is developed as a residential cul-de-sc neighborhood of lots approximately two acres <br /> in size. The neighborhood also has a covenant in place restricting any out buildings or structures <br /> from being built without approval of an Architectural Review Committee established in the covenant. <br /> The Applicant is proposing to locate the tower closer than 90 feet to the lot lines, which may pose <br /> a potential public safety issue and would be visible to the neighbors as well. The Zoning Code does <br /> not allow structures to exceed 30 feet in height, which would require a height variance from the 30 <br /> feet maximum allowed. <br /> Staff recommends denial of the application. <br /> Mr. Ryan stated they are unsure at this time of the exact height of the tower, noting the tower needs <br /> to clear the trees to order to be effective. Ryan commented that neighboring properties have CB <br /> towers, which average 60 feet, and this wind tower should pose no hazard to the neighbors as it is <br /> recommended for home use and there are no structures nearby. Ryan also stated the committee <br /> outlined in the covenant has been non-existent for the past four years. <br /> Chair Smith noted a letter dated September 20, 1998, has been received from Susan Manikowski, a <br /> resident in the neighborhood, and presented a copy of the letter to the Applicants. <br /> Clem Kroll, 60 South Stubbs Bay Road, stated he currently owns nine acres which can be subdivided <br /> into four lots, and has concerns with the height, location, and reduction in property values should the <br /> • tower be installed. <br /> Chair Smith inquired whether the committee was active in the neighborhood. <br /> Kroll stated the members of the committee were in attendance at tonight's meeting. <br /> Schroeder noted the problem lies with NSP and the tower should not be allowed at the expense of <br /> the neighbors. <br /> McMillan stated the wind tower is not allowed under Orono's Codes. <br /> Schroeder suggested the Applicant purchase a portable generator to help solve the outage problems. <br /> Ryan stated he has a portable generator, which has not resolved the outage problem, and <br /> expressed concerns over possible outages due to the year 2000 problem. <br /> Susan Manikowski, 3505 Christine Drive, stated they moved to this quiet neighborhood about <br /> three and a half years ago and would like to keep the area rural as much as possible. Manikowski <br /> raised concerns about the wildlife, lightning strikes, noise from the generator, and the possible <br /> danger to the neighboring properties should the tower fall. Manikowski requested the Planning <br /> Commission deny the request. <br /> Ryan stated he has spoken with the Homeowners Association and said he would be willing to <br /> put the wind tower in temporarily until after the power outage problem is resolved. Ryan commented <br /> he felt the City will be having more requests of this nature in the future. <br /> Berg inquired why he felt that way. <br /> • Ryan remarked that he doesn't feel NSP will be able to adequately supply electricity, especially <br /> Page 10 <br />