02-24-2009 Council Work Session Packet

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CMP Part 3B. Land Use Plan LAKESHORE RESIDENTIAL LAND USE POLICIES Although Orono's lakeshore has a wide range of diversity in lot size and home size, the predominant character of Orono's lakeshore is natural. This is due to much of the lakeshore being historically developed as large estate lots with homes set back a substantial distance from the lakeshore, or being developed as moderate homes on moderate lots leaving substantial open space. The exception to the natural lakeshore is the areas where historically small cottages were built on small lots close to the lakeshore. These cottages in manv cases have been updated, remodeled or expanded into year-round homes. The key goal of the City's Comprehensive Plan is to protect Lake Minnetonka, which includes the preservation of the natural character of the lakeshore and the water quality of the lake. As the demand for, and value of, lakeshore property has dramatically increased, so has the pressure to expand or replace small and not so small older homes with much larger homes. This pressure has the potential to substantially alter the natural character of the lakeshore, and the more open and natural environment enjoyed by property owners along much of the lakeshore in Orono. The following policies will guide the City in addressing development on the lakeshore. 1. Lake Minnetonka shall be protected as a natural and recreational resource . 2. The natural character of the lakeshore shall be preserved, and when possible, enhanced. 3. The views and open space currently enjoyed by lakeshore property owners shall be protected. 4. The size of a house to be allowed on a lot shall be determined based on the size of the lot, as well as on the shape and topography of the lot. 5. The increase in massing of structures on the lakeshore shall be limited. City of Orono Community Management Plan 2008-2030 Page 3B-25