03-24-2009 Council Work Session Packet

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Because of the existing development conditions, the concept design for the East Hackberry Site is a compromise between Conservation Design measures and existing buildings and infrastructure (CPA Figure 15). Lots are laid out adjacent to existing residential areas, with similar lot sizes. The plan utilizes the existing swales and stormwater cells near the fire station for stormwater management, as well as incorporating the wet meadow and adjacent drainageway for more natural techniques. Buffers are also maintained along Glendale Drive and added along Willow Drive. Development Site Analysis and Concept Design Conclusions The highlighted corridor case studies and concept designs illustrate how the goals and guidelines outlined in this CPA can be implemented in future development in the City of Orono. The methods that were developed and applied in the Rural Oasis Project display how future development in Orono can be planned to both protect and promote the city's environmental health and rural character. These techniques first require the completion of an aesthetic and ecological site analysis to identify existing conditions to consider while developing, as well as opportunities for the improvement of the natural landscape and site character. Further development planning can then start, giving strong consideration to the findings of the initial phase of the process and the Guiding Principles for development. Implementation Plan An implementation plan is necessary to ensure that future development in Orono adheres to the Guiding Principles discovered and applied throughout the Rural Oasis Project. Through the use of city regulations and additional resources, this plan will ensure the preservation of both the ecological quality of Orono's lakes, wetlands, and other open spaces and the scenic value of the entire landscape. The plan includes the following steps: 1. Establishing a Public Purpose, Amend the Comprehensive Plan This will establish a statement that accurately represents the findings from the Rural Oasis Project and provides the foundation for zoning standards. It will support each of the main points/development guidelines of the Rural Oasis Project and will become an official amendment to the Orono Comprehensive Plan. 2. Adopt a Zoning Ordinance Amendment The Zoning Ordinance will be modified to address the new development goals outlined above. Provisions to be included in this amendment will be a Master Planning requirement and the incorporation of incentives through the potential modification of the base density and the provision of density bonuses in the R-1 District and the R-2 District. 3. Create a Master Planning Requirement A Master Planning requirement will be incorporated into the zoning ordinance amendment and require any subdivision or development greater than 5 acres or guided for urban density to follow the parameters of the Conservation Design Ordinance. City of Orono DSU, Inc Draft CPA 15 August, 2005