05-10-2021 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION Monday, April 19, 2021 6:00 o’clock p.m. _____________________________________________________________________________________ PUBLIC HEARINGS 1. LA21-000023 MARK PRUETER, 3215 CRYSTAL BAY ROAD, VARIANCES Mark Prueter, applicant, was present. Staff presented a summary packet of information. The property owner is requesting variances in order to build a new detached garage in generally the same location as an existing, aging garage. Hardcover and side yard setback variances are requested. The new garage will be 82 square feet larger than the existing to improve functionality but the project will result in 49 square feet less hardcover. The applicant identified the size of the property as a practical difficulty supporting the requested variances, as well as the property’s orientation and access with respect to the lakeshore, Crystal Bay Road, and the Dakota Trail. The current hardcover level is 37.7%; a 49 square foot reduction in hardcover results in a 37.3% hardcover. The garage conforms to the west and rear setbacks. The applicant has received support from the property owners to the east where a 4.5 foot setback is proposed. An elevation difference from the rear requires a stairway replacement and moving the stair from the east to the west side of the garage. The applicant is able to reduce hardcover for the pathway in addition to removal of the walls that encroach on the Dakota Rail Trail property. Supporting documents have also been received from the neighbor to the west. Staff finds there are practical difficulties inherent to the lot’s shape, size, and width and the configuration of the existing garage and access over the easement in the rear which support the applicant’s request for variances. The applicant approached the podium, introducing himself. Chair Kirchner opened the public hearing at 6:06 p.m. Chair Kirchner closed the public hearing at 6:06 p.m. Kirchner said although this is larger it is reducing hardcover and in all is a betterment to the situation. He heard Barnhart say by removing the walls it would remove an encroachment. Barnhart noted a retaining wall that encroaches in to the Dakota Rail property that will be removed with this proposal. Ressler moved, Libby seconded, to approve LA21-000023, 3215 Crystal Bay Road, Variances. VOTE: Ayes 6, Nays 0. Barnhart noted this item will be reviewed by the City Council on May 10, 2021.