11-09-2020 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION Monday, September 21, 2020 6:00 o’clock p.m. _____________________________________________________________________________________ 1. LA20-000022, RANDY HAAPALA, HNH HOMES O/B/O WILLIAM & KATHLEEN WANNER 1095 FERNDALE RD WEST, VARIANCES AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMITS. STAFF: MELANIE CURTIS. Rick Storlien, RDS Architects, OBO William & Kathleen Wanner, Applicants, were present. Staff presented a summary of packet information. Curtis noted this property has a history of variances to redevelopment beginning in 2009, variances were granted, renewed and eventually expired due to inactivity. The applicant has demonstrated practical difficulties to support the requested lot area, lot width, setback and hardcover variances without generating neighborhood opposition. Staff recommends approval of the recommendation, however the flood plain requirement for a 15-foot elevation bench around the home should be met if there is adequate space on the property and the grading plan can be modified to conform. Chair Ressler asked if the blue line she mentioned onscreen is in compliance and not encroaching on the setback. Curtis pointed out one area of the home and patio that encroach on the setback, noting it is 530 square feet. Rick Storlien, RDS Architects, 10135 47th Avenue North, Plymouth said Ms. Curtis presented things well and he welcomes any questions. Gettman asked, when considering the actual layout, were there any possible plans that allowed for no encroachment of the 75 foot setback. Mr. Storlien replied it’s a bit like the chicken and the egg, the issue is that they’re trying to maximize the flood plain holding pond area and the closer the house gets to the street, that pond gets smaller and smaller and reduces the capacity. Chair Ressler opened the public hearing at 6:08 p.m. Chair Ressler closed the public hearing at 6:08 p.m. Kirchner said he understands the detached garage will be revised and conform to the 15 foot setback, if this is something they vote to approve he thinks it’s prudent to recommend to City Council that it be approved assuming these updated certificates of survey and such are in fact complete and finalized with that final application at the Council level. Erickson thinks the Staff report is well done and understands that there are some revisions coming, he is happy to hear that and is willing to support the approval. Libby concurs with the Staff report and supports it. Chair Ressler noted he, too, generally likes to follow the Staff’s recommendation. Whenever possible, he likes to see homes not encroaching upon the setback, however, it appears that the Staff is pleased with what has been proposed and he doesn’t see anything out of place. 189 189