08-08-2022 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION Monday, July 18, 2022 6:00 o’clock p.m. _____________________________________________________________________________________ PUBLIC HEARINGS 1. LA22-000034 CONCEPT LANDSCAPING, 1350 REST POINT CIRCLE REQUESTS VARIANCE FOR LAKEYARD SETBACKS TO REPLACE FAILING RETAINING WALLS AND THE LAKE ACCESS STAIR SYSTEM. (STAFF: MELANIE CURTIS) Jared Smith, Concept Landscaping, was present. City Planner Curtis gave a presentation on the item, stating the subject property has an existing, aging timber wall and stair system that is exhibiting signs of failure. The existing walls are tiered and support the hillside to the lake. The configuration of the walls allows for some lake access stairs and deck platforms. The bottom wall is located approximately 6 feet from the OHW (Ordinary High Water Line) and the repair will be located one foot in front of the wall creating an estimated 5 foot setback from the lake. In addition to the size of the block being used, there will be a batter which will further increase the footprint of the walls. The Applicant has provided an engineer design for the wall construction and plan to reconstruct all in-kind with the exception of the expansion due to the change in material. The Applicant has identified the failing retaining wall and protection of the hillside as practical difficulties supporting the requested variance. Additionally, they have provided supporting documentation regarding Practical Difficulties and should be asked for additional testimony regarding the application. Regarding practical difficulty, Staff finds the existing conditions of the retaining walls and the hillside are practical difficulties which support the variance request. The new retaining walls would support and protect the slope. Staff has not received any public comment on the application and recommends approval of the lake setback variance for the improvements as proposed and suggests additional screening of the walls to preserve the natural vegetative view from the lake where feasible. Jared Smith, 8994 Zanzibar Lane, Maple Grove, represents Concept Landscaping and is present to answer questions. Chair McCutcheon asked if the same material will be used. Mr. Smith replied the initial wall was timber and it is being replaced by a modular block wall. Chair McCutcheon opened the public hearing at 6:06 p.m. There were no public comments. Chair McCutcheon closed the public hearing at 6:06 p.m. The Commissioners discussed the item. Ressler noted they have seen these before and it is important to get control of this before it becomes a problem as it is very difficult to rebuild in that area after damage has been done. He is in support of the application as proposed. Ressler moved, Peterson seconded, to approve LA22-000034, 1350 Rest Point Circle Requests Variance as applied. VOTE: Ayes: 6, Nays 0.