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S�4N CITY OF ORONO RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL NO. 7325 4xES H OV:c PRACTICAL DIFFICULTY ANALYSIS: 1. "Variances shall onlybepermitted when theyare in harmonywith thegeneral purposes p p and intent of the ordinance . . . ." The use for a golf course on this size property follows the general intent of the ordinance. 2. "Variances shall only be permitted . . . when the variances are consistent with the comprehensive plan." The proposed addition is well within the required setbacks and is minimally changing the nature of what is currently existing on the site. The proposal is in line with the City of Orono 2040 Comprehensive Plan, which includes maintaining the natural character of the site, minimizing impacts to neighbors (screening, sound buffering), and natural resource impacts such as hardcover, grading, tree removal, and the control of storm water runoff off site. 3. "Variances may be granted when the applicant for the variance establishes that there are practical difficulties in complying with the zoning ordinance. `Practical difficulties,' as used in connection with the granting of a variance, means that: a. The property owner in question proposes to use the property in a reasonable manner, however, the proposed use is not permitted by the official controls. The golf course use is permitted through an approved conditional use permit, and the improvements proposed to support this use are reasonable. b. The plight of the landowner is due to circumstances unique to his property not created by the landowner. The applicant is proposing to construct an addition to an existing accessory structure on the site to support the permitted use oriented to improve upon the existing condition; and c. The variance, if granted, will not alter the essential character of the locality." The proposed addition is intended to improve upon an existing structure and supporting hardscape to support the golf course use. The proposed addition is fully screened by existing vegetation from surrounding residential properties. 4. "Economic considerations alone do not constitute practical difficulties." Economic considerations have not been a factor in the variance approval determination. 5. "Practical difficulties also include but are not limited to inadequate access to direct sunlight for solar energy systems. Variances shall be granted for earth-sheltered construction as 3