03-22-2004 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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3. 4. 5. The Planning Commission reviewed this application at a public hearing held on March 15, 2004 and recommended approval of the hardcover variance and conditional use permit based on the following findings: a. City Code 78-1282 allows for the installation of stairs, lifts and landings in place of major topographic alterations on steep slopes. b. The proposed changes to the stair system and wall result in a reduction in hardcover from 4.5% to 4.2%. c. The proposed 4.2% hardcover is allowed pursuant to City Code 12- 1282. d. The existing wooden stairs and landings have a greater visual impact from the lake than the proposed stair system. e. The existing 8’ timber retaining wall will be replaced with a more stable grade and glacial boulder walls 3’ in height or less. f. The proposed glacial walls will be screened from the lake by vegetation for a more natural looking slope. g. The reconstruction of a wall 4 ’ or less in height and maintenance of a slope no greater than 2:1 is supported by the City’s Engineer, and is necessary to stabilize the slope and protect the slope from damage. h. The applicants have provided a restoration plan meeting the goals and intent of the Zoning Code and the Orono Community Management Plan. The City Council has considered this ^plication including the findings and recommendation of the Planning Commission, reports by City staff, comments by the applicant and the public, and the effect of the proposed variance on die health, safety and welfare of the commuitity. The City Council finds that the conditions existing on this property are peculiar to it and do not apply generally to other property in this zoning district; that granting the variance would not adversely affect traffic conditions, light, air nor pose a fire hazard or oiher danger to neighboring Page 2 of 5 1 i