09-20-2004 Planning Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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KXIilBITL. • tmprovcmcnls to Uic lot With the counsel of Janice and I om. \sc base come lo undcrslanJ the rationale and support the cities development philosophy. Our submittal and intent demonstrates our commitment to improving this property and protecting the lake consistent with Orono’s vision. 'Hiis property was listed and sold by the previous owners as a “knockdown” because of its age and condition We are exiled, however, to be able to help improve both the neighboiliood appearance and character with our changes. A (laitial list of improveiiiciils we will complete includes o Remov al of all hardcover and an existing boat house in 0-75 ft /one. o Reduction of hardcover in tlic 75-250 zone from 35.355* to 24 95i. o Impioveinent of side lot setback from appro.ximalely 6 feet to 10 feel, o Improvement of neighborhood drainage despite sigmricant natural topography tlua currently drives water lo neighboring lots. O Improvement of the energy cfTicicncy and safety of the home itself while sustaining the essential external character of the ncighboihocHl, o Restoration of our eroding lakeshore in cooperation with the neighbors lo the north and the relevant Lake Miniictoiikagovciniiig agencies • Preservation of neichborhoodv As we wrere considering various Twin Cities areas for relocation, the neigliboihoods and schools of Orono quickly raised lo the top of our list Several of Kevin's colleagues at General Mills described Orono as very family focused and a comimmily that valued having a variety of family types along the same streets because of tlicir scattered development approach This diversity is important lo us as we raise our children V^'c agree with the city’s Community Management Plan when it says “Most of Orono'i c.xi.xtm^ urban ncighborfunHls arc a homogenous mix of iteuvr anJ older homes intermingled with on occasional vacant lot or a larger, divtsdile lot Tltcic i\ HO sinitle netithborhtHid which is in need of comnletc reneuxil or rehabi litation " We feel the dominant land ownership along one street and programiiutic and complete renewal of W'esllakc is contrary to this intention As wc hopefully begin raising our three small children on the lake, we look forward to preserv ing the traditions of our neighborhood. The essential character, wre believe, has more to do with the people of Westlake than a developer’s v ision Families like the Anderson’s. Olson’s, and Uie llarier's have lived tliere for decades, raised families, and deFincd that character Wc have already stwiit hours under our backyard trees talking witli them and were instantly offered the use of their dtKks for this summer as ours is in disrepair. For us. tliat is the essential character of Westake. and of Orono, that is in need of preserv ation. We are blessed to liave the opportunity to preserve this neighborhood as one of homes and families of many types and sizes Wc respectfully request your support in doing so Best regards. Kevin and Julie Fitzpatrick Maple Grove, MN