01-27-2003 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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3. 4. 5. The Orono Planning Commission reviewed this application on January 22,2003 and recommended approval of the proposed variances based upon the following findings: A. The existing residence was built in 1974. B. The property is unusual that it is surrounded on two side by platted, but undeveloped right of ways. C. The City is unlikely to vacate Summit Avenue or Grant Street, therefore there is not additional land to obtain. D. The topography of the property changes from the front to the rear of the property, necessitating retaining walls. E. The deck will not obstruct views of adjacent neighbors. F.The property is wooded, at the end of the street, and surrounded by two undeveloped right of ways, therefore the deck location will not have any negative visual impact in the neighborhood. G.The hardcover in the 7S-2S0' setback zone is not increasing, fhe applicant will remove a lower deck, a portion of the driveway and a brick paver walkway to maintain existing hardcover levels. 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 variances will not adversely affect traffic conditions, light, air. nor pose a fire hazard or other danger to neighboring property; would not merely serve as a convenience to the applicants, but is necessary to alleviate a demonstrable hardship or difficulty; is necessary to preserve a substantial property right of the applicants; and would in keeping with the spirit and intent of the Zoning Code and Comprehensive Plan of the City. The City Council has considered this application including the findings and recommendations of the Planning Commission, reports by City Staff, comments by the applicants and the effect of the proposed variance on the health, safety and welfare of the community. Page 2 of 6