08-12-2002 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING Monday, July 15,2002 6:30 o’clock p.m. Gaflron suggested they either spend another hour wrapping up discussion or scheduling a follow-up meeting for another time. Bremer suggested a second meeting soon. Johnston concurred, slating that they have a timeline they are trying to meet and would like to continue discussion soon. It was agreed that a meeting would take place on Wednesday, July 17,2002 at 5:30 P.M. Mabusth asked when the wetland delineation report would be ready for review. Johnston stated that the study was concluded and he awaits the paperwork. Gaffron encouraged the Commission that, if they had enough detail to grant concept plan approval on Wednesday night, to do so. (#12) #02-2804 PHILIP AND CONSTANCE MARTIN, 1230 ARBOR STREET, VARIANCES 10:29 p.m.-10:49 p.m. Philip Martin, Applicant, was present. Bottenberg reported that the applicants have requested front yard and side yard setback variances to construct a front porch and an attached garage to the existing residence. The existing single car garage will be converted to living space, the existing driveway would be removed, and a new one will be located in from the new garage. While located within the two acre zoning district, Bottenberg stated that the neighborhood is more in character with half acre zoning standards. If half acre zoning standards were applied to this property the existing residence would meet the 30’ required front setback. The proposed front porch and the front of the proposed garage would encroach 4’ into the front yard setback. The side of the proposed garage would meet the required 10’ side yard setback. With regard to the history of Arbor Street, Bottenberg pointed out that most of the properties in the area are half acre lots and the property to the south has been vacant for many years. Bottenberg maintained that if the Planning Commission concludes that the addition as proposed would be in character with the neighborhood, and not detrimental to the neighborhood, and adequate hardships are present, then a recommendation for approval would be appropriate. Mr. Martin stated that his only hardship is that he has no character out front, most of his neighbors have front porches out front, and his has absolutely nothing. While the average setback is 40’, what he has proposed does not change the character of the street, in fact, the neighbors have indicated their support. PAGE 25 of 35