02-19-2003 Planning Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING Wedacsdiy, Jaaaary 22,2003 6:30 o*clock p.B. (#02-2854 KEVIN MANLEY, CMiHaMcd) Gaflron indicated that, from an equity standpoint, applications have been repeatedly denied to do grading to construct walkouts in this neighborhood. In fact, an application to create a w alkout on this property was denied 4-5 years ago. howeser, now the work has been done and the City is striving to restore the properly to some semblance of what it w-as. Gaffron explained that the building inspector felt that none of the Options does enough to restore the property to what it was onginally. since permits were never applied for which would allow the grade change in the first place. With regard to hardcover, all three C^ions hasT similar impact. In regard to protection of the lakeshore. Chair Smith asked w hich Option the City could support. If the City were trying to reum the existing shoreline character of the neighborhood. Gaffron felt that any of the three Options would do. Chair Smith asked if the Commission found the proposed plantings acceptable. She inquired w hether nativ’e species or additional trees were suggested. Suarez maintained that most of the plantings would be of a native variety, woody, grasses, and dogwoods. He pointed out that few properties haw trees near the shoreline. The Commission agreed the proposed plantings with added trees would be acceptable. There were no public comments. As a matter of equity. Hawn indicated that her first choice would be to sec the property restored to its original state. She maintained that the application for w hat now has been done an>^ ay. had been denied just a few years ago. At thisjuncture. Hawn beliesed it to be in everyone's best interest to maintain a stable landscape and could support staffs recommendation. Mabusth stated that, she too, could support Option I of staffs recommendation, however, had concerns about the runoff near the “bowl" area. She also wished to see trees in various areas of the yard in order to break up the v ertical expanse. Suarez reiterated that gutters and downspouts w ould be used to direct runoff aw ay from the depressed area. He noted that trees could be added to the comers of the lot nicely. Mabusth asked if the neighbor's concern regarding safety and h- tgN fthe retaining wall had been addressed since the last itKcting. Suarez assured the Commission that the tallest wall would be only ■ tall. Gaffron acknowledged that the slope would now be closer to the neighbor's property, with less vegetation than there was previously. Mabusth questioned whether staff f'und the stairs over the nprap acceptable and Public Serv ice Director Gappa had no issue with the east side stairs. PAGE 3 Of 29