11-19-2001 Planning Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MONDAY, OCTOBER 15,2001 (#01-2722 MICHAEL AND MONICA BROWN, CONTINUED) vehicle would not be able to park in the driveway without hanging out into the street. GafTron noted the Code does require a SO-foot setback from the lot line. Another issue for consideration is whether the City wants a structure that close to the street. Hawn inquired w hether the members of the Planning Commission would like to see the size of the garage reduced. Mabusth and Kluth stated in their view the garage could perhaps be relocated somewhere else on the property. Rahn stated in his view the garage could perhaps be moved five feet closer to the house. Brown stated he does not need to park in front of the garage since he has a parking area to the side of the garage. Brown reiterated the other garages in the neighborhood face the street. Rahn stated the issue for the Planning Commission is whether a hardship exists to grant the variance. Hawn stated in her opinion the Applicant could design a garage that would avoid the need for a setback variance, does not load from the street, and does not require two curb cuts. Brown indicated he was not familiar with curb cuts prior to tonight's meeting. Hawn inquired whether the Planning Commission had any issues with the fence replacement. It was the consensus of the Planning Commission that they are in favor of a variance to permit replacement of an existing fence. Lindquist stated he is not in favor of the garage facing the street. Brown stated he needs the Planning Commission to explain why they would approve a garage within the last year for the mayor for the very same type of reasons. Hawn indicated it was her understanding there were some issues dealing with setbacks in that file. Gaffron stated he will check the file to see what the setback was from the street front line to the front of the garage. Brown staled one option would be to cut down the pine tree. Hawn stated the Planning Commission is not asking the Applicant to remove the pine tree, Brown stated he would prefer not to have to cut down the tree. Rahn stated if the garage is located five feet closer to the house, a variance would not be required. Brown stated it is his belief the pine tree is located more towards the middle of the garage than the street. Brown stated in his view his request is reasonable. PAGE 14