09-13-1999 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES FOR MAY 17,1999 (#2492 RICK AND GAIL LUZAICH, CONTINUED unhealthy trees. St: idard remarked that the Planning Commission hdS to act on what Is before it tonight, noting that the Planning Commission is merely a recommending bc<iy and that any plans would need to be approved by the City Council. Stoddard commented that the Applicant should work with City Staff on the reforestation, noting that he would like to see some mature trees planted to screen the neighbors' view as well as the proposed hardcover reduced. Luzaich stated they had proposed the retaining walls in an effort to save the hill. Weinberger commented that the stumps could possibly be removed but that the roots should remain to help hold the dirt in place with new plants and trees planted. Reznick Inquired whether anything could be agreed to tonight. Eric Paulson, Old Beach Road, stated that he has lived in this area for the past 21 years and belongs to the Lafayette Bay Association which has been proactive In trying to preserve the natural beauty of Lafayette Bay. Paulson remarked that the property owners were perhaps ignorant of the laws regarding removal of trees by the lakeshore. Gaffron remarked that the City of Orono did not and would not issue a permit to allow this type of tragedy to occur, noting that the City was not notified of this until a week after the work had already been completed. Gaffron stated that the City of Orono Is adamant in its position that this type of land alteration not occur near the lakeshore and that it is impossible to get back what has been lost. Weinberger stated that Wally Case is recommending that this property be reviewed by a forester who will review the Tile and look at the types of soils and determine what types of trees could be planted. Weinberger stated that they would like to have this process started sometime this week. Hawn Inquired whether the Applicant ’s landscape planner could meet with the forester. Gary Mueller, Landscape Architect, stated he would be able to meet with the forester, noting that they are willing to discuss this property and the recommendations that they have. Mueller requested that the Planning Commission provide some guidance as to what they feel should be provided for this area. Hawn stated that retaining walls are not the answer. Stoddard stated that ha>^ • over should be reduced and that he would like to see some larger trees planted. Lindquist remarked that the Comprehensive Plan is clear and that everything possible should be done to restore what was lost. Lindquist stated that they should meet with the City's forester as soon as possible to resolve this issue. Lindquist commented that this application will need to be tabled since the proposal is not acceptable as presented tonight. Berg commented that she is in agreement with the other members of the Planning Commission and would like to see some larger trees planted in this area to help restore what was lost. Luzaich inquired whether the stairway down to the lakeshore was okay. Page 9