10-25-1999 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES FOR SEPTEMBER 20,1999 (#2522 The Bancor Group, Continued) overall view of the development should be taken, noting that many of the lots will overlook open space. Newman remarked due to the high costs associated with developing this parcel of property and the poor soils and high water table in the area. It Is impossible to develop this property at a lower density. Hawn commented that there are certain housing needs in Orono which are not currently being met, but that this proposal in her opinion does not address those housing needs. Hawn stated there needs to be a compelling reason to revise the Comprehensive Plan, which in her opinion has not been demonstrated tonight. Hawn thanked the people in the audience for their interest in this proposed development and in the future development of Orono. Kiuth commented that the Planning Commission serves as an advisory body to the City Council, and In his opinion it is not within their jurisdiction to change the comprehensive plan. Smith stated that the Planning Commission does need to look at the future needs of the residents in Orono, both near term and long-term, and that the City is receptive is looking at other types of housing in Orono. Stoddard stated in his opinion the proposed housing is too dense for this area but does make good use of the City se'.' and water that is available in the area. Stoddard commented he is in favor of two acre zoning, but would be willing to consider a proposal calling for 39 or fewer units on this property. Lindquist acknowledged that developments are generally economically driven, but that the Planning Commission does not look at the economic side of the proposed development but rather the impact that the development will have on the community. Lindquist commented that in his opinion the housing density should be reduced somewhat, with this high density housing being unacceptable in his view. Newman requested that direction be given from the Planning Commission on what they would like to see for this site. Kiuth stated that the Planning Commission is not in a position to develop plans for a particular area, but that in his opinion housing in this area should be limited. Hawn stated that personally she would be interested in seeing smaller, more maintenance free housing for this area, with plenty of open space being provided. Kiuth moved, Lindquist seconded, to recommend denial of Application #2522, Southwest Corner of Willow Drive North and County Road 6, Class III Subdivision. VOTE: Ayes 6, Nays 0. (Recess taken from 9:03 p.m. • 9:08 p.m.} CONTINUED NEW BUSINESS: PUBLIC HEARINGS (#6) #2523 RONALD AND RITA ZEBECK, 998 WILDHURST TRAIL - VARIANCES AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT, 9:08 p.m. - 9:41 p.m. Tim Oberg. Southview Design, was present. Page 10