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Orono City Council <br /> Work Session Minutes <br /> Monday,May 22,2023 <br /> c Council Chambers <br /> 4kEsHoRti <br /> 5:00 p.m. <br /> PRESENT: Mayor Dennis Walsh, Council Members Alisa Benson, and Matt Johnson. Staff <br /> members present were City Administrator/Engineer Adam Edwards, Golf and Parks <br /> Superintendent Josh Lemons, Community Development Director Laura Oakden, Planners Natalie <br /> Nye and Melanie Curtis. <br /> 1. Retaining Wall Discussion Part II <br /> Community Development Director Laura Oakden presented a review of the current retaining <br /> walls ordinance and identified challenges with implementation with the current city <br /> code. Oakden noted staff is looking for guidance if the council would like to initiate a text <br /> amendment to the prohibition of retaining walls within the lakeyard. She also stated staff is also <br /> recommending creating an administrative permitting process for replacement walls that are under <br /> 4 feet in height and for new walls that are part of a lake stair project. Staff is also recommending <br /> a conditional use permit process for all other walls within the lakeyard and is requesting feedback <br /> on the conditions that should be required for this permit. <br /> The council agreed with staff on creating best practices and guidelines in the code for retaining <br /> walls in the lakeyard. Council discussed the condition of a landscape plan requirement and the <br /> challenges with implementing and maintaining landscaping as a condition with the land. <br /> Council Member Alisa Benson discussed the DNR guidance and best practices. <br /> There was further discussion regarding materials noting that bolder walls are a preferred material <br /> for retaining walls. Council supported staffs recommendation and directed staff to proceed with <br /> a text amendment. <br /> CITY OF ORONO: <br /> ATTEST: <br /> Dennis Walsh, Mayor <br /> Anna Carlson, City Clerk <br /> Page 1 of 1 <br />