07-13-2015 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING Monday, June 15, 2015 6:30 o’clock p.m. _____________________________________________________________________________________ Page 1 of 3 8. #15-3745 MATT JOHNSON, 1432 SHORELINE DRIVE, VARIANCES, 9:18 P.M. – 9:33 P.M. Matt Johnson, Applicant, was present. Barnhart stated the applicant is requesting variances in order to remodel the existing home by gutting the interior, expanding the second floor to cover the first floor footprint, shifting the bay window, and adding a fireplace cantilever. The exterior changes are located within the side yard setback and within the required 75-foot setback from Tanager Lake. The property is located on the west side of Shoreline Drive. Barnhart stated the applicant is proposing to make some minor modifications to the existing two-story house. The existing setbacks are 24.9 feet from the north property line and 26.8 feet from the lake at the closest location. Barnhart noted his Staff report states there is a 43.6 feet setback from the lake when it is actually 53.6 feet. The applicant is requesting a variance to construct a 2-1/2 story building within the lakeshore and side setback. The purpose of the interior modifications is to primarily enhance the livable portion of the structure, add room for adequate width, hallways, ceiling heights and stairwells. Based on the configuration of the lot and building, the applicant is not able to make any modifications to the exterior of the building without impacting some of the setbacks. In the review of the application, Staff is supportive of the variance. Barnhart displayed a view of the lakeside portion of the house and pointed out the location of the bay window and the portion of the structure that would be new. Barnhart displayed pictures of the structure from different sides of the structure. In terms of adjacent property impact, the biggest impact will likely be to the property to the south, with minimal impact to the property to the north. The proposed side yard setback will not be decreased at grade and the subject property provides 97 percent of the separation between the two buildings. Staff finds that the location of the existing home, which currently encroaches into the 75-foot setback and the side yard setbacks makes it difficult to make modifications or additions to the home. The structure is roughly centered on the property. The age and construction of the existing structure makes full use and enjoyment of the property challenging. Staff recommends approval of the variances to allow construction of the addition as proposed. Schoenzeit asked if Sheet A5 depicts a four-story house. Barnhart stated based on the preliminary review of the plan, Staff believes it meets the height and story requirements, but that he has not done the final calculations for the building permit. Barnhart stated it is somewhat challenging to judge the height just based on a review of A5. Schoenzeit asked if there is a spot on A5 where the grade is depicted.