09-28-2015 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, September 14, 2015 7:00 o’clock p.m. _____________________________________________________________________________________ Page 13 of 39 PUBLIC HEARING Mayor McMillan opened the public hearing at 8:06 p.m. There were no public comments regarding this application. Mayor McMillan closed the public hearing at 8:06 p.m. 8. #15-3767 JON RESSLER, 3683 NORTH SHORE DRIVE, VARIANCES – RESOLUTION NO. 6537 (continued) Walsh noted the Planning Commission had raised the amount of massing on the property and asked whether any of the neighbors have commented on the application. Curtis noted the neighbors on both sides of the subject property did submit written comments that were included in the Planning packet. McMillan asked if they will be using the existing foundation and framing. Jon Ressler, Applicant, stated due to their research, it was determined that the existing foundation and structure is sufficient to hold the weight of the second story. The foundation was largely rebuilt in 1999 and at that time there were no real changes necessary for reconstruction. Ressler stated in their view the foundation is sufficient but this is the first step in finding that out. McMillan noted the City at times in the past have required a report from a professional engineer and asked whether that would be required in this situation. Curtis stated the building official will want documentation that the foundation is suitable for the structural load that it will be carrying, but essentially the applicant can rebuild this home in kind without evidence of that information. If the applicants were to take out the entire structure and rebuild the foundation, they would be able to do that. McMillan asked if they would be limited to one story. Curtis indicated they would be able to rebuild the house as it currently is but they would be required to apply for a variance if a second story is added. Levang stated she is concerned given the number of variances being requested. Levang stated the side setbacks are very narrow and that she is concerned about safety in relation to a fire. Levang stated the ability to be able to back out of the driveway is important but that 56 percent hardcover is a huge amount. Levang stated the applicants are constructing a big house on a small lot and that she is concerned about the massing. Ressler pointed out there are two other homes on the road that have done similar projects as what he is proposing with similar setbacks and similar variances. Ressler noted the house depicted on the left was remodeled a few years ago and is even closer to the property line. This project will be improving the side setback from what it currently is.