04-28-1997 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON APRIL 14,1997 (#8) HOME OCCUPATION LICENSES Van Zomeren reiterated some of the regulations regarding home occupation hcenses. The zoning ordinance allows such licenses for persons engaged in business within their own dwellings and limited to the principal residence only. Van Zomeren revievved the licensing requirements. She noted that the use of the garage for storage of stock would be in violation of the ordinance, the evidence of the occupation may not be visible from the street and is reinforced by the restriction of no signage. The amount of retail activity also cannot overtake the use of the residence. Over the counter sales is not allowed. Entry to the business must be through the residence. The business cannot generate demand for more than three parking spaces. Van Zomeren said one of the problems is that the definition lists the regulations. She indicated that the definition should say what it is rather than list prohibitions. Van Zomeren said there are currently 19 licenses issued of which 10 are considered active. Some of these licensees have outside employees which is not allowed by ordinance. Van Zomeren asked for policy direction on recodification. Van Zomeren noted that the state law does not allow for variances. People in violation of the no outside employee prohibition are either in business without licensing, or unaware of the licensing requirement. Jabbour said he would not want people who have assistants to be required to come before the Council. He would like to see this issue handled at the Staff level. Jabbour indicated there were probably many people who employ secretaries at their residences. Home Occupation License Applications were reviewed as follows: 1) The home occupation license application for John Waldron meets all the requirements. Van Zomeren said Staff recommends approval. Kelley moved, Peterson seconded, to approve the Home Occupation License for John Waldron in compliance with the findings as noted. Vote: Ayes 4, Nays 0. 2) Thomas Clapp applied for a Home Occupation License after being notified about the ordinance during the process of remodeling his office space. He provided a letter outlining the impact of the license restrictions on his business. Clapp said he requires clerical assistance. Van Zomeren said Staff'informed the Clapps of the restrictions. All requirements are met except for the need for a secretary. Radio informed the applicant that a variance use is illegal. The need for secretarial service cannot be obtained under the current code. The code is being reviewed for possible recodification. i u H