08-21-2023 Planning Commission Packet

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION July 17, 2023 6:00 o'clock p.m. McCutchen said he saw no issues with this application. Ressler noted the set -back for rear -yard was close to required at 45 feet instead of 50 and that the proposal improves the situation on the lot and other similar requests have been approved. Kraemer also said he was in favor. Erickson pointed out the plan would allow for a driveway with a moderate slope which is a good thing to have during a Minnesota winter. Kirchner moved, Kraemer seconded, to recommend approval of LA22-000032, 205 Tonka Ave. variances as applied. VOTE: Ayes: 7, Nays 0. 3. LA23-000033 EDWIN & TRACEY STEPHENSON, 559 PARK LANE, AN AVERAGE LAKESHORE SETBACK VARIANCE IN ORDER TO EXPAND AN EXISTING IW.1114Oki 17Do7Xy110 City Planner Curtis explained the applicants are requesting an Average Lakeshore Setback variance to construct the lakeside deck off of the main level of their home with a stair down over an existing patio. They are requesting a 14 -foot deck where a 7.5 foot deck would be permitted, resulting in an encroachment into the setback of about six and a half feet on the north and about three and a half feet on the south. The deck expansion does not appear to impact views of the lake from either neighboring property, she said. The applicant has identified the existing conditions as practical difficulties and have provided supporting documentation. They are in attendance. Staff finds the property's alignment with the neighbors, the topography and the home's orientation to the lake along the street create difficulties in expanding the home or constructing a functionally -sized deck on the lake side and recommends approval, she said, adding that no public comment has been received. Edwin & Tracey Stephenson, 559 Park Lane, the applicants, said they purchased the home two years ago and were not aware of all of the variances and all of the setback requirements. Over the last year or so they talked to their neighbors to see if they had any concerns and both indicated that it doesn't impact their view at all. Chair Bollis opened the public hearing at 6:24 p.m. There were no public comments. Chair Bollis closed the public hearing at 6:24 p.m. Ressler said this is an Average Lakeshore Setback case which the Commission sees quite a bit. The City hasn't been able to make this one size fits all so it is necessary to look at the big picture. He said it did not look like the neighbors would be negatively affected in any way by the new deck, adding he does not like to see asphalt removed for a turnaround but realized they are trying to stay within hardcover limits. Kraemer said it is a nice project and well thought-out. Page 3 of 4