09-19-1994 Planning Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING HELD AUGUST 15, 1994 ZONING RLE #1952 - CONT. Gaffron explained in Februar> of 1994 the City approved a side setback variance for an addition to the west side of the existing residence subject to meeting hardcover limits. In spring when the snow melted, it was noted that a compacted rock driveway used for parking had not been taken into consideration for the hardcover calculations which puts applicant over the 25% requirement. Applicant now requests to keep a significant amount of the driveway. The overage amounts to approximately 1,850 s.f. Applicant suggests removal of plastic but do^^s not want to lose the rock as it is needed tor safety aspects of having it as a parking space. It does allow additional cars to be parked off the street. Christine Freeman explained she has given a friend permission to park a car on her premises for the summer. It is usually not used for that purpose but she does use it to park her boat trailer. It also provides parking space for repairmen. Chair Schroeder asked how long the rock had been there? Christine Freeman stated 10 years and indicated she would have a problem removing it as she needs access to her house and grass would probably not grow in that area because of runoff. Blake Stranz commented another issue is the limited space in front of the garage itself and this provides secondary safe parking for house guests. Chair Schroeder said a car could be parked in front of the garage and another in front of the gravel drive for use by house guests. Christine Freeman said in the winter time the area is not cleaned out. Smith felt reductions could be made in the area between the garage and the house. Christine Freeman said it would be difficult to back or swing around a car or trailer without that space. Because of safety reasons, she needs to back into her garage. Chair Sclu’oeder suggested that the area behind the garage be removed. He commented approval for her addition last winter would probably not have taken place without the tradeoff of hardcover. Gaffron requested that staff oe given definite direction. He noted there is a question of hardcover that is driven on versus hardcover that is not. There is a fine line between what is merely "landscaping" and what is compacted "driven on" hardcover. Chair Schroeder indicated he has no problem with the driveway area to the south because of safety reasons. The other area could be removed. Christine Freeman stated all plastic would be removed per the previous variance. Gaffron suggested removal of all riKk in the area along the northwest side of sidewalk and grass or bushes be used as a replacement. It was moved by Schroeder, seconded by Lindquist to recommend approval of Application #1952 for Christine Freeman, 2240 Shadywood Road, noting that hardcover behind the garage and northwest of sidewalk be removed except for 3 ’ strip adjacent to garage for firewood storage as discussed and accep'ed the hardships stated by applicant. Ayes 4, nays 0.