Laserfiche WebLink
-cLO.�Rifr <br /> O CITY OF ORONO <br /> tRESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL <br /> �, NO. 7577 <br /> l�KESHO <br /> VARIANCE ANALYSIS: <br /> Cl. Variances shall only be permitted when they are in harmony with the general purposes <br /> and intent of the ordinance; the intent and purpose of the conditional use standards for <br /> farm animals is to ensure adequate separation between the animals and adjacent <br /> properties and residences and to ensure there is adequate grazing and pasture space <br /> to support farm animal use. Further, within the Lakeshore Residential districts, these <br /> conditions intend to prevent any potential animal impacts to the lakes in Orono. The <br /> Property, although zoned LR-1A, is not a lakeshore lot and is adjacent to the Wood-Rill <br /> Scientific & Natural Area, a large natural space. The proposal to keep pigeons is a <br /> unique animal that does not require pasture space. The property abutting a preserve <br /> the creates a large open space to buffer from abutting properties. The general purpose <br /> and intent of the conditional use standards to allow for the keeping of animals is met; <br /> and <br /> C2. Variances shall only be permitted when the variances are consistent with the <br /> comprehensive plan; the Plan allows for residential use and a single-family residence <br /> on the Property. The variance from the conditional use standards for keeping farm <br /> animals, which is accessory to the residential use, is consistent with the Plan; and <br /> C3. Variances may be granted when the applicant for the variance establishes that there are <br /> practical difficulties in complying with the zoning ordinance. `Practical difficulties,' as used <br /> in connection with the granting of a variance, means that: <br /> a. The property owner in question proposes to use the property in a reasonable <br /> manner; the proposal for Farm Animals on a lot that is well screened from adjacent <br /> properties in the area appears to be reasonable; and <br /> b. The plight of the landowner is due to circumstances unique to his property not <br /> created by the landowner; the 0.77 acre Property is unplatted. The Property's <br /> substandard size is unique within the district, creating a difficulty not created by <br /> the Owner, and <br /> c. The variance, if granted, will not alter the essential character of the locality; allowing <br /> pigeons on the nonconforming-sized lot is not anticipated to alter the character of <br /> the area. <br /> C4. Economic considerations alone do not constitute practical difficulties; economic <br /> considerations were not found to be a factor in the variance approval determination; and <br /> C5. Practical difficulties also include but are not limited to inadequate access to direct sunlight <br /> for solar energy systems. Variances shall be granted for earth-sheltered construction as <br /> 3 <br />