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Hardship Statement <br />FILE #05-3106 <br />4 April 2005 <br />Page 4 of 4 <br />Applicant has completed the Hardship Documentation Form attached as Exhibit B, and <br />should be asked for additional testimony regarding the application. <br />Hardship Analysis <br />In considering applications for variance, the Planning Commission shall consider the effect of the <br />proposed variance upon the health, safety and welfare of the community, existing and anticipated traffic <br />conditions, light and air, danger of fire, risk to the public safety, and the effect on values of property in <br />the surrounding area. The Planning Commission shall consider recommending approval for variances <br />from the literal provisions of the Zoning Code in instances where their strict enforcement would cause <br />undue hardship because of circumstances unique to the individual property under consideration, and <br />shall recommend approval only when it is demonstrated that such actions will be in keeping with the <br />spirit and intent of the Orono Zoning Code. <br />Staff finds that while the proposed porch addition will not increase the hardcover on the <br />property significantly, the structural coverage will increase and the nature of the <br />hardcover will change. <br />Issues for Consideration <br />1. Are the changes proposed strictly aesthetic? <br />2. Does the size of the proposed open porch addition continue to contribute to the <br />overcrowding of the neighborhood? <br />3. Should the applicants be permitted to construct to the 10' side setback line on the east <br />while there is only a 3.5' setback on the western side lot line? <br />4. Are there any other issues or concerns with this application? <br />Staff Recommendation <br />Planning Staff recommends approval of a hardcover and structural coverage variance to <br />construct a minimal covered entry of 50 s.f.. Additionally, Staff recommends removal of <br />the rock fire ring within 75' of the lake, and all fabric/plastic landscape liners. <br />Alternately, should the Planning Commission feel that the applicants' porch proposal is <br />reasonable; perhaps in addition to the above listed hardcover removals additional <br />driveway hardcover removals are warranted. <br />4