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FILE # 11-3505 10 May 2011 Page 3 of 3 Hardship Statement Applicant has completed the Hardship Documentation Form attached as Exhibit B, and should be asked for additional testimony regarding the application. Hardship Analysis In considering applications for variance, the Planning Commission shall consider the effect of the proposed variance upon the health, safety and welfare of the community, existing and anticipated traffic conditions, light and air, danger of fire, risk to the public safety, and the effect on values of property in the surrounding area. The Planning Commission shall consider recommending approval for variances from the literal provisions of the Zoning Code in instances where their strict enforcement would cause undue hardship because of circumstances unique to the individual property under consideration, and shall recommend approval only when it is demonstrated that such actions will be in keeping with the spirit and intent of the Orono Zoning Code. The applicants' variance request is reasonable and necessary in order to avoid additional damage to their property caused by ice dams. The proposed addition is a vertical expansion that will result in minimal additional massing of the house. No additional living space is being proposed and the applicants' request results in minimal negative impact of adjacent properties. Staff finds the location of the existing home creates a unique circumstance not created by the applicants and that granting the applicants' request is in harmony with the purpose and intent of the ordinance and will not alter the essential character of the neighborhood. Issues for Consideration Are there any other issues or concerns with this application? Staff Recommendation Planning Staff recommends approval of the side setback variances in order to reconstruct the roof as proposed. 157627v2 3