10-19-2025 - Agenda Packet Planning Commission - PC Packet

Home Browse Search

LA25-000043 20 October 2025 Page 7 of 8 8. Compatible with the character of buildings and site improvements in the surrounding area, unless a change of character is called for in the community management plan: The proposed walls are compatible with the character of other lakeshore improvements in the surrounding area. This criterion is met. 9. Not expected to substantially impair the use and enjoyment of the property in the area or have a materially adverse impact on the property values in the area when compared to the impairment or impact of generally permitted uses: The improvements to the slope with grading and the proposed retaining walls should not adversely impact other properties in the neighborhood. This criterion is met. 10. Provided with screening and buffering adequate to mitigate undesirable views and activities likely to disturb surrounding uses: The proposed walls are providing stability on the inland side of the slope, where the walls would be hidden from the adjacent channel. Landscaping has been proposed above the walls, but would impede access to the building if located near the bottom of wall. The building partially screens the wall from the northwest, and a majority of the wall is perpendicular to the north with some new trees proposed, adequately screening the wall from the lake. This criterion is met. 11. Not create a nuisance which generates smoke, noise, glare, vibration, odors, fumes, dust, electrical interference, general unsightliness, or other means: The proposal is not anticipated to create a nuisance. 12. Not cause excessive non-residential traffic on residential streets, parking needs that cause a demonstrable inconvenience to adjoining properties, traffic congestion, or unsafe access: The proposal will not create excessive traffic burdens on the nearby road network. 13. Designed to take into account the natural, scenic, and historic features of the area and to minimize environmental impact: The proposed limestone wall is designed to be a small extension of the existing, deteriorated timber wall and will be supporting the slope around the building. The increase in size of the wall is to limit future environmental impact with better soil retention and stormwater flow away from the building. This criterion is met. 14. All exterior lighting shall be so directed so as not to cast glare toward or onto the public right- of-way or neighboring residential uses or districts: The proposal does not include the installation of any exterior lighting. 15. Not detrimental to the public health, public safety, or general welfare: Staff finds the proposal does not come at a detriment to the public health, safety, or welfare of residents and landowners of the City of Orono. This criterion is met. A CUP may be granted subject to such conditions as the Council may prescribe. Additionally, a CUP shall remain in effect as long as the conditions imposed by the City Council are observed, but nothing in this section shall prevent the city from enacting or amending official controls to change the status of conditional uses. 139