06-10-1985 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE: REGULAR ORONO COUNCIL MEETING HELD JUNE 10, 1985 PAGE 14 Council suggested that the people to be appointed not only come from Orono but from cities the police department serves such as Minnetonka Beach, Long Lake, and Spring Park if interested. ORDINANCE CLARIFICATION HEIGHT OF FENCE City Administrator Bernhardson stated that the current zoning ordinance regarding fences is vague. Bernhardson stated that based on staff's interpretation of the fence ordinance, fences up to 3 1/2 feet have been allowed in the 0-75' setback area. Bernhardson explained that the fence constructed at 2010 Shoreline Drive is a hazardous fence in that it obstructs the view of Hennepin County street signs, and the public access location. Bernhardson explained that Hennepin County permitted the owner at 2010 Shoreline Drive to construct a fence on the right of way. Bernhardson stated that the owner of 2010 Shoreline Drive and Hennepin County have agreed that if the fence is knocked down by County snow plows, Hennepin County will replace the fence. Bernhardson stated that however if the fence is knocked down by buildup of snow, it is up to the owner to replace the fence. Bernhardson noted that the fence is a public and safety nuisance standpoint as it exists. Bernhardson noted that even at 3 1/2 feet the fence could block the view from the public access. Bernhardson reported that the owner at 2010 Shoreline Drive has informed staff that if he is requested to remove the fence, he requests that staff enforce the rest of the fences around the lake. Bernhardson asked Council for clarification of the fence ordinance. One man in the audience noted that the fence depreciates the beauty and value of the shoreline. He reported that he saw a lady miss the bus because the fence blocked her view from the approaching bus. He noted that the fence makes a good fence for kids to write obsenities on. He noted that the snow will eat away the fence in the winter. City Administrator Bernhardson stated th. `.e owner claims that the fence is for the privacy of his : iily members for sunbathing. Bernhardson asked the Council if they interpret the ordinance to mean that no fences are allowed in the 0-75' setback area or only 3 1/3 foot fences allowed in the 0-75' area. One lady in the audience mentioned that this fence, if allowed to stay, will set precedents for future fences around the lake. Councilmember Grabek stated that the fence is a hazard and endangers the view and safety of traffic and pedestrians in that area and that the fence should come down. Grabek noted that the view is blocked for those exiting out of the public Access. Grabek noted that the owner should be tagged and ordered to remove the fence and invited to meet with the Council.