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ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES FOR SEPTEMBER 21, 1998 (#2420 Robert Ryan, Jr., continued) This property lies within the RR-1 B zoning district, and is comprised of 1.62 acres. The neighborhood is developed as a residential cul-de-sc neighborhood of lots approximately two acres in size. The neighborhood also has a covenant in place restricting any out buildings or structures from being built without approval of an Architectural Review Committee established in the covenant. The Applicant is proposing to locate the tower closer than 90 feet to the lot lines, which may pose a potential public safety issue and would be visible to the neighbors as well. The Zoning Code does not allow structures to exceed 30 feet in height, which would require a height variance from the 30 feet maximum allowed. Staff recommends denial of the application. Mr. Ryan stated they are unsure at this time of the exact height of the tower, noting the tower needs to clear the trees to order to be effective. Ryan commented that neighboring properties have CB towers, which average 60 feet, and this wind tower should pose no hazard to the neighbors as it is recommended for home use and there are no structures nearby. Ryan also stated the committee outlined in the covenant has been non-existent for the past four years. Chair Smith noted a letter dated September 20, 1998, has been received from Susan Manikowski, a resident in the neighborhood, and presented a copy of the letter to the Applicants. Clem Kroll, 60 South Stubbs Bay Road, stated he currently owns nine acres which can be subdivided into four lots, and has concerns with the height, location, and reduction in property values should the tower be installed. Chair Smith inquired whether the committee was active in the neighborhood. Kroll stated the members of the committee were in attendance at tonight's meeting. Schroeder noted the problem lies with NSP and the tower should not be allowed at the expense of the neighbors. McMillan stated the wind tower is not allowed under Orono's Codes. Schroeder suggested the Applicant purchase a portable generator to help solve the outage problems. Ryan stated he has a portable generator, which has not resolved the outage problem, and expressed concerns over possible outages due to the year 2000 problem. Susan Manikowski, 3505 Christine Drive, stated they moved to this quiet neighborhood about three and a half years ago and would like to keep the area rural as much as possible. Manikowski raised concerns about the wildlife, lightning strikes, noise from the generator, and the possible danger to the neighboring properties should the tower fall. Manikowski requested the Planning Commission deny the request. Ryan stated he has spoken with the Homeowners Association and said he would be willing to put the wind tower in temporarily until after the power outage problem is resolved. Ryan commented he felt the City will be having more requests of this nature in the future. Berg inquired why he felt that way. Ryan remarked that he doesn't feel NSP will be able to adequately supply electricity, especially Page 10