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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION Monday, March 18, 2002 6:30 o'clock p.m. (#02-2763 Clayt and Julie Tabor, Continued) Gaffron stated Staff did look at the history of ownership and the chronology of events that have affected this property. Gaffron stated to his knowledge the City has not granted variances to subdivide in cases similar to this and would be precedent setting if a lot area variance were granted to one of the lots. Mr. Tabor noted that this property is adjacent to 21 other properties that are substandard. Hawn commented that is somewhat of a compelling argument, but that the Planning Commission needs to follow the zoning guidelines for this area. Gaffron stated from a precedent setting standpoint, the Planning Commission needs to look at what was there prior to the zoning change in 1975 and what has been approved through a PUD. Gaffron stated he is doubtful you will find a lot within the two acre zone that wasn't either platted before the Code changed to two acre minimum or that isn't a PUD type development where the average lot size has to meet the standards. Gaffron stated to his knowledge of the City, this would be precedent setting because the majority of the rural lots have been there for quite some time. Fritzler commented it is also possible that someone could purchase the property and construct a residence that is not in conformance with the rest of the neighborhood. Hawn recommended the Applicants discuss this item with the City Council. Gaffron stated the Applicants could possibly find an adjacent property owner who would like to purchase some additional land and split that piece of property off and sell it to the interested buyer. Mr. Tabor stated in his opinion that is not likely to happen. The Planning Commission took no formal action on this item. PLANNING COMMISSION COMMENTS (#14) REPORT OF PLANNING COMMISSION REPRESENTATIVES ATTENDING COUNCIL MEETINGS OF FEBRUARY 25, 2002, AND MARCH 11, 2002 Berg indicated she attended the February 11 th Council and has nothing to report Smith stated she attended the March 11 th City Council meeting where the application regarding the vacation on Big Island was discussed. Smith indicated the City Council referred that application to the Park Commission for their input. Hawn inquired what progress is being made on the clean-up of Big Island, noting that it was suggested a couple of years ago to have a barge brought out there. Hawn recommended Staff follow pursue clean-up of the island. PAGE 18