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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING Monday, April 18, 2005 6:00 o'clock p.m. (#05-3102 J. Sven Gustafson, Continued) these homes is reduced to 70 feet. The applicants have indicated that the zoning when applied to this property makes it unbuildable for a home that would be proportionate with other homes in the neighborhood and in character with the style of home that is currently being built as Orono's rural area re- develops. The width of the ren1aining bui1dable envelope is 50 feet when the 30-foot side setbacks are met. Gaffron noted many substantial homes no wider than 50 feet are being built today on smaller lots in ---orono and tlfartnesiciesetoaclcfcoula-15e resolvea through creative cfosigi1iatfier than variances. Gaffron stated the proposed site grading plan have the existing driveway remaining. The existing driveway is less than the required five feet from the side lot line, but its relocation slightly northward to meet the five-foot requirement would result in the removal of two mature aspen trees abutting the north side of the driveway. The topography of the site also limits the driveway relocation. Staff recommends approval of the lot area and width variances and denial of the side setback variances. Alexander stated Exhibit H illustrates the size of the lot compared to the smTounding lots and that the hardship is the size of the lot. Alexander stated normally lots consisting of one acre have ten-foot side yard setbacks and requested some leniency be given due to the size of the lot. Alexander stated the terrain and the approach to the house makes it difficult to access the residence and have a turnaround. Alexander indicated there is not sufficient room to construct a side-loading garage. Gustafson indicated they are attempting to construct a house that fits in with the character of the neighborhood and that the size of the proposed house fits in with the rest of the residences that have been constructed in this area. Gustafson stated other 55-foot houses have been constructed on small lots along the lakeshore. Alexander noted the allowed structural coverage is 15 percent and that they are only using 7 .5 percent. Ralm inquired whether there were any public conm1ents regarding this application. David Skeie, 860 South Brown, stated the existing house is 24.5 feet from the side lot line and that he would prefer it not be reduced further. Gustafson stated the neighbor to the south has indicated he is in favor of the proposal. Fritzler questioned whether the connection of the sewer line to tie in with Weber Hills could be accomplished. Gaffron stated he is unaware if the Public Works Department has approached the County regarding this request, but that it would be a simple extension to the sewer system and would more than likely be approved by the county. PAGE 19