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MINUTES OF THE <br /> ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING <br /> Monday,June 15,2015 <br /> 6:30 dclock p.m. <br /> envelope. The sloping topography, wetland, and likely associated poor soils further limit locations for the <br /> house. <br /> The existing home is a one-level rambler with a tuck-under garage and is situated as close as 13.5 feet <br /> from the front and 22 to 26 feet from Woodhill Avenue. The proposed two-story home will be set back <br /> further from both roadways than the existing home on the property, with the attached garage fronting on <br /> Orono Orchard. Both streets have wider than normal boulevard areas which offer greater separation <br /> between the home and the traveled portion of the roadway which results in the appearance of a greater <br /> setback and more open space. The new home and driveway will most certainly result in removal of trees <br /> and <br /> Staff finds practical difficulties exist to support redevelopment of the property, such as the substandard lot <br /> area and width which are not the result of actions by the landowner. The proposed home is reasonable <br /> and consistent with the Comprehensive Plan. In addition,the topography and wetland location drive the <br /> building site to the western portion of the property where street setbacks have a greater impact on <br /> building siting. <br /> Planning Staff recommends approval of the requested lot area, lot width, side street setback variances in <br /> order to redevelop the subject property. A detailed landscape plan should be provided prior to the City <br /> Council's review of the application to assure adequate screening is provided and that the character of the <br /> finished property will be consistent with the neighborhood. <br /> Curtis noted she received a letter from the neighbor to the south across the street,which has been <br /> provided to the Planning Commissioners, as well as a brief e-mail communication from the neighbor to <br /> the north. The neighbor to the north also left a voice mail regarding the proposal since she was unable to <br /> attend tonight's meeting. <br /> Curtis played a voice message from Marsha Rokke, 180 Orono Orchard Road. Rokke stated she just <br /> found out about the project and that they have been out of town since June 3 and will not be returning <br /> until late Monday evening. Rokke stated she would appreciate if nothing is decided Monday night until <br /> they can provide some input. <br /> Rokke indicated she was told by her neighbor that this project would really affect their property,which is <br /> adjacent to 190 Orono Orchard Road. Rokke stated the variance that is being requested seems <br /> extraordinary to her and is way over and above what he should be able to build. Rokke stated they are not <br /> opposed to a building on this site but that they have concerns about the wetlands and the setbacks. <br /> Rokke requested that the application not be approved tonight so they have an opportunity to review the <br /> plans. Rokke stated they have received no notification of the project that they are aware of other than <br /> their neighbor calling them. <br /> Curtis noted the applicant is present tonight and that she has the plans and pictures of the property as it <br /> exists today. <br /> Lemke asked when the notice cards were mailed out. <br /> Curtis indicated they were mailed June 5. <br /> Page 21 of 53 <br />