08/17/2015 Planning Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING Monday,August 17,2015 6:30 o'clock p.m. The submitted hardcover calculations do not differentiate the hardcover within the 75-foot setback area. In addition, the surveyor has not deducted the traveled bituminous road surface or the area beneath the road from the hardcover and lot area calculations as is required. Curtis noted that does not change anything with respect to this application per se and that the hardcover and structural coverage numbers are not increasing specifically, nor are they the primary subject of the application, but Staff recommends that the hardcover calculations be updated. Staff finds that the setback limitations on the property create practical difficulties in identifying viable expansion opportunities. The applicant has provided a relatively low impact solution to the stated living space challenges which do not result in an expansion of structural coverage or of hardcover. The affected neighbor's views of the lake are currently impacted by the applicant's existing entry stair system; and with a one-story house, they likely do not have views of the lake impacted by the applicant's proposed bathroom addition. Staff received neighbor acknowledgement and support of this project. The Planning Commission should open the public hearing, receive any comments from the applicant and public, and then make a recommendation to the City Council. . The Planning Commission had no questions for Staff Julie Lensing stated she has nothing to add to Staffls report but would be available for questions. Chair Leskinen opened the public hearing at 8:23 p.m. There were no public comments regarding this application. Chair Leskinen closed the public hearing at 8:23 p.m. Leskinen asked if Staff could better explain where the expansion is going. Curtis displayed a picture of the house from the neighboring property. Curtis pointed out the proposed location of the addition. Curtis stated the applicant's architect did submit some sketches showing the second floor addition and the dark black outline depict the proposed new areas. Curtis indicated the bedroom addition will expand into the cantilevered area. Lensing stated currently the family room has a vaulted ceiling and the expansion will do away with the vaulted ceiling. The rounded windows will be removed and will be the start of the new floor. The new bathroom will be located above the stoop. Landgraver asked if there is any other way to expand to the sides or backwards. Lensing stated it is her understanding she cannot go sideways and she is not allowed to go forward. Landgraver stated a couple of months ago the Planning Commission denied a similar request but that in his view the small lot size makes this a unique situation. Page 19 of 43