10/18/1993 Planning Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING • HELD OCTOBER 18, 1993 ( #9) #{1884 ORVILLE FISHER - CONT. Gaffron explained that the landscaper had suggested gray -twig dogwood as a species that would thrive in this type of environment. Nolan questioned the number of trees being replaced, noting there were many more trees cut when the smaller trees and understory are considered. He felt the applicant may be getting just what he wanted by clear cutting the area and then only replacing a few trees. This is similar to the previous discussion about after - the -fact variances. The City would not want to set an example that it is ok to do as you want and you have a problem only if you get caught. This problem is really only paying a little extra money to get what you wanted in the first place. Fisher stated this was not his intent. He had a surveyor identify each tree and its location so the replacement would be in the same location. The new trees will actually provide more screening than the lower boxelder trees that were previously there. From the house, the Fishers actually looked over the boxelder trees while the new trees will be much taller and larger. They will be placed in the exact location of the previous trees. Schroeder thought it would be a long time before the trees would be large enough to impact the views. Lindquist asked what could be done other than replant the larger trees and add some understory. Schroeder thought that since this is a chance to make improvements, everything should be done to make improvements. Lindquist stated that if the situation was to improve, more trees would be required. Fisher stated the project could become quite costly. Schroeder responded that, "With all due respect, cost was not a relevant consideration since the situation was avoidable. The goal now is to do the right thing for the City and protect the lake. " Lindquist asked what would be a reasonable amount of plantings to replace what was destroyed. Gaffron suggested the landscaper, Dale Gustafson, would be able to help resolve that issue. Peterson stated that the Planning Commission was being asked to consider the after - the -fact variance, not plan for the restoration. Schroeder indicated a restoration plan was included so may need consideration. Nolan did not want to accept the plan as submitted. Smith added she would like to see a combination of larger trees and understory to come close to restoring the area as it was. It was moved by Schroeder, seconded by Nolan, to deny Application #1884 for Orville Fisher, 475 Oxford Road, for an after - the -fact variance related to clear cutting in the restricted 0 -75' zone. Staff is directed to work with the Fisher's landscape engineer to develop a plan that would 0 15