10/18/1993 Planning Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING • HELD OCTOBER 18, 1993 ( #10) #1877 TANDEM PROPERTIES /PETER ANDREA COMPANY - CONT. The Park Commission felt it would make more sense to restore the existing home rather than the barn to use for an interpretive center because it would be less expensive. Gaffron commented on the public vs. private road access issues. Putnam expressed his surprise when they met on site and Gaffron indicated that just because the road was platted at a 60' right - of -way it would not be considered a public road. Putnam asked why Casco Point Road, where he lives, was plowed by the City which was a cul -de -sac and the City wouldn't maintain this type of road. The developers would propose that the streets be public and publicly maintained although they have been told that is not the case. The roads would be constructed to public standards but maintained as private. Topography, existing homes and proposed lots will determine where the roads will be constructed. Smith asked if there had been discussions with the Native American community regarding sacred grounds. She wants to be assured that nothing will be disturbed that is considered sacred and there will be no repercussions in 50 years. She volunteered to be involved with any discussions. Deanovic explained that a medicine man must come to the site to determine where sacred grounds exist. Two medicine men, one from Montana and the other from Canada, have already been to the site and determined the same area as sacred ground. Smith asked if members of the local Native American community had been involved. Deanovic thought Pat Dickey would be • able to confirm that this is the sacred ground as she has worked extensively with the Native Americans. Smith also wants confirmation directly from the Native American community that no lands will be disturbed that are considered sacred. Putnam suggested a group, be formed who has an interest in this issue to work on the details. This group could include Smith, and representatives from the Council and Park Commission. State archaeologists have already been involved and confirmed the hillside as sacred. It is no longer legal to "dig" to determine the status of sacred ground. The Native Americans object to digging but walking on it is acceptable. Smith asked about the possible consideration to maintain the horse barn as a stable and riding arena for the development. Putnam explained that has been dropped from the plan for two reasons: 1) They were unsure if the soils were useable in the pasture area. 2) They did not have enough information when they first considered it. Feedback about having a riding arena at this location was not positive. Smith asked what the plans were for screening the lots that abut the Luce Line on the Coffin property. Putnam explained that the existing tree lines would not be disturbed and there may be possible enhancements of the wetland area. Smith questioned the concept of an interpretive center and asked who would maintain it financially. The Park Commission has indicated there is not money available for maintenance. is 21