01-22-03 Planning Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING Wednesday, January 22, 2003 6:30 o'clock p.m. (#9) #02-2861 ERIK THOMPSON, 1940 CONCORDIA STREET,VARIANCES 10:05- 11:20 P.M. Erik Thompson, Applicant,and Kelvin Retterath,were present. Bottenberg explained that, once again,this applicant too, was requesting a front yard setback and lot coverage by structure variances to construct a new second story to the existing residence on the property. She continued that, currently, there is a second story over 3/4 of the residence constructed at various times. She pointed out that the footprint of the residence would not be changing,nor its location, however due to the age and condition of the residence a structural engineer has determined the residence can handle the additional load of a new second story,but will need some additional footings and shoring up. Bottenberg noted that a Variance for hardcover in the 250-500' setback zone was not required, however, the applicant would be proposing the removal of existing hardcover and structure and adding structure and hardcover to other locations on the property. Bottenberg identified 8 issues for consideration by the Planning Commission and stated that if the Planning Commission concludes that the unusual conditions and configuration of the property are hardships that support approval of the front yard setback and lot coverage by structure variances to construct a new second story to the existing residence,then a recommendation for approval may be appropriate. As he was planning to be married,Thompson explained that he was attempting to make room for a future family. He commented that his goal was to retain the same character of his home,while making it a bit bigger. Hawn asked if a permit was on file for the lean-to shed. Bottenberg indicated there was a permit for the shed. John Waldron, 1951 Concordia Street, stated that he favored the remodel and felt it to be an improvement to the neighborhood. He maintained that the applicant was faced with the hardship of an odd-shaped lot and should be allowed his application. After speaking to several neighbors,Waldron stated that all were in favor of the improvements, especially since neither the footprint or hardcover would increase. Mabusth asked for clarification of the covered deck. Thompson stated that the covered deck is existing structure, which would be turned into a covered porch. With regard to the front yard setback for the second story, Chair Smith asked if the addition would be built straight up. Although she felt the design was reasonable,Hawn indicated that the Commission has difficulty with structural coverage in general. Although the current lean-to structure built right up to the neighbors property line has always been there, Thompson indicated that it would be removed, as would the current garage-landing roof. PAGE 19 of 29