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MINUTES OF THE <br /> ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING <br /> Wednesday, February 19, 2003 <br /> 6:30 o'clock p.m. <br /> (#03-2869 DR. ROBERT GUMNIT, Continued) <br /> Chair Smith maintained that even the attractive proposed vegetation would be changed by <br /> keeping horses on the island. <br /> Dr. Gumnit stated that he was familiar with pasture management plans and rotation to <br /> avoid problems. He stated that he preferred to keep the horses on the island as opposed to <br /> elsewhere on his property in order to avoid removing the trees and wetland. He indicated <br /> that the Conservation District felt this was the best place to keep the horses due to the great <br /> deal of wetland on his property. Gumnit added that both MCWD and the DNR have made <br /> inconclusive recommendations at this time and are relying upon each other, and the City to <br /> make the first move. <br /> Chair Smith questioned how the applicant would create a water and feed management plan <br /> at this site. <br /> Dr. Gumnit stated that once he knew what he would be allowed to do, he would be better <br /> prepared to make a plan for water and feed. He noted that a manure management plan <br /> would simply be picking up the worst of it. He pointed out that the horses were fed and <br /> stabled in Delano, and that they would merely be kept at this location for short-term <br /> outings and that grazing should be sufficient. <br /> Chair Smith inquired about shelter. <br /> Dr. Gumnit stated that he had no plans to construct any type of shelter, knowing that he <br /> would need to apply for a CUP to do so. As a responsible horse owners, at most, he could <br /> foresee building a lean-to structure on the island to protect the horses from the elements in <br /> the future and with the approval of the City. <br /> Chair Smith agreed that some horses are housed outside all the time and that a simple lean- <br /> to structure would be sufficient. <br /> Berg felt this was an ambitious plan for short term riding opportunities. <br /> Dr. Gumnit stated that they could possibly take the horses out weekly or monthly, he could <br /> not say for sure. <br /> As there were no further public comments in person, Gaffron suggested the Commission <br /> address the comments made in the letters. <br /> Bremer stated that she agreed with many of the comments and concerns expressed in the <br /> letters. She questioned what impact the electric fence might have on natural habitat. <br /> PAGE 19 of 26 <br />