01-19-2000 Planning Commission Minutes

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ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES FOR JANUARY 19, 2000 • (#2547 Kimberli and William Abbott, Continued) removal of the decks, but noted that a three foot terrace width would not be possible. Hawn inquired what the present height of the retaining walls is. Abbott stated the majority of the retaining walls are under four feet, with one area being approximately five feet in height. Abbott indicated he does not have a problem complying with the four foot height regulation. Abbott requested he be allowed to retain the present terrace width, noting if he is forced to comply with the three foot width, the entire structure would need to be removed and he would not then be willing to purchase the property. Kluth inquired why City Staff is requesting the three foot width. Weinberger remarked the three foot standard is stated in the State Building Code. Weinberger stated currently the width is approximately four to five feet wide. Abbott stated since the wall has existed since approximately 1987, the engineering of the structure has proven itself and should not wash out. Kluth commented the four foot height standard to his understanding is called for to prevent injuries should a child fall off the wall. Abbott stated a railing does currently exist on top of the retaining wall. • Smith inquired whether the retaining wall will need to be calculated into the height of the retaining wall. Weinberger stated the structure is measured to the top of the railing. Hawn inquired what the height of the railing is. Abbott stated the railing is the standard 36 inches. Abbott stated the railing could be relocated further back from the retaining wall. Abbott commented currently the landscaping conceals the railing. Hawn stated the railing will still need to be included in the calculations. Abbott stated if that was the case, the retaining wall could only be one foot high, which would not be feasible. Hawn stated so far she has not heard anything that would substantiate the need for this retaining wall structure to be constructed back in 1987. Abbott commented it was his understanding some pictures exist in the City's file which show the condition of the shoreline. Weinberger stated he has not seen any pictures in the file of the retaining wall but that some may exist of the decking. Weinberger stated he could review the file to see if any photographs exist of the retaining wall and/or shoreline. Hawn inquired whether the Applicant or City Staff has a statement from the certified engineer • which would indicate that this retaining wall is necessary to help prevent the shoreline from eroding. Hawn stated the Planning Commission needs to have a showing of need by the Page 3