03-20-2000 Planning Commission Minutes

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ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES FOR MARCH 20, 2000 • (#2564 William Dampier, Continued) through the house. The height of the structure will remain the same. This addition will also aid in diverting water runoff further downhill rather than into the house. Bottenberg stated variances to lot coverage and lakeshore hardcover within the 75-250' of the shoreline are required. A variance to hardcover is required to permit 48.9 percent hardcover where 25 percent is allowed. Currently 55.4 percent hardcover exists in this area. The Applicant is also proposing 18.7 percent structural coverage where 16.8 percent exists and 15 percent is allowed. Bottenberg noted the lakeside deck is considered structure because it is more than six feet above grade. If the lakeside deck were not considered structural coverage, the proposed house and addition would meet the 15 percent limit. City Staff is recommending this application be tabled. Dampier stated he has attempted to comply with all of the City's regulations regarding this property, which has been a frustrating and difficult process. Dampier indicated he was told these plans would be approved by Chris and Lyle on City Staff. Dampier stated Casco Point is zoned LR-1 C, half acre lots, with zones B and C being allowed as much as a 15,000 square foot structure on a two acre lot. Dampier stated according to City Codes, he is limited to 1,954 square feet, which in his view is placing an unfair burden on himself as well as the other residents on Casco Point. Dampier stated when the exception is more common than the rule, the rule should be changed, particularly in this case. It is doubtful that any single lot on Casco Point concurs with the current City rules, with a number of homes in the neighborhood • exceeding the allowable structure coverage limit. Dampier stated his neighbors have slightly larger homes than himself with detached garages. The plan before the Planning Commission tonight takes into account the environmental and the community as a whole, with the proposed reduction in hardcover being a win/win situation for all. Dampier stated he has met with City Staff on a number of occasions for the past few years, with the exact same model being presented to Lyle and Chris for their review and approval. Dampier stated he informed City Staff approximately one year ago that he wished to purchase the large oak timbers needed to complete this project, which was a long and costly process. City Staff was asked at that time whether the proposed project would be approved. Dampier stated he was told the project would more than likely be approved. Dampier stated he then proceeded forward with the purchase of the large oak timbers, which are very rare and expensive, and at this time is not agreeable to removing them. Dampier stated the addition to the existing residence will not block his neighbors' view of the lake, will improve his existing structure as well as increase the City's tax base, reduce the current hardcover and existing structural coverage, as well as improve the existing drainage problems being experienced on this property, which will benefit the community. Dampier expressed some frustration regarding his discussions with Bottenberg, noting that he was told he had to remove his existing deck in order to bring the structural coverage on this lot into compliance. Dampier stated there currently is no second story on the north side of the house, which in essence means that the existing second story will not be removed. Dampier stated his front deck currently is in compliance with the American Disablities Act. Dampier stated he has a different view on what should be viewed structure and non-structural, • indicating in his view Bottenberg's view of what should be determined as structural coverage is Page 9