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ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION <br /> MINUTES FOR APRIL 17, 2000 <br /> • <br /> (#2513 Connie Piepho, Continued) <br /> Weinberger stated option two appears to be the best option for the parties since it has the least <br /> impact on the adjacent residences. City Staff is recommending approval of the application with a <br /> variance being granted to the septic code. <br /> Piepho stated she has spoken with both neighbors who have indicated they would prefer to have a <br /> variance to the septic code. Piepho stated she understands they will need to be contacted <br /> personally in regards to this proposal. <br /> Mike Mulvany, Contractor, stated in his view option two is the best choice. <br /> Hawn commented she is hesitant in granting a variance to the City's septic code, noting that Orono's <br /> septic code is more stringent than the State's. Hawn stated the Planning Commission should take <br /> into consideration any possible health concerns that may result by granting the variance. Hawn <br /> stated in her view a variance should not be granted if it compromises someone's health. Hawn <br /> commented she is not aware of the reasons for the City's 75' requirement versus the State's 50'. <br /> Weinberger stated Septic Inspector Pence has indicated that part of the reason for the 75' setback <br /> is that residences were being located 75' from the septic site, and when additions were added to <br /> the homes, they would generally involve the need for a variance to the septic site. Weinberger <br /> indicated the State of Minnesota has determined that a 50' setback from a well is appropriate. <br /> Weinberger stated City Staff will be looking at reducing the 75' setback requirement to 50' to <br /> conform to the State standard. <br /> • Gaffron indicated the reasons City Staff will be reviewing this issue in the near future is because <br /> it has been determined that there are no health issues that would be impacted by having a 50' <br /> setback versus a 75' setback; two, the State currently has the right to issue well permits; three, <br /> well contractors typically go out and only meet the 50' setback, with the City not being notified until <br /> after the well is in that the 75' setback has not been met. Gaffron stated it is difficult to enforce a <br /> 75' setback when there are no health concerns at issue. <br /> Gaffron stated he would recommend going to the 50' setback, with elimination of the City's 75' <br /> requirement. <br /> Stoddard commented he does not have a problem with a 50' setback and would be in favor of <br /> option two. <br /> Berg and Lindquist indicated they would also be in favor of option two. <br /> Hawn noted approval of this proposal would be contingent upon approval by the neighbors. <br /> Weinberger stated discussions have been held with the adjoining neighbors who have indicated very <br /> clearly that they are willing to work with the Applicant on this proposal. Weinberger noted City Staff <br /> currently does not have their approval in writing, which will need to be obtained. <br /> Hawn commented it was her understanding the primary septic site is in very good shape at this <br /> point in time. <br /> Piepho stated the septic site is only six years old and is in good shape. <br /> • There were no public comments regarding this application. <br /> Page 4 <br />