Laserfiche WebLink
MINUTES OF THE <br /> ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING <br /> Monday,April 15, 2002 <br /> 6:30 o'clock p.m. <br /> (#02-2771 Orono Ambar,Continued) <br /> would not be opposed to changing the use of the building. Rahn indicated he probably would not be in <br /> favor of the project as it is currently designed. <br /> Hawn commented she does not expect a developer a construct a building that would not be <br /> economically viable, which is probably the reason why the office building is not being constructed at <br /> this time. Hawn stated she also recognizes there is a need in this area for additional senior housing, but <br /> stated the height of the proposed building is very difficult to approve. Hawn stated she would prefer the <br /> height of the building be reduced to two stories. <br /> Smith stated she would be in favor of the rezoning in order to accommodate additional senior housing, <br /> but noted she does have a concern with the height of the proposed building and would prefer two <br /> stories. <br /> Fritzler noted he also was not here at the time phase one was discussed. Fritzler stated he has a major <br /> concern with traffic at this location and the amount of traffic that would be generated in this area. <br /> Fritzler inquired what Item 2 under the proposed development parameters mean. <br /> Gaffron stated a portion of the units needs to be affordable based on income guidelines. <br /> Hawn inquired what the median income is in the Twin Cities. <br /> Dunbar indicated it is $74,600 this year. <br /> Gaffron inquired of the units that have been currently leased in the first building, what portion of those <br /> are the lower rent units. <br /> Dunbar stated approximately 30 percent out of the 40 percent are the lower rent units. Dunbar stated the <br /> difference is around$116. <br /> Fritzler stated he is not seeing this as an affordable housing project but rather as condominiums for <br /> well-to-do seniors. Fritzler indicated he is not in support of either project. <br /> Mabusth noted the affordable housing units are only for 20 years,with the lease being for 99 years. <br /> Mabusth stated she personally does not have a problem with the rezoning or the senior housing building, <br /> but expressed a concern regarding potential commercial uses for this property. <br /> Mabusth inquired what steps were taken to protect the trees on the outlot. <br /> Gaffron stated under the office use very few trees would have been saved because the entire site would <br /> need to be graded. <br /> Mabusth inquired how it is determined how much senior housing is needed in this area. <br /> Gaffron stated the developer was required to do a market analysis on senior housing in this area, and <br /> based on that research,it was demonstrated that senior housing is needed in this area. Gaffron stated it <br /> PAGE 20 <br />