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MINUTES OF THE <br /> ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING <br /> Monday,July 15,2002 <br /> 6:30 o'clock p.m. <br /> (#02-2797 JAMES MURPHY AND SANDRA SMITH, Continued) <br /> old will last, yet alone the lame 18 year old. He added that adding the four year old to their stable <br /> provides them an opportunity to start anew. <br /> Hawn suggested the Commission consider a time limit which might contemplate the demise of <br /> the elder horses and allow for three currently. <br /> Smith asked if they would need to return to two horses at that time. <br /> Hawn asked if ten years seemed a reasonable time line allowing three horses. <br /> Smith stated that they could accept ten years if the Commission chose this limit, however, they <br /> could be returning at that time for additional discussion. <br /> Bremer questioned the average life expectancy of a horse <br /> Hawn called for public comment. <br /> Dave Struyk, the neighbor contiguous to the Smith/Murphy site, stated that he has shared a <br /> driveway with the applicants since 1979, and there has always been horses there even prior to the <br /> Smith/Murphy's. He indicated that he and his family welcome the horses and enjoy them. With <br /> regard to the odor issue raised by a different neighbor, Mr. Struyk stated that he has never noticed <br /> any odor problem coming or going daily down the drive. Three horses are in keeping with the <br /> community. <br /> Jonathon Tomhave, 1200 Orono Oaks Drive, stated that he supports the addition of a third horse. <br /> He maintained that the odor is virtually nonexistent, even as he heads to his mailbox daily it is <br /> not noticeable. He added a general comment, stating how important it is since 9/11/01 to <br /> encourage community and support one another. <br /> Bremer suggested, rather than speculating on the average life expectancy of a horse, the <br /> Commission make it contingent on the death of one or another of the elder horses. <br /> Smith indicated that while horses can live for 30 plus years, a 20 year old horse is considered old. <br /> Murphy noted that as their horses get older, they spend more time inside than out, which ensures <br /> the pasture and manure issues will continue to be fairly well contained. <br /> Mabusth questioned whether Smith/Murphy objected to 10 years, even though they may be back. <br /> PAGE 10 of 36 <br />