09-16-2002 Planning Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING Monday, September 16, 2002 6:30 o'clock p.m. (#7) WAYNE AND KAREN SOOJIAN,4496 NORTH SHORE DRIVE, Continued Mr. Soojian pointed out that it was his goal to stay away from the western boundary and keep that area natural, filled with vegetation. Chair Smith asked if the Commission was comfortable with this application and whether they should require a drainage plan. Gaffron indicated that the drainage plan would be required at the time of permitting; however, if the Commission chose, they could require a plan to accompany the application before it goes to Council. Jon Bessesen, 4500 North Shore Drive, indicated that he was the aforementioned neighbor to the north and recipients of the water runoff from this property. He explained that many residents along this strip were the unfortunate recipients of the runoff problems created by the development along Tonkaview Road several years ago and were forced to pay an engineer $35,000 to prove that. While he had no problem with the proposed residence, Mr. Bessesen requested an opportunity to view a site plan and drainage report since they are located downhill from the parcel. Chair Smith indicated that she was aware that drainage became an expensive issue for these residents. Mabusth asked if the neighbors would feel more comfortable if they were allowed the opportunity to see a drainage plan. While Mr. Bessesen stated that he did not wish to see the applicant have to spend any more money than necessary, he wanted staff to be well aware of the potential issues that could be created by additional runoff. Mr. Soojian stated that he was confident that he could come up with a plan that would meet with everyone's satisfaction. Mabusth moved, Chair Smith seconded, to recommend approval of Application #02-2825, Wayne and Karen Soojian,4496 North Shore Drive, granting lot area and average lakeshore setback variances, subject to provision of a drainage plan which would be reviewed by the City Engineer, prior to permitting, which directs drainage from the driveway area along the east lot line and to direct drainage along the west lot line away from the property towards the lake. While it is reasonable not to increase the runoff, Mr. Soojian suggested that he be held to a runoff amount that is no more than what is currently draining to the north. Mabusth encouraged the applicant to reduce the runoff as much as possible. PAGE 12