Laserfiche WebLink
Melanie Curtis <br /> From: Willie Gibbs <br /> Sent: Friday, August 10, 2012 12:09 PM <br /> To: Melanie Curtis; Jessica Loftus; Lili McMillan (lilim@mac.com) <br /> Subject: RE: 420 Deborah Drive - Septic/Pool question <br /> Melanie,Jessica, Lili: <br /> The intent of the variance procedure has never been used for, nor was it intended to be used for, not having to upgrade <br /> the septic system. The variance procedure is to allow for setbacks that cannot be met or the sizing of systems and the <br /> like. Mrs. Brady was first notified in 1999 that the system is non-compliant and had a septic system design drawn up in <br /> 2002, in anticipation of the pending upgrade deadline. She is now requesting to spend thousands of dollars on an <br /> inground pool. This is not only unnecessary for enjoyment of the property but may impact a future septic site if she is <br /> not required to upgrade the system as part of this project. <br /> If Mrs. Brady does request a variance I will have no choice but to turn her down. To allow a variance for her to construct <br /> hard cover,without upgrading the septic system, would open up a can of worms that the City cannot allow to happen. <br /> Please let me know if there are any further questions. Have a nice weekend, Willie. <br /> From: Melanie Curtis <br /> Sent: Friday, August 10, 2012 10:38 AM <br /> To: 'rachaelle48@hotmail.com' <br /> Cc: Jessica Loftus; Lili McMillan (lilim@mac.com); Willie Gibbs <br /> Subject: 420 Deborah Drive - Septic/Pool question <br /> Rachaelle <br /> You and I spoke earlier this week regarding your desire to install a swimming pool on your properly. Your property <br /> records indicate that your septic system is non —compliant and must be upgraded before any non-maintenance permits <br /> can be issued for your property. After speaking with Willie Gibbs several times you asked me to look into this issue. This <br /> is what I've found. <br /> I have pasted the City Code sections below relating to permit issuance. Also attached are the septic system inspection <br /> records for your property since 1990. Please note that beginning in 1999 your property was identified by the City as <br /> being "non-compliant"due to the lack of State-required groundwater separation. You were notified of the 2010 deadline <br /> for compliance at that time and with each subsequent inspection. Beginning on January 1, 2011 City code Section 58- <br /> 47(b) applies specifically to your situation. Because of this, in my opinion, there is no"gray area"as we discussed. You <br /> must upgrade your septic system to meet the MN State minimum standards and Orono City Code prior to the issuance of <br /> any non-maintenance type of building permit (maintenance permits include re-roofing, windows, mechanical, etc). <br /> City Code 58-73 outlines the ability of the on-site manager (Willie Gibbs) to grant variances in cases of hardship etc. You <br /> must request a variance in writing. I will be candid and say that I don't believe your situation will qualify for this rype of <br /> variance but the code allows you to request one. If your variance is denied by Mr. Gibbs you may appeal Mr. Gibbs' <br /> decision to the City Council. <br /> Lastly, there is a Preserve classification wetland on or very near the southern portion of your property which is a further <br /> limiting factor relating to location of septic system treatment areas and the swimming pool. I do not have a record of a <br /> wetland delineation to provide you with more direction as to the size of the wetland but I thought I should mention it... <br /> Please let me know if you have additional questions. <br /> Melanie <br /> Melanie Curtis <br /> Planning &Zoning Coordinator <br /> City of Orono <br /> 1 <br />