05-29-2001 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING May 29, 2001 is ( #01 -2687 CPV Development, Final Plat of Kokesh Farm, Continued) McDermott stated one goal is to try to get a connection to all of Orono's Parks. Robert Wyatt, 4220 Watertown Road, stated he has a concern about a trail being constructed in this area because of the row of trees that would need to be removed and the closeness of his residence to the proposed trail. Wyatt indicated his residence would be located 50 feet from the trail. Sansevere stated his view of this trail would be that it would mirror the Luce Line trail. Jeanne Wyatt, 4220 Watertown Road, commented the City would be sending a mixed message if they approve this trail since it would require the filling of wetlands and the removal of trees as well as negatively impacting the properties in this area. Wyatt stated most people in their neighborhood walk for exercise and do not want the shortcut. Wyatt questioned whether this trail would be appropriate given the limited number of people it would serve. Alshouse stated almost all of those trees in that area would need to be removed. Sansevere inquired whether the trail could be constructed between the fence line and the trees. Alshouse stated that area consists of all trees. A resident located on County Road 6 expressed concern regarding the need to fill the wetland in • order to construct a trail. Sansevere indicated the wetland extends over to the next property line and divides that one property in half. Hibbeling commented that to do a trail in sections makes sense if there are other larger sections of land that will be subdivided in the future. Hibbeling stated due to the five acre zoning in this area, he is doubtful whether the land in this area will be subdivided. Alshouse stated the City's Comprehensive Trail Plan is designed to serve the needs of the citizens and gives the City a long -range plan that you can implement over time. Alshouse stated by requiring him to construct a trail in this area at this time does not follow that plan and raises questions in his mind as to why the City even has a long -range trail plan. Alshouse stated the Council needs to look at a number of issues relating to a trail in this area; one, that a trail will greatly impact the adjoining property owners; and two, require the removal of a large number of trees. Alshouse stated his original concept plan was to construct a riding trail around the entire perimeter of the property, which was found not to be feasible due to the topography and the impact on the adjoining property owners. Alshouse stated he is being requested to plant a tree every 50 feet along both sides of the road, and then on the other hand he is being asked to remove 80 year old trees and being asked to fill in wetlands in order to construct a trail. Alshouse indicated he was told by the Watershed District to stay away from that wetland, which is contrary to what the Park Commission is recommending, and in his view is a double standard. 10 4 PAGE 18