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MINUTES OF THE <br /> ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING <br /> Tuesday,January 18,2005 <br /> 6:00 o'clock p.m. <br /> (#05-3081 ZB Construction, Continued) <br /> Winkey commented the units are more likely to be leased with the amenities but that in his opinion the <br /> costs associated with the amenities with this proposal versus the previous proposal have not changed <br /> dramatically and that a higher rent could be charged for the larger units. <br /> Johnston noted some square footage was added to make the building deeper. <br /> Zachman indicated they did increase the size of the parking stalls to allow easier access for full-size cars. <br /> Winkey stated it is his understanding the number of larger units has been increased and that in his opinion <br /> this project would be economically feasible even with a reduction in the number of units. <br /> Jurgens commented it is difficult to imagine the visual impact this building will have. Jurgens inquired <br /> whether the first floor elevation is seven to eight feet above the curb line of the existing road. <br /> Gaffron stated the road is at 1022', with the first floor level being seven to eight feet above the road. <br /> Jurgens inquired how it would be transitioned from the roadway to reduce the appearance that this <br /> building towers over you. <br /> Johnston stated the slope as it exists now would remain for the most part, with the parking lot located in <br /> between the road and the building. <br /> Jurgens inquired how far back the building is situated from the curb. <br /> Gaffron stated the building would be located approximately 60 to 80 feet from the curb. <br /> Jurgens indicated he still has a concern regarding the length of the building and inquired whether the focal <br /> point of the structure could change somehow to try to lessen the visual impact. <br /> Heller indicated the vertical uprights come out four feet,with the facade being broken up with different <br /> shades. Heller stated a 3-D picture would help to better illustrate how the building will appear. <br /> Rahn stated he prefers the step-down appearance of the building. Rahn recommended the applicant <br /> review their plans to see how the building can be reduced in length. <br /> Zachman inquired whether the Planning Commission would like to see the end units clipped off <br /> Leslie stated he would like to see the top unit also clipped near the end cap so there would still be a step <br /> down. Leslie encouraged the applicant to review his options for reducing the size of the building. <br /> Jurgens inquired whether a patio is being constructed off the back of the building. <br /> Johnston stated the patio could be accomplished with an easement. <br /> PAGE 38 <br />