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MINUTES OF THE <br /> ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING <br /> Monday,May 16,2005 <br /> 6:00 o'clock p.m. <br /> 2. #05-3102 KATHRYN ALEXANDER ON BEHALF OF J. SVEN GUSTAFSON,920 <br /> BROWN ROAD SOUTH,VARIANCES,6:56 P.M.—7:23 P.M. <br /> J. Sven Gustafson, Applicant, was present. Rick and Janet Francis,property owners, were present. <br /> Gaffron noted a letter was received from Kathryn Alexander supporting her position regarding the request <br /> for variances. <br /> Gaffron stated at the last Planning Commission meeting the applicants had proposed side setback <br /> variances on both sides to allow a new home to be located 15.5 feet from the north side lot line and 15 <br /> feet from the south side lot line. The applicants have since revised their plans and are now proposing a <br /> north side setback of 18 feet where 30 feet would normally be required in addition to lot area and lot <br /> width variances. The applicants have eliminated the request for a south side setback variance. <br /> Staff recommends approval of the lot width and lot area variances. Staff is recommending that the <br /> Planning Commission discuss the revised plans and determine whether there is hardship or justification <br /> for the side lot setback variance. <br /> Gaffron noted at the last meeting a discussion was had regarding the long narrow lot and how the same <br /> size footprint, without the side yard setback,would make the house longer and have a greater view impact <br /> on the neighbors. Gaffron stated the applicants are willing to remove two trees to relocate the driveway <br /> to meet the five-foot setback from the south lot line. <br /> Gaffron noted there are no hardcover or structural issues on this property. <br /> Gustafson stated they have taken the Planning Commission's comments into consideration and have <br /> revised their proposal to limit a variance on only one side of the property. Gustafson indicated he would <br /> prefer to split the distance between both sides of the property line. Gustafson stated the trees that they are <br /> proposing to remove are cottonwoods and that the neighbors are not opposed to the removal. <br /> Gustafson distributed three different footprints of the type of home the property owners would prefer to <br /> be built on this lot. Gustafson indicated the neighbors are not particularly in favor of the house designs <br /> given the length of the house. Gustafson stated in his opinion the neighbors would prefer the difference <br /> be split and the house made wider,which is also the property owner's preference. <br /> Rahn stated it appears that the survey conflicts with the original floor plan and questioned whether the <br /> deck and porch would encroach into the side yard setback. Rahn stated he would not be in favor of <br /> approving a deck or a porch if it encroaches into the side yard setback. Rahn stated Exhibits B1 and B2 <br /> show the deck located outside of the dining room and the screen porch encroaching. <br /> Gustafson agreed they do appear to be inconsistent. <br /> Rahn stated he does not have a major issue with the garage encroaching but would not be in support of the <br /> deck or porch encroaching into the side yard setback. Rahn noted the neighbor to the north had asked that <br /> the home not encroach any closer than 24 feet. <br /> PAGE 7 <br />