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MINUTES OF THE <br /> ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING <br /> Monday,October 17,2005 <br /> 6:00 o'clock p.m. <br /> (#05-3157 Martha Mason, Continued) <br /> Rahn stated he is in agreement with Commissioner Fritzler and pointed out that the example cited by <br /> Commissioner Leslie was a one-story garage addition. Rahn stated if the second story were set back, it is <br /> likely it would be approved. <br /> Mason stated the plans and elevations show a minimal change in character and function,with the <br /> functions of the infrastructure, such as mechanical plumbing and the interior stairway,being kept intact. <br /> Mason stated to set the second story back would be a hardship that would compromise both the <br /> practicality and function of the house. <br /> Kempf stated he is in agreement with Commissioner Leslie,noting in that similar application the <br /> contractor constructed the house slightly crooked on the lot and that the Planning Commission does not <br /> necessary need to restrict the project because of that fact. Kempf stated the encroachment is insignificant <br /> and that he would be willing to approve the application. <br /> Bremer stated it is important in her opinion that this project does not have a huge visual impact,noting <br /> that there is not a house located directly across the street from this residence. Bremer commented the <br /> neighbor to the west appears to have a deck that is closer than the 50 feet to the road. Bremer indicated <br /> she would not approve the pergola. <br /> Fritzler commented that this might be the easiest way to do what the applicant would like to do but that he <br /> has not been convinced that there is a hardship for the variance. <br /> Mason stated in addition to the functional hardships and practical hardships, if the addition is required to <br /> be stepped back to meet the front yard setback, the screen porch would be compromised in terms of light <br /> and ventilation. Mason stated the screen porch is an existing structure. <br /> Fritzler stated light,ventilation and view do not constitute a hardship. <br /> Bremer stated hardships typically are considered inherent to the land. Bremer stated the other application <br /> was less of a visible encroachment and was only one story but that Commissioner Leslie has made a good <br /> point. <br /> Bremer moved,Kempf seconded,to recommend approval of Application#05-3157,Martha T. <br /> Mason on behalf of Sara Moos,2160 Webber Hills Road,granting of a front yard setback variance <br /> to allow construction of an addition to the home, and to recommend denial of the pergola. <br /> VOTE: Ayes 4,Nays 1,Fritzler Opposed. <br /> Bremer suggested updating the plan to show the removal of the pergola. <br /> PAGE 21 <br />