04/19/2004 Planning Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MONDAY, APRIL 19, 2004 6:00 o'clock p.m. (#3. 04-2977 MICHAEL KEAVENY ON BEHALF OF RICHARD M. KEAVENY REV. TRUST, 3423/3425 SHORELINE DRIVE, CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT AND COMMERCIAL SITE PLAN REVIEW- Continued) Berg expressed her viewpoint that a Class II restaurant would not be approved and that there were other potential uses for the location. She mentioned there could be less gravel and blacktop and improved landscape on the site. If there is going to be a bowling alley there, Berg stated she wants to have the upper area fixed up, including the landscaping. She recommended that if Mr. Keaveny undertakes improvements, she would expect a `softer' look to the site with improved landscaping. Mr. Keaveny replied that green spaces, a new retaining wall, striping of the parking lot and building upgrades had been part of the proposal with Mr. Ode. Berg repeated her position to oppose a liquor license and restaurant but did not oppose continuation of the bowling alley use. Bremer asked Berg if she thought that same about a 3.2 beer license. Berg did not answer, as it is not the role of the Planning Commission to decide. Mr. Keaveny asked Berg if she thought a restaurant without a liquor license was a good use. Berg replied that she did not think of a bowling alley with a destination restaurant but rather had a snack bar instead. Mr. Keaveny indicated he has received expressed interest for league bowling in the last nine months. Berg restated her opposition is not to the bowling alley but with the other use intensification and other issues with green space, parking, upkeep and site appearance. Mr. Keaveny commented his whole intent was to get the whole site fixed up acknowledging that it has been a while since it was well cared for. In the past year he has attempted to get busy with improvements. Chair Mabusth inquired if any other Planning Commission members had any comments. Bremer asked if the Planning Commission should review the parking and hardcover issues. Chair Mabusth commented that hardcover remains the same at 90% as the application proposed paving over existing gravel, which is still considered hardcover. Structure is being added with the new entryway, going up from 15% to 16%. She noted the application does not quite meet the parking code requirements so a variance is needed. Chair Mabusth acknowledged that going over any of these issues applies only if this is an application that will be approved. She concluded that without the liquor license there is no point in going over the specific planning issues. Mr. Keaveny acknowledged he received a list from staff listing the conforming uses applicable to his site and has heard so many comments from the neighbors and would like to hear their suggestions. Page 17 of 49