05/17/2004 Planning Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MONDAY, MAY 17, 2004 6:00 o'clock p.m. (5. #04-2974 RELIANCE DEVELOPMENT COMPANY,LLP, Continued) Gaffron responded that he thought it would be possible but asked the Planning Commission for direction if sign variances became necessary. Staff stated that with a PUD application, flexibility could therefore be addressed. Chair Mabusth asked for information about plans for temporary signage and how this will be controlled. Gaffron explained there is a city code for temporary signage but it is difficult to enforce. He recommended that temporary signage condition(s)be added to the PUD approval documents. Mr. Trautz asked if a special permit is required to put up temporary signs, such as a banner. It was confirmed that a special permit is required from the City. Mr. Trautz indicated that after`grand opening' banners,they intend to not allow any other temporary signs in the retail center. Gaffron concluded the city concurred with that approach. Chair Mabusth asked for any further comments on signage. There were none. 6. Address height of buildings. Chair Mabusth concurred with staff recommendation to permit the 32'6"height for the entrance corner `parapet' roof peak, exceeding the B-6 height limit of 30', as well as the retail buildings' gable peaks extending to 33'4.5"high. She acknowledged allowing such heights as an architectural feature may be done in a PUD and Orono has allowed similar height increases in the PUD for the office buildings. Fritzler asked if there is any mechanics housed in the gables. Mr.Trautz advised there were none. Rahn pointed out the gables are a sloped roof design with shingles. 7. Address any concerns regarding facade coloration and materials. Chair Mabusth asked Gaffron to clarify if the final approved PUD application should refer to specific building materials. Gaffron indicated the final PUD documents would refer to the building materials shown this evening by the applicant. Mr. Trautz cautioned that the specific buildings materials shown might not be in stock or available when needed. By consensus, it was agreed to allow use of an `equivalent' approved by a three member city committee. Mr. Spina stated that all shown building materials are currently available. 8. Address whether building-mounted lighting is proposed. Chair Mabusth concluded the issue of building-mounted lighting was already addressed. 9. Any other issues for consideration. Chair Mabusth asked if there are any other issues for discussion. Kempf questioned if resolution was reached about requiring residential style lighting along the sidewalks coming up to Hwy 12 on the east side from Walgreens and along the pond area, as it is a more park like setting. Chair Mabusth asked what would be the function of such lighting and how much lighting the residences prefer across the street. Page 15 of 40