06/21/2004 Planning Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MONDAY, JUNE 21, 2004 6:00 o'clock p.m. (9. #04-3027 Brenshall Development on behalf of Thomas James Properties, LLC, SW Corner of Old Crystal Bay Road and Highway 12, Sketch Plan—continued) Chair Mabusth stated her position that the proposed sketch plan needs to reduce building pad sizes, to provide areas for the future decks or outside play areas, and asked if the three-stall garage was a necessity in this density neighborhood. Mr. Johnston replied that often the third garage stall reduces potential outside storage problems. Chair Mabusth requested the applicants to show proposed house decks on the sketch plan. There was consensus to not permit any outside storage at all at this density. Friztler added that there should be no antennas allowed. Chair Mabusth summarized that the Planning Commission had serious concerns about the proposed density for the sketch plan. Leslie observed that there appears to be an underlying conflict of interest between indicating the City desires to have higher density housing development and a discussion that is indicating anything but describing lower density neighborhoods. Trying to establish parameters without context for appropriate standards,what is marketable or viable could result in a developer agreeing to standards that result in a failed neighborhood. He suggested that a planning consultant should be hired to advise the City in the development of appropriate guidelines and standards. Leslie summarized that he thought the dialogue was more about not knowing what is not wanted, not about what is a viable plan. Gaffron added that staff supports the hiring of a planning consultant to assist in the process. Mr. Johnston mentioned that already two months have elapsed out of the six-month moratorium and asked what was its status. Gaffron explained the City Council and Planning Commission need to set a date for a visioning session, hopefully with a planning consultant. He indicated that it is unlikely the process would be completed by the end of the original 6 months timeline. Jurgens commented that the housing styles, expanded exterior color range, landscaping and public gathering spaces were all positives. However, he also was unsure about accepting the proposed density and did not support the shorter driveways with vehicles extending over the sidewalk. Chair Mabusth and Rahn concurred with Jurgens' comments. Chair Mabusth concluded the discussion by repeating the request for a concept design for the Dumas property when the matter returns to the Planning Commission. PLANNING COMMISSION COMMENTS 10. REPORT OF PLANNING COMMISSION REPRESENTATIVES ATTENDING CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS MAY 24, 2004 AND JUNE 14, 2004. Fritzler reported on the May 24, 2004 City Council meeting indicating that all Planning Commission matters went on the Consent Agenda. Chair Mabusth reported that the Reliance Development (Stonebay Commercial PUD) and the O'Shaughnessy shoreland restoration with boardwalk Page 20 of 22