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MINUTES OF THE <br /> ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING <br /> Monday,August 16, 2004 <br /> 6:00 o'clock p.m. <br /> (#04-3046 Robert and Brenda MacDonald, continued) <br /> the hardcover,but it was not the sole issue. MacDonald indicated other issues, such as sewer and <br /> water hookups, in his mind made the project not worth pursuing and he decided to remodel the garage <br /> instead. MacDonald stated he elected to remodel the garage because it looked awful and was <br /> falling down. <br /> MacDonald indicated he is willing to discuss the hardcover,but indicated he does not feel it is the <br /> issue at the present time. MacDonald stated the issue in his mind is whether the structure is <br /> conforming to allow him to obtain a variance for the 18 inches. MacDonald commented he would <br /> prefer to be able to retain the parking lot in order to accommodate guests and not have them park in <br /> mud or in the grass. <br /> Fritzler inquired who was responsible for the remodeling of the garage. <br /> MacDonald stated his caretaker was in charge of the project while he was in Florida,but that he <br /> ultimately takes responsibility for the project. MacDonald stated his intention was to be within what <br /> the City was asking for when he wanted to originally rebuild the garage. <br /> Kempf inquired what the large expanse of hardcover leading to a gate is used for. <br /> MacDonald stated that area is utilized by guests for parking. MacDonald noted that area was also <br /> discussed as a possibility for loss of hardcover when the larger garage was being considered. <br /> Kempf commented the turnaround appears to be large enough to allow for some parking of cars. <br /> MacDonald indicated there are some options regarding a reduction in hardcover,but noted that the <br /> main issue in his other application was the sewer and electrical hookups and not the excessive <br /> hardcover. MacDonald indicated a considerable amount of grading would need to be done in order to <br /> provide bathroom facilities in the garage, and combined with the other issues,he decided not to pursue <br /> that project. MacDonald stated reducing the width of the driveway by one foot was discussed at that <br /> time,but it was just one small piece that was discussed during his previous application. <br /> Bremer inquired if there is a retroactive date in the statute. <br /> Kelley stated it went into effective August 1S`. <br /> Bremer inquired whether the statute applies to construction that occurs prior to the date of <br /> construction. <br /> Kelley stated it is his opinion the City has the discretion to decide whether to analyze it under the old <br /> law or the new law. <br /> Bremer inquired whether at the time of construction the applicant was in compliance with city <br /> ordinances. <br /> Kelley stated at the time this garage was constructed,city code and state statute provided that a person <br /> PAGE 21 <br />