11/15/2004 Planning Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING Monday,November 15,2004 6:00 o'clock p.m. (#04-3056 DENNIS AND EVELYN BRUCE,CONTINUED) Leslie amended his motion,Fritzler seconded,to allow construction of a 24' by 24' garage located north/south rather than east/west along the west side setback. VOTE ON AMENDED MOTION: Ayes: 7,Nays 0. 5. #04-3057 DON HENDERSON, 560 BIG ISLAND—VARIANCE,6:52 p.m.-7:12 p.m. Don Henderson, Applicant, and Michael Palm,Applicant, were present. Gundlach stated the applicants are requesting a lot area variance to permit development of a lot 3.33 acres in size, of which 1.1 acres is dry and where 5.0 acres of dry buildable is normally required. This lot has remained vacant since prior to adoption of the current Seasonal Recreation District standards. At the time the Big Island ordinance was adopted,the property owners in ownership of lots less than five acres were given the chance to apply for"record lot status", which the owner of this lot did not do. Henderson has indicated he would like to sell the lot as a buildable lot, and a lot area variance must be granted under the current practices. The septic inspector has visited this site and has approved a primary and alternate septic site for a three-bedroom dwelling. The applicant has also indicated a desire to have a dock,but since it is impossible to access the dock without passing through wetland, the City is unable to determine what, if any, additional City permits would be required due to the moratorium on wetland alterations until a new Wetland Ordinance is adopted. Staff recommends approval of the request with the stipulation that the City Engineer approves a grading plan at the building permit phase and conformance with all hardcover, structural coverage, setback, and septic requirements. Henderson indicated he is aware that some neighbors have expressed concerns regarding this application, but noted that all the requirements of the City have been met. Henderson stated the proposed location of the dock would require access over three or four feet of wetlands. Rahn indicated the Planning Commission cannot act on the dock at this point and would have to wait until the moratorium expires before they are able to consider that issue. Selden Robb, 570 Big Island, stated he would like to see the size of the house restricted somewhat and that he has concerns regarding the preservation of wildlife in this area. Robb stated he would like the brush to remain virtually untouched so that it would be a good buffer between the residence and the wetlands and allow for the preservation of wildlife. PAGE 11