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. (#04-3057 DON HENDERSON,CONTINUED) Robb noted they have just recently installed a new septic system on their site and inquired where the septic site would be located on the Henderson property. Gundlach illustrated on the overhead the location of the proposed septic site. Robb stated Henderson's septic would be abutting his and requested that appropriate care be taken to insure that the hill does not wash away from too much water entering the area. Rahn pointed out the Planning Commission is only looking at a lot area variance and would expect the applicant to comply with the other requirements of the City relating to septic,hardcover, and setbacks. Robb stated he also has a dock in the area of the wetland and that he does not have a problem with the applicant crossing the three to four feet of wetlands. Ben Faus, 3810 York Avenue South, stated he owns the land to the south. Faus indicated at the time he purchased the property he inquired about the possibility of donating the land to the Nature Conservatory in an effort to help preserve the natural habitat of this area and was informed that the land was not unique enough. Faus indicated subsequent to that time he proposed to construct a substantial cabin and was not given approval. Faus stated the cabin that is there presently is located 58 feet from the shoreline and that he owns approximately eight acres. Faus indicated he would like to see the total island preserved,noting that it is becoming more attractive to people to visit the island. Faus stated the island has a number of bare acres and that it would not be beyond Hennepin County's ability to purchase it for a park, including the wetlands. Faus stated he would like to see some portion of the island preserved as a park. Mike Palm stated they currently own land on Big Island and that they are attempting to preserve the history, character, and wildlife of Big Island. Palm stated they are in favor of preserving Big Island. Rahn called for public comments. There were no public comments concerning this application. Rahn indicated he does not have an issue with the variance. Leslie noted no specific plan has been proposed for this lot. Gundlach stated given the location of the primary and secondary septic sites, as well as the setbacks,the building pad is very clearly defined. Gundlach noted a conditional use permit could be required for the dock. PAGE 12