02-24-2003 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

MINUTES OF THE ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, February 24, 2003 7:00 o'clock p.m. PLANNING COMMISSION COMMENTS, Continued Sansevere asked if this could be streamlined at the application level. Since many applicants have different ideas of what they should be able to do with their property and what they consider a hardship, Gaffron indicated that even when staff informs them they don't have adequate hardship they wish to proceed. Typically, Gaffron stated that by the time an application reaches the Planning Commission, it is in its 3rd or 4th design phase. Nygard pointed out that, if the Council meetings were broadcast, it might be helpful to residents to observe the process before deciding to proceed with an application. They might have a better grasp of what is typically allowed in Orono. White indicated that, oftentimes, Orono must compete with what other cities allow, which is a problem when people come to file an application and believe they should get what someone else in another lake community is allowed. Murphy asked if the expectation had changed. Mayor Peterson believed that, in many instances, it has and people believe they should get more. Fritzler pointed out that some owners are getting into trouble assuming that their contractors know what is allowed and that they play by the rules, which is not always the case. • Nygard maintained that most people have no idea what is allowed or happening until they come in to request an application. Sansevere inquired if staff supplied people with information about what is required, and suggested that a separate sheet be created to emphasize the need to provide stronger hardships or the application likely won't pass. Gaffron stated that staff has often gone so far as to tell people that their applications have very little chance of passing, and still people wish to proceed. He indicated that what staff needs most is consistency to support their position and to point to when recommending someone not pursue something. Attorney Barrett stated that, while offering and giving advice is good, the City should shy away from totally discouraging individuals from their due process. Staff should provide applicants with advice and recommendations, but Barrett cautioned making it too tough for people to get an application. McDermott suggested they make it a policy that individuals are allowed 20 minutes to make their case. Gaffron stated that, typically, the Commission hears the staff report, they ask for public comment and the applicant's comments, make a motion, and discuss it. • PAGE 4 of 11