Laserfiche WebLink
MINUTES OF THE <br /> ORONO PLANIVING COMMISSION MEETING <br /> � � Monday,Apri116,2007 <br /> � 6:00 o'clock p.m. <br /> (#07-3262 James and Corrine Beck, Continued) , <br /> ' If the Planning Commission feels that there is hardship with respect to the location of the existing home <br /> and it is a reasonable request of the applicants to preserve the personal historical value of the existing <br /> home, Staff will support some level of hardcover and setback variances to allow the additions. <br /> Additionally, Staff continues to not support a height variance. Further, Staff would recommend the <br /> applicants submit revised plans reflecting the third level as a half-story as allowed: <br /> Curtis noted John Smythe,Bonestroo,is recommending a 16-foot wetland buffer,but that it is not <br /> • required. <br /> Alexander stated they have reduced the mass and the height of the structure. Alexander stated she <br /> .would like to address the issue of the third story. The existing lowest level is garage and unfinished <br /> basement and measures 6' 10.5' to 6' 11.5". According to the code,habitable space is defined as seven <br /> feet and t�is would be uninhabitable space. . <br /> . � <br /> Curtis requested the Planning Commission address that issue and that she did speak with the City's <br /> building inspector,Lyle Oman,that specific requirement for habitable�space and that he would not <br /> disallow someone to finish their basement because of that low height. In new construction that would <br /> � not be allowed. <br /> • Alexander stated it would be undesirable space once it was sheetrocked and a ceiling was added because • <br /> - the height would be reduced even further. Alexander pointed out the Becks currently own a three-story <br /> house and they are looking to remodel the existing structure. <br /> Kempf stated this appears to be another situation where it is being called a remodel in order to preserve <br /> the current location of the structure and there is the expansion of a nonconformity in close proximity to <br /> � the lake. Kempf noted this is a small lot and there is little room for expansion but that in his opinion the <br /> whole house should be pulled back and constructed on a suitable foundation. • <br /> Alexander stated their structural engineer has submitted a letter to the City indicating that the foundation <br /> is very sound. . <br /> Kempf noted the foundation is only seven feet height. , <br /> . Alexander pointed out there is a very small buildable area on the lot and that they could run into the <br /> need for pilings if the house were relocated. <br /> Berg commented she has a concern regarding the height of the structure and maximizing the lot. <br /> Alexander stated it is within three feet of the existing structure. <br /> Berg indicated she is not supportive of the amount of massing on the lot. � <br /> Kroeger stated it appears to be a three-story structure. <br /> PAGE 8 <br />