04/17/2006 Planning Commission Minutes

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. MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMNIISSION MEETING - Monday,Apri117,2006 6:00 o'clock p.m. (#06-3189 Terry and Suzanne Johnson,Continued) � Mr. Johnson stated they have lived at this residence for approximately 13 years and have two children. Johnson acknowledged they did appear before the Planning Commission approximately five years ago, and at that time they proposed a single level story home,which included a garage located five feet from the lot line, and was subsequently approved by the Planning Commission. . Johnson stated the majority of the garages in their neighborhood are located within five feet of the lot line due to the small lot sizes. Johnson stated the City Council suggested that the plans be revised to go upward rather than expand the existing footprint. Johnson indicated following the City Council decision,they consulted with a structural engineer and that some foundation issues have been discovered and the central part of the house has settled. The structural engineer recommended at that time that no additional load be added to the top of the house. Johnson stated a tunnel exists on the north side of the house. Johnson inquired what they would be allowed to construct on this lot. Johnson noted they have hired an architect who has started some preliminary designs. Johnson commented there is no on street parking in his neighborhood and that they would like to have some extra space to accommodate visitors' cars. Johnson stated the turn-around allows them to avoid the need to back out on the street,which is a safety concern. Johnson stated they would like to create as much green space in the front yard as possible. Johnson noted the neighbor's garage is located less than five feet from their lot line. Rahn noted that the City did receive a letter from the neighbor at 537 Park Lane indicating their support of this project. Johnson stated they feel the proposed plan is the best alternative for this lot and that the only other option they have is to repair or replace the foundation. Johnson stated a number of their neighbors have hardcover in excess of 35 percent. Rahn opened the public hearing at 6:16 p.m. There were no public comments regarding this application. Rahn closed the public hearing at 6:16 p.m. Smith inquired whether the City in recent years has approved new home construction with variances similar to what the applicants are proposing. Curtis stated the City has not approved structural coverage variances in the past similar to what the applicant is requesting. PAGE 4