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MINUTES OF THE <br /> � ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION <br /> Monday,August 21,2006 <br /> 6:00 o'clock p.m. <br /> (#06-3220 Jule and Elizabeth Hannaford, Continued) <br /> Hannaford stated there is a giant maple tree in the middle of the circle. <br /> Baldwin stated the circular driveway works more efficiently than a hammerhead type of driveway. <br /> Bremer concurred with the suggestions concerning the driveway made by Commissioner Jurgens since it <br /> would reduce the hardcover. <br /> Hannaford noted the driveway is also in need of replacement but they would like to do that proj ect <br /> sometime in the future. <br /> Gaffron inquired when the deck would be replaced. <br /> Baldwin stated they are hoping to commence work this fall. � <br /> Rahn stated the bigger issue for him is for the further encroachment of the deck into the 0-75-foot area <br /> and that the deck could be redesigned to lessen the encroachment into the 0-75-foot zone. Rahn noted the <br /> deck currently encroaches ten feet and a hardship has not been demonstrated for the deck to encroach <br /> further into the 0-75-foot zone. Rahn pointed out the Planning Commission has to make its decisions for <br /> variances based on hardships. <br /> Baldwin stated if the steps were reduced,it would lessen the encroachment slightly. <br /> Kempf stated he is inclined to agree with the comments of the other Commissioners and that the driveway <br /> should be reduced to 18 feet in width,with no further encroachment of the deck into the 0-75-foot zone. <br /> Bremer commented she would be willing to allow a further encroachment of the deck based on the <br /> removal of the two-foot concrete path along with the other proposed hardcover reductions,which is to the <br /> benefit of everyone and would reduce the hardcover in the 0-75-foot zone. Bremer pointed out the <br /> applicants are entitled to replace the deck without appearing before the Planning Commission. <br /> Hannaford stated the existing deck is used for the seating of large gatherings. One of the design theories <br /> behind the steps is that people could congregate on the steps, serve as overflow seating, allow the people <br /> to face the lake, and materially improve the use of the property by having the steps. <br /> Kroeger inquired whether some of the upper surface of the deck could be reduced. <br /> Baldwin stated if the riser ratio is increased,the steps would not be as safe,but it would eliminate the <br /> need for one step. Baldwin stated the proposed design of the deck is more sensitive to the lake by <br /> maintaining the grassy area in front of the lake. <br /> Rahn inquired how the stairs would be constructed. <br /> Bremer stated the stairs are being constructed in such a way that there would be a four-foot encroachment. <br /> PAGE 10 <br />