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NIINUTES OF THE <br /> ORONO PLANIVING COMMISSION <br /> Monday,September 18,2006 <br /> 6:00 o'clock p.m. <br /> (#06-3224 Thomas and Rebecca Lowe,Continued) <br /> that the Planning Staff typically does not approve hardcover in that amount. Rahn inquired whether the <br /> proposed basement floor elevation is similar to what currently exists. <br /> Sharratt stated they would like to raise the ceiling height of the basement in the new residence and that <br /> they are being required to lower the house into the grade in order to meet the City's height restrictions. <br /> Lowe stated due to the way the City's Code is written,the City does not give credit for the dirt that is in <br /> front of the windows and that they are being penalized for the way the side yard was graded 30 years ago. <br /> Lowe stated they should be given some credit for the dirt in front of the windows. <br /> Bremer stated she understands what the applicant is saying but that the City's ordinance is rather specific <br /> and does not allow that to be taken into account. <br /> Kroeger stated based on the shape of the lot,the 40 percent hardcover is not excessive in his view. <br /> Jurgens stated it comes down to what is reasonable use of the lot, and that the three-car garage could be <br /> reduced to a two-car garage,which would result in the driveway being reduced and the hardcover being <br /> decreased. Jurgens indicated he is not in support of a height variance and that the house could be <br /> designed differently. Jurgens stated the storage under the garage is also a personal choice and results in <br /> the grade being pushed further back on the lot. <br /> Lowe stated the storage under the garage exists on the current house. <br /> Rahn stated the ceiling height is driving the elevation of the house. Rahn stated it is difficult to make a <br /> decision on a plan that has only been submitted to Staff on the day of the meeting and that the City <br /> Engineer has not had an opportunity to review the plans. <br /> Kempf indicated he is in agreement with what has already been expressed by the Planning Commission <br /> and that it does come down to the design of the house. Kempf expressed concerns regarding a sunken <br /> patio and the possibility of water problems and that he would like to see some changes made in the design <br /> of the residence. <br /> Sharratt pointed out they are not requesting a height variance at this point but merely brought it up as an <br /> option. Sharratt stated the patio could be engineered to handle the water runoff. <br /> Lowe inquired what type of hardcover levels have been granted in the past for this type of a lot. <br /> Gaffron stated the City's compilations make a clear comparison between the areas of the 75-250 foot zone <br /> and the percentages of hardcover. Gaffron stated the City has granted hardcover in excess of 25 percent <br /> in the past but that it depends on the uniqueness and size of the lot. <br /> PAGE 3 <br />