04-09-2007 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, April 9, 2007 • 7:00 o'clock p.m. (12. #07 -3255 CATHERINE SWEET, 3405 CRYSTAL BAYROAD, Continued) Turner stated there is an issue with the building code if the garage is located less than three feet from the property line. McMillan suggested the back corner (as well as the front corner) be located five feet from the property line. McMillan moved, White seconded, to direct Staff to draft a resolution in accordance with the recommendations of the Planning Commission. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0. 13. #07 -3270 MILO H. THOMPSON, 3135 CASCO CIRCLE — VARIANCE AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT Jeff Sweitzer, Architect, appeared on behalf of the Applicant. Curtis stated the applicant is proposing to construct major additions to the existing home resulting in a long, narrow home with an attached garage. The garage portion of the home will also serve as a studio /workshop and contain a guest apartment. The sleeping quarters of the guest apartment are contained within an observatory or tower which is the only portion of the home within a third level. By strict interpretation of the Code the tower becomes a full story rather than a half story as permitted. The applicant would like consideration as to the interpretation of this Code as well as a lot area and side yard setback variances. • The applicant is requesting the following variances: 1. A lot width variance to allow construction on a lot 60 feet in width where 100 feet is normally required; 2. A side yard setback variance to allow construction within the 10 foot required side setback; 3. A variance to the half -story requirement for a portion of the proposed home where the guest apartment will be located; 4. A variance from the hardcover policy resolution requirement to provide hardcover to any garage door; 5. A conditional use permit to allow a guest apartment. The Planning Commission recommended approval of the application as proposed. Staff recommends approval of the lot width variance; approval of the side setback variance to allow a slightly larger volume encroachment into the side setback for a higher roofline; and a waiver of the policy requiring that all garage doors be provided with a hardcover driveway. The Council should discuss the half story and make a determination as to whether or not a variance is reasonable. In addition, Staff recommends approval of the conditional use permit for the non - rental guest apartment with the.standard covenants. Murphy stated he has reviewed the drawings a number of times. Murphy inquired how this structure fits in with the other homes in the neighborhood. Curtis stated the home to the east is long and wide. White commented that it is difficult to see the other homes from this lot and that this structure does not • seem to stand out. PAGE 10 of 22