10-22-2007 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, October 22, 2007 7:00 o'clock p.m. PLANNING COMMISSION COMMENTS — RALPH KEMPF, REPRESENTATIVE Kempf had nothing to report but stated he would be available for questions. PUBLIC COMMENTS Ed Garlock, 1179 Elmwood Avenue, stated he has resided in Orono for approximately 38 years. Garlock distributed a sketch depicting his house and driveway. Garlock stated there was a piece of city -owned property that he had graded and had gravel placed on it to enable cars to access the back of their lots for storage and other items. In addition, grass and other vegetation have been planted in that area to improve the appearance. Garlock distributed photographs of the area after the work was completed. Garlock stated he is now able to clean up the back area of his property due to the access. Garlock stated he would like to leave the gravel on the City's property, noting that he has spent approximately $1000 to have the gravel placed in that area and that it would cost him approximately $700 to remove it. Garlock stated if the City does require him to remove the gravel, he would like to wait until the spring. White asked whether he has spoken with the City Administrator and City Engineer regarding this matter. Garlock indicated he has spoken with the City Administrator. Moorse stated the City informed Mr. Garlock that the work should not have been completed on City property and would need to be removed. Originally the land was open green space. White commented this area is similar to a lake access. Murphy stated he is unsure of the relationship of this area to Grandview Avenue that is depicted on the sketch distributed by Mr. Garlock. Garlock indicated Grandview is the city -owned property. Moorse stated it is not a city street but a public right -of -way. Murphy inquired how primary access is gained to the residence depicted in the photographs. Garlock stated that person has access off of North Arm Drive and that the portion depicted in the photograph is the rear of that neighbor's lot. Moorse stated if Mr. Garlock wanted a driveway, it should have been put on his own property. • • White stated the City Council has taken an oath to be stewards of the City's property and that they are obligated to ensure that city property remains city property and is maintained properly. White commented it is highly irregular to have a private resident place gravel for a driveway on city -owned land and that the Council would likely require its removal. • PAGE 2