05-09-2005 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES, OF THE ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, May 9, 2005 • 7:00 o'clock ck p.m. ( #05 -3103 Jack and Kari Olson, Continued) Olson stated by approving their application, it would provide a safer environment for his family, allow the property to blend in with its surroundings, and reduce hardcover and runoff into the lake. Olson requested the Council take into account the physical limitations of the property when considering their variance request. Murphy indicated he has visited the site and that this lot is unique given the proximity to the channel. Murphy noted this property is boxed in and small in size. Murphy inquired why they are pursuing a detached garage rather than an attached garage. Olson stated they are unable to afford an attached garage and are proposing a detached garage with a doorway and walkway allowing easier access to the house. Sansevere stated he is unable to recall any other prop i rty on the lake where the backside of the garage faces the lake, and inquired how the garage would look aesthetically from the channel. Olson stated they would insert windows on the channel side and that they are willing to plant bushes to help screen the garage. Olson indicated they would construct the garage to match the house. •Mrs. Olson pointed out there are also a number of trees that would help screen the garage from the channel. I Murphy stated in his view there does not appear to be a hardship. Murphy commented the other lots in this area do have larger garages than what is being proposed here but that this garage would add to the amount of structure on this lot. Leslie indicated he was in support of the application and that the main issue that was discussed at the Planning Commission was the amount of structural coverage on this lot and the fact that hardcover is usually not traded for structural coverage. Leslie indicated a concern was expressed for the amount of massing on this lot as it is viewed from the lake. Leslie stated in his view he would prefer to see a garage with some windows and bushes screening it rather than three vehicles parked on an asphalt driveway. White stated a 20' by 20' is really not a practical garage and that a 22' by 22' garage is better able to accommodate two vehicles. White inquired why the'garage could not be attached to the house. Mrs. Olson stated to attach the garage is almost Sansevere pointed out the Council has never in the granting a variance. Mrs. Olson inquired whether the Council feels it is • garage rather than $20,000 to $30,000. P the cost. taken into account financial considerations when to ask someone to spend $150,000 to add a