02-13-2006 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, February 13, 2006 7:00 o'clock p.m. ( #05 -3152 Bohland Development on behalf of James MacKinnon, Continued) White inquired what size property is being referred to and how many homes will likely be affected. Gaffron stated the property is approximately 700 feet north/south and 1300 feet east/west and that approximately eight lots could be created from the site. Gaffron stated it is their anticipation that the road would continue to the north and perhaps out to Stubbs Bay. Gaffron indicated it is the general feeling of the City that they would prefer to maintain through roads rather than cul -de -sacs. McMillan inquired what would happen if the road starts out private and then the property to the north gets developed and the City then feels it should become a public road. Gaffron stated the developer would grant the City an underlying road and utility easement, which essentially gives the City the right to use the road as a public road but that it becomes the responsibility of the homeowners association to maintain that road or be assessed for the improvements. Gaffron stated there is one case he is aware of where the developer refused to grant one :property to the north the right to use the road and that the City had to assume responsibility of that private road and allow that property owner to utilize the road. Murphy inquired whether the homeowners could petition the City to take over responsibility of the road. Gaffron stated the homeowners could petition the City to assume responsibility of the road, but that that situation is rare. Gaffron noted the City Engineer has reviewed the drainage and ponding plan, with the applicant submitting a revised plan that addresses the City Engineer's concerns and reduces the impact on a number of items. Gaffron stated Staff has met with the neighbors and that in Staff's opinions their concerns have been addressed by the revised plan. McMillan inquired whether a wetland buffer is necessary for the adjoining property. Gaffron stated creation of a stormwater pond in an upland would not require a buffer. Gaffron stated there is an issue with the steep grade and the amount of grading and tree removal that may be necessary and that some limits have been placed on those items. Murphy noted the City Council has discussed that item in the past and that the Council is in general agreement that this type of issue would be best handled by covenants. • Bohl stated he would propose prior to final plat to go out and delineate significant trees on a particular lot • to establish a scenic easement area. Bohl stated the resolution does contain language regarding the scenic easement areas. PAGE 8 of 25