03-13-2006 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, March 13, 2006 7:00 o'clock p.m. (4. #05 -3136 TROYBROITZMAN,1860 SHORELINE DRIVE, Continued) Murphy commented there was an editorial in the Sun Sailor about how Orono tries to protect the history and heritage of their community. White stated the proposed house has no character and does not add to the neighborhood. Murphy stated the Council cannot legislate the building of bigger homes on the lake, and that his recourse is to start denying applications if they do not add to the neighborhood. Broitzman requested clarification on the average lakeshore setback. Broitzman inquired whether the Council would like the average lakeshore setback line to be at 15 feet. White stated it is the consensus of the Council that there be a 15 -foot average lakeshore setback but that they would need to see the plans before passing a motion approving that. Brokl recommended the Council not piecemeal the issues. Brokl pointed out that the issue of character is one of the elements of whether a variance is granted, and recommended the Council consider the entire application when deciding whether to approve or deny the variance requests. Murphy stated he would propose a resolution denying the variances based on the character assassination for the neighborhood. Brokl stated Staff would be looking for a motion to prepare findings of fact for denial for consideration at the next Council meeting. Sansevere inquired whether the application should be tabled. Broitzman requested his application be tabled. Gaffron stated the applicant has already provided the City with a six-month extension. Sansevere stated since he has been on the Council, he has taken into consideration the concerns of the neighbors and that there are at least a half dozen families who have raised concerns regarding this application. Sansevere stated they have denied applications in the past because they do not fit in with the neighborhood. Murphy moved, Sansevere seconded, to table Application #05 -3136, 1860 Shoreline Drive. VOTE: Ayes 4, Nays 0. .Murphy inquired what the protocol is for burning the existing house. Murphy indicated he has concerns about burning the existing residence prior to approval of a new residence. Brokl stated the Council does not need to approve the burn if they are not comfortable with the situation. Murphy inquired whether the applicant is living in the house currently. Broitzman indicated he has moved out and that the utilities are to be disconnected. PAGE 18 of 27 • •