03-21-2016 Planning Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING Monday,March 21, 2016 6:30 dclock p.m. Leskinen noted what is before the Plamling Commission tonight is a lot area variance and a rear setback variance and that she is not sure the Cotnmission can address the issue with the building height and driveway grade. Curtis stated she will discuss Mr. Greimann's comments with the City Engineer to make sure his concerns are addressed. Leskinen stated as it relates to the rear yard setback and the way the house is proposed to be on the lot, it makes sense given the location and the type of lot it is. Leskinen stated in her view the practical difficulty criteria have been met to grant the variance. Lemke commented he does not see a problem with the application. Thiesse stated he also does not see a problem but that this is a clean slate and the house could be adjusted. Schoenzeit stated even though the survey is showing some of the potential grade, at this time the applicant is telling the Commission that that is not his plan. Thiesse noted the survey has elevations on it. Schoenzeit asked what the applicant meant when he said the grade is not set. Denman indicated they have to meet a minimum floor elevation no matter what. The house will be a two- story with a full basement and that he did not think they would have to discuss the elevation tonight and did not bring those numbers. Denman stated they are attempting to set the house on the lot to provide the best back yard given the house next door, and if the house were to be turned, Denman stated he is not sure they can fit the house on there. Thiesse noted the driveway is set as far away from the curve as possible, which should help with the sightlines. Thiesse stated he is happy with the design and believes it is reasonable. Lemke moved, Olson seconded, to recommend approval of Application No. 16-3808, Rick Denman on behalf of Casco Ventures, LLC,3800 Casco Avenue, granting of a lot area variance and a rear setback variance, subject to Staff recommendations. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0. 3. #16-3811 JAMISON KOHOUT/LANDSOURCE,LLC,3438 LYRIC AVENUE, VARIANCES,6:44 P.M.—6:57 P.M. Jamison Kohout, Landsource, LLC, was present. Gaffron stated the applicant is requesting lot area and lot width variances in order to construct a new residence to replace the existing residence on the property. This lot would qualify for buildability without area and width variances under the Shoreland regulations. However, a qualifier far taking advantage of that is a hardcover limitation of 25 percent. This property is in Tier 3, which normally allows 35 percent hardcover. In order to be able to exceed 25 percent up to the 35 percent limit, the lot area and width variances are required. Page 3 of 21