Laserfiche WebLink
MINUTES OF THE � <br /> ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING <br /> Monday, November 15, 2015 <br /> 6:30 o'clock p.m. <br /> 4. #15-3792 JOHN AND BEN KIEFFER, 2024 SHADYWOOD ROAD, VARIANCES, 7:06 <br /> P.M.—7:37 P.M. (continued) <br /> 6. The Code regarding hardcover and structural coverage and the condition of being a small lot are <br /> not uncommon on Shadywood Road and therefore the conditions are applicable to many other <br /> lots in the area. <br /> 7. Having an attached garage, while desirable, is not necessary for the preservation and enjoyment <br /> of any substantial property right. <br /> 8. Granting of the variances would not necessarily impair health, safety, comfort or morals and <br /> might improve safety for the homeowner while not being in line with the intent of the Zoning <br /> Code in limiting structural massing and hardcover on small lakeshore properties. <br /> 9. Whether having an attached garage is merely a convenience as opposed to solving a practical <br /> difficulty is left to the Planning Commission and City Council to consider. <br /> Staff recommends approval of the side setback variances. If the Planning Commission determines that <br /> the practical difficulties test is met and the requested variances for hardcover and structural coverage <br /> increases are justified based on safety and the livability of the property,then a recommendation for <br /> approval would be in order. <br /> The Planning Commission had no questions for Staff. <br /> Ben Kieffer, Applicant, stated they purchased the property recently knowing that the garage would need <br /> to be refurbished. Kieffer indicated they are looking at centering the garage more in the middle of the lot <br /> as well as attaching it. Since the plans have been submitted, they have rethought the sidewalk abutting <br /> the next lot and will instead have it come right next to the garage. That will result in the sidewalk being <br /> next to the house rather than jetting around. <br /> Gaffron requested they also leave some room for drainage. <br /> Leskinen asked if the applicant was aware of a prohibition against any further hardcover on the property <br /> at the time they purchased the property. <br /> Kieffer indicated they were not and that they could have researched it, but the real estate agent informed <br /> them that they would be able to apply for a variance. <br /> Schoenzeit noted there appears to be a picture of a balcony over the sidewalk. Schoenzeit asked if that is <br /> the case. <br /> Kieffer stated to his knowledge it is an overhang. <br /> Thiesse stated there is a rendering that shows it as a balcony. <br /> Curtis noted that is the covered entry. <br /> Schoenzeit asked if that is on the house currently. <br /> Page 10 of 29 <br />