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� <br /> MINUTES OF THE <br /> SPECIAL ORONO PLANNING COMI��IISSION MEETING <br /> � Wednesday,April 7,2010 <br /> 7:00 o'clock p.m. <br /> Gaffron stated one potential issue is the one garage stall per unit being proposed. There may be an application <br /> before the Planning Commission in the next couple of months and that he would encourage the residents to <br /> attend those public hearings to hear what is specifically being proposed for that site. <br /> John Harris,2445 Woodhaven Drive, also expressed a concern regarding the high density being proposed for <br /> the parcels near the fire station. Harris indicated in his view those may be apartment complexes. Harris stated <br /> he moved into the neighborhood approximately 20 years ago because it was quiet and that he has a concern <br /> about traffic and the impact it would have on the neighborhood. Harris stated he would like to see a definition <br /> of what is being proposed for that area and that he does have concerns regarding high density due to an <br /> increase in traffic and possibly an increase in crime. <br /> Kang stated if this is changed to mixed use and applications are submitted for housing developments,the <br /> public would have the option to comment on the individual applications. Kang commented that Orono has a <br /> number of open spaces and quiet neighborhoods but that it is necessary to make some concessions for the <br /> Metropolitan Council. <br /> Harris commented he understands those issues but that he would not have moved into Orono if it was going to <br /> turn into high density. <br /> Chris Beam,275 Harrington Circle, expressed concerns with the higher density being proposed for this area. <br /> Beam stated the higher density will increase traffic. Their children currently have the ability to use their back <br /> yards without having to worry about them. Beam stated he would like a more exact definition for affordable <br /> work force housing. <br /> Kang encouraged the residents to attend the public meetings on those applications. <br /> Natalye Chernerskaya,2490 Casco Point Road,asked whether the residents will be able to say they do not <br /> want this development in this area and whether the Metropolitan Council will penalize the City. <br /> Steve Grittman, Consultant, stated there are some limitations on the City's ability to say no or yes to a project <br /> and that the City will need to define what is acceptable in these areas in their ordinances. The Comprehensive <br /> Plan is the first step in that type of development,with creation of zoning ordinances being the next step. <br /> Grittman encouraged the residents to become involved in the process as the City writes those ordinances. <br /> Kang asked what the Metropolitan Council could do if the City decides not to go forward with a particular <br /> development. <br /> Grithnan stated if the City does not have an acceptable Comprehensive Plan,they will withhold sewer permits <br /> Brent Lindgren,2501 Kelly, stated they have attended a few meetings relating to the bowling alley and liquor <br /> store and that they have a few concerns about changing the area to a multi-use. Lindgren stated he would like <br /> to see that parcel that is currently retail sales removed from the multi-use district. Lindgren asked if there is <br /> going to be a vote on the Comprehensive Plan tonight. <br /> Kang stated the Planning Commission will discuss the Comprehensive Plan and then vote on whether it should <br /> be tabled or brought forward to the City Council. � <br /> Page 8 <br />