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MINUTES OF THE <br /> �ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING <br /> Monday,May 16,2011 <br /> 6:30 o'clock p.m. <br /> � The Planning Commission should also discuss and make recommendations regarding the following issues <br /> for discussion: <br /> � 1. Property size: Is a certain size property more appropriate for a community garden? <br /> 2. Zoning: <br /> a. Are certain zoning districts a better fit than others? <br /> b. Should a community garden be limited to residential districts? <br /> c. Is a garden use appropriate on a commercially zoned property? <br /> 3. Is a multi-user community garden an appropriate use for Orono? Is a single user/nonprofit <br /> community garden an appropriate use? <br /> 4. Would an interim use permit,which includes a sunset date,be an appropriate mechanism for <br /> allowing a community garden? <br /> 5. Garden sheds: <br /> a. Should a shed require a special pernut tied to the gardem use? <br /> b. What is an acceptable maximum size for a private garden shed? <br /> c. What if the garden is only used for a limited amount of time? Should the shed be <br /> removed? <br /> 6. What type(s) of fencing is appropriate for a private garden or a community garden? <br /> In order to address the desire for locally grown foods,encourage a healthier community and enhancement <br /> of green spaces, Staff finds ha while here are a few minor logistical challenges with private residential <br /> � gardens on vacant properties,it may be appropriate to amend the zoning code to allow private gardens as <br /> a permitted use in each residential district. Consideration should be given to the issues surrounding <br /> . fencing and garden sheds, etc. <br /> Staff finds that community gardens require a different approach altogether. There are many <br /> . considerations to take into account regarding a community garden. The Planning Commission should <br /> discuss each of the issues outlined within Staff s report and give general direction to Staff and Council. <br /> Ultimately the City Council must determine their interest in moving forward with allowing private <br /> gardens, community gardens,where community gardens are appropriate, and the use of city property for <br /> that purpose. • � <br /> ° The Planning Commission should review the sample definitions in Exhibit A and decide on the most <br /> appropriate definitions for"private garden" and"community garden." Staff recommends approval of a <br /> zoning code text amendment to allow private gardens as a permitted use on residentially zoned properties <br /> as well as the following standards: private gardens should be set back at least ten feet from all property <br /> lines; a garden shed should be permitted up to 50 square feet and must meet principal structure setbacks <br /> for the appropriate zone, and fencing may be permitted in conjunction with the standards in Zoning Code <br /> Section 78-1405. <br /> Page 4 <br />