01-26-1998 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON JANUARY 26, 1998 (#4 - #2308 Brook Park Realty - Continued) • Gleason said the density is the same as the development to the east. Kelley countered that it is different due to the amount of dry buildable land. Gleason said the development to the east is not what is being purchased in today's market. It is also a non - association development, which would be cost prohibitive. Gleason feels an association is vital for control in this type of development. Jabbour indicated that covenants are placed on most developments. Gleason said he feels there are benefits for this type of development. He does not believe the density level is too high and needs are shown for this type of housing and affordability. Gleason said he was confused in that he thought the zoning requirements were being met, yet the Council is asking for more. Jabbour said the code provides the City's prerogative regarding how the subdivision should be designed. He noted that people purchase properties with the understanding that the code will protect their properties. Flint said he favors saving more trees and would prefer a smaller cul -de -sac and road width. He does have a problem with the proposed density. Regarding egress to the east off of Livingston, Flint said the project could be further reviewed if the property to the west is developed. During public comments, Park Commissioner McDermott said the additional amount of • 66 people for the area would equal that of development of 150 acres in the City's rural area. He noted the park in Navarre is in poor shape. As a resident, McDermott said he feels the visibility from the height of the townhomes would be an issue of concern. Gleason countered that the homeowners would most likely be singles with no children and would have little use of a park. He indicated a park land atmosphere would be created within the project area. Jabbour informed Gleason that the Council is reviewing different criteria. He suggested a plan using zero lot line, less density, less height, different design, and if the ordinance was changed, a narrower roadway. Gleason asked if the Council had any advice regarding the number of units. Jabbour suggested he review the neighboring development for ideas and indicated that massing and height are problems with the current plan. Gleason expressed his confusion over the differing guidelines. He thought the design was what was desired and now hearing that the Council does not like the look of the development. Jabbour responded that this was only one concern, but there were others as well. He noted the desire of access from CoRd 15 and differing concerns amongst the Council members. 8