09-08-1997 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

MINUTES OF THE REGULAR ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING HELD ON SEPTEMBER 8.1997 ( #5 - #2270 Marcia and Kenneth Hickey - Continued) 46 Hickey said his house while appearing as one story to the front was two stones from the e a S t -R;—,4 e. Goetten informed Hickey that open space is a priority in Orono, and she would prefer not to view two -story garages. She also noted that she had attended the Planning Commission meetings where the application was discussed. Goetten was of the opinion that the garage could be built at an average height questioning why the requested height was necessary. Hickey said he would not have the storage space if the second level was eliminated. He also Manned on using that area for a work shop. Goetten noted the large size of the structure even at one story. Hickey said he did not believe the structure would be intrusive. Jabbour referred to the guidelines the Council uses regarding hardship. He said he understood the hardship with having a through lot and the need for being located in front of the principal structure. However, Jabbour said he could find no hardship for the height variance requested. He thought an acre lot might not be able to handle all the storage needs noted by Hickey. Hickey responded that a nearby property had a five car garage on a half acre lot. Jabbour said he did not have a problem with the location but height only, and Hickey would have to demonstrate the hardship. Jabbour informed Hickey that a hardship is not of the property owner's doing but a • circumstance that cannot be prevented. Barrett told Hickey that a hardship would result in the property not being used without receipt of the variance. Hickey said his need for storage is the hardship noting the shed is to be removed. Jabbour was informed by Van Zomeren that the accessory building is at its maximum size and was decreased from the original size proposed. Flint questioned whether an addition would be built to the rear of the residence for storage. Hickey said he would not be able to drive around and access that portion of the property. He indicated the area leading to Wildhurst is a possibility but the cost would be exorbitant. Hickey said he understood it costs less to build up than out. Jabbour polled the Council regarding their viewpoint. Kelley said he would support the height variance but would like to see a written statement from the neighbor to the north regarding his approval of the structure at that location. Kelley thought this location must affect that neighbor. Peterson said she would support the height variance. • 4