11-19-2012 Planning Commission Packet

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From: Richard Putnam [mailto:rp55391@gmail.com] Sent: Monday, November 19, 2012 9:00 AM t, -�F'; .� : =i To: Christine Mattson ,� Subject: Re: 2755 Casco Point Road / #12-3581 p--.__ •>-,i=;' '^�' ' � C� ' �- � _� ` , Christine, Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the Baskfield application. We have reviewed the proposed plan and discussed it with Mike Baskfield. We are unable to attend the meeting on the 19th so offer the following comments. Concerning the Practical Difficulties Analysis: We believe this deck reconstruction is not in any way a danger or detriment to health, safety or the welfare of the community or immediate neighbors,nor does the deck pose a danger to light, air, fire and traffic conditions. The deck reconstruction will not in any way have a negative effect on surrounding property values. The deck will be beneficial not only to Baskfield's home but to our property as well by improving the visual appearance from the lake and neighboring properties by removal of the large existing stairway. We ask the Orono Planning Commission to grant the requested variance to the strict enforcement of the zoning code for the following reasons: The hard cover requirements are intended to protect over-building of any lot and protect runoff from damaging the water resources and adjacent properties. Baskfields' small addition in deck space does not adversely affect these. The city's reconstruction of Casco Point Road has effectively dealt with the street oriented runoff from ours and Baskf'ields' lots. A new pond and storm sewer connection provide that the storm runoff from our lots sloping to the street now is directed to a treatment pond system rather than into the lake as before. Drainage from both our homes toward the lake benefits from about 8,000 square feet of flat lawn abutting the rip rapped lake shore. The lawn area functions as an infiltration area into the sandy soils preventing rapid runoff into the lake. Since the 1989 ordinance was adopted much has changed to improve water quality on our adjoining lots. Drainage improvements on Casco Point Road,rip rapped shore lines, phosphorus free fertilizers and infiltration areas to reduce runoff have all contributed to a better environment. We disagree with the staff s recommendation that no increase in structural coverage should be allowed. Baskfields'removal of the large existing stairs from the deck to the ground and replacing it with a spiral stairway is a great idea. The deck is rebuilt to a more useful size and shape without adversely affecting other properties. As residents of Casco Point for nearly 40 years we have also remodeled several times so as to remain in the neighborhood. We`support the Baskfields' variance request and believe it is a sensible design to improve their property. Thank you for this opportunity to comment on this matter. Respectfully, � Dick and Jan Putnam 2765 Casco Point Road (next door neighbors to the south)