02-10-2014 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, February 10, 2014 7:00 o’clock p.m. _____________________________________________________________________________________ Page 8 of 30 (6. #13-3637 WILLI ABBOTT O/B/O THE BROADWAY GROUP, LLC, 2350 WATERTOWN ROAD AND XXX WILLOW DRIVE NORTH – PRELIMINARY PLAT AND RPUD REZONING – DRAFT RESOLUTION, Continued) Abbott stated the length of the driveway is long enough to make people think twice about putting concrete in and that they would likely be blacktop. Abbott stated in his view the surmountable curbs are more of an urban design and that he is looking for some feedback from the City Council. Bremer indicated she would be fine with some type of concrete curb and that it does not need to be as intense as a normal public street. Bremer indicated she has lived in neighborhoods that have had both of those options and that there is a pretty consistent issue with the asphalt and the snow plows. Bremer indicated she does not have a problem with something that is a little more urban looking given the fact that the surrounding neighborhoods have it. Bremer noted she was not in attendance at the last meeting but that she has read the minutes and understand the philosophy behind wanting the 40 feet. Bremer stated her biggest concern is changing the view shed and that she is receptive to the applicant’s comments about the long houses and the bigger visual impact. Bremer stated she does not like the massing appearance from a deeper house since there is a long stretch of house. McMillan asked if an example of a 35-foot setback would be Maple Avenue. Bremer stated that would be one example. McMillan stated even with the 35 feet, someone could ask for a bigger house. Abbott indicated he does have some control over that. McMillan stated in her view there should be a restriction for those two lots on how deep the lots should go. McMillan indicated she does not have a definite number at this time and that she does not want to say 35 feet if the house is just as deep with a 40-foot setback. Abbott indicated he is in agreement with that and noted that a screen porch could also be added later, which would add to the depth. McMillan stated this issue does not have to be resolved tonight but that it is something that should be considered. Abbott stated a total overall square footage number would be one option but that placing too many restrictions on building a house would make it difficult for someone to construct a home. Abbott asked if the City Council could live with a 40-foot depth. McMillan stated she is not going to do the math tonight but that the applicant can think about it. McMillan stated in her for an extra five feet on the setback, she would like to see some concessions given and that they do not want to see the exact same house being built at 35 feet that is being proposed for 40 feet.