08-18-2014 Planning Commission Packet

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING Monday, July 21, 2014 6:30 o’clock p.m. _____________________________________________________________________________________ Page 2 of 30 Curtis stated a conditional use permit is required for both properties since the proposed work exceeds ten cubic yards in the 0-75 foot zone. Retaining walls and boulders added for support will require approval of hardcover variances. The submitted plan by Mr. Briggs results in approximately 700 square feet of hardcover, which consists of primarily walls within the 0-75 foot zone. Mr. Briggs has indicated his desire to reduce the visual impact of these walls with some vegetative screening. A landscape plan will be required to offer a natural-looking lakeshore and screening for the walls. City Code does require that a conditional use permit is issued prior to engaging in any activities to fill, elevate or alter the existing grade. Conditionally permitted uses must be reviewed using the criteria found in Section 78-916. The proposed work is intended to repair and restore failures of the slope not caused by the actions of the property owners. Staff finds that the conditional use permit for the restorative grading, planting and installation of retaining walls within the 0-75 foot zone appears to be reasonable and consistent with similar properties in the neighborhood and the landscape plan offers a natural looking slope. Approval is also necessary in order to repair/restore the areas of failure and stop any sediment from entering the lake. The City’s Consulting Engineer has conducted an initial review of Mr. Briggs’ plans and has provided comments that are included in the Planning Commission’s packets. The City Engineer has also had discussions with Sundstrom/Olausen regarding their plans and no significant concerns have been noted at this time. A full engineering review will be conducted at the time of the administrative permits for construction on both properties. Curtis stated both applicants should consider providing a detailed landscape plan to the City. An estimate of the necessary hardcover has been provided by Mr. Briggs’ wall contractor. The City expects a similar estimate when the plan for the Sundstrom/Olausen property is further developed. Only the minimal necessary hardcover to support the restoration should be installed. Planning Staff recommends approval of the hardcover variances and conditional use permits in order to conduct the earth work within the 0-75 foot setback area to conduct the restorations; construct the retaining walls; and implement appropriate landscape screening as indicated. As-built surveys and hardcover calculations reflecting the as-built conditions and hardcover amounts within the 0-75 foot zone should be submitted for both properties following completion of the work. Leskinen asked if the conditional use permit is for both property owners. Curtis indicated there would be separate conditional use permits needed for both property owners and approval of the application would cover both properties. A resolution for each individual property would be drafted by Staff for approval. Leskinen asked if the Sundstrom conditional use permit would be covered in any approvals tonight. Curtis stated that is the intent and further engineering oversight will be required once a plan is submitted. The purpose tonight would be to hold the public hearing and provide any input the Planning Commission feels is necessary. Landgraver asked if there would be two separate applications at the time they go before the City Council. Item #01 - PC Agenda - 08/18/2014 Approval of Planning Commission Minutes [Page 2 of 30]