06-16-2014 Planning Commission Packet

Home Browse Search

MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING Monday, May 19, 2014 6:30 o’clock p.m. _____________________________________________________________________________________ Page 3 of 31 proposed residence will not be out of character with other homes in the neighborhood. Gaffron noted the proposed garage will be approximately one foot higher to alleviate the drainage concerns. Staff also recommends approval of a conditional use permit and variance for grading/excavation/fill within the 0-75 foot zone subject to a final grading and drainage plan that addresses any concerns of the City Engineer regarding slope stability and retaining wall design; subject to adherence to the City’s erosion control regulations as well as the permitting requirements of the MCWD. Timely re-vegetation and stabilization will be a requirement of the permitting process. The applicants will also be required to take all necessary precautions to ensure that the mature oak and ash trees within the 0-75 foot setback zone are not affected by construction. In addition, the applicants should be aware of street and shared driveway parking and access limitations during the construction process. Gaffron stated approval should be subject to all recommendations of the Consulting City Engineer. Leskinen asked if the shed is included in the hardcover and structural calculations. Gaffron stated to his knowledge it is. Leskinen asked if the removal of the underground garage will result in an open parking area to the depth of what the current garage is. Gaffron stated to his understanding the applicants will be removing approximately half of the underground garage area, which extends close to 20 feet, and put a retaining wall with fill in that area. McGrann asked if that will result in a reduction in hardcover. Gaffron stated there is always a question of whether the portion of the garage located underground should be considered hardcover. The proposed driveway consists of 32 square feet and the parking area is 279 square feet, which equates to approximately 15’ x 20’. Gaffron stated in the proposed hardcover calculations, the applicants are excluding the portion of the garage that will be filled in. Thiesse asked if the intent is to remove the whole front garage and build new retaining walls. Gaffron stated it appears the side walls are intended to remain and the proposed wall is depicted by the dashed lines on the overhead. Thiesse stated the applicant should take into consideration that when the top deck of the garage is removed, a retaining wall will likely be needed. Gaffron stated once you change the nature of that area, there will be approximately a 10-foot drop and will likely require some type of railing for safety reasons. Leskinen asked if the ability to rebuild in-kind includes accessory structures. Gaffron indicated it does. Lemke asked if the underground garage is included in the hardcover calculations. Item #01 - PC Agenda - 06/16/2014 Aproval of Planning Commission Minutes 05/19/2014 [Page 3 of 31]