11-18-2013 Planning Commission Packet

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO CITY PLANNING COMMISSION Monday, October 21, 2013 6:30 o’clock p.m. _____________________________________________________________________________________ Page 11 of 42 were directed to revise the drainage plan and yet be respectful of the City’s desire for a natural, unchanged shoreline. The Consulting City Engineer and Staff met with the applicant and homeowner on site to work towards a solution. Alternatives were discussed for the shoreline and the results of that discussion are depicted on the overhead. The revised proposed grading within the 75-foot setback takes into account the preservation requirements within the Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Code. In addition, Staff believes the proposed stair system within the 75-foot area has been revised to better allow for vegetative screening and will have little impact on the surrounding lands. The applicant has revised his plan to take advantage of the natural slope, which also allows screening to help mitigate the view from the lake. The stairway is in approximately the same spot. The proposed hardcover for the entire site will be 19 percent where 25 percent is allowed. The applicants’ revised proposal results in 209 square feet of hardcover within the 75-foot zone. The existing staircase will be removed that is located within the City’s right-of-way. The new stairway will be located in approximately the same area but will be located entirely on the applicant’s property. Due to the stair design being set into the existing slope and to avoid additional grading, it exceeds the maximum allowable hardcover and cannot be approved administratively. The existing vegetation of the new stair, and if it is deemed necessary, the applicant should provide a plan to screen the stair with additional vegetation. Staff is not sure whether that is needed based on what is on site currently Staff finds that the revised grading plan achieves the goal of positive drainage away from the home and yet preserves the slope consistent with the City’s goals. The Consulting City Engineer has reviewed and approved the most recent plan. Staff recommends approval. Curtis noted a cross-section has been provided illustrating the slope as requested. Lin Yan stated he does not have anything to add to Staff’s report. Chair Leskinen opened the public hearing at 7:30 p.m. There were no public comments regarding this application. Chair Leskinen closed the public hearing at 7:30 p.m. Leskinen stated she has no issues with the revised plan. McGrann commented the plan makes sense. Schwingler moved, McGrann seconded, to recommend approval of Application No. 13-3623, Clairson Dutra on behalf of Lin Yan, 1330 Cherry Place, granting of a conditional use permit and variance. VOTE: Ayes 7, Nays 0. Item #01 - PC Agenda - 11/18/2013 Approval of Planning Commission Minutes 10/21/2013 [Page 11 of 42]