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MINUTES OF THE ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, July 8, 2013 7:00 o’clock p.m. _____________________________________________________________________________________ Page 2 of 13 5. #13-3604 ESKUCHE ASSOCIATES ON BEHALF OF NEIL AND BARBARA GOODWIN, 2975 CASCO POINT ROAD, VARIANCES – PUBLIC HEARING Curtis stated the applicants are proposing to construct a new residence on the property and are requesting an average lakeshore setback variance to construct the house as proposed. Also being requested is a conditional use permit to conduct land alterations within 75 feet of the lake for redesigned stairs, landings and smaller retaining walls. At the time of the Planning Commission meeting, the applicants plan exceeded both hardcover and structural coverage limitations. Since that time the applicants have revised their plan so that both hardcover and structural coverage levels are met. The average lakeshore setback line is determined by the location of the homes on the two neighboring lakeshore lots. The property immediately to the south of the applicants’ property consists solely of a tennis court and a tall perimeter fence or wall which is situated on or over the applicants’ property line. The same owner also owns the tennis court lot. The applicants are requesting an average lakeshore setback variance to encroach up to 21 feet into the setback with portions of the new home. Even with the encroachment, the applicants’ proposed plan appears to improve the views of the lake for the neighbor to the north at 2967 Casco Point Road. Due to the separation between the two homes and the location of the tennis court, the views of the lake from 2987 Casco Point Road to the south do not appear to be adversely impacted by the proposed encroachment. At the June 17 Planning Commission meeting, there were a number of neighbors who spoke about the application and specifically discussed storm water issues on Casco Point Road. The applicants’ property exists on a little point on Casco Point Road. Curtis stated approximately two weeks ago she and the City Engineer and Staff visited the site, along with a representative of the applicant, and the City Engineer provided some direction regarding grading and drainage. His comments are included in the City Council’s packet. Curtis noted that the Planning Commission voted 5 to 0 to recommend approval of the variances as requested contingent upon City Engineer approval of the grading plan and that all storm water and drainage issues are resolved prior to the issuance of a building permit. The Planning Commission further recommended that vegetative screening and architectural features be incorporated on the north side of the garage to break up the massing effects. Staff recommends approval of the conditional use permit and the average lakeshore setback variance consistent with the Planning Commission’s recommendations. Tonight the Council should open the public hearing and take comments from the applicant and the public and then direct Staff to draft a resolution reflecting the Council’s decision. Bremer noted she attended the Planning Commission meeting and that the Planning Commission made some good recommendations for the project. Printup asked if any additional public comment has been received since the Planning Commission meeting. Item #03 - CC Agenda - 07/22/2013 Approval of Council Minutes 07/08/2013 [Page 2 of 13]