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MINUTES OF THE ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, January 28, 2008 7:00 o’clock p.m. ___________________________________________________________________________________ (4. ACCEPT DONATION, Continued) Murphy moved, Bremer seconded, to accept the four $100 gift cards (donation) that were received from an anonymous citizen. VOTE: Ayes 5, Nays 0. PLANNING COMMISSION COMMENTS – DICK KROEGER, REPRESENTATIVE Kroeger stated he had nothing to report but would be available for questions. PUBLIC COMMENTS None ZONING ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT 5. #08-3341 CITY OF ORONO – AMEND MUNICIPAL CODE: FEES AND ESCROWS Gaffron briefly reviewed the proposed ordinance regarding fees and escrows. The City Attorney assisted in drafting the ordinance and has found it acceptable. The Finance Director also provided input regarding the appropriate processes for administering the ordinance requirements. Gaffron noted that they have eliminated some redundant language that was found in the original ordinance and also revised some of the fee and escrow language to make it more specific. Gaffron noted there is a minimum $10,000 escrow now required on all subdivisions, which is subject to some change depending on the size of the subdivision. The Ordinance revises the 2008 City Fee Schedule by establishing a building permit escrow amount of $2500 for new homes, home additions, and other new structures, and a $600 permit escrow amount for grading, excavation and filling. The current zoning and subdivision codes establish that applicants must pay an established application fee, as well as reimburse the City for its incurred costs associated with development. Gaffron noted that drainage and grading reviews by the engineer can result in hundreds, if not thousands of dollars in review costs. These costs are not covered by the upfront zoning application fees. Gaffron also noted that staff is proposing that all applications requiring an engineering review be provided the first $500 of such service at no charge. Murphy asked what would happen if the cost of a review is less than $500. Moorse indicated the person would not be charged then for that review. Curtis stated the engineer did indicate that the typical cost of a review is $500. Gaffron stated there is a $600 fee for a variance application. Curtis stated the City would collect a $2500 escrow for a new home, an addition, or a new building. When there is just a grading review, there would be a $600 escrow, which is retained until the project is completed to ensure that the City is reimbursed the appropriate amount. PAGE 3 of 8 Item #02 - CC Agenda - 02/11/08 Approval of Council Minutes 01/28/08 [Page 3 of 8]