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MINUTES OF THE ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING Monday, November 23, 2009 7:00 o’clock p.m. _____________________________________________________________________________________ PAGE 4 of 8 (6. #09-3428 MICHAEL AND MARILYN HUTHWAITE, 3382 BAYSIDE ROAD, Continued) Steiner indicated the Huthwaites have spent a considerable amount of time with Staff and the Planning Commission to design a set of plans that meet as many of the City’s concerns as possible. Steiner requested the City Council approve the Huthwaite’s application subject to Staff’s recommendations. McMillan asked what percentage of trees would be removed. Steiner indicated it is the Huthwaite’s desire to leave as many trees as possible. Hendel stated their plan is to remove only the diseased trees. McMillan inquired whether they have discussed this project with the Minnehaha Watershed District. Hendel indicated they have and that they are awaiting the City’s approval of the project. Murphy stated restoration of the creek is probably the most important aspect of this application and that he is totally supportive of that portion of the project. Murphy indicated he does not have any issue with the bridge. Steiner noted the bridge would help them access the southern portion of their lot. Murphy expressed concerns that the new residence may be a little out of character for the neighborhood. Murphy noted a number of the homes in the neighborhood are either being rented or for sale and that given the current state of the economy, it is likely that neighborhood will remain in that state for a number of years. Steiner stated the flip side of that argument is that if this project does not go forward, the property will remain undeveloped. Bremer stated the home is more in keeping with the Oxford neighborhood, which is located across Bayview Road. Bremer commented the home could raise a massing issue given its size on a small lot. McMillan stated in her view the proposed size of the house on this small lot should be taken into consideration. Franchot indicated he is comfortable with the plans and that it is a reasonable use of the lot in his opinion. The reclamation around the creek is an added bonus. McMillan stated she appreciates the revisions made by the Applicant but that she has a concern given the close setback to the neighboring property to the north. Steiner noted there are a number of similar setbacks in the area. McMillan concurred that there are a number of similar setbacks throughout the neighborhood. McMillan expressed concern that the creek reclamation project will require a considerable amount of maintenance. Steiner noted the Huthwaites are required to sign a maintenance agreement. Item #02 - CC Agenda - 12/14/09 Approval of Council Minutes 11/23/09