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MINUTES OF THE <br /> ORONO CITY COUNCIL MEETING <br /> Monday, September 11,207 <br /> 7:00 o'clock p.m. <br /> 17. #17-3932 YMCA OF GREATER TWIN CITIES, 135 ORONO ORCHARD ROAD <br /> NORTH,SKETCH PLAN—Continued <br /> Quinlivan stated he can understand the resistance of the neighbors wanting to see this property developed <br /> but that he would request the City approach the Metropolitan Council regarding the hookup to the MUSA <br /> system. <br /> Mayor Walsh asked whether anyone from the public would like to comment on this application. <br /> Kelly Lowe, 105 Orono Orchard Road, stated in her view this is a very irresponsible plan since it violates <br /> every City code for this zoning district. Lowe stated she and her neighbors did substantial remodeling a <br /> number of years ago and that they followed the rules of the City. Lowe stated even though she and the <br /> neighbors knew there was the sewer pipe in the street,they all installed septic sites rather than attempt to <br /> get the MUSA boundary changed. Lowe stated septic systems done right are environmentally sound and <br /> that the subject property should have to comply with the same boundary. <br /> Lowe commented the neighbors all know the property belongs to the YMCA and that at some point there <br /> would be some type of development. Lowe noted the property consists of approximately 17 buildable <br /> acres. As it relates to the setback of 250 feet from the creek, Lowe stated Mr. Rydell would not want <br /> those three back lots platted out. Lowe stated the applicant should take the buildable land,divide it <br /> according to the zoning,and then put in private septic systems and wells. <br /> Mike Benedict,25 Orono Orchard Road, stated he is not against development but in his view the 15 lots <br /> is an extreme reach with regard to the existing ordinances. Benedict stated the house he built was based <br /> on the rural nature of the area and that he would ask that the rural character be kept intact. <br /> Dave Phelps, 1950 Fox Ridge Road, stated this is a great opportunity to put an end to anyone trying to <br /> turn Orono into a community of more densely populated homes. Phelps indicated he moved out here for <br /> the rural,quiet setting along with the wildlife and that it would be a shame to see the City's rules changed <br /> for something that is not a hardship. Phelps encouraged the City Council to hold steadfast to the rules and <br /> to require that the property be developed within the current constraints on the property. <br /> James Lowe, 105 Orono Orchard Road, stated he would like to echo some of the comments made earlier. <br /> Lowe stated he always knew this site would be developed someday but that he felt it would be developed <br /> within the City's current set of rules,which is what the neighbors are asking for since there is no hardship <br /> or rational for deviation. <br /> Seals stated in her view the Council should not amend any of the rules to accommodate development of <br /> this property or change the MUSA boundary. Seals stated the rules are in place for a reason and that she <br /> gets more calls than not to not do any more developments. Seals stated she is not in favor of the higher <br /> density. <br /> Printup and Dankey stated they are in agreement with Council Member Seals. <br /> Walsh concurred the property should be developed within the City's current standards. <br /> The City Council took no formal action on this item. <br /> Page 12 of 17 <br />