HomeMy WebLinkAbout08-17-1987 Planning MinutesHimiTBS OP THE PIAIIMIHG COMMISSIOB MBBTI8G HELD AOGDST 17, 1987
ATTSIDAECE 7:02 P.M.
The Orono Planning Conunission met on the above date with
the following members present: Chairman Kelley, Bellows,
Johnson, and Hanson. Cohen arrived at 7:05 P.M. and
Brown arrived at 7:10 P.M. Taylor was absent. The
following represented the City staff: Building and
Zoning Administrator Mabusth, Assistant Planning and
Zoning Administrator Gaffron, Septic and Zoning Aide
Knott, and City Recorder Peterson. CounciImembers
Goetten and Callahan were also present.
*1179 OROHO COMMUMITY CHORCH
770 t 950 OLD CRYSTAL BAT ROAD
CLASS 1 SUBDIVISIOH OP A LOT LINE RBARRANGEMENT
PUBLIC HEARING 7:28-7:30
The Affidavit of Publication and Certificate of Mailing
was noted.
Gary Connell representing the Orono Community Church was
present for this matter.
Zoning Administrator Mabusth explained the application
for a Class I subdivision involving a rearrangement of a
lot line between Lots 1 and 2. Staff reviewed the
original commercial site plan approved for the Church
and advised that future expansion may be restricted
because of the reduction in area and demands for
parking.
There were no comments from the public regarding this
matter and the public hearing was closed.
It was moved by Cohen, seconded by Johnson, to recommend
approval of the lot line rearrangement per staff
recommendation and subject to grading and updated
commercial site plan conditions met and approved by
staff. Motion, Ayes 6, Nays 0.
#1181 FIRST NATIONAL BANK OP NAVARRE
2500 KELLY AVENUE
CLASS III SUBDIVISON
PUBLIC HEARING 7:34-7:51
Tne Affidavit of Publication and Certificate of Mailing
was noted.
Jim Shaver representing the First National Bank of
Navarre was present for this matter.
Zoning Administrator Mabusth explained the application
involving the division of Lot 2, Block ], Orono Hills
into 4 single family residential lots, the property is
served with sewer and water, applicant seeks density
credit for wetlands. The installation of private drives
MIMUTBS OF THE PIAmUHG O [ISSION MBBTIMG HELD AUGUST 17, 1987
i|:hi§1181 FIRST NATIOHAL BAMK OF HAVARRE CONTIN1
through designated wetlands will also require
conditional use per^nit/variance. The proposal included
two shared driveway accesses rather than a private road
serving all four lots, which staff considers to be less
of an impact on the designated wetland area. Staff
recommends realigning the northern driveway access
approximately 100 feet further north in line with shared
drive that serves two duplex units to improve the sight
distance and conjested area. Staff recommends tabling
the application pending receipt of reports from the DNR
and MCWD regarding culvert placement and sizing.
Planning Commission found no problem with the proposed
shared driveway accesses.
Julian Hook, 2650 Kelly Avenue, voiced major concern
regarding adding more traffic to an existing congested
area on Kelly Ave. He also felt that the City should
address and resolve the drainage problem on Kelly Ave.
before any further development is done. He also noted
concern with development in a swamp area and the number
of curb cuts.
Another Kelly Ave. resident concurred with Mr. Hook's
concerns.
Chairmain Kelley agreed that the additional run-off from
the development would increase the existing Kelly Ave.
drainage problem.
Zoning Administrator Mabusth confirmed Mr. Hooks
comments on the drainage problem and stated the only way
to solve the problem would be installation of a storm
sewer.
Jim Shaver noted that their engineer has advised him
that single family residential development would create
less run-off than duplex development.
Phil Nelson suggested small retention areas for the
shared driveways to retain the water until the lower
basin drains.
There were no other comments from the public at this
time. Public hearing to be continued.
It was moved by Chairman Kelley, seconded by Bellows, to
table this application per staff recommendation.
Motion, Ayes 6, Nays 0.
MIHUTBS OP THE PIAniHG COMHISSIOH ITIHG HELD AUGUST 17, 1987
IE
#1056 OIAI BAMSOM
1390 RAILROAD AV]
VARIASCB
REFERRED BACK TO PLAMMIMG COMMISSION
Attorney Debra Page representing applicant's, Olai 6
Hilda Hanson, was present for this matter. She noted
that the Hansons and Goldens have settled on a lot line
redefinition. She reviewed the reasons for requesting a
side setback variance to construct a detached garage as
follows:
1. Placement of garage on west or south of the
proposed location would involve costly soil
correction where former septic tank and drainfield is
located.
2. Reduce the sharp angle of entry into the garage
from the driveway on the north side of house. It
was noted that the Hansens are elderly individuals
who would have difficulty maneuvering their car in
and out of the garage if the turning radius for the
driveway were any tighter than presently proposed.
3. Keep a larger usable lawn area for this
relatively small lot.
Henry Reiss, Olai Hanson's son-in-law, was also present
and noted that the proposal was for a two stall garage.
Attorney Dan Bergeron representing the neighbor, Mrs.
Golden, verified that a lot line redefinition has been
agreed upon. He noted that Mrs. Golden objects to the
granting of the variance feeling that a garage 4.7' from
the redefined lot line is too close and would cut off
light to her existing garden; and would diminish the
value of her property.
It was noted that Mrs. Golden's garage was on the Hanson
property before the lot line redefinition and now has
been verified as being on her property since agreed upon
lot line redefinition.
Planning Commissioner Hanson suggested moving the garage
south and providing the turnaround on the north side
rather than on the south side.
Assistant Zoning Administrator Gaffron and Ms. Page
noted that the garage would then be in the disturbed
soil area which would involve costly soil correction
suitable for a garage slab and structure. It was noted
that this same situation would hold true if the garage
were moved to the rear of the property over the former
drainfield area.
HIHOTBS OP THE PIMDIIHG COMUSSIOH TIHG HELD AUGUST 17, 1987
#1056 HAESOE COETIW
Carol LaQuay, 2080 North Shore Drive, owner of property
abutting the Hanson property, voiced concern that the
Hanson/Golden lot line redefinition altered her property
line according the Holms Knutson survey she received.
Chairman Kelley advised Ms. LaQuay to contact the
surveyors and attorneys involved if she felt there was a
problem with her property line location.
Assistant Zoning Administrator Gaffron explained to Ms.
LaQuay the Hanson/Golden lot line redefinition in which
he felt did not affect the LaQuay property line in any
way.
Regarding the proposed location of the garage, Bellows
stated that although there are alternative locations,
she felt the proposed location was the easiest and best
alternative noting that the proposed garage did not abut
another structure nor was a fire hazard.
Johnson concurred with Bellows finding that the proposed
location of garage caused no light enfringement on Mrs.
Golden's garden due to the size of lots.
Planning Commissioners Hanson and Cohen felt the 10*
setback should be maintained due to the opposition by
Mrs. Golden.
There were no other comments from the public.
It was moved by Cohen, seconded by Planning Commissioner
Hanson, to deny the variance recommending that the 10'
side setback be maintained per staff recommendation.
Motion, Ayes 2, Nays 4. Bellows, Johnson, Kelley, and
Brown voted nay. Motion denied.
It was moved by Johnson, seconded by Chairman Kelley, to
recommend approval of the variance of a side setback
variance of no less than 4.6' as proposed finding no
light enfringement upon the Golden property. Motion,
Ayes 4, Nays 2. Cohen and Hanson voted nay. Motion
carried.
11172 CHRISTINE BECK
3820 CHERRY AVENUE
VARIANCES
CONTINUATION OP PUBLIC HEARING 7:52-7:56
Christine Beck and her son, James Deck, were present for
this matter.
Zoning Administrator Mabusth explained the request to
construct a deck consisting of 454.4 s.f. of area.
MmOTBS OP THE PLMniVG COHHISSIOH TIBG AUGUST 17, 1987
#1172 BBC! COBTIBI •j.-r
placed 27 feet from the lakeshore. The deck shall
replace the existing cement stairs paved stepped walk,
patio and storage structure located within 75 feet of
the lakeshore. The total hardcover to be removed is
509.5 s.f. providing a final reduction of 55.1 s.f. or
.5%. She also noted that wetland areas are credited
against the hardcover, almost half of the property
consists of wetlands. The existing steps and patio are
34' from the lakeshore, and the proposed deck is 27'
from the lakeshore.
James Beck explained that the deck is designed to
provide a safe and easily negotiated access for elderly
individuals, which replaces the old patio.
Thore were no comments from the public regarding this
matter and the public hearing was closed.
It was moved by Cohen, seconded by Chairman Kelley, to
recommend approval of the variances per staff
recommendation. Motion, Ayes 6, Nays 0.
•1174 CRAIG K. AHDERSOM
375 LBAP STRBBT/3300 BAYSIDB ROAD
SUBDIVISIOM
SBCOBD RBVIEH
Craig Anderson was present for this matter.
Assistant Zoning Administrator Gaffron reviewed the
preliminary plat drawing submitted by applicant and
reviewed the staff sketch recommending to adjust the
proposed property line to provide a larger building
envelope for Lot 1 due to the steep slopes in Lot 1.
Variances are needed for lot width at 50' setback for
both lots.
Craig Anderson was agreeable to staff's recommended lot
line change.
There were no comments from the public regarding this
matter.
Bellows stated that although the proposed subdivision
technically was allowed, she felt it was bad planning to
create two flag lots which would present many problems.
She felt the lot would be appropriate for one house,
but would not support the two flag lot subdivison.
In response to the question of how this parcel of land's
configuration came about. Assistant Zoning Administrator
Gaffron stated that when the entire parcel was
subdivided it left this back lot with two rectangular
imnrrBS of thb puaniHG comissKm , I H >TING HELD AUGUST 17, 1987
#1174 A]n .4:[SON COHTINl
lots for access on Bayside Road and Leaf Street.
It was noted that mound systems would be required for
both primary and alternative septic sites.
It was moved by Johnson, seconded by Chairman Kelley, to
recommend approval of the preliminary plat per staff
recommendation. Motion, Ayes 4, Nays 2. Bellows and
Cohen voted nay. Motion carried.
#1177 TODD HATERS
3081 CASCO POINT ROAD
AFTBR-THB-PACT CONDITIONAL USB PERMITAARIANCB
PUBLIC HEARING 8:17-8:52
The Affidavit of Publication and Certificate of Mailing
was noted.
Present for this matter were Todd Waters and Dori
Molitor and their Planning Consultant Greg Kopischke.
Todd Waters addressed the mistakes and misconceptions
made that led to the need for after-the-fact conditional
use permit/variance. He stated that he never intended
to mislead the City regarding his project.
Chairman Kelley stated that at this point Planning
Commission should not point blame, but concentrate on
the alternatives to solving these problems.
Zoning Administrator Mabusth explained that on May 11,
1987 Council approved variances to the average lakeshore
setback for construction of a new residence. Neither
staff. Planning Commission or Council realized that the
one third of the lakeside of the structure was to be a
walkout requiring additional excavation and encroachment
into the lakeshore protected areas. The major issue is
that the excavation involves major land alterations
involving changes in existing drainage and alteration of
the lakeshore bank that clearly were not required
because of the walkout. The underground tile that
carried drainage from the rear to the lakeshore was
removed and a swale along the north side of the house
was installed to maintain runoff from 5+ acre watershed
to east or rear of property. Drainage did not drained to
the rear basin as originally assumed but drained through
Water's and neighbors to the north drainage tiles
directly to lake.
Greg Kopischke submitted photos of the original
lakeshore yard «nd the present condition. He explained
the drainage prvoblems that existed on the property and
the proposed plan to solve these problems.
NIVDTBS OF THE FLUmilBG O USSIOH rriHG HELD AUGUST 17r 1987
#1177 NATBRS COVTII
It was noted that if Planning Commission recommends the
previous contours be restored, that there would still be
severe erosion problems along 1.1 grade slopes of
lakeshore banks especially at those slope grades with
the use of disturbed soils.
Todd Waters stated that o\ur many years, there has been
increased drainage problems on the property. To remedy
the drainage problem, they propose a swale to filter
sediments before run-off reaches the lake.
Hanson felt the proposal was an excellent after-the-fact
rational way to handle the drainage problems.
Bellows felt there were no grounds to permit the
excavation, pointing out that applicant contributed to
the drainage problem by making a house footprint three
times the size of the original footprint. She stated
that Planning Commission would have never approved this
type of grading before-the-fact.
Johnson pointed out that in the original plans, it was
believed that the drainage was directed away from the
lake into a retention area.
In response to Johnson's statement, it was pointed out
the the plans did not show the catch basin that drained
the water to the lake.
Greg Kopischke explained their revised plan
incorporating staff recommendation to soften the extent
of retaining walls.
Planning Commission Comments -
Hanson stated he had no firm opinion regarding the
grading that was done in a construction manner at this
point short total replacement.
Brown felt that the swale seemed to be an appropriate
remedy.
Cohen felt total replacement must be done in order to
proceed any further to correct the drainage.
Bellows felt the major issue is the amount of grading
done in the 0-75', not the drainage. She felt that the
drainage was a convenient explanation to grant the
walkout design which never showed on the plans.
Johnson concurred with Bellows, however, felt
replacement not entirely reasonable.
*
MIHUTES OP TEB PIAMHIHG COHNISSIOH MBBTIBG HELD AUGUST 17, 1997
91177 MATBRS COHTIM ij
There were no comments from the public regarding this
matter and the public hearing was closed.
It was moved by Chairman Kelley, seconded by Bellows, to
recommend total replacement as close as possible to
original state including tree plantings, noting that
stabilization proced»’res may be required and that there
will be no walkout and no swale.
Greg Kopischke noted that the recommended motion was
contrary to the City's preference for swale drainage.
Bellows noted that the 0-7*^' grading that was done is
also very much against the City'c policy.
Brown suggested the City's engineers opinion on the
drainage.
Todd Waters stated that the present issue is drainage
and the decision of what can be done at this point. He
feels that the Planning Commission is basing their
decision on the need to punish for this after-the-fact
matter. He felt the Planning Commission should first
determine if in fact there is a drainage problem.
Chairman Kelley stated that Mr. Water had the right to
request tabling the matter at this time.
Todd Waters requested that Planning Commisssion table
the application at this time.
Chairman Kelley withdrew his prvious motion.
It was moved by Chairman Kelley, seconded by Brown, to
table Application #1177 per applicants request until the
September 8, 1987 Planning Commission meeting. Motion,
Ayes 4, Nays 2. Bellows and Cohen voted nay.
Chairman Kelley, Hanson, Bellows, and Cohen all noted
that tabling this application would most likely not
change their recommendation of total replacement.
Planning Commission directed applicant to work with City
staff on proper stabilization of the property in the
meantime.
8
Ml.
•mniTBS or thb ruaniiHG cohmissioh nbetihg held aogust 17, 19S7
into CHAKLBS HAOLBR
2509 OELLT AVBHUB
COMDITIOHAL OSB PBRMIT
PUBLIC HBAR1B6 8x57-9:04
The Affidavit of Publication and Certificate of Mailing
was noted.
Candice Nadler was present for this matter.
Zoning Administrat.»r Mabusth explained the request for a
conditional use permit to allow land alteration within
75 feet of the shoreline property to repair 22 lineal
feet of rip rap area damaged by ice flow
heaving/pressure that has caused a buckling effect.
Applicant proposed to level portions of the uplifted
land and restore the topography to the former contours.
Bellows voiced concerned with damage to trees.
Candice Nadler stated that she is working with Bachman's
on this project and that there will be no damage to any
trees.
Bellows felt that the project as proposed could not be
accomplished without killing some trees.
Chairman Kelley asked if any fill was proposed to be
brought in.
Zoning Administrator Mabusth stated that at this point
no additional fill will be needed, however, if needed a
specified amount of fill would be allowed in
conjunction with this conditional use permit approval.
Chairman Kelley stated if fill is needed to level the
hole, it is acceptable.
There were no comments from the public regarding this
matter and the public hearing was closed.
It was moved by Cohen, seconded by Bellows, to recommend
approval of the conditional use permit per staff
recommendation and subject to no damage to trees and
approval of additional fill if necessary. Motion, Ayes
6, Nays 0.
NimiTBS OP THE PLAHNIMG CONMISSIOil NBBTIIIG HELD A06DST 17, 1987
#1182 LISA AMD NART7 DIP¥RICH-BLOCKSR
458 LIBDBH AVEHUB
VARIAHCE
PUBLIC HEARIE6 9?11-9:15
The Affidavit of Publication and Certificate of Mailing
was noted.
Lisa and Marty Dietrich-Blocker were present for this
matter.
Zoning Administrator Mabusth explained the request for a
front setback variance to replace a foundation on the
west portion of the west portion of the existing house;
and extend construction of an open porch along the front
line (west side) of the house.
Marty Dietrich-Blocker stated that the west portion is
the only portion without a new foundation.
There were no comments from the public regarding this
matter and the public hearing was closed.
It was moved by Bellows, seconded by Chairman Kelley, to
recommend approval per staff recommendation. Motion,
Ayes 6, Nays 0.
#1183 JACK SNEHSOH
3020 HORTH SHORE DRIVE
APTER-THE-PACT VARIANCE
PUBLIC HEARING 9:16-9:25
There were no comments from the public regarding this
matter and the public hearing was closed.
Mr. & Mrs. Jack Swenson were present for this matter.
Zoning Administrator Mabusth explained the request for
an after-the-fact hardcover variance to allow a deck
platform within 75 feet of the shoreline. The structure
contains four basic parts: landing, stairs, platform,
and dock. The added hardcover is approximately 310.4
s.f. excluding the dock. The landing stairs and
platform do not meet current standards involving
dimension of an accessory structure; and based on
current City policy, an accessory structure of this
nature should not exceed 4 feet in width. Staff
recommends denial and submitted an option to give
applicant safe access from the grassed area to dock.
Jack Swenson stated that extensive erosion required new
rip rap to be done last winter which in turn destroyed
the original platform. He noted that they replaced a
similar structure that existed in the same location for
many years. He also noted that no views were obstructed
by the platform.
NimiTBS OF THE PLAHIilMG O I :’:i SSION TIM6 HELD A060ST 17, 1987
*1183 ISOB COETIEDED
Mrp. Jack Swenson stated that the platform was designed
to accomodate the necessary cantilevered effect over the
rip rap.
There were no comments from the public regarding this
matter and the public hearing was closed.
Bellows felt that in some instances there should be
exceptions to the rule to maintain some measure of grace
to Lake Minnetonka. Therefore, she felt that the
structure, in this unique situation, solved in a very
elegant way a very difficult situation. She referred to
the more extreme precedent situations on Long Lake.
Hanson noted that the change in hardcover was
inconsequential.
It was moved by Hanson, seconded by Bellows, to
recommend approval of the after-the-fact variance
subject to the appropriate staff inspection and
acceptance of structure as built and building permit
obtained.
Assistant Zoning Administrator Gaffron noted that
approval of this variance will be perceived as the City
giving in because it is after-the-fact, and recommended
that Planning Commission give clear direction to staff
regarding the findings for recommending approval that
make this situation unique.
Bellows and Hanson stated the following findings for
recommending approval:
1. Exception precedents have been made, noting that
this is not as an extreme situation.
2. Change in hardcover is minimal.
3. The proposal allows better designed access over
the rip rap.
4. The proposal solves the issue of changing
elevation.
Motion, Ayes 4, Nays 2. Cohen and Chairman Kelley voted
nay stating that it was aesthetically pleasing but
should not be allowed and noted the precedent being set.
Motion carried.
NIHUTBS or THB PLAHHIMG COMMISSION !TIMG HELD A060S¥ 17, 1987
11184 6BBALD T. McCOORTHgT
1055 NBST FBRHDALB ROAD
VARIAHCB
PUBLIC HBARIHG
This application was held over until the end of the
Planning Commission meeting (9:55) for
applicant/representative to be present.
It was moved by Chairman Kelley, seconded by Cohen, to
table Application #1184 until applicant/representative
can be present. Motion, Ayes 6, Nays 0.
•1185 GARY CARLSON
985 BD6EN00D HILLS ROAD
RBNBNAL VARIAHCB8
PUBLIC HEARING 9:30-9:38
The Affidavit of Publication and Certificate of Mailing
was noted.
Zoning Administrator Mabusth explained the request for
renewal variances approved by the City in 1983 for
construction of a house. Renewal variances requested as
follows:
Lot area variance - existing 1.5 acres
required 2.0 acres
Front yard setback variance -
proposed 31* front lot line
required 50* front lot line
proposed 27* from undeveloped
road easement
The proposed building site and septic test envelope are
the same as proposed in 1983. The severe slopes to the
east require that the house be positioned closer to the
west side taking advantage of the more gentler slopes
along the west edge. The location of the only suitable
septic sites on the property also places restrictions on
the gentler sloped areas for building.
Present for this matter were Gary Carlson and co
applicant Edward Zimmerman of G.A. Carlson Homes. Mr.
Zimmerman reviewed and submitted the Howell plat of 1983
noting that the variances requested are consistent with
developed neighborhood homes. He noted that this is
the last house to be built in Edgewood Hills. He also
noted that the neighbors are in favor of this
application.
Neighbor ,
confirmed
proposal.
Phillip Harris, 985 Edgewood Hills Road
that the neighbors were in favor of the
There were no other comments from the public and the
public hearing was closed.
MIHDTBS OF TBB PIJUnilHG COMMISSIOH MBBTIH6 HltTJi A06CST 17, 1987
ij > •#1185 CARLSON COHTIN1
It was moved by Cohen, seconded by Bellows, to recosunend
approval of the renewal variances per staff
recommendation. Motion, Ayes 6, Nays 0.
ZONING AMENDMENT -
STANDARDS FOR ACCESSORT STOCTURES
It was moved by Chairman Kelley, seconded by Cohen, to
table this matter until the September 8, 1987 Planning
Commission meeting per staff recommendation. Motion,
Ayes 6, Nays 0.
•1169 NILLIAM NEAR
2950 HATERTOHN ROAD
SEETCH PLAN REVIEM
OORCEPTUAL DIRECTION TO APPLICANT
Present for this matter were William Wear and Philip
Wear.
Applicant has submitted three conceptual plans for
Planning Commission consideration as follows:
Option A is an 7 lot plat which require** four lot
width variances along a straight lineal roadway.
Staff is not in favor of this option, questioning
the hardships.
B is a 6 lot plat which is staff's
preference. Pending septic testing, applicant could
proceed with formal action on the preliminary plat.
Option C is a 6 lot plat with an future through road
access outlet (A) and two additional lot outlets (B
& C). Staff noted that such outlets (B & C) tend to
go tax forfeit and major problems for the City
because no one is responsible for maintenance of
property.
Cill Wear stated that his preference of Option C. He
explained the purpose of Outlets B & C is for future
development because he believes that in the future (20-
50 years) the property will be sewered which would make
these outlets buildable.
Chairman Kelley and Cohen favored Option C because of
the road alignment.
To protect the City, it was recommended filing against
the chain of title that Out lots B & C are deemed
unbuildable until the area is sewered or rezoned.
MIHDTBS OP THE PIAIIHIHG COMNISSIOM VIH6 HELD AUGUST 17, 1987
#1169 HEAR COHTIW •J > >
Planning Cominission recommendations as follows:
Hanson - Option C with NO contingencies on outlots
Cohen - Option C " " " « «
Brown - Option C with contingencies on outlots
Johnson- Option C " " •. m
Kelley - Option C " " « »
Bellows- Option C " " mm
(Planning Commission majority (4-2) prefered Option C
with contingencies filed against chain of title that
Outlots B 6 C are not buildable until area sewered or
rezoned.)
APPROVAL OP MINUTES
It was moved by Bellows^ seconded by Cohen, to approve
the Minutes of the July 20, 1987 Planning Commission
meeting. Motion, Ayes 6, Nays 0.
PLAMHIBG COMHISSIOH REPRESENTATIVE
Bellows was appointed to attend the Augu*it 24,
Council meeting.
1987
Cohen was appointed to attend the September 14, 1987
Council meeting.
ADJOUR]IT 9:55 P.M.
The Planning Commission meeting adjourned at 9:55 P.M.
I