HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-21-2001 Planning Commission Minutes PUBLIC ATTENDANCE
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MINUTES OF THE
ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
February 21,2001
ROLL
The Orono Planning Commission met on the above date with the following members present:
Chair Sandra Smith, Commissioners Daniel Kluth, Janice Berg, and Alternate Jeanne Matbusth.
Commissioners Dale Lindquist,William Stoddard, and Sandra Smith were absent. The following
represented City Staff: Senior Planning Coordinator Michael Gaffron,Assistant Zoning
Administrator Wendy Bottenberg, and Recorder Jackie Young.
Chair Hawn called the meeting to order at 6:30 p.m.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
(#1) #2638 ZONING CODE AMENDMENT, ORONO MUNICIPAL;ZONING CODE,
SECTION 10.45(B-6 DISTRICT),6:31 p.m.—6:35 p.m.
The Certificate of Mailing and Affidavit of Publication were noted.
Gaffron stated the City is proposing amending Section 10.45 to add"Clinics for human care on an
outpatient basis only"to the list of permitted uses in the B-6 Highway Commercial District.
Gaffron stated while the B-4 district is the City's office and professional business district and
does allow for clinic use, Staff feels including clinics in the B-6 district would be appropriate to
allow the parcel of land next to the proposed senior housing center to be utilized for medical
office use. Gaffron stated other permitted uses within the B-6 District include offices, banks and
financial institutions, libraries, motels and hotels.
Gaffron stated proper notice has been given of this public hearing.
There were no public comments regarding this application.
Kluth stated this application was also reviewed at the January Planning Commission meeting. Kluth
noted there were no public comments at that time either. Kluth stated he does not have a problem
with the proposed amendment.
Hawn moved, Berg seconded,to recommend approval of Application#2638, City of
Orono, Zoning Code Amendment, Orono Municipal Zoning Code, Section 10.45 (B-6
District),to add "Clinics for human care on an outpatient basis only" to the list of
permitted uses in the B-6 Highway Commercial District. VOTE: Ayes 4,Nays 0.
(#2) #2644 GARY &JOAN MARQUARDT,2617 CASCO POINT ROAD, VARIANCES,
6:35 p.m.—6:57 p.m.
Jerry Whelan, Contractor,and Bruce and Carol Hedblom,Neighbors,were present.
The Certificate of Mailing and Affidavit of Publication were noted.
Gaffron noted the Marquardts are out of town and are unable to attend tonight's meeting.
PAGE 1
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
February 21, 2001
(#2644 Gary & Joan Marquardt, Continued)
Gaffron stated the Applicants are proposing to construct a second story addition above the
existing single story house within a required side yard along with the addition of a 30 by 30
foot attached garage to be located 2.85 feet from the side property line where 10 feet is required
and 21.76 feet from the front property line where 30 feet is required.
Gaffron stated the residence is located on Casco Point Road, which is fairly narrow and rather
busy in this area.
The Applicants are proposing to add a second story to the existing house, which is a single story
residence with a basement. The existing house was constructed prior to the adoption of the zoning
ordinance. The northwest corner of the house is located approximately ten feet from the side lot
line and is angled to a point where the house is only 2.85 feet from the side property line at the
northeast corner. The second story has been designed to leave the front one-half of the existing
house at one story, with only the street side having a second story. The proposed addition would
result in a 267 square feet increase in lot coverage. Gaffron noted the existing structural coverage is
at 18.5 percent. The existing hardcover is 29 percent and would be increased to 38 percent if this
application is approved. The Applicants are proposing to remove a large deck along the lakeside of
the house in an effort to reduce hardcover. A four season porch would be constructed in its place
and would be located 105 feet from the OHWL of Lake Minnetonka.
Gaffron stated the existing garage is located only 18 feet from Casco Point Road and faces
the road, which creates a potentially hazardous situation with vehicles backing out to the road
without the ability to view oncoming vehicles and pedestrians. The proposed attached garage
would allow the vehicles to back out into the yard and approach the street at a right angle, which
would improve the views to the street as well as allowing vehicles traveling on Casco Point Road to
more easily view entering vehicles from the Applicant's property.
Staff is recommending that the proposed garage be made smaller due to the amount of lot coverage
being proposed on this site and that it be located no closer than five feet from the lot line. Staff
would be in favor of allowing the garage to be relocated to provide for improved site lines. Staff
suggests a small area be provided for a backup apron. Staff would support equal replacement of the
structural coverage to the amount which currently exists before remodeling.
Hedblom, 2601 Casco Point Road, stated he is aware of the Applicants' plans to make these
modifications on their property, and in his view all the neighbors in the immediate area are in
support of the project. Hedblom commented in his opinion the changes being recommended by
Staff would be acceptable to the Applicants. Hedblom noted the improvements being proposed only
minimally impact his property.
Hedblom stated if possible,the Applicants would like to keep the size of the garage at what was
originally proposed, but would be willing to reduce the size of the garage if necessary.
Whelan, Contractor, stated they are proposing to construct the garage more in front of the house in
an effort to limit the amount of vehicle noise currently being experienced from Casco Point Road.
There were no public comments regarding this application.
Hawn commented any construction in the area of the property line would negatively impact the
PAGE 2
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
February 21,2001
(#2644 Gary & Joan Marquardt,Continued)
pine trees in that area which may need to be removed.
Hedblom stated they are going to check into whether the pine trees would need to be removed as a
result of this project. Hedblom stated they are not opposed to removal of the trees and would be
willing to plant new trees following construction. Hedblom commented one of the trees has already
experienced storm damage and is not in very good shape.
Kluth indicated he would be reluctant to grant any increase to hardcover on this lot. Kluth inquired
whether the Applicants discussed the hardcover issue with City Staff. Kluth indicated the Planning
Commission has been very reluctant to grant any increases to hardcover in the past.
Hedblom noted the deck would be removed as part of this project. Hedblom stated the situation
with the garage in its present location is very dangerous and needs to be addressed. Hedblom noted
the present driveway is very short and relocation of the garage would allow safer access into the
property.
Kluth stated the issue he has with the garage is the proposed size due to the amount of hardcover
and structural coverage presently on the lot.
Hedblom commented in his view the Applicants would be willing to reduce the size of the garage.
Hawn pointed out the Planning Commission has taken a very strict policy on increasing structural
coverage, and if approval is granted on the current proposal, a precedent would be set. Hawn noted
the amount of structural coverage already existing on the lot is in excess of the allowable amount.
Gaffron stated in order to meet the amount of existing structural coverage on the lot, the garage
would need to be reduced to 24' by 26'.
Mabusth inquired whether the Applicants have given any consideration to removal of the boat
house.
Hedblom stated the Applicants would like to keep the boathouse since it provides storage for their
dock materials and serves a useful purpose.
Hawn stated she would be in support of doing some improvements to the driveway. Hawn stated
the current proposal does not really allow for a turnaround and in her view should be modified
somewhat. Hawn inquired what hardcover would result if a turnaround were added.
Gaffron stated if the garage were reduced,the amount of driveway would also be reduced
somewhat. Gaffron stated the Applicants are also proposing to remove some landscape plastic and
rock as part of this project. Gaffron stated the amount of hardcover resulting from the backup apron
would probably be between 50 to 100 square feet.
Hawn suggested that perhaps by moving the garage forward somewhat,the amount of driveway
could be reduced slightly.
PAGE 3
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
February 21,2001
(#2644 Gary & Joan Marquardt, Continued)
Gaffron stated moving the garage forward would possibly result in a reduction of 50 to 100 square
feet of hardcover.
Kluth indicated he would be like to see a revised plan showing the proposed changes prior to voting
on this application.
Gaffron stated the Planning Commission could review the revised plan at their March meeting.
Hedblom stated they would like to go before the City Council at their March meeting if possible.
Hawn commented the Applicants will need to submit a revised plan depicting the smaller sized
garage in its new location with a turnaround added so the Planning Commission will know exactly
the amount of hardcover and structural coverage being proposed. Hawn commented for safety
reasons she would be in support of some improvements being done to the garage and driveway
situation. Hawn indicated the Applicants will need to limit structural coverage to the amount
currently existing, which is 17 percent.
Kluth stated he is opposed to the plan being presented tonight since it exceeds the existing
structural coverage.
Gaffron noted the Applicants would be required to extend the review period for this application
since the 120 days expire the 16th of March. Gaffron stated the City has a standard form that the
Applicants will need to sign extending the review period.
Hawn moved,Kluth seconded,to table Application#2644, Gary and Joan Marquardt,
2617 Casco Point Road,to allow the Applicants time to submit a revised plan.
VOTE: Ayes 4, Nays 0.
(#3) #2654 THE LION GROUP, ON BEHALF OF JAMES BULL, 1330 CHERRY
PLACE, VARIANCE,6:58 p.m.—7:06 p.m.
James Bull, Applicant,was present.
The Certificate of Mailing and Affidavit of Publication were noted.
Gaffron stated the Applicants are requesting variances to lot area to allow for the redevelopment of
this property which is located in the LR-1B District. The request is to permit the lot as a buildable
record lot for a period of one year. Currently the property has an existing residence located on it
and is a lakeshore lot.
Gaffron noted this lot consists of.68 acre, with the LR-1B District requiring a minimum of one
acre. Orono's Zoning Ordinance allows lots to be considered record lots when they meet 80 percent
of the zoning requirements for lot area, which this lot does not meet and requires a lot area
variance. The property exceeds the required lot width requirements of 140 feet by having a
defined lot width of 145 feet at the 75 foot lakeshore setback.
Gaffron indicated there is a house to the south of this property, with a 50 foot right-of-way
PAGE 4
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
February 21,2001
(#2654 The Lion Group, Continued)
to the north of the site. Gaffron stated a new residence can be constructed meeting the City's
other requirements. Gaffron noted the Applicants will need to meet the 25 percent hardcover
limit. Gaffron indicated there are other lots in the area which are below one acre.
Bull had nothing further to add to City Staff's report.
There were no public comments.
Hawn indicated she does not have a problem with this application.
Mabusth inquired whether the existing detached garage will remain.
Bull stated at the present time they are considering two different plans; one which would result in
the garage remaining and the other resulting in the garage being removed and a possible tuck under
garage being built.
Mabusth cautioned the Applicant that if the principal structure is removed,the garage would
become non-conforming and would be illegal at that point. Mabusth stated it was her understanding
the bank to the lakeshore has been restored in the past. Mabusth inquired whether the Applicant
knows where the access stair is to the lakeshore.
Bull stated the stairway is located in the northeast side. Bull stated there is a partial stairway that
exists at the present time about halfway down the hill, with a path circling down the remainder of
the bank.
Mabusth inquired whether the Applicant has any plans to change that area of the property.
Bull stated they are not contemplating any changes to that area.
Hawn stated a variance would need to be granted if the garage were to remain. Hawn stated the
garage may still not be acceptable due to its location to Cherry Street.
Gaffron stated it was Staff's expectation that the garage would be removed as part of this
project. Gaffron stated if it is the Applicant's desire that the garage remain,that would result in
additional issues that would need to be addressed. Gaffron stated if the garage is to remain,the
application should probably remain open because a variance will be needed to allow the garage to
remain.
Bull stated he did discuss this issue with Weinberger and was told he would need to meet the
25 percent hardcover limit regardless if the garage remained or was removed.
Hawn commented the Planning Commission typically does not grant variances on new
construction.
Berg stated the garage is located too close to the property line.
Gaffron stated it is currently located on the lot line.
PAGE 5
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
February 21,2001
(#2654 The Lion Group, Continued)
Hawn recommended the Applicant consider removing the existing garage and constructing a new
structure. Hawn inquired whether the Applicant would like this application to be tabled.
Bull stated he would like it to be tabled.
Hawn moved, Kluth seconded,to table Application#2654, The Lion Group, on behalf of
James Bull, 1330 Cherry Place, per the Applicant's request. VOTE: Ayes 4, Nays 0.
Item#4 follows Item#7
(#5) #01-2660 KEITH WATERS&ASSOCIATES,ON BEHALF OF JEFFREY AND
LEONTYNE MAXWELL, 740 WILLOW DRIVE SOUTH, VARIANCES,
7:07 p.m.— 7:12 p.m.
Jeffrey and Leontyne Maxwell, Applicants, were present.
The Certificate of Mailing and Affidavit of Publication were noted.
Bottenberg stated the Applicants are requesting lot area and lot width variances to construct a new
residence on the lot. The existing residence was constructed in the early 1970s and has been
removed.
Bottenberg stated the property is located within the RR-1B district, one Family Rural Residential
District which requires two acres. The subject property consists of 1.038 acres. A lot area variance
is required to construct a new residence. The lot is approximately 162 feet wide where 200 feet is
the minimum lot width required. A lot width variance is also required. Bottenberg indicated the lot
was platted prior to current zoning requirements.
Bottenberg noted this property is now included in the MUSA.
City Staff recommends approval of the requested variances subject to the Applicants meeting all
height requirements, setbacks, and grading requirements for this district.
The Applicants had nothing further to add to Staff's report.
There were no public comments regarding this application.
Mabusth cautioned the Applicants that the chimneys being proposed may require a conditional use
permit.
Kluth moved, Berg seconded,to recommend approval of Application#01-2660,
Keith Waters & Associates, on behalf of Jeffrey and Leontyne Maxwell, 740 Willow Drive
South, granting of a variance to lot area and lot width, subject to the new residence meeting
all height requirements, setbacks, and grading requirements, and with the understanding no
additional variances will be granted on this property. VOTE: Ayes 4,Nays 0.
PAGE 6
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
February 21, 2001
(#6) #01-2661 THOMAS AND INGRID ANDERSON,3550 NORTH SHORE DRIVE,
VARIANCES, 7:12 p.m.— 7:32 p.m.
Thomas and Ingrid Anderson, Applicants,were present.
The Certificate of Mailing and Affidavit of Publication were noted.
Gaffron stated the Applicants are requesting variances to permit a 20' x 27.5'
garage addition. The addition includes a second story above the garage for additional living space
within the house. Also proposed is replacement of a deck on the north side of the house and
replacement of a dog kennel. The garage addition will be located over the driveway off the end of
the house. A small retaining wall, approximately two feet in height, is proposed to be replaced
along the side of the driveway.
Gaffron stated the property is unique in that it has frontage to Lake Minnetonka on both the north
side and south side. As a result,there are two 0-75' lakeshore setbacks that are included in the
calculation for total allowed hardcover.
This property is located in the LR-1C District, One Family Lakeshore Residential District, which
has a one-half acre minimum lot size. The subject property consists of 21,174 square feet or .49
acre.
The Applicants are proposing 40 percent hardcover in the 75-250' lakeshore setback where
42 percent currently exists and 25 percent is allowed. The Applicants are also requesting a variance
to permit an encroachment into the average lakeshore setback on the north side of the house to
construct a new fence exceeding three and a half feet in height. The Applicants are proposing a
six foot fence/wall system.
Gaffron stated the Applicants are proposing to reduce the total hardcover on the property be
removing part of the driveway that is not required for maneuvering vehicles. Staff is recommending
the Applicant consider adding a turnaround area to eliminate backing out onto the roadway.
Gaffron stated this turnaround area would result in less than 1 percent hardcover. The proposed
building additions are being placed over areas that currently contain hardcover.
Gaffron indicated a final drainage plan has not been submitted, but there do not appear to be any
issues relating to drainage at this time. Gaffron stated the retaining walls are necessary to prevent
erosion.
Anderson stated they did not consider adding a turnaround area, noting they were attempting to
reduce hardcover as much as possible. Anderson stated they currently back out of the driveway,
which has not caused any problems at the present time. Anderson commented they will consider the
addition of a turnaround area.
Anderson stated they are not proposing any changes to the drainage or elevation on their
property. Anderson indicated he will be supplying a final drainage plan.
Hawn inquired what the setback is between the adjacent property and the garage.
Gaffron stated it is ten feet.
PAGE 7
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
February 21, 2001
(#01-2661 Thomas and Ingrid Anderson, Continued)
Hawn commented in her view the height of the structure may impact the neighbor's view of the
lake.
Mrs. Anderson stated it should not impact the neighbor's view since there is not a window on that
side of their house.
Gaffron stated there should be a minimal impact to the average lakeshore setback.
Kluth inquired whether any variance would be required for the proposed deck.
Gaffron stated the existing deck is being replaced.
Anderson stated behind the proposed garage there is a large section of driveway with a
12' by 12' dog kennel being located on it. Anderson indicated there should be some pictures
included in the Planning Commission's packet which depict the dog kennel. Currently there is a
six foot screen fence which screens the dog kennel from the street and from the adjoining property
owner. Anderson stated they are proposing to remove that portion of the driveway and reduce the
size of the dog kennel. Anderson indicated it is not located within the 0-75' setback.
Mabusth inquired whether the existing storage shed is necessary.
Anderson indicated the shed is structurally sound and is necessary for storage. Anderson stated the
deck at the present time is in a deteriorating condition and needs to be replaced for safety reasons.
Anderson stated they have a limited amount of storage space available in the house at the current
time and are attempting to create additional storage space by adding the garage and second story but
are still in need of the storage shed.
Mrs. Anderson stated they utilize the shed for storage of their dock and boating equipment.
Hawn inquired what the concrete slab located in the back of the house is for.
Mrs. Anderson stated that is a patio. Anderson indicated the house is a walkout with a sliding glass
door.
Mabusth stated they are attempting to look at ways the amount of total hardcover on the property
could be reduced.
Gaffron noted the amount of total hardcover on this property is being reduced from 42 percent to
40 percent as a result of this application. Gaffron stated if a turnaround area is added, that would
result in the hardcover being approximately 41 percent.
Kluth inquired whether the need for a turnaround area has been discussed with Staff
Anderson stated he did discuss that issue with Weinberger, but indicated that they currently do not
have a problem with backing out of the driveway.
Gaffron stated there are a number of houses in this area with the same situation.
PAGE 8
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
February 21,2001
(#01-2661 Thomas and Ingrid Anderson, Continued)
Kluth noted there are some unique hardships inherent to the land.
Kluth moved, Hawn seconded,to recommend approval of Application#01-2661, Thomas and
Ingrid Anderson, 3550 North Shore Drive, granting of a variance to hardcover to permit
40 percent hardcover, and granting of a variance to permit an encroachment into the average
lakeshore setback, subject to the submittal of a grading and drainage plan.
VOTE: Ayes 4, Nays 0.
Gaffron noted the motion was to allow 40 percent hardcover. Gaffron inquired whether any
additional hardcover would be allowed to permit a turnaround area.
Kluth commented the Applicants did not seem to be interested in constructing ting a turnaround area.
Kluth stated in his view that is a very busy road and the Applicants should be encouraged to
construct a turnaround area.
Hawn moved, Kluth seconded,to amend the above motion to permit the Applicants to
increase the hardcover by additional one percent, or 41 percent, to construct a turnaround
area. VOTE: Ayes 4,Nays 0.
#7) #01-2662 RVC HOMES, 1080 WILDHURST TRAIL, VARIANCES,
7:33 p.m.— 7:37 p.m.
Rick Vogelgesang, RVC Homes, was present.
The Certificate of Mailing and Affidavit of Publication were noted.
Bottenberg stated the Applicants are in the process of purchasing the subject property and are
requesting a lot width variance to construct a new residence on the lot. The existing residence and
an accessory building will be removed. A demolition permit has not yet been obtained.
The lot is located within the LR-1B, One Family Lakeshore Residential District, which has a
minimum lot size of one acre. The lot is approximately .996 acres in size. A lot area variance is not
required because the lot meets 80 percent of the required area. A lot width variance is required to
construct a new residence because the lot is approximately 100 feet wide where 140 feet is required.
Bottenberg noted this lot is a lakeshore lot and is sewered. Bottenberg stated the Aplicant has
submitted a new survey showing the new hardcover numbers.
City Staff is recommending approval of the application subject to the new residence meeting all
height requirements, setbacks, hardcover, structural lot coverage, and grading requirements.
Vogelgesang stated the new residence will be a general improvement to the neighborhood, with the
existing garage to be removed.
Hawn inquired whether the Applicant was aware that the Planning Commission would probably not
grant any additional variances to construct a residence on this property.
PAGE 9
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
February 21,2001
(#01-2662 RVC Homes, Continued)
Vogelgesang stated that is correct.
John Prew, 4490 Forest Lake Landing, commented he was aware the property had been up for sale
and is here to find out what the new property owner is proposing to do with the property. Prew
indicated he does has some drainage concerns and wants to insure that the proper drainage will
happen.
Hawn stated at the time the building permit is applied for,the Applicant will be required to submit a
grading and drainage plan for review and approval by City Staff. Hawn indicated the drainage plan
will be available at City Hall for his review.
Prew commented he also has a concern with
an underground gasoline tank that is located on the
property.
Vogelgesang stated it is his understanding the previous property owner will be responsible for
removal of that tank.
Hawn inquired whether the Applicant would be willing to let the adjoining property owner see the
proposed plans for this property.
Vogelgesang stated he is willing to show the neighbors his plans.
Gaffron indicated Staff will follow up on removal of the underground tank. Gaffron stated removal
of the tank will be a requirement of any building permit the Applicant obtains.
Hawn moved, Kluth seconded,to recommend approval of Application#01-2662,
RVC Homes, 1080 Wildhurst Trail, granting of a lot width variance.
VOTE: Ayes 4, Nays 0.
(A#4) #2656 SURFACE WATER MANAGEMENT PLAN,CITY OF ORONO,
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT,7:38 p.m.—8:53 p.m.
Drew Budelis, Bonestroo &Associates, was present.
The Certificate of Mailing and Affidavit of Publication were noted.
Gaffron stated the City of Orono has been working with Bonestroo &Associates for approximately
the last five years on updating the City's Surface Water Management Plan in compliance with
government regulations. Gaffron stated they has basically arrived at a totally new plan for this area.
Gaffron stated the general objectives of the SWMP are, one,to preserve Orono's wetlands, streams
and lakes, especially Lake Minnetonka;two, reduce capital expenditures needed to meet water
quantity and quality standards; and three, minimize existing flooding, erosion and sedimentation
problems generated by surface flows. Gaffron stated the plan does include other objectives as well,
including improving stormwater quality and protecting the groundwater by allowing for passive
treatment and infiltration of stormwater.
PAGE 10
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
February 21, 2001
(#2656 Surface Water Management Plan, Continued)
Budelis presented a topographical map of the area to the Planning Commission outlining the various
wetlands and ponds in Orono. Budelis explained the plans calls for a system of storm sewers,
ditches, swales, emergency overflows and ponds to be constructed to collect, store, and convey
surface water. In addition,the plan also requires water quality monitoring, public education and
involvement, and strategies for determining the appropriate management alternatives for various
development conditions.
Budelis stated the new plan also addresses wetland management and identifies the major
drainage districts and the issues of concern in regards to water quantity and quality, with specific
actions or projects being identified to address the concerns.
Hawn inquired if diverting stormwater into the wetlands would further worsen the wetlands.
Budelis stated uncontrolled runoff would result in the wetlands experiencing a further degradation.
The stormwater management plan calls for a system of storm sewers, ditches, swales, and ponds to
help collect, store, and convey the surface water. Budelis commented the plan does identify certain
measures that should be taken to help improve the quality of the wetlands.
Gaffron stated the City Council will need to determine the dollar amounts to be allocated towards
the various restoration projects outlined in the plan
Hawn inquired whether the Planning Commission would play any role in determining those dollar
amounts.
Gaffron stated at this time the Planning Commission would not be involved in that unless a member
of the Planning Commission has a strong opinion one way or the other on certain aspects of the
plan.
Kluth questioned the benefits of allocating large sums of money towards these projects if no
measurable gains are realized.
Gaffron stated the Watershed District has studied the various methods for improving water
quality and quantity and feel the components being proposed in the stormwater management plan
does make sense. Gaffron noted the City does need to meet the Watershed District's requirements
with this plan and has an obligation to continue to maintain and improve the water quality in this
area. Gaffron stated the methods being proposed do have a proven track record and have shown
good results.
Hawn suggested the general public be better informed about the steps the City is attempting to take
to improve the water quality in this area and what the local residents can do to help in that process.
Gaffron stated a big part of the plan does involve education. Gaffron indicated City Staff is
comfortable with the plan being proposed and feel it will accomplish the goals of the City.
Kluth commented that the City may want to consider obtaining a second opinion on the methods
being proposed due to the amount of money involved with this plan.
PAGE 11
MINUTES OF THE
ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
February 21,2001
(#2656 Surface Water Management Plan, Continued)
Berg noted the City did hire an outside consultant to compile the plan since the City does not have
the ability inhouse to develop such a plan.
Kluth stated he is comfortable with the goals being proposed, but due to a lack of experience in this
area,he cannot comment on the technical aspects of the plan.
Gaffron stated he would like the Planning Commission to give a recommendation on the whole plan
if possible. Gaffron indicated in his opinion this is a reasonable plan and follows the general
objectives of the City. Gaffron noted the City Council has held a number of work sessions to
discuss this plan more in depth.
Hawn stated she also is not familiar with all the technical aspects of the plan, and indicated that
she would be agreeable to having a work session to discuss this plan more thoroughly once she has
had an opportunity to research the methods being proposed.
Kluth commented if he makes a recommendation tonight, it would have to be based on the
recommendation of City Staff that this is a good plan. Kluth stated in his opinion only another
engineering firm could render an opinion on the plan.
Berg noted the City is addressing the Watershed District's requirements by developing this plan.
Berg stated the City routinely deals with wetland issues in new developments.
Gaffron stated the City was required to hold a public hearing on this plan, which is one of the
reasons it is before the Planning Commission tonight.
Budelis suggested the Planning Commission could select certain items they had questions on and
discuss those in a work session or at tonight's meeting.
Hawn commented she is comfortable with the goals being proposed in the plan.
Kluth stated in his opinion the plan should be moved forward to the City Council.
There were no public comments regarding this application.
Berg moved, Mabusth seconded,to recommend approval of Application#2656,
Surface Water Management Plan, City of Orono, Comprehensive Plan Amendment,
with the understanding the Planning Commission has limited knowledge in this area
and is basing their approval on the recommendation of City Staff.
VOTE: Ayes 3, Nays 0,Hawn Abstained.
PLANNING COMMISSION COMMENTS
(#10) PLANNING COMMISSION APPROVAL OF MINUTES FOR JANUARY 17,2001
Kluth requested the minutes be amended on Page 24 to reflect that the reason he voted in opposition
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MINUTES OF THE
ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
February 21,2001
to the motion was that in his opinion the owner had built to the maximum with the hope that he
would be granted a variance for hardcover in excess of the limit.
Berg moved, Kluth seconded,to approve the minutes of the Planning Commission meeting
of January 17, 2001, as amended. VOTE: Ayes 3,Nays 0,Hawn Abstained.
(#8) REPORT OF PLANNING COMMISSION REPRESENTATIVES ATTENDING
COUNCIL MEETINGS—JANUARY 22,2001 AND FEBRUARY 12,2001
This item was not discussed.
(#11) SELECTION OF REPRESENTATIVES FOR CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS
ON FEBRUARY 26,2001 AND MARCH 12,2001
February 26, 2001 —Hawn March 12, 2001 —Berg
(#9) OTHER ISSUES FOR DISCUSSION
Gaffron requested the Planning Commission review the report relating to residential
building height. Gaffron stated if the Planning Commission so desired, a work session could be
scheduled to discuss this issue in more depth.
It was the consensus of the Planning Commission to schedule a work session.
Gaffron indicated the City Council will be interviewing candidates for the Planning Commission
at their next meeting. Gaffron stated the City Council will also be looking at how alternates to the
Planning Commission should be handled.
Kluth suggested some consideration being given to having ten commissioners on the Planning
Commission, with those commissioners being rotated every other month. Kluth stated in his
opinion there should be at least five members on the Planning Commission.
Hawn commented one problem with rotating the commissioners would be the lack of
consistency if an application appears before the Planning Commission on more than one occasion.
Gaffron noted a meeting has been scheduled for February 27th with the Metropolitan Council.
ADJOURNMENT
Berg moved, Hawn seconded, to adjourn the meeting at 9:06 p.m.
There being no further business to discuss,the meeting was adjourned at 9:06 p.m.
Elizabeth Hawn, Chair
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