HomeMy WebLinkAboutWS Item No 5 sr discussion of freshwater propertyMEMORANDUM
TO: ORONO CITY COUNCIL
FROM: JEREMY BARNHART, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
SUBJECT: FRESHWATER PROPERTY
DATE: SEPTEMBER 28, 2015
In recent weeks, Staff has been receiving a number of phone calls regarding the future use of the Freshwater property. Most of these callers have identified their desire to develop,
or redevelop, the property in some capacity as residential.
The Freshwater property, 7.59 acres, is currently split into 2 parcels. The northern parcel is 5 acres, and is improved with an office building. This parcel is guided for office uses.
The southern parcel is 2.59 acres, is vacant, and is guided for mixed use residential. Both parcels are zoned for office uses. Municipal services are provided to the property. Those
investigating the building suggest that the building is no longer viable for an office use, and tearing down the building would provide for more beneficial use of the property.
Recognizing that any change in land use will require a comprehensive plan amendment, would the Council consider residential in some density appropriate for the property?
Assuming yes, would the council consider any structure height taller than 2 ½ stories and 30 feet?
Regardless of the density, what attributes does the council find most important in the possible redevelopment of the property? Views into the wetland/ natural areas? Public space for
outdoor activities? Traffic? Building design? Others?