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Planning commission approves lakeshore setback variance for 56 West Lake Street
Summary
The Orono Planning Commission approved a variance to enclose and expand a lakeside roofed porch at 56 West Lake Street, allowing a screened 20-foot porch to extend roughly 12 feet closer to the lake than the existing 7-foot porch. Staff recommended approval, citing lot constraints and neighbor support.
The Orono Planning Commission voted to approve LA 26-5, a variance to allow an expanded, screened roof porch at 56 West Lake Street that would extend closer to the lake than current average lakeshore setbacks. Ms. Curtis, presenting staff findings, said the application includes enclosing an open roof porch for living space on the second story and "The new 20 foot porch will be constructed over the existing deck, extending 12 feet closer to the lake than the existing 7 foot deep portion of the roof porch today."
Ms. Curtis told commissioners the proposal "does not appear to impact views of the lake from homes on either side" and that staff’s packet includes a practical-difficulty analysis (Exhibit C). She concluded: "Staff recommends approval as applied."
Applicant representative Ben Gustafson offered to answer questions but had no substantive additions. A nearby resident who spoke in support told the commission neighbors were generally in favor: "All of them are very supportive of the project." Commissioners discussed lot geometry and visual impacts, noting the narrow lot and the screening proposed. After brief remarks, a motion to approve the application was made, seconded and carried by voice vote.
The variance will allow the owner to enclose and screen the porch and extend the roofed area lakeward as presented; no additional public comments were recorded during the hearing. The commission moved on to its next agenda item following the approval.
