Commission backs pool/patio shift on French Lake, staff cites net hardcover reduction

Orono planning commissioners on Feb. 17 approved a variance allowing the reconfiguration of a pool and patio at 2245 French Lake Road, a 2.5-acre property where a prior 2023 variance had authorized pool-related work.

Planning staff (Carney) said the current proposal shifts a previously approved patio to a more central location in front of the house and places the project in a 150-foot setback classification for French Lake, which is designated a "natural environment" lake within Lake Minnetonka and typically carries more stringent setback expectations. Staff noted the rework reduces hardcover on the site compared with earlier plans and recommended approval, with a tentative City Council date of March 9.

John Monson, president of Land Chute Group, described the change as a design decision to better relate indoor and outdoor living spaces. He also pointed out that cattails and vegetation near the ordinary high-water line can give a perception of distance from open water; that observation was offered as context for how the site reads from aerial photos.

A neighbor, Ann Schull, testified in support of the project, saying she lives next door to the proposed pool location and welcomes the new construction.

Commissioners said the application appears to improve hardcover outcomes relative to earlier approvals and noted practical difficulties tied to the property’s shape and buildable envelope. Brandenburg moved to approve LA 26-000003 as applied; the motion carried by voice vote.

Staff will forward the item to City Council for the March 9 meeting as recommended.