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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2019-01-03 Planning Board Minutes PLANNING BOARD OF THE CITY OF BANGOR Meeting of January 3, 2019 MINUTES Board Members Present: Charles Boothby, Chair Nelson Durgin, Vice Chair Ted Brush Phyllis Guerette Ken Huhn Lisa Shaw City Staff Present: David Gould, Planning Officer Sean Gambrel, Planning Staff Chair Boothby called the meeting to order at 7:00 P.M. PUBLIC HEARINGS 1. Amending Chapter 165-70.3 – Land Development Code, by Eliminating the Setback Requirements from Railroad Property. This ordinance would eliminate setback requirements for parcels adjoining railroad parcels. CO#19- 053. City of Bangor, applicant. Chair Boothby opened public hearing. Planning Officer David Gould presented the proposed amendment, explaining that it is similar to the recent amendment that was adopted in the Waterfront Development District at the request of Waterfront Concerts. Recently another commercial interest has approached the City for a similar amendment, but in a different zoning district. This proposal is to apply the setback change in all zones in the city, which will allow abutters of active railroad tracks to get as close to right of way as they desire. Member Durgin asked about the distinction regarding “active railroad property.” Mr. Gould advised that this is to distinguish railroad tracks, which usually have sufficient space for operation, from non- rail properties owned by the railroad, which may contain buildings. The City would like to retain setbacks in locations which now have or may have buildings in the future. 73 HARLOW STREET, BANGOR, ME 04401 TELEPHONE: (207) 992-4280 FAX: (207) 945-4447 WWW.BANGORMAINE.GOV Member Durgin asked if there were any concerns from the railroad. Mr. Gould stated that there were none that he has been made aware of. Chair Boothby asked for public comment on the issue. There were no proponents or opponents. Member Kuhn moved to recommend Amending Chapter 165 – Land Development Code, by eliminating the Setback Requirements from Railroad Property. Member Guerette seconded the motion. The Board voted unanimously to recommend the City Council adopt the amendment. OTHER BUSINESS Chair Boothby thanked the Planning Board for their service and expressed his appreciation for the ability to serve as Planning Board chair for the past year. Member Guerette also thanked the Board and staff for their support over her term on the Board. 2. Meeting Minutes Minutes from the December 18, 2018 meeting were unanimously approved. 3. Adjournment Meeting adjourned at 7:12 P.M.