The revised tree preservation ordinance, presented by City Forester Zach Jorgensson, focuses on properties of one acre or greater, specifically targeting heritage trees, defined as hardwood deciduous trees over 30 inches in diameter. This excludes species such as cottonwoods and silver maples. The ordinance now mandates a two-to-one replacement ratio for each heritage tree removed, reducing the previous requirement. Property owners can now develop preservation plans themselves, offering flexibility based on their property’s characteristics. The ordinance introduces a financial incentive, reducing the fee in lieu of replacement costs from $550 to $440 per tree, and offers credits for preserving heritage trees. Commissioner Kuza praised the comprehensive approach, particularly for addressing expansions of existing developments.

In parallel, the commission examined the Tradition Development’s proposal, which involves a plan amendment to incorporate 200 acres into the municipal urban service area. Todd Stutz of Tradition Development detailed a holistic approach to the project, involving 12 property owners and requiring an Alternative Urban Areawide Review due to its scale. The presentation emphasized a commitment to maintaining environmental balance through planned open spaces and wetlands preservation, aligning with the recently revised tree preservation ordinance.

Residents expressed significant apprehensions during the public hearings. Concerns were raised about the proposed development’s potential strain on local infrastructure, particularly schools. Michael Bowman, Superintendent of Lakeville Area Schools, highlighted the challenges of accommodating increased student numbers, calling for a pause in development to align with the district’s long-term strategic goals. Residents also pointed to traffic congestion and environmental impacts, urging the commission to prioritize sustainable growth and infrastructure readiness.

Additionally, residents voiced concerns about the proposed expansion of the Municipal Urban Service Area (MUSA). The implications for local infrastructure, particularly educational facilities, were a focal point. A resident noted the Lakeville School District’s struggle with existing demands and deferred maintenance costs. Comparisons were drawn to challenges faced by neighboring districts like Burnsville, emphasizing a need for strategic planning to ensure long-term sustainability.

Specific issues such as road expansions and their impact on individual properties were also discussed. A resident questioned the timeline for potential eminent domain actions and expressed frustration at being excluded from the MUSA plan. Another resident from the United Christian Academy expressed disappointment that the MUSA expansion was not on the parks and recreation agenda, given its environmental implications. Concerns about wetland management and the adequacy of existing infrastructure to support new developments were also raised.

The commission acknowledged these concerns, emphasizing the procedural nature of the comprehensive plan amendment and zoning changes. It was clarified that these amendments were part of a necessary process rather than immediate construction steps. The commission expressed a commitment to thorough evaluations, including a detailed environmental assessment worksheet followed by an extensive review involving multiple agencies. Staff reassured that the planning process would address environmental impacts and infrastructure requirements in consultation with the Metropolitan Council.

As the meeting concluded, the commission moved to recommend city council approval for another application by Dakota Waste Solutions, involving a public hearing for a plan amendment to expand their operations to include organic waste processing. The application faced no public opposition and was approved unanimously by the commissioners.