The Lakeville City Council discussed potential rezoning of two commercial properties during a work session Monday, drawing significant public input on both proposals.

The first site, a 25-acre property at 210th Street and Juniper Way near Trinity Church, is currently zoned for office park use but has remained undeveloped for more than 20 years due to topography and wetland constraints. Developer Jeff Cook with Norse Companies presented a concept for 208 senior housing units in a 55-plus active adult community. The proposal would utilize a multi-story building as a retaining wall to address the site's 50-foot grade change while incorporating townhomes around existing wetlands.

The second property, a 25-acre site owned by the George Warwick trust near Antlers Park, is split-zoned for office park and commercial use. Planning consultant Josh McGuny outlined challenges for commercial development including limited access points, railroad car storage affecting visibility, and traffic concerns. A conceptual plan showed high-density residential development with up to 400 units, though no specific developer has been identified.

Residents expressed strong opposition to both proposals, particularly the Warwick site development. Multiple speakers cited concerns about traffic congestion, school capacity, and preserving commercial land for future economic development. Several residents suggested the Warwick property should become additional parkland or a community center rather than residential development.

Council members indicated mixed reactions to both proposals. Mayor Luke Hellier expressed concerns about density impacts on Antlers Park usage, while other council members questioned the wisdom of converting commercial-zoned land to residential without broader comprehensive planning review. The council took no formal action on either proposal, with staff indicating they would return with additional analysis based on the feedback received.