The Lakeville Planning Commission voted Thursday to table a proposed tree preservation ordinance while recommending approval of comprehensive zoning changes aimed at addressing missing middle housing needs.

The tree preservation ordinance would have required developers to preserve 60% of trees on residential sites and 70% on commercial and industrial properties, with replacement requirements for excess removal. However, commissioners expressed concerns about the ordinance's impact on existing neighborhoods where homeowners seek to add rooms or expand their homes.

Commissioner Ike raised concerns about older neighborhoods with mature trees planted close to homes decades ago. "Most of the neighborhoods where this would occur are in lower moderate incomes," he said, noting the costs associated with arborist certifications and potential tree replacement requirements that could force homeowners to relocate rather than expand.

City Forester Zach Jorgensson acknowledged the challenges, particularly in situations where heritage trees might require replacement with up to 12 smaller trees on quarter-acre lots. The commission directed staff to revise the ordinance to address concerns about existing neighborhoods before bringing it back for consideration.

The commission unanimously approved the second ordinance addressing missing middle housing through reduced garage size requirements, smaller minimum lot sizes, and modified exterior material standards. Planning consultant Dan Lick explained the changes respond to legislative pressure and aim to provide more affordable housing options while maintaining local control over development standards.