Commission approves first reading of Taylor Ridge PD amendment that reduces mitigation for deteriorated trees

On first reading the City of DeLand City Commission approved an amendment to the Taylor Ridge planned development (PD) that modifies tree mitigation rules for the project, allowing a reduced replacement rate for non‑specimen trees the applicant’s arborist identifies as in poor, deteriorated condition.

Why it matters: the Taylor Ridge PD is a 26‑acre single‑family subdivision whose original PD required mitigation for all trees 6 inches DBH and larger. The amendment narrows that requirement so that non‑specimen trees designated by an arborist as “poor and unable to be restored to viability” would be mitigated at a reduced rate (proposed language ties mitigation to 10% of the DBH of removed trees), while healthy specimen and historic trees remain subject to full code mitigation.

Staff presentation and arborist findings Senior planner Kendall Storey told the commission the PD was the first to use the city’s TRD (transitional residential development) land‑use category and that the planning board recommended approval. Acting city forester Mary Ellen Calabrio and the applicant’s arborist, Mary Edwards, told the commission the site contains a high percentage of laurel oaks in advanced decline, in part because of past storm damage and wind‑throw exacerbated by utility easements.

Edwards, the project arborist, said much of the tree stock is “in really bad shape. They are in really bad shape. Primarily due to advanced decay,” and said mitigation by replacement on the exact site would be difficult where the subdivision plan and stormwater features limit planting area.

Site design impacts Staff and the applicant explained that the project’s preliminary plat review revealed a need to expand a retention pond; that redesign reduces the subdivision yield by two lots (from 65 to 63 in the conceptual plan). The expanded pond and amenities under the TRD program contributed to constraints on places suitable for replacement trees, the applicant’s engineer said.

Commission discussion and vote Commissioners asked how the city confirms trees are in poor condition and whether the change creates a precedent. City forester Calabrio explained that the amendment applies only to this PD; staff said broader code revisions are already planned to address distinctions among dead, dying, and deteriorated trees. The commission voted to approve the PD amendment on first reading; the motion was made by Commissioner Paiva and seconded by Vice Mayor Davis. A roll call recorded unanimous support for the first reading.

Next steps The amendment requires a second reading before final approval. Staff will continue preliminary plat review and will verify arborist surveys and any mitigation calculations as the project proceeds through site plan and plat stages.