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Commission declines variance to remove two historic trees at Lake Ella development
Summary
The commission declined a variance request related to two historic trees at the proposed Lake Ella Independent Living site after staff said one tree could be saved and the Planning & Zoning Board recommended denial; the motion to approve failed on roll call.
The Town Commission considered Resolution 2026-102, a variance request tied to two historic trees near the proposed Lake Ella Independent Living development, and the motion to approve the variance failed by roll call on May 4, 2026.
Growth Management staff said the application sought removal of two historic trees on the roughly 30‑acre site; staff supported removing a tree within the utility area to the north (to permit needed utility relocation tied to wastewater upgrades) but opposed removal of a second historic tree on the west side of the property because staff believed that tree could be saved with a modified wall/terracing approach. The Planning & Zoning Board had previously forwarded the resolution to the commission with a recommendation of denial.
A motion to approve the variance was moved and seconded. Roll-call votes recorded: Commissioner Killeep — Yes; Commissioner Zayesh — No; Commissioner Reagan — No; Commissioner Roberts — Yes; Mayor Ed Freeman — No. The motion to approve therefore failed (majority No), meaning the town will not grant the variance as requested and the tree‑removal request remains denied in its present form.
Staff noted the northern tree sits in the right of way and explained that utility upgrades related to wastewater work would require coordination; commissioners weighed aesthetic and infrastructure trade-offs but ultimately did not approve the variance.
