Council defers Colonial Club Drive setback change to planning board amid tree‑protection concerns

Harahan — The City Council on Dec. 18 deferred a proposed zoning change that would reduce front setbacks from 45 to 40 feet for lots 14–27 on Colonial Club Drive. A property owner and residents asked the council to adopt the smaller setback to protect live oak trees and their root systems; speakers described long‑running efforts with arborists to sustain canopy health after nearby construction.

Council questioned whether the change had been considered by the planning and zoning board; staff and council members agreed the item should go to planning and zoning for review and recommendation. Councilman Ricks moved to defer and the ordinance was placed on the boarding agenda for Jan. 7.

Attribution: The public comment included a detailed statement from a resident/property owner (identified during the hearing), plus contributions from Carol Barker LaGreca and Dr. Foster Wade on canopy protection and permit rules for tree removal. Council favored placing the matter before planning and zoning before final action.