See Bogie Shooter's comment for more information.

When you buy a dwarf Magnolia from a nursery or through a "genuine" landscaper, they should be able to give you the details on the specific tree they are speaking about. The tree should be tagged as to what variety it is.

Have you decided yet, on what course of action...you're going to take?

Come on now. You certainly do understand. It's because you signed a contract agreeing to certain terms. And seeking approval for a tree removal is one of the terms.

The point I'm trying to make is about a tree that was planted by the home owner, not The Villages. Why should The Villages be consulted to remove a tree or shrub that was planted by the home owner? It wasn't there to begin with when the dotted line was signed.

Because you signed a contract. And one of the terms of the contract is that approval must be obtained before removing a tree with a 4" plus trunk. You agreed to do it when you bought your house. That is why.

Yes. It has happened. Unapproved tree removal requires replacement. Intentionally killing it is improper removal.

Each individual can decide on his own how much risk he is willing to take. Personally, I would not suggest to anyone that they "can get away" with something that may end up costing them a lot of money.

I get it. Just venting. I'm good at that. LOL!

Without getting too detailed, as I have a magnolia tree up north, a lot of concerns were noted above regarding the disadvantages of such tree and I fully endorse each of those, as an fyi only. You may need to confirm with your landscaper of your particular tree is a dwarf, as it may not mitigate your neighbors concern but will not be as large and messy as the regular. Good luck!!

She may be doing you a favor,
 

I was doing yard work today, up north, and though of this post as I was raking leaves from under the Magnolia tree and took a small break to send a note. She may be doing you a favor, regarding replacing of removing the tree. I raked at least 5 wheel barrels of leaves from under the magnolia tree and that included large cones. Big brown leaves. Cones the size of a can of soda. Additionally I stood back and eye balled the tree at about 80 feet. Yikes!!
None of my business of course, but unless you have a very large yard, I am surprised a landscaper would recommend this type of tree in TV's. I actually took a few pictures to send you but not sure if I uploaded correctly.
Please note that I am sending this to you not to be rude, but in spirit of these forums, a chance for us to proactively share comments with each other.
Interesting post,
Best wishes.
Keep us posted please of the final outcome