09-25-23-R - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL — AUGUST 28, 2023 10 language. Following the public hearing, the draft ordinance language with the recommendation of the Planning Commission would be brought to the City Council for subsequent discussion and adoption. It was noted to the Planning Commission that at the subsequent regular City Council meeting, a Councilmember commented that the upcoming lower -potency hemp discussions should also consider allowing the ability to sell as an accessory use for Service Stations and potentially within the Gateway Business District. Community Development Director Jagoe reviewed the Overview of Ordinance Amendments in further detail with the Council and stated the Planning Commission voted 6-0 (Commissioner Mitchell was absent) to recommend approval of Planning Case 23-014 with amendments. The Commission added amendments to recommend adding Lower -Potency Hemp Edible Sales as a Conditional Accessory use in the B-2, B-3, B-4 and GB Zoning Districts and to permit Lower - Potency Hemp Edible Sales as an accessory use on a Subject Property where the principal use is also a Restaurant or a Service Station. The Commission discussed allowing Lower -Potency Hemp Edible Sales as a principal use and reducing/removing the distance separation for subject properties and asked the City Council to consider these points as part of the ordinance review. Councilmember Fabel asked if there was any consideration to restricting sales to businesses that otherwise distribute alcohol, such as liquor stores or restaurants with a liquor license. He noted these establishments would be used to carding individuals prior to sales. Community Development Director Jagoe reported without action by the City Council to adopt an ordinance, a liquor store could sell the lower potency hemp products. Councilmember Fabel was of the opinion businesses that were familiar with carding for age restricted products, would have a better ability to manage the sales of lower potency products. Councilmember Holden questioned if the Sheriff's Department would be taking on enforcement efforts for these products. City Administrator Perrault stated he has not had a direct conversation with the Sheriff about the proposed ordinance changes. He noted there would be an Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) to assist with overseeing enforcement. Councilmember Holden asked how the City defined retail operations. Community Development Director Jagoe reviewed how zoning code defined retail operations, noting this was to be the principle use. Councilmember Holden expressed concern with the fact the apartments located in the B-2 district would be allowed to sell edibles. City Attorney Jamnik reported a home occupation is allowed in the residential units, but a CUP would not be allowed. He supported the City taking a slow approach when it came to lower potency sales and noted follow up could occur to this Ordinance over time.