12-04-2024 PC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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ARDEN HILLS PLANNING COMMISSION – November 6, 2024 4 Chair Weber anticipated the retailer would be selected on a first come first served basis. Chair Weber opened the public hearing at 7:03 p.m. Chair Weber invited anyone for or against the amendment to come forward and make comment. There being no comment Chair Weber closed the public hearing at 7:04 p.m. Commissioner Erler recommended the reference to local ordinances be changed to the City’s ordinances. Chair Weber addressed odor control and agreed some sort of complaint system should be in place. He explained he supported the signage and outdoor cultivation recommendations. He discussed how the 1,000 foot school setback would impact where retail shops could be located in the City. He recommended this requirement be reconsidered to be less restrictive. He indicated the City should want to set up a business that succeeds. He commented on how the OCM was working reduce the stigma surrounding cannabis and he believed the goals from the OCM were admirable. He explained he supported cannabis retail in both the B-3 and B-4 zoning districts, and possibly the Gateway Business District. He reiterated that this was now a legal use in Minnesota and he wanted to see retail shops in Arden Hills succeed. He asked if the Commission would support an amendment to the Ordinance allowing for retail sales of cannabis in both the B- 3, B-4 and Gateway Business districts. Commissioner Blilie stated she would support this amendment. Chair Weber questioned if the Commission would support an amendment to the setback language. He indicated he supported the 1,000 feet from schools, but questioned if the parking lot away from Mounds View High School should be included in the “school property”. Consultant Planner Hofer stated this may be a question for the City Attorney on how school property is defined. Chair Weber suggested the Ordinance read the setback for schools shall be 1,000 feet, not separated by an interstate highway or freeway. Consultant Planner Hofer believed this type of amendment would be allowed and suggested the amendment reference principle arterials instead of interstate highways or freeways. Chair Weber moved and Commissioner Bjorklund seconded a motion to recommend approval of Planning Case 24-019 for a Zoning Code Amendments to Chapter 13 of the Arden Hills City Code to establish definitions for cannabis uses, establish zoning districts (B-3, B-4 and Gateway Business) for cannabis uses, and establish performance standards for cannabis uses, based on the findings of fact, as presented in the November 6, 2024, report to the Planning Commission and as amended per the discussion of the Planning Commission amending Sections G-2, H-1, J-1, and Subdivision 2 with the Gateway Business District being excluded from the 1,000 foot setback from the Mounds View High School. The motion carried unanimously (6-0).