12-16-24-SR - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

ARDEN HILLS CITY COUNCIL — NOVEMBER 25, 2024 8 establish performance standards for cannabis uses, in anticipation of the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) issuing licenses for cannabis businesses in 2025. Consultant Planner Hofer reported the Planning Commission held a public hearing on the ordinance amendment. No comments were received. The Commission voted 6-0 to recommend approval, with six amendments, of Planning Case 24-016. The amendments have been described previously in this report. The Planning Commission reviewed this application at their November 6, 2024, meeting. The following findings of fact are offered for Council's consideration: 1. The City of Arden Hills is proposing to amend ordinance to establish definitions for cannabis uses, determine zoning districts for cannabis uses, and establish performance standards for cannabis uses. 2. The proposed ordinance will include amendments to the language of Chapter 13 — Zoning Code of the City Code. 3. Amendments to the Zoning Code regulations require a public hearing prior to action by the City Council. 4. The Planning Commission conducted a public hearing on November 6, 2024. Councilmember Rousseau commented she originally was interested in locating retail cannabis in the B-3 zoning district. She explained she wanted to see this use destigmatized and supported retail sales in both the B-3 and B-4 zoning districts. She stated she would be in favor of free market, but because there was so much change happening so quickly, she recommended the City limit the number of cannabis retailers to one. Mayor Grant indicated he supported retail cannabis sales only in the B-4 zoning district and supported the City only having one cannabis retailer. He stated he was concerned about odor and commented on how this may impact the B-3 business district. He reported he was a little concerned with the fact the OCM was still establishing the rules. He explained he was uncertain why the Planning Commission included microbusiness and mezzobusinesses. He stated he wanted to see the City Council proceeding cautiously allowing for one retailer. Councilmember Holden explained the Council discussed this matter extensively and noted she could support excluding retail sales in the Gateway Business and B-3 zoning districts. Councilmember Fabel questioned if the odor from cannabis was just from smoking or was there an odor from manufacturing as well. Mayor Grant stated it was his understanding the odor from manufacturing or growers comes from the flower of the cannabis plant and the odor was very poignant in the late summer early fall months. He reported the smell was likened to a skunk. Councilmember Fabel indicated he would like to keep retail sales off of County Road E and Lexington Avenue, which means he would only support retail sales in the B-4 zoning district. Mayor Grant asked if cannabis sales made sense in the Gateway Business District. Councilmember Holden stated she was uncertain how to go ahead with amending the proposed Ordinance.