The council member leading the discussion expressed satisfaction with the balanced approach, emphasizing the judicious and cautious nature of the city’s embrace of cannabis businesses. The Planning Commission had previously conducted a public hearing on this ordinance, which concluded without public comments, and subsequently recommended its approval. The motion to accept the zoning ordinance was moved, seconded, and passed unanimously by the council. This ordinance is the first of two, with a second ordinance concerning registration regulations anticipated for presentation at the council’s first meeting in November.

In addition to the cannabis zoning ordinance, the council addressed amendments to city codes related to wetland protection, erosion and sedimentation control, water resource management, and well drilling. These amendments introduced new buffer requirements consistent with the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District’s rules and allowed for delegation of administrative tasks to appropriate staff while aligning city regulations with state standards. Motions to approve these amendments were moved, seconded, and received unanimous approval, recognizing the efforts of the Water Resources staff in developing these improvements.

The meeting also featured a presentation from the Arts Commission co-chairs, who highlighted their 2024 projects focusing on enhancing art in schools and community art initiatives. The commission engaged local schools in various activities, including a high school seniors art show and a carnival event with a Dual Language School participation. Community art efforts included an Earth Day event, activities at local farmers markets, and contributions to city events like Penn Fest and the Great Pumpkin Giveaway. Additionally, the commission reported on maintaining public art displays and initiatives like refreshing the Pride roundabout and starting a book drive for diverse literature in the little free library.

Another report came from the Planning Commission, which, despite a slowdown in development applications, engaged in numerous public hearings and work sessions. These included discussions on variances for Veterans Memorial Park, amendments related to the Audi dealership’s parking ramp, and topics like cannabis regulations and parking requirements. The council members expressed their appreciation for the Planning Commission’s comprehensive approach to these issues.

The meeting proceeded with the approval of the consent calendar, which included the allocation of American Rescue Plan Act funding to nonprofit organizations, a resolution for the city’s contribution to insurance premiums for 2025, and a request for state oversight on electrical inspections. A construction and maintenance agreement concerning specific block features was also part of the consent calendar, which passed without opposition.