The meeting’s primary focus was the public hearing for the site plan approval of Lion Cannabis LLC’s proposed retail conversion on Lindale Avenue South. The plan, presented by Nathan Bruno, involves transforming the existing service use into a retail cannabis outlet, a permissible change under the C2 zoning district. Key adjustments to the site include resizing the parking lot to meet setback requirements, adding EV charging stations, and installing an ADA-compliant access ramp. A wooden privacy fence was also proposed along the west property line.

Compliance issues were identified, notably the building’s 26-foot setback from Lindale Avenue, falling short of the 35-foot requirement, and the freestanding sign’s failure to meet the five-foot setback requirement. Staff recommended allowing the existing sign until replacement was necessary, citing the impracticality of relocating the building or sign. The proposal aligns with the zoning code.

Commissioners raised several points, including the height of the proposed fence and parking space adequacy. Staff confirmed that the retail space met the required parking stalls and addressed age restrictions, noting that customers must be 21 to enter. Bruno acknowledged limited community engagement due to the business’s novelty and emphasized the dispensary’s low foot traffic compared to traditional retail outlets.

Security measures for the dispensary were detailed, involving a two-step ID verification process to prevent underage sales. The representative assured that no on-site consumption would occur, likening operations to a municipal liquor store. Concerns regarding odor were mitigated by the prepackaged and sealed nature of the products.

Residents voiced concerns about increased traffic, with Sean Foley and Brad Diamond noting potential traffic issues on Aldrich Avenue and the need for a traffic study. Anastasia Grieman highlighted pedestrian safety, advocating for additional stop signs to slow traffic. The commission discussed these concerns, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive lighting plan for the parking lot and community-driven modifications to the proposed fencing.

The public hearing concluded with a motion to close it, and further discussions led to a motion recommending site plan approval, contingent on community-driven fence height adjustments. The commission emphasized the importance of resident participation in traffic review requests to address ongoing concerns.

The commission also reviewed the 2026 capital improvement budget, presented by budget manager Steve McDaniel. The budget, totaling nearly $22 million, focuses on recreation, right-of-way improvements, public facilities, and technology. Notable allocations include $6.7 million for recreation, with significant funding for the Veterans Park complex and Woodlake Nature Center. Right-of-way improvements, primarily for the Nicollet reconstruction project, are budgeted at $9.9 million. Public facilities and utilities receive $1.5 million, and $3.8 million is allocated for vehicle purchases and a public works storage facility.

The four-year capital improvement plan from 2027 to 2030 totals $132 million, driven by major projects like the community center, budgeted at $55 million. Commissioners expressed appreciation for the budget’s clarity and comprehensive nature, particularly supporting the parks master plan and sidewalk prioritization process.

Additionally, infrastructure planning and traffic safety were highlighted, with discussions on the pedestrian master plan and active transportation plan guiding funding submissions. The commission acknowledged successful grant applications, particularly for the Safe Routes to School program, and ongoing monitoring of federal funding.

The meeting concluded with liaison reports from various commissions, highlighting updates on the Woodlake Nature Center demolition, upcoming city council discussions, and transportation projects. The Housing and Redevelopment Commission announced a Bring It Home Minnesota funding award for rental assistance. The Sustainability Commission introduced a new youth commissioner and announced a tree health awareness event.