One of a notable topics was the approval of a conditional use permit for indoor cannabis cultivation, presented by Daniel Clark, owner of Green Cross Corp. The proposed site is approximately 3,322 square feet, located off Elm Street in a B2 highway commercial zone. The council’s decision followed a planning commission recommendation and no public opposition. Clark outlined his experience in the industry, planning to distribute primarily to the Minneapolis area, and assured compliance with conditions such as odor control and security measures. The council emphasized the need for careful management of the operation to align with community standards, with provisions for potential expansion requiring further council approval to prevent negative impacts on parking and public safety.

In another key agenda item, the council considered a proposal to raise the fire department’s pension benefits from $3,600 to $4,600 per year of service. The president of the Relief Association presented comprehensive data on the department’s financial health, confirming that the increase was sustainable. The council unanimously passed the motion to approve the pension increase, reflecting confidence in the department’s financial stability and commitment to supporting its members.

The meeting further addressed budgetary concerns, with a focus on the preliminary budget and future debt management. The council was informed of a projected levy increase for urban properties and a specific rise in the debt levy. An additional police officer hiring plan was also discussed, considering the Minnesota paid leave law’s financial impact. The council set a truth and taxation hearing for December to provide property taxpayers with levy statements reflecting current market conditions, allowing for potential budget adjustments based on negotiation outcomes.

The council also approved the issuance of general obligation bonds, with a presentation by Tammy Omdal from Northland Securities. The bond sale included a double A minus rating and a true interest cost of 3.29%, structured over a ten-year term. The bonds were sold at a premium, effectively reducing the city’s principal debt obligation. A debt study presented at the meeting highlighted the city’s rapid debt repayment schedule, with 90% of the debt expected to be retired by 2036, and emphasized the use of sales tax revenue for specific obligations.

Another discussion centered on Minnesota Street improvements, where a resident raised concerns about prepayment for uncompleted work. The council acknowledged these concerns, clarifying that the roundabout project concluded ahead of schedule, allowing for possible advancement of the street improvements. A council member confirmed the roundabout completion deadline as the end of August, and the council agreed to document the resident’s concerns in the meeting minutes.

Additionally, the council addressed staffing challenges within the police department, highlighting the competitive job market. The promotion of Officer Vic Weiss to full-time status and the hiring of a new officer named Jacob were part of efforts to fill vacancies. The police chief discussed recruitment strategies, such as offering a $2,500 sign-on bonus for experienced candidates, and expressed optimism about the new hires’ potential contributions.