A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the regulation of cannabis businesses within the city. Due to state law requirements, Falcon Heights must allow at least one cannabis business. The council discussed the implications of Chapter 342, which mandates that cities permit a certain number of cannabis operations based on population. Given Falcon Heights’ population, at least one cannabis retail business must be established.

The council outlined a licensing process managed by the Office of Cannabis Management, which includes background checks and application reviews. Once approved, the city ensures compliance with local zoning and operational restrictions, such as business hours and buffer zones from schools and parks. The proposed regulations align with those of neighboring St. Paul and include a 300-foot buffer for sensitive areas and a restriction to the B3 zoning district, specifically at Larpender and Snelling. Additionally, the council adopted ordinances to amend city codes, specifying that only one retailer—standard, micro, or mezzo—needs registration to comply with state guidelines. These measures were unanimously approved, stressing the city’s readiness to integrate cannabis businesses responsibly.

Equally pressing was the need to repair streetlights in Falcon Heights, following reports of copper wire thefts that left them inoperative. Officials presented options to expedite repairs, including a transition to LED bulbs for consistency across the city. To prevent future thefts, proposals included encasing new conduits in protective sleeves. The council unanimously approved a motion to authorize emergency streetlight repairs, recognizing the necessity of promptly restoring functionality and safety.

The council also focused on the 2025 budget, highlighted by a reduction in proposed public safety costs due to a new contract with St. Anthony for police services. The agreement, which includes two months of service from the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office and ten months from St. Anthony, is expected to save costs while maintaining community policing needs. The proposed budget reflects a 2.77% increase in the overall levy, amounting to $2,626,701, which was characterized as stable compared to previous years. This increase includes a 3.97% rise in general fund expenditures due to contractual obligations and a cost-of-living adjustment for city staff.

Additionally, the council discussed the implications of rising property values, with the median home value increasing from $373,000 in 2024 to $401,000 in 2025. This rise presents challenges in property tax relief, but the proposed budget does not require transfers from reserves, illustrating a balanced fiscal strategy. Strategic budget proposals include a new city website, a boulevard tree program, and a Climate Action Plan, aimed at enhancing community engagement and sustainability.