The most notable issue of the evening was the discussion surrounding the ordinance that would establish term limits for city boards and commissions. The proposed ordinance aimed to limit most boards and commissions to two consecutive three-year terms, while the Planning Commission would be limited to three consecutive terms. Concerns were raised by council members about the potential impact of these term limits on the council’s authority and decision-making process.

One council member argued that the council already possesses the authority to decide on reappointments, stating, “I think we have the ability as the council to choose whether or not to reappoint someone.” This sentiment was echoed by another council member, who likened the situation to a potluck where “all the items just come and you don’t have all potato salad,” suggesting that the natural selection process would yield the right outcomes without imposed limits.

Further concerns were voiced about the clarity and timing of the ordinance, particularly regarding its impact on current appointees and the reapplication process. The potential for confusion surrounding the unanimous appointment clause, which allows the council to extend terms if they agree unanimously, was also highlighted. In light of these discussions, a motion was made to table the item for further review, with the intention of clarifying the process and potential adjustments. The motion passed, delaying any immediate changes to the term limits.

In another significant agenda item, the council approved a new residential development project proposed by Lord of Life Lutheran Church. Pastor Jamie Thompson provided background on the church’s property located on DOD Lane in Lakeville, explaining that changes in regulations had opened up new opportunities for development. The church partnered with Matt Frisbee from Frisbee Properties to explore these options and ensure the protection of the church’s assets.

Frisbee presented the site plan for the residential development, which includes 24 housing units, primarily three-bedroom with two-car garages, along with some two-bedroom options. The community-oriented design features shared spaces such as a pavilion and a pickleball court. Frisbee addressed a question regarding the absence of basements, explaining that the homes would be slab-on-grade constructions, with adaptations for accessibility. All units would be for sale rather than rental, managed by a homeowners’ association (HOA).

City staff outlined the necessary actions for the proposed comprehensive plan amendment and zoning change. The current land use designation of Public/Quasi-Public was to be amended to Low/Medium Residential, and the zoning would change from RS3 to RST2 to accommodate the new residential development. The planning commission had previously held a public hearing on September 5th, receiving no public comments, and recommended approval of the project.

During the council’s deliberation, one member inquired about any exceptions to standard zoning regulations, seeking assurance that the project would adhere to typical neighborhood street designs and sidewalk spacing. Staff confirmed that the proposed zoning change was designed to maintain compliance with existing regulations and fit the proposed layout. Another council member expressed support for the project, noting its alignment with community needs in an area where development had stagnated due to previous constraints.

Ultimately, the council voted to approve the resolution amending the comprehensive land use map and the ordinance amending the zoning map for the Lord of Life Lutheran Church project.

Other notable items included a citizen comment from Howard Schneider, who invited the council to participate in the upcoming 16th annual community bike ride. Schneider emphasized the event’s purpose of fostering community spirit amid divisive times. The bike ride will feature 18 and 5-mile routes, including new trails and three tunnels, with activities like a scavenger hunt and coloring pages for children. Despite a forecast of potential rain, Schneider expressed optimism about participation, noting that nearly 30 riders had already signed up.

The council also introduced two proclamations. The first recognized Lakeville Olympians Reagan Smith, Ian Seidenfeld, and Josh Cino for their achievements in the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics. The second proclamation designated October as Manufacturing Month in Lakeville, with an annual manufacturing appreciation event scheduled for October 2, featuring speaker Gary Hefner discussing employee recruitment and retention strategies.

Additionally, the council discussed amending the city code regarding cannabis businesses. The ordinance would implement retail registration requirements, performance standards, and licensing details, limiting retail registrations to six on a first-come, first-served basis once licenses become available. The Planning Commission had previously held a public hearing on the zoning aspect of the ordinance and recommended its approval unanimously. Despite some opposition to the limitation on retail registrations, the ordinance moved forward in the legislative process.