The council’s primary focus was on the proposed regulations for adult-use cannabis, following the state’s legalization. The city retains some authority over the location of cannabis sales and production through zoning laws, despite the state handling licensing. The council considered recommendations from the city attorney’s office and community development director, suggesting that cannabis businesses be permitted in the MU2 (Transitional Mixed Use) and MU3 (Corridor Mixed Use) districts, while being prohibited from the historic downtown MU1 area. This approach aimed to prevent an effective ban on cannabis businesses while ensuring they are situated in appropriate zones within the city. Concerns were raised about potential proximity to residential areas, particularly near senior living facilities and multi-family housing, with some council members emphasizing the importance of maintaining the residential character of neighborhoods.

Further deliberations centered around the hours of operation for cannabis businesses, proposed to align with local liquor stores, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday through Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sundays. These hours comply with state law, but the city can impose further restrictions. The council also discussed the allowable number of cannabis businesses, considering a cap of two establishments for North St. Paul’s 13,115 residents, as permitted by state guidelines. This cap would not include a municipal cannabis store, should the city decide to open one.

The council also addressed minimum distance requirements for cannabis businesses from schools and parks, with recommendations for a 750-foot buffer from schools and 500 feet from other facilities. Some council members expressed skepticism about the necessity of these distance requirements, arguing that clustering similar businesses might promote healthy competition. The discussion led to considerations of how neighboring cities manage similar regulations, emphasizing the need for informed decisions based on local and regional contexts.

Additionally, the council explored potential revenue sources, such as reintroducing a sidewalk snow removal fee for the Central Business District, special assessments, and establishing municipal liquor or cannabis stores. The finance director outlined the historical context and potential revenue from these sources, with sidewalk fees previously generating significant income from 1998 to 2018. The council was informed about the legal processes for fee enforcement through property taxes.

The council also debated the reintroduction of special assessments, discontinued since 2019, which could meet a “special benefit test” where assessed values correspond to market increases due to improvements. Some members expressed caution over potential litigation risks from property owners contesting assessments, while others noted the financial burden on residents. The idea of a municipal liquor store was discussed, with the finance director citing substantial financial benefits derived from such establishments in other Minnesota municipalities.

Community-focused discussions were also part of the meeting, including the introduction of a coalition of neighboring cities and a segment on fire prevention efforts. The council celebrated the participation of over 1,100 students in fire safety education, highlighted by a fire prevention poster contest. Winners of the contest were recognized, with first-place entries advancing to a state-level competition. This segment emphasized community engagement and safety awareness, particularly among young residents.

The council reviewed park dedication fees related to the Sentinel resident development project, approving a resolution to fund these fees from a remaining bond issuance and department budget. Additionally, amendments to the park rental policy were discussed, particularly regarding the use of inflatable bouncy houses. A fee of $35 was proposed for residents wishing to rent inflatables, with some council members suggesting a waiver for the first year to gauge demand.