During the meeting, the council approved Ordinance 839, which establishes registration and compliance check regulations for cannabis retail businesses. Initially, the ordinance proposed a limit of two retail cannabis licenses, sparking debate among council members. Some argued that market forces should determine the number of businesses, not arbitrary limits, noting past frustrations with liquor license restrictions. Ultimately, the council decided not to impose the cap on cannabis licenses, passing the motion with four votes in favor and one against. This decision aligns with the sentiment that competition will decide which businesses can thrive, thus providing potential business opportunities without unnecessary limitations.

Additionally, the council tackled zoning regulations related to cannabis businesses. Ordinance 841 was approved to implement land use criteria, restricting retail sales to commercial districts while allowing manufacturing and distribution in industrial areas. A contentious topic was the proposed separation distances around schools and daycare centers, with some members concerned about limiting business opportunities in the downtown area. The council decided to approve the zoning ordinance without specific distance restrictions, aligning cannabis business regulations with those for liquor stores and allowing them to operate in more areas. This vote passed unanimously, emphasizing the balance between regulatory oversight and business opportunity.

Apart from cannabis-related matters, the council addressed the renewal of health insurance plans for city employees. After reviewing bids, they opted to continue with the current Blue Cross Blue Shield plan, which was slightly below budget expectations. The decision was made easier by the higher costs of alternative plans, such as the Minnesota public plan, which was 177% more expensive. The council unanimously approved the renewal.

In financial matters, the council approved Resolution 2024-25, authorizing interfund transfers to close year-end accounts. This included moving over $1.8 million related to various projects, such as the fire hall debt service and stormwater utility projects. The transfers are expected to reduce future levies and were unanimously approved.

The council also discussed property liability insurance, opting to waive statutory limits and purchase excess liability insurance. The move was to ensure adequate coverage, particularly in instances involving multiple claims or federal civil rights cases, which could exceed statutory caps.

Operational updates from various city departments were presented during the meeting. The Police Department reported consistent call volumes, though there was a slight increase in medical calls. Challenges were noted with the transition to a new records management system, which affected data tracking. Measures are being taken to address these issues, especially with the onset of winter parking regulations. The Public Works Department highlighted preparations for winter, including snow removal readiness and Christmas decorations installation. The Planning Commission reported on land use amendments related to cannabis ordinances, with 13 permits issued in October valued at $76,000.

In other council actions, the approval of ordinance 842 authorized summary publication of cannabis-related regulations, a cost-saving measure allowing for abbreviated public notice. The council also discussed the sale of city lots, with a resolution passed to allow the mayor and city administrator to execute necessary documents. Marketing strategies for remaining lots were considered for when only a few are left.