The council’s approval of the variance request for Legacy Commons was a focal point of discussion, primarily due to the development’s location and the potential traffic implications. The proposed site plan for the restaurant included a drive-thru or pickup window for mobile app orders, with access and exit points originally planned for Second Street. However, in response to concerns raised by neighboring residential properties during public hearings, the developer, Marcus Construction, proposed to redirect traffic onto Monagalia Street to minimize disruption. This redesign was aimed at addressing community feedback about increased traffic and safety concerns on a residential street.

The variance request involved reducing the setback from 15 feet to 5 feet, effectively altering the landscape buffer for the property. The proposed design included fencing and landscaping measures to mitigate the impact of vehicle headlights on nearby homes. During the meeting, one council member clarified that the entrance on the west side of the property was designated for employee use only, while customers would enter from the east side. The redesign also resulted in the loss of one parking spot, a point noted in the council’s discussion.

The council deliberated on traffic control measures, including the installation of a stop sign on Second Street as part of the city’s Safe Streets for All initiative. The proximity of the development to residential areas prompted further scrutiny, with council members emphasizing the importance of cooperation with neighborhood needs as part of the variance conditions.

Ultimately, a motion to approve the variance request was made and passed unanimously.

In addition to the variance discussion, the council considered budget matters for Kandiyohi County Economic Development (KCED). Barbara K., the new executive director of KCED, presented the proposed 2026 budget. She outlined KCED’s mission to foster economic growth in the region, with a strategic focus on housing, industrial development, and childcare initiatives. Barbara highlighted state-level funding cuts impacting business and community development programs, specifically noting a near $6 million reduction in the job creation fund and $2 million cut in redevelopment grants.

Council members engaged with Barbara on these budgetary concerns, with Council Member Gardner querying the budget reductions for 2026 compared to 2025. Barbara confirmed that the budget reflects expected funding levels rather than aspirational figures, highlighting the project’s realistic scope. Council Member Nelson inquired about KCED’s relationship with UKAP, to which Barbara explained their collaborative mentorship program aimed at enhancing childcare services. The council unanimously adopted the proposed 2026 budget and encouraged Barbara to return frequently with updates on KCED’s progress.

The council also approved a change order related to signage and striping for the Technology Drive improvements project, a routine occurrence during ongoing construction projects. This change order, along with another related to the First Street improvement project, was intended to better direct patrons and employees of nearby businesses during construction.

Another notable item on the agenda was an application from Leafline Labs LLC for a combination license to sell medical marijuana and cannabis products. The council confirmed that this application would not count against the city’s retail business slots for cannabis sales, as medical marijuana is treated separately under state law. The zoning approval had already been granted, and a timely response from the council was necessary to avoid automatic approval by the state. A motion to approve the zoning request was made and passed unanimously.