HomeMy WebLinkAboutPC Packet 2.27.2024City of Falcon Heights
Planning Commission
City Hall
2077 Larpenteur Avenue West
AGENDA
Tuesday, February 27, 2024
7:00 p.m.
A.CALL TO ORDER: 7:00 p.m.
B. ROLL CALL:Scott Wilson ____ Laura Paynter ____
Jacob Brooks ____ Mike Tracy ____
Jim Mogen ____ Rick Seifert ____
Jake Anderson ____
Staff Liaison – Hannah Lynch ____
Council Liaison – Eric Meyer ____
C.APPROVAL OF AGENDA
D.APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. January 23, 2024 – Regular Meeting
2. January 23, 2024 - Workshop
E.PUBLIC HEARING
1.EVSE City Code Updates
2.Hollywood Court Permit Parking Petition
F. NEW BUSINESS
1. Cannabis Regulation Update
G.INFORMATION AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
1. Staff Liaison Report
2.Council Liaison Report
H. ADJOURN
Next regular meeting date: March 26, 2024
CITY OF FALCON HEIGHTS
Planning Commission
City Hall
2077 West Larpenteur Avenue
MINUTES
January 23, 2024 at 7:00 P.M.
A. CALL TO ORDER: 7:00 P.M.
B. ROLL CALL:
Scott Wilson _X_ Laura Paynter _X_
Jacob Brooks _A_ Mike Tracy _X_
Jim Mogen _X_ Rick Seifert _X_
Jake Anderson _X_
Staff Liaison Lynch _X_
C. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
Staff Liaison Lynch noted one change to the agenda to remove G2 - Council Liaison
Report. With this change, Commissioner Paynter made a motion to approve the agenda.
Agenda was approved by consent.
D. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. October 24, 2023
Commissioner Mogen made a motion to approve the minutes from October 24, 2023.
Minutes were approved by consent.
E. PUBLIC HEARING
None.
F. NEW BUSINESS
1. 2024 Officer Nominations
Commissioners discussed and made the following nominations: Current Chair
Wilson for 2024 Chair, Current Vice-Chair Paynter for 2024 Vice-Chair, and Staff
Liaison Lynch for Secretary. Commissioner Mogen made a motion to approve
these nominations. Motion was carried by consent.
2. Adoption of Standing Rules
Commissioner Anderson made a motion to adopt the standing rules for 2024.
Motion was carried by consent.
3. 2024 Schedule
Chair Wilson let Commissioners know the 2024 schedule was included in the
packet for informational purposes. Commissioner Mogen asked if this needed to
be approved. Staff Liaison Lynch explained the city calendar was approved by
City Council at a previous meeting and this is just for the Commissioners to have
for their records.
4. Discussion – 2024 Priorities
Staff Liaison Lynch discussed priorities for the Planning Commission to discuss
this year, including the Larpenteur & Snelling Corridor Development Study,
updating City Code to include EVs and EVSEs along with other necessary
changes, working on cannabis business licensing, accessory dwelling units, and
short-term rentals. Commissioner Paynter also suggested taking a look at
parking requirements in the City.
G. INFORMATION AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
1. Staff Liaison Report
Staff Liaison Lynch reported the Amber Flats project was approved by City
Council after a few modifications to the plan by the developer. She also
reminded the Planning Commission of the upcoming focus group meeting for
the Larpenteur & Snelling Corridor Development Study which will take place on
February 26, 2024 from 6-8 PM at City Hall. She stated there are 11 people
currently in the focus group, including someone from Warners’ Stellian and
Gibbs Farm. She stated they would be holding an open house for businesses on
March 25, 2024 from 6-8 PM, location to be determined. Finally, she stated the
city’s Partners in Energy program would be holding an Open House on February
21, 2024 from 6-8 PM at City Hall.
H. ADJOURN
Commissioner Mogen made a motion to adjourn. Motion was carried by consent.
Meeting was adjourned at 7:18 PM.
CITY OF FALCON HEIGHTS
Planning Commission
City Hall
2077 West Larpenteur Avenue
WORKSHOP MINUTES
January 23, 2024 at 7:00 P.M.
A. CALL TO ORDER: 7:20 P.M.
B. ROLL CALL:
Scott Wilson _X_ Laura Paynter _X_
Jacob Brooks _A_ Mike Tracy _X_
Jim Mogen _X_ Rick Seifert _X_
Jake Anderson _X_
Staff Liaison Lynch _X_
C. DISCUSSION
1. City Code Updates – Electric Vehicles & Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
Staff Liaison Lynch went over updates drafted in City Code. Updates are
required as part of the EV Smart program the City is involved in. Commissioners
discussed changes and adjustments to the drafted items and discussed holding a
public hearing for the changes at the February meeting.
Drafted changes including adding definitions to City Code around EVs and
EVSEs, allowing them by right as accessories in all zoning districts, requiring a
certain number of spaces to meet ADA guidelines, and allowing EV parking
stalls to be counted toward the minimum required parking stalls for new
developments.
D. ADJOURN
Workshop was adjourned at 8:00 PM.
ITEM FOR DISCUSSION
City of Falcon Heights, Minnesota
__________________________
Item EVSE City Code Updates
Description
The City of Falcon Heights is part of the EV Smart Cities Program which is
presented by the Great Plains Institute. In order to achieve Bronze status, we
must include ordinance updates included EVs and EVSEs. Attached are
drafted updates to City Code to include this information.
A public hearing has been held on the updates. The Planning Commission
should now decide whether or not to submit this to City Council as a
recommendation of approval.
Budget Impact None.
Attachment(s) E1.1 – EVs & EVSEs – Public Hearing Notice - Posted
E1.2 – EVs & EVSEs – Public Hearing Notice - Newspaper
E1.3 – Newspaper Affidavit of Publication
E1.4 – Draft Ordinance 24-XX – EVs and EVSEs
Action(s)
Requested
Staff requests the Planning Commission discuss drafted updates, any
comments from the public hearing, and make a recommendation to City
Council for approval.
Meeting Date February 27, 2024
Agenda Item E1
Attachment See notes below.
Submitted By Hannah Lynch, Community
Development Coordinator / Planner
CITY OF FALCON HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Falcon Heights Planning Commission at its
regular meeting at 7:00 p.m. on February 27, 2024, in the City Hall Council Chambers, 2077 W.
Larpenteur Ave, will hold a public hearing to consider updating City Code to include regulations
regarding electric vehicle supply equipment.
The proposed updates will be available upon request no later than Friday, February 23,
2024. It will also be available on the City’s website at www.falconheights.org. If you have any
questions regarding the public hearing, please contact Hannah Lynch, Community Development
Coordinator, at 651.792.7600 or hannah.b.lynch@falconheights.org.
Dated: February 15, 2024
_________________________________________
Hannah Lynch, Community Development Coordinator
City of Falcon Heights, Minnesota
CITY of FALCON HEIGHTS
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that the Falcon Heights Planning Commission at its regular meeting at
7:00 p.m. on February 27, 2024, in the City Hall Council Chambers, 2077 W. Larpenteur Ave,
will hold a public hearing to consider updating City Code to include regulations regarding
electric vehicle supply equipment.
The proposed updates will be available upon request no later than Friday, February 23, 2024. It
will also be available on the City’s website. If you have any questions regarding the public
hearing, please contact Hannah Lynch, Community Development Coordinator, at 651.792.7600
or hannah.b.lynch@falconheights.org.
DRAFT ORDINANCE NO. 24-XX
CITY OF FALCON HEIGHTS
RAMSEY COUNTY, MINNESOTA
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 113 OF THE FALCON HEIGHTS CITY
CODE ALLOWING ELECTRIC VEHICLE SUPPLY EQUIPMENT AS AN
ACCESSORY USE
THE CITY COUNCIL OF FALCON HEIGHTS ORDAINS:
SECTION 1. AMENDMENT. The City Code of Falcon Heights, Minnesota, Chapter 113 is
hereby amended as follows. Deletions are shown with a strikethrough. Additions are underlined:
Sec. 113-3 – Definitions
Electric vehicle means any vehicle that operates either partially or exclusively on electrical
energy from an off-board source that is stored on board.
Electric vehicle charger means battery charging equipment that has as its primary purpose
the transfer of electric energy (by conductive or inductive means) to a battery or other energy
storage device in an electric vehicle.
Electric vehicle charger-private means an electric vehicle charger with restricted access to
the public.
Electric vehicle charger-public means an electric vehicle charger that is publicly available
or available to visitors of the primary use.
Electric vehicle supply equipment means any equipment or electric component used in
charging electric vehicles at a specific location.
Sec. 113-174 – One-family R-1 residential district
(d) Permitted accessory uses. No accessory structures or use of land shall be permitted except
for one or more of the following uses:
(1) Home occupations meeting the definitions and requirements of section 113-391.
(2) Private tennis courts, provided no portion of the paved or fenced area is within a
required front yard or less than ten feet from a property line.
(3) One private garage or carport and parking space as regulated in section 113-240.
(4) Private automobile repair or reconditioning as regulated in section 113-250.
(5) Planned landscape areas and edible landscape areas, including residential gardens, as
defined and regulated in section 54-38.
(6) Keeping of domestic pets as required in the Code.
(7) Signs as provided in subsection (g) of this section.
(8) Decorative landscape features and fences as regulated herein.
(9) Accessory buildings other than detached private garages as regulated herein. The
design and placement of the accessory buildings must be approved by the planner as
being in harmony with the surrounding residential neighborhood.
(10) Buildings temporarily located for purposes of constructing on the premises for a
period not to exceed the time necessary for such construction (approved by zoning
administrator).
(11) One composting area, or one compost structure as defined in section 113-240(l), of
plant material including leaves, grass clippings, plant trimmings, fruits, vegetables and
peels, but excluding animal derived materials such as bones, meat scraps and dairy
products, not to cover more than 25 square feet in area and five feet in height in the rear
yard. A larger composting area requires a permitted accessory use permit. A compost
area must be set back at least five feet from any property line. The compost shall be
maintained according to accepted composting practices for the residential yard.
(12) Garage and residential boutique sales limited to four sales each calendar year per
residential unit, not to exceed ten consecutive days or two consecutive weekends each.
(13) Keeping of chickens as regulated by the Code.
(14) Beekeeping as regulated by the Code.
(15) Electric vehicle chargers for private use.
Sec. 113-177 – B-1 neighborhood convenience district
(e) Permitted accessory uses. The following uses shall be permitted accessory uses:
(1) Off-street parking and loading, signs, fences, and decorative landscape features as
regulated herein.
(2) Temporary construction buildings (approved by zoning administrator).
(3) Accessory structures other than private garages as regulated herein. The design,
placement, screening and size of the accessory buildings must be approved by the city
council as being in harmony with the surrounding business district and neighborhood
after review and recommendation by the planning commission.
(4) Essential service structures, provided no building shall be located within 30 feet of an
abutting lot in an R district. The placement of the essential service structure must be
approved by the city council as being in harmony with the surrounding business district
and neighborhood after review and recommendation by the planning commission.
(5) Public telephone booths or drive-up service. The placement of the telephone booth or
drive-up service must be approved by the city council as being in harmony with the
surrounding business district and neighborhood after review and recommendation by
the planning commission.
(6) Planned landscape areas and edible landscape areas, including residential gardens, as
defined and regulated in section 54-38.
(7) Electric vehicle chargers for public use.
(7) (8) Other as deemed to be normal, customary, and incidental by the zoning administrator.
Sec. 113-310 – Residential districts
(2) The following provisions apply to the R-3 and R-4 districts:
e. Off-street parking spaces required (one space equals 350 square feet) shall be as
follows for:
Multiple-family dwellings. At least two parking spaces per dwelling unit except that
two and one-half parking spaces per dwelling unit are required for multiple units of
ten or less that abut no parking (on street curb) zones. At least one-half of the
required spaces shall be enclosed unless the property abuts an alley. (Garage
requirements may be waived for apartment projects designed and intended for
occupancy by low-income families.) Electric vehicle charging stations may be
counted toward satisfying minimum off-street parking space requirements.
Sec. 113-314 – Miscellaneous provisions
(c) Parking space. Required parking spaces shall be at least nine feet wide and 18 feet long.
Up to 50 percent of the required spaces may be designated compact spaces. Compact
parking spaces shall be at least eight feet wide and 16 feet long. Compact spaces shall be
identified through appropriate signage. Unless alternative requirements are designated by the
city engineer, parking spaces shall be served by access drives with minimum dimensions
provided as follows:
Stall Angle (degrees) Curb Length (feet)
Vehicle
Projection
(feet)
Aisle (feet) Traffic Flow
45 9 22 14 One way
60 9 21 16 One way
75 9 21 18 One way
90 9 18 24 Two way
90 compact 8 16 24 Two way
Parallel 23 8.5 22
Electric vehicle charging stations may be counted toward satisfying minimum off-street
parking space requirements.
All electric vehicle charging stations must include signage designating the space for only
electric vehicle charging, unless no other spaces available. Signage must meet all guidelines as
required by Article VII of this chapter.
For commercial or multifamily dwelling parking areas with ten to twenty parking stalls
utilizing electric vehicle charging stations, at least one electric vehicle charging station must
comply with all relevant American with Disabilities (ADA) requirements. For commercial or
multifamily dwelling parking areas with more than twenty parking stalls utilizing electric vehicle
charging stations, at least two electric vehicle charging stations must comply with all relevant
Americans with Disabilities (ADA) requirements.
Handicapped parking spaces. Spaces for the handicapped shall be at least 12 feet wide and
18 feet in length. The size, number, and location of stalls reserved for handicapped parking shall
be provided and identified as required by applicable regulations. These spaces are included in the
computation for the minimum parking space requirement.
SECTION 2. Effective Date. This ordinance is effective immediately upon its passage and
publication.
ADOPTED this ______ day of ____________, 2024, by the City Council of Falcon
Heights, Minnesota.
CITY OF FALCON HEIGHTS
BY: ______________________________
Randall C. Gustafson, Mayor
ATTEST:
___________________________________
Jack Linehan, City Administrator
ITEM FOR DISCUSSION
City of Falcon Heights, Minnesota
__________________________
Item Hollywood Court Permit Parking Petition
Description
Background
Hollywood Court in Falcon Heights has historically been a neighborhood with
public street parking. This is a dead-end street, set apart from the rest of the
City’s neighborhoods, with only residential properties. It is located off of
Snelling Avenue, with access by Snelling Drive via Hoyt Ave. Snelling Drive
only serves Hollywood Court and Amber Union. All Hollywood Court
residences are backed by an alley with driveways and garages off that.
Since the redevelopment of Amber Union into 125 apartment units, residents
have contacted the City multiple times about residents of the apartments
excessively parking on Hollywood Court, despite adequate parking at the
apartments. This has led to more congestion and noise along the residential
street.
The City of Falcon Heights offers residential permitted parking in designated
areas of the city. Residential parking permits exempt residents from 1- or 2-
hour parking during posted hours. Permits do not provide exemption from
other parking regulations detailed in City Code (Section 46-27). The vehicle
being permitted must be registered to the address of the resident.
Currently residential permitted parking is offer to residents living and parking
on Tatum Street, Lindig Street, Prior Avenue, Maple Court, streets in
University Grove, and streets in Falcon Woods, upon application and purchase
of a parking permit ($15 for the first two vehicles, $25 for third and subsequent
vehicles).
City Policy & Recommendation
The procedure for designating a residential permit parking area is attached. It
requires a petition signed by 75% of owners of all residential structures in the
area.
Meeting Date February 27, 2024
Agenda Item E2
Attachment See notes below.
Submitted By Hannah Lynch, Community
Development Coordinator / Planner
Hollywood Court residents have submitted a petition (attached) with 14/18
properties represented, equaling approximately 78% of property owners.
Upon review of the unique character of Hollywood Court, a permit-only
parking system could be a simple solution to the concerns of the residents.
Considering Snelling Dr. only serves Amber Union and Hollywood Court, the
only vehicles to this area should be residents, guests of residents, and any
service vehicles that may need to access the buildings. Amber Union has
sufficient parking for all residents and guests, as demonstrated by the owners
of the property in past hearings for the upcoming Amber Flats development.
With that in mind, there should not be any issue with a shortage of parking if
Hollywood Court would to be designated as permit-parking only.
In addition, Amber Flats has recently been approved by City Council for
development in the additional parking lot at Amber Union. This will add 96
residential units to the area. While Amber Flats will have parking available,
Hollywood Court may become additional overflow parking.
Considerations
• Temporary Parking – Currently the City offers temporary parking
permits for $3.00 for two weeks. Temporary parking is available for
construction and service vehicles necessary for performing work on a
property, special event parking or visitor parking in a restricted parking
district, and for visitor parking in a residential permit parking district.
• State Fair Parking – The current City policy is to issue permits to eligible
addresses (including Hollywood Court addresses) which allows those
residents to park in “State Fair Parking by Permit Only” zones if a space
is available. Designating Hollywood Court as residential permit parking
only would remove the need for extra State Fair parking permits to be
issued by the City to these residents
• Cost to Residents – Any resident wishing to obtain a residential parking
permit will need to submit an application and $15 per vehicle (first two;
$25 for three to five vehicles) annually.
• City policy around adopting restrictions to alleviate a specific parking
problem is to create restrictions that are as consistent as possible in the
neighborhood and throughout the City. Generally the hours of permit
parking are daytime hours (8 AM-4 PM, 2 hour parking unless by
permit), however the issues on Hollywood Court appear to be generally
overnight issues. The other recommended similar limitation is “15
minute parking only unless by permit.” This would be something for
the Planning Commission to consider in their recommendation to City
Council.
Next Steps
To move forward with designating Hollywood Court as residential permit
parking, a public hearing must be held then the Planning Commission must
make a recommendation of approval or denial to City Council. City Council
will make the final determination.
Budget Impact None.
Attachment(s) E2.1 – Parking Policy
E2.2 – Hollywood Ct. Parking – Public Hearing Notice – Posted
E2.3 – Hollywood Ct. Parking – Public Hearing Notice – Newspaper
E2.4 – Newspaper Affidavit of Publication
E2.5 – Signed Petition – Hollywood Ct. Permit Parking
Action(s)
Requested
Staff requests Planning Commission discuss the petition for residential permit
parking on Hollywood Court and make a recommendation of approval or
denial to City Council.
Parking Policy
February 19, 1991
I. PARKING POLICIES
A. GENERAL
The city's parking philosophy is to provide a safe, orderly, and, when possible,
convenient parking environment for residents, trade and visitors within the city,
while keeping the streets primarily for safe and efficient traffic flow.
B. SPECIFIC
1. Maintain the streets primarily for safe and efficient traffic flow.
2. Maintain the residential character of the city's neighborhoods and the 'small-
scale' or 'village character of the overall city by attempting to alleviate
parking conflicts between residential neighborhoods and non-residential
uses when they appear; and by utilizing complementary new parking
facilities when they are necessary.
3. Encourage property owners to accommodate parking demands generated by
the property particularly redevelopment and new development, by enforcing
the parking requirements in the zoning code and working with property
owners, residents and/or proprietors when parking problems develop.
4. Cover the cost of parking administration and enforcement by charging fees
to the individuals for these services, whenever possible.
5. Adopt temporary parking restrictions when necessary to accommodate the
Minnesota State Fair and other special circumstances.
6. Consider a variety of on-street and off-street parking solutions to parking
problems including posting restrictions, permit parking, shared parking,
parking lots, parking ramps, and re-routing traffic. The simplest solution
shall be selected.
7. Select the most efficient and least disruptive solution to a parking problem.
II. PROCEDURES FOR HANDLING PARKING PROBLEMS
A. ORIGINATION
Parking problems arise when parking demands conflict with fixed amounts of
available on and off street parking to produce an unsafe and/or inconvenient parking
situation.
B. IDENTIFICATION
Parking problems come to the attention of the city when:
1. A city official reports a safety problem and/or inconvenience problem.
2. A resident(s), proprietor(s) and/or a property owner(s) reports a safety and/or
an inconvenience problem.
C. EVALUATION
1. Problem: A possible immediate threat to public safety:
a. The appropriate city staff shall immediately research the reported parking
situation. The city staff must visit the site and assess the parking conditions
at various times of the day as well as collect other useful information
including state and county rules governing the street(s) in question. The city
planner shall prepare a written report on the nature and severity of the
reported parking problem and alternative solutions for the city administrator
as soon as possible but no more than five working days after the reported
problem.
b. If the parking situation is determined to be a threat to public safety, the
city administrator must take the necessary action to alleviate the dangerous
situation. A report of the steps taken shall be made to the planning
commission and the city council at their earliest meeting dates. Any
revisions in the action taken may be made at this time.
2. Problem: A possible, but not immediate, threat to public safety and/or
inconvenience to residents, businesses, and/or institutions:
a. If notice of the parking problem arose from a city official, city staff shall
research the reported parking problem. Staff shall visit the site, assess the
parking conditions at various times of the day and collect other useful
information including state and county rules governing the streets in
question. The staff shall also determine whether the problem area is limited
to the area specified in the complaint or broader in scope.
b. If notice of the parking problem arose from a resident(s), proprietor(s)
and/or property owner(s) complaint, the city staff shall request a formal
written request be submitted to the city defining the nature of the problem,
the affected area and, whenever possible, the names of other affected
property owners in agreement with the problem. The city staff shall research
the reported parking problem. Staff shall visit the site, assess the parking
conditions at various times of the day and collect other useful information
including state and county rules governing the streets in question. If
appropriate, residents and/or property owners in the affected area shall be
contacted for their opinion about the existence and/or extent of the parking
problem. The staff shall also determine whether the problem area is limited
to the area specified in the complaint or is broader in scope.
c. If staff research suggests that the city needs to take action to alleviate the
parking situation, the city planner shall make a report with the proposed
alternatives to the planning commission for its review and recommendation.
The planning commission recommendation and staff report will go to the
city council for final action.
d. If staff research suggests that the city does not need to take action to
alleviate the parking situation, the city planner shall report the state of the
request at the next planning commission and city council meetings. The
initiator of the parking request will be notified of the report.
III. PARKING RESTRICTIONS
A. POSTED PARKING RESTRICTIONS
1. Posting parking restrictions on streets may be used to control on-street
parking problems in specific areas for various lengths of time. When such a
solution is proposed, the affect on nearby streets must be taken into account.
2. Restrictions shall contain as few conditions as possible so they are easily
understood and enforced.
3. Restrictions adopted to alleviate a specific parking problem shall be as
consistent as possible in a neighborhood and throughout the city. For
example, "two hour parking 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. Monday through
Friday" should be used throughout the city rather than "one hour parking
8:00 A.M. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday".
4. On-street posted signs shall include:
a) "No Parking Anytime"
"No Parking Anytime" is to be used when parking at anytime of day or
night is a safety threat to the public or a chronic inconvenience to residents
and/or property owners.
b) Parking for a specified period of time
Signs restricting parking for a specified period of time shall be used to
control traffic turnover for commercial areas and prevent the inconvenience
to residents of long-term parking in residential neighborhoods near
businesses and institutions. These shall include "15 Minute Parking", "Two
Hour Parking from 8:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. Monday through Friday".
c) "No Parking" for a specified distance
Signs restricting parking for a specified distance are useful to eliminate
safety hazards near alleys, driveways and stop signs. Examples include:
"No parking between signs", "No parking here to corner".
B. RESIDENTIAL PARKING PERMITS
1. Purpose/Policy
a. Residential permit parking shall be pursued as a solution to a parking
problem only when all other solutions have been determined inadequate.
b. Residential districts congested because of heavy residential and non-
residential traffic and parking are eligible to request residential permit
parking. It is the purpose of this policy to reduce the flow of commuter
traffic from year-round non-residential traffic from parking in an adjoining
residential neighborhood; to reduce air pollution and other environmental
effects of automobile commuting; to enhance the quality of life in the
residential areas by reducing noise, traffic hazards and litter; to protect the
residents from unreasonable burdens in gaining access to their residences; to
preserve the character of the residential district; to promote efficiency in
maintaining the streets in a clean and safe condition; to preserve the safety of
children and other pedestrians; and to promote traffic safety; and to promote
the peace, good order, comfort, convenience and welfare of the inhabitants
of the city.
c. No residential parking permits shall guarantee any permit holder of a
designated parking space, but shall provide general parking subject to
availability in designated areas during the posted, specified times.
2. Procedures for Designating Residential Permit Parking Areas
a. Submitting a request
1) Petition
The designation of a residential permit parking area shall be initiated
by a petition filed with the city staff stating that residents of a
particular residential area are encountering serious problems because
of excessive parking by persons who are associated with nearby
nonresidential uses. A filing fee shall accompany every petition.
The fee is identified in the fee schedule portion of the city code.
2) Signatures
The petition must be signed by 75% of the owners of all residential
structures in the area. One resident per structure may sign. No
signature shall be valid where multiple residents in a household
express disagreement on whether the area should have residential
permit parking. Any signer may withdraw his/her name by filing a
written request. If for any reason the number of signers falls below
75% prior to the public hearing, the petition shall be deemed
defective and shall not be considered. The person and/or group
responsible for submitting the petition will be notified of this finding
prior to the public hearing.
3) Minimum Size
The request for residential permit parking must be a minimum of
600 linear feet or one block front.
b. Request Review Process
1) Staff Review
After receiving the petition, the city staff shall assess the nature of
the problems, if any, caused by nonresidential parking in a
residential area. The city planner shall submit a report to the
Planning Commission. The report must include the following
information:
a. The need assessment for residential permit parking
b. The specific area petitioned for residential permit parking
c. The guidelines for who and how one may obtain a
residential parking permit
d. The potential implications of such a parking arrangement
in the area
e. If the permit parking area is recommended, the report
must also include:
(1) A recommended review period to
evaluate the residential permit parking district
(2) The specific area recommended for residential
permit parking
3. Policy Review
The city planner shall submit the report with its recommendation to the
planning commission. A public hearing shall be held on the request. The
planning commission shall submit a recommendation to the city council.
The city council shall make the final decision. If the city council designates
a residential permit parking district, the resolution shall state the need for the
district, the location, hours (if applicable), streets to be posted permit
parking and the procedure for issuing permits to eligible residents.
4. Permit Eligibility and Fees
a. Resident Permits
Residents living on streets designated in the residential permit parking
district may apply for a non-transferable residential parking permit for each
car owned or leased, currently licensed and in operating condition at the
address. A non-refundable annual residential permit fee will be charged.
The fee shall be identified in the fee schedule section of the city code. A
false application shall be grounds for denial of the residential permit.
b. Lost Permits
A duplicate permit may be obtained for a fee, if the application submits a
notarized, written statement to the city that the original permit was lost. The
fee shall be identified in the fee schedule section of the city code.
c. Placement of Permit
Annual residential parking permit stickers shall be permanently affixed to
the inside of the vehicle in the lower rear corner of the left side window
closest to the rear of the vehicle.
5. Review of an established district.
If antecedent conditions change and there is a lack of permit demand, the
district may be reviewed and repealed.
C. EXCEPTIONS
1. Emergency Vehicles
Emergency vehicles are exempt from posted parking restrictions when responding
to an emergency.
2. Snow Emergencies
After a two inch snowfall, no on street parking is allowed until the street is plowed
to its full width.
3. State Fair Parking
a. Temporary "No Parking" signs shall be posted on streets so designated by
the city council during the Minnesota State Fair.
b. Temporary parking permits shall be issued to residents and/or property
owners of designated apartment buildings along streets designated "No
Parking" by the city council during the Minnesota State Fair.
4. Temporary Parking Permits
a. Temporary permits shall be issued for the following reasons:
(1) For construction and service vehicles necessary for performing
work on a property
(2) For special event parking or visitor parking in a restricted
parking district
(3) For visitor parking in a residential permit parking district
b. A temporary parking permit(s) shall be issued for a minimum of one day
and a maximum of two weeks. The applicant shall identify the purpose for
the permit(s) and the length of time required for the temporary parking
permit(s).
c. A temporary parking permit shall be placed in the left lower rear corner
of the left side window closest to the rear of the vehicle or in some other
conspicuous spot inside the left rear of the vehicle where it is visible to law
enforcement personnel.
d. A temporary parking arrangement using a bag over a sign to cover up the
parking restrictions shall be issued for one to three days. The applicant shall
identify the purpose for the bag(s) and the length of time required for this
temporary parking arrangement. The bag(s) shall be returned by the person
using it.
D. FEES
Parking permit fees are as established in the fee schedule section of the city code.
E. ENFORCEMENT
Violation of the city's parking restrictions are deemed a misdemeanor.
CITY OF FALCON HEIGHTS, MINNESOTA
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the Falcon Heights Planning Commission at its
regular meeting at 7:00 p.m. on February 27, 2024, in the City Hall Council Chambers, 2077 W.
Larpenteur Ave, will hold a public hearing to consider allowing parking only by residential permit
on Hollywood Court.
The proposed change will be available for review upon request no later than Friday,
February 23, 2024. It will also be available on the City’s website at www.falconheights.org. If
you have any questions regarding the public hearing, please contact Hannah Lynch, Community
Development Coordinator, at 651.792.7600 or hannah.b.lynch@falconheights.org.
Dated: February 15, 2024
_________________________________________
Hannah Lynch, Community Development Coordinator
City of Falcon Heights, Minnesota
CITY of FALCON HEIGHTS
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
Notice is hereby given that the Falcon Heights Planning Commission at its regular meeting at
7:00 p.m. on February 27, 2024, in the City Hall Council Chambers, 2077 W. Larpenteur Ave,
will hold a public hearing to consider allowing parking only by residential permit on Hollywood
Court.
The proposed change will be available for review upon request no later than Friday, February 23,
2024. It will also be available on the City’s website. If you have any questions regarding the
public hearing, please contact Hannah Lynch, Community Development Coordinator, at
651.792.7600 or hannah.b.lynch@falconheights.org.
ITEM FOR DISCUSSION
City of Falcon Heights, Minnesota
__________________________
Item Cannabis Regulation Update
Description
In 2023 the Minnesota legislature legalized adult use and possession of
cannabis and created the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) to regulate
the eventual marketplace of such products. As part of this, the City will
eventually need to create regulations around zoning and potentially
registration for any cannabis businesses that would like to locate in Falcon
Heights. This is an update from the City Attorney on the current status of the
OCM and timing.
Budget Impact None.
Attachment(s) F2.1 – Cannabis Regulation Update from Campbell Knutson
Action(s)
Requested
None. Information only.
Meeting Date February 27, 2024
Agenda Item F2
Attachment See notes below.
Submitted By Hannah Lynch, Community
Development Coordinator / Planner
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M E M O R A N D U M
FROM: CAMPBELL KNUTSON
DATE: FEBRUARY 7, 2024
RE: CANNABIS REGULATION UPDATE
In 2023 the Minnesota legislature legalized adult use and possession of cannabis and
created the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) to regulate the eventual marketplace of such
products. Since that time, our office has monitored the actions of the OCM. OCM recently hosted
a webinar to provide updates on their legislative priorities this year and when Minnesotans can
expect the regulatory process to begin. This memorandum provides a brief overview of the current
expectations for timing, and what Cities can expect.
Key Points and Recommendations:
We believe no action is currently necessary for cities. Under the current legislation, the
final administrative rules, and therefore any applications for cannabis business licenses, will not
be available until early 2025 at the earliest. OCM is also at the early stages of preparing model
ordinances for cities. The model ordinances will provide further clarity and guidance on how OCM
views municipalities’ authority with regards to cannabis. We expect to have plenty of time to
review the model ordinances and address land use and business regulation concerns prior to
business license applications going live in 2025.
This timeline could change. OCM unveiled some goals to allow some cannabis stores to
be open in late 2024; however, these goals would require legislative change. We will continue to
monitor the legislative session.
Full Update
1. Agency Organization
OCM provided an update on its actions and current organization, presented by Interim
Director Charlene Briner, rulemaking attorney Vanessa Vogl, and OCM outreach director Merone
Melekin. The agency has hired for several key positions, and is working closely with staff from
other agencies including the Office of Medical Cannabis within the Department of Health and the
Department of Agriculture. The Office of Medical Cannabis has a team of inspectors working to
oversee the hemp product market. Two inspectors from the Department of Agriculture are also
helping with hemp product enforcement. OCM is seeking a legislative change to accelerate the
merger of the current Department of Health-led regulations on hemp products into OCM. This
merger will centralize both hemp and cannabis regulatory power within the same agency. That
change could occur later this summer. OCM is also seeking to delay taking over the medical
cannabis market, which could stay with the Department of Health into 2025.
2. Advisory Bodies
OCM has convened several advisory bodies to develop research questions and policy
recommendations. This includes a working group dedicated to preparing model ordinances for
municipalities. This working group met for the first time last week, and includes members from
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the League of Minnesota Cities. Model ordinances are expected to be available sometime this
summer.
3. Creation of the Online Application System and Regulations
The agency is preparing to issue licenses. OCM has hired an outside vendor to create the
online application system. Currently, they are finalizing the preliminary design for testing later
this spring. OCM is also finalizing draft regulations. The agency states that it will be soliciting
informal comments and feedback throughout the summer, and will release the full draft regulations
for a formal public comment period in fall 2024. After the public comment period, OCM will
address comments and may revise some of the regulations to address public concerns. OCM will
then submit the regulations to an ALJ for review. This process means that the final regulations will
not be adopted and in effect until early 2025 at the earliest. The agency confirmed that no license
applications will be accepted until the regulations are final, absent legislative change. Once license
applications open, OCM will still have to complete its review process for the applications before
issuing any licenses.
4. Legislative Advocacy
OCM also unveiled some proposals that, if passed, may pave the way for retail cannabis
sales in 2024. The agency recognized that these proposals would require legislative action, and
cannot be done by the agency acting on its own. First, OCM is proposing the creation of a limited
class of temporary retail licenses. These temporary licenses would issue as early as summer 2024,
and would provide early market access to a limited class of applicants. A temporary license would
allow the licensee to operate a retail cannabis business from issuance until the state finalizes the
permanent regulations. Only “social equity” applicants would be eligible for these licenses. From
OCM’s perspective, this legislative change would allow for a “soft launch” for the cannabis
market.
Second, OCM proposed a change in the licensing process. Currently, applicants must
include their proposed premises in their license application. This includes certifications that the
proposed business meets all local zoning laws. Under the current law, OCM is required to solicit
input from cities about license applications as part of the initial issuing process. OCM is proposing
a change this to a two-step process. First, the business would submit a general business plan,
without needing to secure a specific location. OCM would review this general application and
issue a provisional license. The licensee would then have to place their license by finding a
location, and then submitting the location to OCM to obtain a final, permanent license. OCM hopes
this will lessen the burden on applicants, which currently have to exhibit some amount of control
over a location (i.e. sign a lease or purchase agreement) prior to being approved for a license.
However, this change could also lessen the opportunity for city input on retail applicants who want
to operate in their city. However, businesses are still subject to zoning and land use controls.
Again, both of these proposed changes would require legislative action. We will continue
to monitor OCM and LMC updates on this issue, and will provide further updates if any further
action is required. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions.