06-22-2026 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL JUNE 22, 2026 The Assistant City Administrator stated that staff visited local businesses to encourage them to provide feedback as well. She noted similar levels of response to another project. President Fischer commented that the original owner of the property wanted to develop a hotel on the property, with a restaurant on the top level. He asked if a hotel would work on that site. Flannery replied that it would be a very difficult site for a hotel, and he was unsure that he would even recommend a hotel for that site because of visibility and the location off Country Drive. He stated that while the city controls the space, there is not much around that would attract someone to stay there. He explained that a hotel does well when there are amenities that are within walking distance of the hotel. Thompson also noted the requirements of the shoreland overlay, which could impact the allowable room for parking. The Community Development Director also did not believe that a hotel would be supported by neighboring property owners. Thompson reviewed some additional questions for the EDA to consider. President Fischer noted that recently the development has been residential, and those projects have been successful. He noted the importance of communicating with existing residents so they are not surprised by the anticipated development. He commented that they have done a lot of work in adding community engagement to large projects to ensure people can be a part of the process and have a better understanding. He commented that there has been one industrial warehouse that was a success as well. Miller commented on mixed -use development, noting that it is too early to determine whether that is a success, as the retail spaces still have vacancy. Kwapick stated that he is excited about this site because it is development, where the majority of development in Little Canada is redevelopment. He commented that they are actively trying to make this area more pedestrian -friendly and accessible. He believed that success would mingle those two elements, where people could walk to patronize whatever business is developed. He stated that the trails extend beyond Little Canada, so people from other communities could stop at this location. Thompson appreciated the nexus of development and walkability. President Fischer stated that, ideally, the pedestrian bridge proposed would drop someone at the edge of this property. Malone commented that this would also be a great connection for people who come to the city for events. Miller also spoke about the connection aspect. He stated that while a food hall or brewery would be a great addition, this location is further set back from other businesses. He commented that it would be hard to envision how you would build something now compared to five years from now, 7