01-27-25 - 2- Council WS and Regular Meeting

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6. Winter Property Purchase The Community Development Director reviewed that the City Council discussed the possible purchase of four properties located at 7473 24th Avenue at a special meeting on October 7, 2023. The parcels being considered are identified as Anoka County Parcel Identification Numbers 13-31-22-12-0002, 13-31-22-11-0001, 13-31-22-13-0002 and 13- 31-22-14-0001 all located in Northeast Quarter of Section 13. The property is proposed to be used for the establishment of a certified wetland bank. Portions of the property will also be needed for right-of-way for the Otter Lake Road extension project. The Community Development Director stated that the City Council discussed a draft purchase agreement at the December 2, 2024, Work Session and directed staff to continue negotiations with the property owner and bring back a purchase agreement for Council consideration. Staff has reached an agreement with the property owners based on the City Council direction. The Council discussed the proposed farm lease for 2025 and directed review by the City Attorney of the structure of the lease agreement between the current landowner and future city ownership. Council Consensus It was the consensus of the City Council to advance this item to the next regular Council Meeting for formal action. 7. Cannabis Ordinance The Community Development Director presented a draft ordinance titled "Ordinance Amending 617 of the City Code Concerning the Regulation of Cannabis Businesses". He stated that as discussed at the December 2, 2024, work session, Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 342, adopted in 2023 and amended in 2024 authorizes the cultivation, manufacturing and sale of cannabis products. Minnesota's new Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) will be responsible for the licensing of cannabis businesses. The State is currently completing the rulemaking process. The Community Development Director stated that there are 13 different types of business licenses. State law provides certain means of oversight by local units of government. However, the city cannot outright ban a cannabis business, or limit operations in a manner beyond those provided in state law. The City Council reviewed the different rules and requirements of the proposed ordinance in relation to the state licensing requirements. The Community Development Director stated that if there is support for the proposed licensing and registration requirements that the Planning and Zoning Board would be responsible for reviewing the zoning and land use requirements. Page 3 of 5