HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC WS PACKET 01282025CITY OF SAINT ANTHONY VILLAGE
WORKSESSION AGENDA
Tuesday, January 28, 2025 at 5:30PM
Members of the public who wish to attend the meeting may do so in person.
Minutes
Approval Of CC WS Meeting Minutes
CC 01 -14 -2025 WS.PDF
Worksession Topics
Draft 2025 Pyramid Review
Charlie Yunker, City Manager, presenting.
SAINT ANTHONY PYRAMID 2025 -WORKING DRAFT.PDF
Future Worksession Dates, Times And Agenda Items
Adjournment
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Our Mission is to promote a high quality of life to those we serve through
outstanding city services.
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City of St. Anthony
CITY COUNCIL WORK SESSION
Minutes
January 14, 2025
Present:
Mayor & Council:
Mayor Wendy Webster, Councilmembers Lona Doolan, and Jan Jenson, and Thomas Randle.
Absent: Councilmember Nadia Elnagdy.
Staff:
City Manager Charlie Yunker and Code Official Richard Sonterre.
Others:
Emily Anderson, Association of Nonsmokers-MN (ANSRMN)
Call to Order:
Mayor Wendy Webster called the Work Session to order at 5:30 p.m.
1.Approval of CC WS Meeting Minutes
A.December 10, 2024, City Council Work Session Minutes
B.December 17, 2024, City Council Work Session Minutes
Motion by Councilmember Doolan, seconded by Councilmember Jenson, to approve City Council Work
Session Minutes of December 10, 2024, as presented.
Motion carried 4-0.
Motion by Councilmember Doolan, seconded by Councilmember Jenson, to approve City Council Work
Session Minutes of December 17, 2024, as presented.
Motion carried 4-0.
2.Work Session Topics
A.Commercial Tobacco Ordinance
Ms. Emily Anderson representing the Association of Nonsmokers-MN (ANSRMN) presented proposed
changes to Sec 115 Commercial Tobacco Ordinance. The highlights are as follows:
Cap the number of commercial tobacco licenses at zero through attrition.
Price Discounting:
o Restrict the redemptions of coupons and price discounts
o Set a minimum price and package sizes for commercial tobacco products.
Align the minimum penalty structure set by Minn. Stat. §461.12.
Ms. Anderson stated based on the council’s discussion on 9/10/24 staff worked with ANSR and PHLC to
revise the St. Anthony Village tobacco ordinance. The revisions are based on the model policy from
PHLC.
Cap maximum number of licenses – Some jurisdictions have chosen to limit the number of licenses
granted. Based on Council discussion language was requested to cap the number of tobacco retail
January 14, 2025 St. Anthony Council Work Session - 2
licenses at zero. The language drafted allows the current number of licenses which is five to continue to
renew and reduce the number over time through attrition to zero.
Restrict coupon and price promotion – The price of tobacco products directly affects consumption
levels, particularly among price-sensitive consumers, including youth, young adults, and those with
limited financial means. The commercial tobacco industry uses innovative pricing strategies to entice
new customers to purchase their products, to discourage current users from quitting, and to reduce the
effectiveness of tobacco tax increases in decreasing tobacco sales and increasing users’ quit attempts.
These pricing strategies include “buy-one-get-one” coupons, cents, or dollar-off promotions, and multi-
pack offers, which are often marketed and redeemed at the point of sale. Jurisdictions can prohibit the
redemption of these price discounts to negate the sophisticated discounting strategies of the
commercial tobacco industry. Several jurisdictions in Minnesota have adopted this provision to keep the
price of licensed products high to discourage availability to youth.
Set a minimum price and package size – Setting a minimum price for tobacco products is an effective
public health policy. Establishing a minimum price helps discourage youth smoking and reduces overall
tobacco consumption. To complement this, setting standardized package sizes is important. This ensures
pricing consistency and prevents manufacturers from circumventing minimum price rules through
smaller, more affordable pack sizes. The proposed minimum prices are based on research of current
average prices and the minimum price ordinance in neighboring Minneapolis. The additional revenue
when setting a minimum price will be held by the retailer. Prohibiting coupons and price discounts
further strengthens the impact of minimum pricing. This policy removes incentives for price-sensitive
consumers to access tobacco products. Importantly, the policy allows for periodic price adjustments
aligned with the consumer price index, maintaining the real-world value of the minimum price over
time. Collectively these measures create a comprehensive tobacco pricing policy that discourages use,
especially among youth, while accounting for economic and market factors. This multifaceted approach
is an evidence-based strategy to improve public health outcomes.
Mayor Webster referred to the penalties for non-compliance. She asked Ms. Anderson to explain.
Align and increase penalties – Increasing penalties for violations is also an effective enforcement
mechanism. Minn. Stat. §461.12 Subd. 2 establishes a minimum fine schedule for underage sales and
other ordinance violations of State Law by licensed tobacco retailers as follows:
First Violation: $300 fine
Second Violation (within 36 months): $600 fine
Third or Subsequent Violation (within 36 months): $1,000 fine
For a third or subsequent violation within 36 months of the first violation, state law mandates a
suspension of at least seven days and permits license revocation. Jurisdictions may impose stronger
penalties for licenses violations.
If the Council were to look at higher amounts beyond State minimum, neighboring jurisdictions have a
violation structure similar to what is listed below. This structure can further enhance these penalties to
deter non-compliance:
First Violation: $1,000 fine
Second Violation (within 36 months): $2,000 fine and a 3-day suspension of the tobacco license.
Third Violation (within 36 months): $2,000 fine and a 7-day suspension of the tobacco license.
Fourth Violation: Revocation of the tobacco license.
January 14, 2025 St. Anthony Council Work Session - 3
Ms. Anderson concluded the proposed changes to St. Anthony Village’s tobacco ordinance represent a
comprehensive approach to reducing the availability and appeal of commercial tobacco products in the
community. By capping the number of licenses at zero through attrition, restricting coupon and price
promotions, setting minimum prices and package sizes, and aligning and increasing penalties beyond
state minimums, the City is taking steps to protect public health, particularly among youth. These
evidence-based strategies, supported by research and model policies will help reduce commercial
tobacco use, prevent initiation, and promote a healthier community for all residents.
Also provided for Council consideration were draft ordinance, 15 dollar minimum price factsheet and 15
dollar minimum price talking points documents.
Councilmember Jenson asked about neighboring communities penalty structure and Ms. Anderson
explained. Councilmember Jenson asked Mr. Yunker about previous violations. Mr. Yunker stated
violations are not common with the vendors in the City. Mayor Webster stated St. Anthony would allow
with the State minimum fines.
Councilmember Randle asked what the overall objective is and Ms. Anderson stated to eliminate
commercial tobacco use, saving lives, and saving money. He asked who gives anyone the right to dictate
what adults can and cannot do. Ms. Anderson stated it is an equity issue as the tobacco industry targets
youth and minorities.
Councilmember Jenson suggested Council review the redlined ordinance in detail. He asked who does
the conformance checks. Ms. Anderson stated ANSRMN does along with the police department. Ms.
Anderson stated the City of Minneapolis passed an ordinance selling a pack of cigarettes for $15. The
retailer retains all the profit. Mr. Yunker stated this is still in draft form. A public hearing will need to be
held with notice to all retailers of the proposed changes.
Councilmember Doolan asked about the youth for the conformance checks. Ms. Anderson stated the
youth needs to be between 17-20 and all youth utilized are trained by ANSRMN. Councilmember Doolan
asked if legal review is part of the process and Ms. Anderson stated it was written by lawyers that work
with public health. Councilmember Doolan asked if cessation programs will be available, and Ms.
Anderson stated there are programs available through Ramsey County Public Health.
Councilmember Jenson requested Council go through the verbiage in the redlined ordinance. Mayor
Webster asked if the ordinance would need to be changed each time a license is lost. City Staff would be
responsible for tracking the number of current licenses. Council reviewed the sections of the ordinance
that were redlined. By having a price minimum we are more likely to keep it out of the hands of youth as
they are more price sensitive.
Councilmember Doolan asked if this is an annual license that vendors need to renew and Mr. Yunker
stated it would need to be renewed annually.
Mayor Webster referred to the Administrative Penalties and noted the City could recover some of their
costs if a retailer were to contest the violation.
Councilmember Jenson asked who would become the hearing officer and Ms. Anderson stated it would
be the Police Chief with Council input if necessary. There was a discussion about the use of a fake ID for
purchasing product and how that person is addressed.
January 14, 2025 St. Anthony Council Work Session - 4
Councilmember Doolan asked about the strength of deterrent and Ms. Anderson stated the amounts
were thought to be a good motivator for retailers. Communities can use their own structure. Ms.
Anderson noted the proposed fines are comparable to neighboring cities.
Mayor Webster asked Council for any last comments. Councilmember Randle stated his concerns in the
past and stands by those. Councilmember Doolan stated she fees the language is appropriate.
Councilmember Jenson stated the goal is to not sell to youth. Mayor Webster thanked Ms. Anderson for
her presentation.
B.Sale of Cannabinoids Derived from Hemp
City Code Official Richard Sonterre reviewed in November 2024 staff began consideration as to the need
to make modifications to the established language within Section 117.16 in order to be better prepared
to address growing changes and trends within the newly created cannabis and hemp industries, as
product types grow, and distribution opportunities expand. Moreover, staff believed that the existing
language may cause industries that meet current licensing qualifications to be eliminated in the future
and changes now would secure these industries within the marketplace.
Mr. Sonterre reviewed the Proposed Amended Language in detail. Staff is seeking questions, comments
and ultimately City Council directions on whether amended language to Section 117.16 should proceed.
Should the Council direct staff to move the language as presented or as amended by the Council, staff
will add the item to the next available meeting schedule in conjunction with tobacco ordinance changes
being proposed by ANSR.
Mr. Sonterre reviewed the correct language for (2) . . . section. (with the elimination of the remainder of
that paragraph).
Councilmember Doolan asked if a business wants to sell products they need to apply for a license. Mr.
Yunker stated since the Office of Cannabis Management takes over, eligibility is tied to a tobacco or
liquor license. Licensed food and beverage establishments are being added to the proposed language.
There was a discussion on what other businesses in the City could sell THC infused products.
Councilmember Jenson requested further research be done as to what other businesses may wish to do
this. Councilmember Doolan questioned compliance checks for these businesses. Councilmember
Jenson suggested some language be added regarding compliance checks.
Mr. Sonterre stated the OCM has decided to adopt the rules without having a public hearing. The City
Council has the right to review the document and comment.
Future Work Sessions:
January 28, 2024 – Draft 2025 Pyramid Review.
Future Agenda Items:
Adjournment:
The meeting adjourned at 6:45 p.m.
2025 Vision
Saint Anthony is a Village
where all people can live,
work, learn, play and thrive
……………………………………………………
Mission
Promote a high quality of life to those we
serve through outstanding city services …………………………………………………………………
CORE VA LU ES
C I T Y S E R V I C E S
Infrastructure
& Amenities
Planning &
Permitting Governance Communications
& Engagement Public Safety Finance &
Administration
Saint Anthony
Village Wine &
Spirits
G O A L S
Environmental
Responsibility
Thriving
Village
Informed & Engaged
Community
Safe & Secure
Community
Fiscal & Organizational
Strength
A C T I O N S T E P S
CLIMATE PLAN
• Review and consider
policy-related action
steps:
- 2025: Energy &
Transportation
- 2026: Water &
Waste
• Continue education
and operations action
steps in all categories
• Adopt Partners in
Energy program’s
Energy Action Plan and
begin implementation
GREENSTEP CITIES
• Continue program
involvement including
Gold Leaf participation
• Evaluate how the city
can better leverage
participation long-term
AFFORDABLE
HOUSING
• Consider an Affordable
Housing Policy for new
high density projects
• Advocate for residents
facing rent pressure
• Identify partner to best
fulfill Council priorities
for city owned parcel
PEDESTRIAN & BIKE-
FRIENDLY ROUTES
• Draft Active
Transportation Plan
• Grand Rounds Missing
Link engagement
ENGAGE BUSINESSES
• Partner with Chamber
of Commerce to build
relationships with
businesses
CITY COUNCIL
ENGAGEMENT
• Continue Connect with
the Council efforts
• Continue participation
with regional partners
• Leverage Sister City to
help advance city goals
PUBLIC SAFETY
ENGAGEMENT
• Continue priority of
community relations
throughout the city
WEBSITE REDESIGN
& ADA UPGRADES
• Begin redesign project
to be complete by 2027
SENIORS & YOUTH
• Support partners in
engagement and
programming
PUBLIC SAFETY
FACILIES NEEDS
• Explore feasibility of a
Public Safety Facility to
meet Police and Fire
long term needs
MUNICIPAL LIQUOR
AND CANNABIS
• Continue efforts to
open a city-operated
dispensary
• Draft vision for the
future of the existing
liquor stores
FIRE DEPARTMENT
• Explore expansion of
Advanced Life Support
capabilities
POLICE DEPARTMENT
• Continue Falcon
Heights integration
INFRASTRUCTURE
PLANNING
• Integrate plans for
roads, parks and
buildings into overall
Infrastrucure Plan
WATER TREATMENT
PLANT AUTOMATION
• Explore upgrades to
automate additional
functions in the water
treatment plant
STAFFING
• Review Fire Department
staffing levels and
increasing demand for
calls for service
• Continue to support
Police Department
recruitment efforts
• Support professional
development of staff
Trust | Service | Inclusion
DRAFT