Staff reports planning review for cannabis cultivation site and updates on Alton Avenue corridor study

Ken updated the EDA on several development items and permit activity.

Ken said Bold North Hemp LLC has applied to locate a cannabis cultivation facility in the loading-dock area of the former mill and that staff are collecting data for their report. The application is scheduled for a Planning Commission public hearing on April 22; Ken told the EDA the major issues under review are odor control, facility security and impacts from deliveries and other traffic. He said the applicant provided information about an intensive odor-scrubbing system and that more information from the applicant is expected later in the week; if materials are incomplete staff may delay consideration to the May meeting.

Ken also reported recent business activity: Heartland Credit Union opened a new location March 30, which prompted a building permit request from Anytime Fitness to occupy the credit union's former space; Electric Pump received a permit for internal remodeling. He noted two lots in the industrial park still await closing despite the EDA having agreements signed.

On infrastructure, Ken described the Alton Avenue corridor concept (prepared with SEH) as mirroring the south-of-Main design with roundabouts and medians, initially planned to remain open with the option to close medians if traffic warrants. He said SEH is meeting with the county and city to negotiate cost sharing and timetable; the corridor work and a related lift-station study aim to provide sewer and access that would open the east side of town to additional commercial and residential development.

Ken said the city council approved hiring SEH to complete the lift-station study and that staff will follow up on cost-sharing and phasing with the county. He also reported that Mayo Clinic's planned closing to sell Queens Court apartments was being worked on; if the sale completes the property would return to the tax rolls as rental units are rehoused and occupancy increases.

The planning commission schedule and staff's request for complete application materials will determine whether the cannabis matter is heard in April or postponed to May.