Ann Davy

The study session primarily focused on presentations regarding substance regulations. Key discussions included Kratom, detailing its effects as a stimulant and opioid-like substance, its availability in various forms, associated health risks like dependence and contamination with heavy metals, and the lack of consistent federal regulation. Staff noted that while Kratom is sold locally, some vendors enforce an age restriction of 21, exceeding the Minnesota state minimum of 18. The session also covered the status of cannabis regulation following the adoption of a previous ordinance, and an update on tobacco enforcement, particularly concerning flavored tobacco. Council members discussed the challenges of regulating synthetic derivatives of Kratom and the merits of pursuing state-level regulation versus local action.

The meeting agenda included several public hearings. The consent agenda involved a request for preliminary and final plat approval for CARLSONS LINNER ROAD ADDITION at 1923 and 1939 Linner Road, which involves adjusting a lot line and vacation of easements to allow redevelopment while ensuring compliance with lot area, dimensional standards, and tree protection ordinances. The non-consent agenda included a request for a floodplain alteration permit and a conditional use permit for pool construction at 2348 Ford Road, as well as items concerning the former Opus buildings at 10350 and 10380 Bren Road West. Other business involved a Zoning Ordinance Update and the election of a Planning Commission liaison to the Sustainability Commission.

The meeting included the approval of the agenda and the minutes from the January 12, 2026, EDA meeting. Key business items involved the adoption of Resolution 2026-002, which transfers pooled tax increment from tax increment financing districts in the City of Minnetonka to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund. Additionally, Resolution 2026-003 was adopted, approving guidelines for the Homes Within Reach Repair Forgivable Loan Program and accepting a fund transfer from the City of Minnetonka's Affordable Housing Trust Fund. The council also adopted Resolution 2026-004, approving a collateral assignment related to the private redevelopment contract with Marsh III, LLC and Veridian Credit Union.

The key discussions focused on the approval of the agenda and the minutes from the January 22, 2026 meeting. Staff reported on land use applications considered by the city council, including resolutions for plats, a floodplain alteration permit, and an easement vacation for Elevare Second Addition. The primary public hearing concerned a request for a maximum height and copy/graphic area variance for a proposed scoreboard at 10700 Cedar Lake Road. After extensive discussion regarding size, illumination, noise impact, and ordinance compliance, the commission ultimately voted to deny the variance request. Other business included a progress report on the zoning ordinance update and the election of a planning commission liaison to the sustainability commission.

Key discussions during the meeting included the acceptance of the Strategic Plan quarter four and end-of-year report. Under the consent agenda, approvals were granted for the Hennepin County Auto Theft Collaboration Cooperative Agreement and the State of Minnesota Internet Crimes Against Children Joint Powers Agreement. The council introduced an ordinance regarding a major amendment to the master development plan for 10350 and 10380 Bren Road West, referring it to the planning commission. Other business addressed the adoption of a resolution accepting pooled tax increment for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, adopting guidelines for the Homes Within Reach Repair Forgivable Loan Program, and declining to adopt a resolution calling for a state eviction moratorium. A closed session was held to consider an offer or counteroffer for the purchase of real property located at 16809 State Highway 7. A public hearing concerning liquor licenses for Kyoto Sushi was continued until March 23, 2026.