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Forest Lake Council adopts resolution urging retention of local zoning authority amid state housing bills
Summary
Citing concern that several state bills would reduce municipal control over lot sizes, parking and housing types, the council unanimously adopted Resolution 03‑24‑25‑06 urging retention of local zoning authority and directed staff to pursue outreach and media attention to inform residents.
The Forest Lake City Council unanimously adopted a resolution opposing multiple state housing bills that council members said would undermine local zoning authority.
City staff member Mark introduced the item and urged the council to reaffirm the city’s prior position, telling council that the bills under consideration would remove local control over treatments such as duplexes and triplexes, parking minimums and minimum lot sizes and could limit public input. He said a number of bills exist in different packages and that the city’s prior resolution opposing similar measures was worth restating.
Council members asked about bipartisan support for some of the bills, outreach to local state representatives and whether the city should host a town hall to inform residents. Staff said it is difficult to secure legislator time during session but recommended media outreach and contacting representatives; the council discussed posting the adopted resolution publicly to raise awareness.
Council member moved, seconded and passed a resolution titled supporting the City of Forest Lake’s retention of zoning authority (Resolution 03‑24‑25‑06) by voice vote. Staff thanked council for the direction and will pursue communications and outreach steps as appropriate.
