Forest Lake staff announce transit pilot, Elmrest corridor study and Tim's Marina environmental review

Council and staff delivered a cluster of operational updates at the meeting.

Council Member Larson said the council tabled an ordinance related to a proposed cell tower at Hosana Church while it explores additional stealth or camouflage design options; the ordinance will return to council and is not scheduled to come back to the planning commission at this time. Larson also summarized a developer concept presented to the EDA and council for a six‑story mixed‑use building in the south end of downtown; the concept is preliminary and taller than most local buildings.

Planning staff (Abby) announced that the Metropolitan Transportation Organization will pilot an app‑based, in‑city door‑to‑door transit service beginning in February on non‑peak days (Tuesdays and Thursdays, roughly 10 a.m.–2 p.m.). Staff said the pilot will be rolled out slowly, cover most of old Forest Lake, and that the city will support public outreach.

Abby also reported that Forest Lake and three neighboring cities signed a cooperative agreement to study the Elmrest Avenue corridor and are awaiting county participation before formally beginning the study. The council adopted a budget that expanded the city's code enforcement officer position to 32 hours per week; staff reported heavy complaint activity in December and that hazardous building abatements are underway where necessary.

Finally, a project to add two docks at Tim's Marina posted an Environmental Assessment Worksheet on Jan. 6; the EAW is open for 30 days for public comment. Staff said the EAW and associated conditional‑use permit and variance will be reviewed after the comment period and that the city will determine whether a more extensive environmental impact statement is required.

No formal action or votes were taken on these informational items during the meeting.