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EDA schedules business breakfast, joint work session; updates on demolition, parking, cannabis zoning and housing outreach
Summary
The Lindstrom EDA confirmed a business breakfast for Nov. 13, plans a joint EDA–City Council session in early October, and received updates that OJ Juice demolition is expected in late October/early November, Park Street parking will be included in 2025 street work, planning will review cannabis zoning in October, and downtown events and a housing stakeholder breakfast are planned in September.
Staff told the Lindstrom Economic Development Authority the EDA business breakfast is set for Wednesday, Nov. 13 at 7:30 a.m., and suggested recognizing local businesses with leftover 'keys to the city' as awards.
The board agreed staff will bring a more detailed package to the October meeting. Staff said the keys are in good condition and could be used for a small set of business awards as part of the breakfast.
Staff proposed a joint EDA–City Council work session on the city's property portfolio for early October. The session timing will depend on a pending broker evaluation expected by the end of September; staff said an evening meeting may be preferable to increase attendance.
On development updates, staff said demolition of the OJ Juice site is scheduled for late October or early November but that no demolition permit has been issued yet. Park Street parking‑lot improvements and downtown furnishing and signage are being packaged into the city's 2025 street project to obtain better bids; the beautification plan includes benches, signage guidelines and potential public art.
On zoning, the planning commission will review proposed setbacks and district rules for retail cannabis in October in advance of state licensing beginning in 2025. Staff said the city cannot bar licensed retail sales entirely but can define allowable districts and setbacks; staff recommended consistent local rules for high‑dose and hemp‑derived (low‑dose) THC products to reduce confusion.
Staff also reported a new downtown business‑owners group and events: a fall 'fika' downtown on Sept. 21 and a housing stakeholder breakfast on Sept. 24. Staff circulated materials for the comprehensive housing analysis update and encouraged stakeholders to complete an online survey, with local gift‑card incentives for respondents.
No formal votes were taken on these items; staff will return with detailed proposals where appropriate.
