In a recent assembly, the City Council of Minnetonka has put forth several ordinances and resolutions that will reshape the city's approach to gambling, cannabis operations, and real estate development. Notably, on July 8, the council adopted an ordinance that provides a framework for lawful gambling within the city. This ordinance allows charitable gambling activities to take place at liquor-licensed establishments, as specified in the city code amendments. The move represents a significant shift to embrace and regulate these activities within the city's borders.
The council also decided to put a temporary halt on all commercial cannabis operations by adopting an interim ordinance. This moratorium is to carefully study and, ultimately, to strategically plan the necessary restrictions for cannabis businesses. The intent behind this pause is to ensure that policies are thoughtfully crafted to consider the time, place, and manner in which these operations should operate within Minnetonka.
Development plans were also a critical focus during the meeting. The City Council approved a redevelopment project at 2511 and 2516 Plymouth Road. Lake West Development is slated to transform the roughly ten-acre plot into eight single-household lots to be accessed via a newly established public street and cul-de-sac. This resolution signifies a growth in residential housing opportunities in the city, accommodating the community's need for expansion in the housing sector.
On the commercial development front, the proposed new building for Les Schwab Tire Center at 17555 Highway 7 hit a temporary snag as the city council tabled the project to provide the applicant time to comply with the council's guidelines and conditions. The decision not to greenlight the construction immediately underscores the council's emphasis on adherence to established local directives.
Moreover, the council displayed interest in townhome development by introducing an ordinance for a project that would create eight three-story residential buildings at 901 Carlson Parkway. This complex is poised to add 30 new rental units to the area, pending approval of a critical amendment to the current master development plan, with requisite variances. This referral to the planning commission marks a step forward in expanding diverse housing options. Details on these developments were reported on Minnetonka's official website.
