The St. Cloud City Council convenes tonight to discuss several key issues, including a proposed low-income housing project and a request for a recreational cannabis dispensary. The meeting is set for 6:00 PM at St. Cloud City Hall.
One major item on the agenda is a public hearing regarding the construction of a new apartment building on the former YMCA site. Center City Housing seeks approval to develop 40 single-bedroom units aimed at individuals facing challenges such as drug addiction and mental health issues. The proposed Elm Ridge Apartments will implement trauma-informed and harm-reduction models to assist residents in achieving stable housing. Currently, the site is zoned for commercial use, and a change in the planned unit development will be necessary to allow for residential construction. If approved, the project is expected to take two to three years before completion.
In another significant discussion, Wild Weeds, a local business located in the Centennial Plaza mall, is seeking permission to convert its premises into a recreational cannabis dispensary. State regulations currently restrict dispensaries to C5 heavy highway commercial districts, while the Wild Weeds location falls within a C2 neighborhood commercial zone. Though the planning commission has previously denied their request, the City Council has the final authority on the matter.
Additionally, the council will review bids for a $5.7 million road improvement project on Lincoln Avenue Southeast, which extends from 4th Street Southeast to 7th Street Southeast. The city received two bids, with Geislinger & Sons of Watkins offering the lowest at $4.22 million, which is 6% below estimates. Bids for a separate sidewalk improvement project will also be considered later in August, as it follows a different timeline due to grant funding.
Furthermore, the council will discuss an ordinance that aims to clarify definitions of commercial and non-commercial signs, including a notable exception for election season.
The meeting promises to address critical community needs as St. Cloud navigates its development and regulatory landscape.
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