Council Approves Cannabis, Police Site Study

On November 21, 2022, the St. Charles City Council convened for a 21-minute session addressing community recognition, land use approvals, and redevelopment planning. Key highlights included Small Business Saturday, approval of a recreational cannabis dispensary, and a directive for a feasibility study on the Old Police Department Site.

Key Decisions and Approvals

• Omnibus Vote: Approved routine agenda items.

• Cannabis Special Use Ordinance: Approved a special use for a recreational cannabis dispensing organization at 584 South Randall Road.

• Adjournment: Meeting concluded successfully with procedural motions.

Action Items:

• Conduct a feasibility study for the Old Police Department Site, including infrastructure, geotechnical, and environmental assessments to guide future redevelopment.

• City Administrator to add the feasibility study motion to the next Planning and Development Committee agenda.

• Continue forwarding community opposition emails and petition signatures regarding the Frontier development proposal.

Proclamations and Community Recognition

Mayor Laura Avike read a proclamation declaring November 26, 2022, as Small Business Saturday, encouraging residents to support local businesses that strengthen the city’s economy and community character. The Mayor also highlighted upcoming Thanksgiving events, including Giving Tuesday, the Holiday Homecoming parade, and the lighting of lights ceremony.

Cannabis Dispensary Approval

Council members deliberated on a special use request for a recreational cannabis dispensary at 584 South Randall Road. After discussion, the ordinance was approved, with Council members addressing potential conflicts of interest and ensuring compliance with local regulations.

Old Police Department Site Redevelopment Discussion

A major topic was the future of the Old Police Department Site. The Council directed staff to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study, covering:

• Infrastructure limitations

• Geotechnical and environmental evaluations

• Demolition and utility relocation costs

• Tax revenue projections

• Traffic analysis, including vehicular, pedestrian, and cycling considerations

This study aims to provide new RFP guidelines for redevelopment proposals, giving previously submitted plans the opportunity to resubmit once criteria are finalized.

Public Feedback

• John Revchuk, former chairman of the River Corridor Foundation, emphasized the need for detailed studies and highlighted challenges such as the deteriorating river wall, traffic congestion, and potential riverfront improvements, including a new walkway under the Main Street Bridge.

• Mike Knute, representing Citizens for Responsible Development, opposed the Frontier development proposal, citing insufficient green and open space, and referenced over 1,400 petition signatures from community members advocating for responsible redevelopment.

The Council acknowledged the community’s concerns and committed to a careful, data-driven approach for the site’s future.

Conclusion

The November 21 City Council meeting balanced community recognition, procedural approvals, and forward-looking planning. From proclaiming Small Business Saturday to approving a cannabis dispensary and initiating a feasibility study for the Old Police Department Site, the Council emphasized transparency, community input, and careful planning for future development.

FAQs

What cannabis-related action did the Council take on November 21, 2022?

The Council approved a special use ordinance for a recreational cannabis dispensary at 584 South Randall Road, ensuring compliance with local regulations.

Which community recognition was celebrated during the meeting?

Mayor Laura Avike read a proclamation for Small Business Saturday on November 26, 2022, encouraging residents to support local businesses.

What redevelopment planning occurred for the Old Police Department Site?

The Council directed a feasibility study covering infrastructure, geotechnical and environmental assessments, demolition costs, tax projections, and traffic analyses to guide future redevelopment.

How did the Council address community concerns about development?

Council members acknowledged emails and petitions opposing the Frontier development, citing insufficient green space, and emphasized a careful, data-driven approach to future proposals.

What are the next steps following the Old Police Department feasibility study directive?

Staff will present the feasibility study motion to the Planning and Development Committee, and new RFP guidelines will be issued for potential redevelopment submissions.