Forest Lake Planning Commission September 10th, 2025
Thursday, September 11, 2025
Interim Use Permit for Smoky Oaks cannabis dispensary at 115 Lake Street North
Preliminary plat and PUD amendment for Chestnut Creek Second Edition development
Areas of Interest (4)
- Forest Lake planners move to permit second cannabis dispensary despite open questions about public consumption in parking lots.
- Developers of Chestnut Creek Second Edition seek density relief for 119 new homes while addressing historical wetland encroachment.
- City staff push for a cap on retail cannabis businesses as state law mandates minimums based on population growth.
- Conflict arises over whether new homeowners should be responsible for maintenance of sidewalks in the Chestnut Creek development.
Votes (3)
Approve agenda as presented
Moved by Not specified · Seconded by Not specified
Approve minutes from August 13, 2025
Moved by Not specified · Seconded by Not specified
Recommend approval of IUP for Smoky Oaks
Moved by Not specified · Seconded by Not specified
Notable Quotes (3)
The planning commission's asked to make recommendation to the city council on the IUP... for a period of five years.
I know the number one thing is always just staying compliant and like working as closely with the city as possible.
What Dr. Horton has done is worked with the watershed district to increase wetland buffers on the west side.
People (3)
AbbyCity StaffPresented staff reports for both the cannabis IUP and Chestnut Creek development.
1 quote
Presented staff reports for both the cannabis IUP and Chestnut Creek development.
“The city has approved adult use cannabis products in different zoning districts within the city.”
Explaining zoning for the Smoky Oaks dispensary.
Scott HansenOwnerPrincipal owner of Smoky Oaks, previously operated businesses in Oregon, New Jersey, and Missouri.
1 quote
Principal owner of Smoky Oaks, previously operated businesses in Oregon, New Jersey, and Missouri.
“I just want to mention that we're like hoping to work as closely with the city as possible to make sure we're following all the rules.”
Addressing compliance and security concerns.
Chair GerardChairPresided over the planning commission meeting.
Presided over the planning commission meeting.
Places Mentioned
Events & Meetings (3)
- August 13, 2025: Regular Meeting
- August 27, 2025: Neighborhood meeting regarding Chestnut Creek
- September 22, 2025: Scheduled city council hearing
Ordinances & Resolutions (1)
Draft resolution granting an IUP to Smoky Oaks LLC for retail cannabis at 115 Lake Street North for five years.