08-08-2024 Planning Commission Minutes

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MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION AUGUST 8, 2024 5 based on those guidelines. She stated that themes were also provided for guidelines. She noted that a model ordinance related to time, place and manner was provided from the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM). She stated that most cities are following a similar process and therefore there is not much for comparison at this time. Commissioner Thorson asked if the City has received interest in opening this type of business. The City Clerk confirmed that the City has received interest but noted that there is currently a moratorium that prevents that in Little Canada. She stated that Vadnais Heights recently adopted the model ordinance from the OCM. Commissioner Thorson asked if the intention would be to have something in place prior to January 1st. The City Clerk confirmed that they would like something in place before the end of the year. She confirmed that Vadnais Heights followed similar buffers that it uses for alcohol sales. Commissioner Masrud asked if the businesses would only be allowed in the commercial districts. The City Clerk commented that industrial properties could qualify as well, she stated that the areas marked in grey or pink could be considered eligible on the map. Commissioner Masrud noted that the school buffer would exclude most of the Rice Street corridor. Commissioner Lum stated that she has seen signage for a business on Little Canada Drive. The City Clerk explained that is a THC/CBD business, which is allowed and different than cannabis. Commissioner Kulousek asked if there are any benefits the City would receive from this type of business versus other businesses. The City Clerk replied that these businesses would be taxed at a higher rate and cities that allow these businesses do receive come of those taxes back as an incentive. She stated that the Council seems like it would still like to restrict to only one sales business of this type. Commissioner Masrud asked if there would be a difference between tobacco and liquor buffers. The City Clerk replied that tobacco and alcohol sales have the same buffers, where this buffer could be larger. Chair Johnson commented that it would seem to make sense to follow similar regulation to alcohol for buffers. Commissioner Thorson asked if retail and manufacturing would be differentiated. The City Clerk stated that the State is requiring each city to allow at least one sales business. She commented that manufacturing would be different. Commissioner Lum asked if there is a reason that other communities have not created their rules. The City Clerk stated that everyone has been waiting for the guidance from the OCM, which was just released. Commissioner Masrud commented that regardless of what the rules are, they will still be in conflict with Federal law. He asked if there is any ability to restrict the activity based on Federal law. The City Clerk replied that there would not be an ability to restrict further than the State allowance.