09-24-2025 Council Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES CITY COUNCIL SEPTEMBER 24, 2025 John DeRosa, applicant, commented that he is present to request the ability to open a cannabis dispensary in the city. He anticipates opening the building in 30 to 60 days once the interior and exterior improvements are completed. Mayor Fischer asked if people would be allowed to consume or sample products in the store. Mr. DeRosa replied that they would not be able to do so. He explained that the State would allow for sampling of a drink or ice cream -type product, but that would need to be done in a separate area. He stated that they are not thinking about offering that at this time. Mayor Fischer asked if consumption in the parking lot would be allowed. Mr. DeRosa replied that he regulates his parking lot at his current smoke shop to ensure that people are not littering, loitering, drinking, or smoking in the parking lot, and would do that at this location as well. He noted that he would also install signage in the parking lot to advise of those rules. He commented that this is a family -owned business and he does not intend to operate that type of operation. Miller recognized that this is a retail shop and not a gathering space. Malone asked if there would be a drive-thru. Mr. DeRosa replied that it could considered at a later date, as it would allow people to purchase products in the winter without exiting their vehicle. The City Clerk confirmed that it would require additional review. Miller referenced the prepacked products and asked if that would be done onsite. Mr. DeRosa stated that the State will allow open jars at a dispensary, but he is choosing not to do that and will instead have his products prepackaged and ready to go. Kwapick asked if the number of people within the store would be limited. Mr. DeRosa estimated about eight people in the store, three shopping and five in the waiting area. He commented that he visited dispensaries in different states to find the model that he liked best. He explained that this would allow him to have three employees to serve three customers in the back area of the store at any time. Mayor Fischer opened the public hearing for comments from the general public. There were no comments from the public. Upon motion by Miller, seconded by Gutierrez, the public hearing was closed. Ayes (5). Nays (0). Motion adopted. Malone commented that she appreciates the applicant taking the steps to improve the aesthetics of the exterior of the space, including the parking lot and landscaping. Miller commented that this building seems to be a great fit for this type of use. Miller introduced the following resolution and moved its adoption: RESOLUTION NO. 2025-09-147 — APPROVING AN INTERIM USE PERMIT TO OPERA TE A RETAIL CANNABIS DISPENSAR Y A T 75 LITTLE CANADA ROAD WEST The foregoing resolution was duly seconded by Gutierrez. Ayes (5). Nays (0). Resolution declared adopted. 2