10/08/2025 PZ Combined Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Planning & Zoning Board September 10, 2025 Page 3 Generally, the 13 license, types (now 14 based on 2025 legislation) were grouped with similar non cannabis related businesses. For example, cannabis cultivation was provided for in rural districts where agricultural uses are allowed, retail in commercial districts and production/manufacturing in industrial districts. Two of the license categories, microbusiness and mezzobusiness, allow for cultivation, production and retail sales, at different intensities. Both license types were limited to the City’s industrial districts because of the multiple use potential. Licensed businesses within these categories must also receive an “Endorsement” from the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) to operate a specific use such as retail on a site. The City recently rejected the certification of a microbusiness proposing to operate a cultivation business because of its location within a rural zoning district. The owner has since met with City staff to discuss the operation, which is currently a hemp growing operation in the City. While the owner has a microbusiness license from the state, they are only seeking the cultivation endorsement for the specific site. The owner has been joined by another interested party in seeking an amendment to the zoning ordinance to allow both microbusiness and mezzobusiness in the R, Rural District, limited to cultivation. Mr. Evenson had questions about whether someone with a mezzobusiness or a microbusiness could operate both retail and cultivation if they were in the right zoning district under one license. Ms. Larsen stated that they could, given they had the right endorsements. Mr. Laden had questions about what the difference is between a microbusiness or a mezzobusiness is from a retail license. Ms. Larsen stated that the main difference is that with the micro or mezzobusiness you would be able to cultivate, or do retail, but only with an endorsement. Mr. Wipperfurth wanted to clarify that the number of retail licenses would not change with this amendment. Ms. Larsen stated that the number of retail operator licenses would stay the same, but cultivation is unlimited. Mr. Vojtech wanted clarification on the onsite consumption of cannabis since the state license for microbusiness states you can have onsite consumption. Ms. Larsen stated that this ordinance would include language that would prohibit onsite consumption. Ms. Guthmueller is frustrated with the language and confusion from the state regarding the types of licenses. Ms. Guthmueller worries that the microbusinesses and mezzobusinesses would be able to sell years down the road. Ms. Guthmueller would like the City to push back on these licenses and have applicants apply with the other license DRAFT MINUTES