ALBERT LEE, Minn. (KTTC) – The Albert Lea City Council has approved first reading of a new ordinance that will regulate new cannabis businesses that may enter the area.
According to the city, when the state legalized recreational marijuana use, cities had to review their ordinances to approve use, sales and zoning of related businesses.
Albert Lea City Manager Ian Rigg said most of the regulations in the ordinance are at the state level. He said notable requirements include the location of retail cannabis businesses, hours of operation, and the maximum number of businesses allowed in the city (the city limits it to just two businesses).
Legalization is still recent under Minnesota law, so Rigg said the city is proceeding cautiously for the benefit of the community.
“I think it's important, it gives people the peace of mind to address this issue,” he said. “There are horror stories and success stories when it comes to cannabis businesses in different states across the country, and it all depends on the kind of work that was done upfront, and what kind of regulations were put in place. You know what it is and how it was established within the community.”
Albert Lea Ward 1 City Councilor Rachel Christensen shared that the city recognizes how cannabis retail businesses can impact the community. She said, “Within our zoning laws, we have some restrictions on certain zone types and proximity to schools, parks, playgrounds, daycare centers, churches, etc. I think it shows respect for the people.” We have chosen to be cautious in deploying this and only approve the minimum number of licenses required by state law. ”
Although the process has been long, Christensen said he believes the city is well prepared for the state's mandate. She said, “The state hasn't issued any permits yet, so we're still ahead of the ball here.”
“The main focus is the fact that we understand that these companies are coming here. We have to accept them as a national mandate. We tried our best to communicate with them and see what was coming here. We just didn't want it to be wide open and anyone could put anything in anywhere. Masu.”
The next step for the ordinance is approval of a second reading, which the city plans to hold on Oct. 28. The city will then promulgate the ordinance and it will take effect.
If you are interested in this ordinance, please visit the City of Albert Lea website.
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