Title
Initiating a zoning study to consider possible amendments to the Zoning Code regarding adult-use cannabis, now legal under Minnesota Session Law, Chapter 63.
Body
WHEREAS, a new law enacted at the end of the 2023 legislative session, Session Law Chapter 63, legalizes adult-use cannabis in Minnesota and establishes a regulatory framework over the cannabis industry; and
WHEREAS, cannabis will not be able to be sold until the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) is established and able to issue licenses, likely to begin in January 2025. Before beginning sales, a cannabis retailer must obtain a local retail registration and zoning approval; and
WHEREAS, cities and other local governments may not prohibit adult-use cannabis businesses within their jurisdiction, but may impose reasonable regulations on the time, place, and manner of cannabis business operations; and
WHEREAS, cities and other local governments may limit the number of cannabis businesses to no fewer than one business for every 12,500 residents; and
WHEREAS, the new State Law establishes expungement procedures for certain individuals previously convicted of a crime related to cannabis; and
WHEREAS, cannabis businesses offer a new potential for economic development opportunities, particularly for communities who have experienced historic negative impacts of illegal cannabis use; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, under provisions of Legislative Code §61.801, that the City Council hereby initiates a zoning study to consider possible amendments to the Zoning Code regarding adult-use cannabis.