The primary focus of the meeting was the application for a conditional use permit by My Dealer LLC, which aims to open a retail cannabis dispensary. The City Attorney introduced the agenda, covering a review of cannabis zoning codes and a zoning analysis. The dispensary is proposed to operate within the B2 zoning district, where cannabis businesses are permitted under certain conditions. The applicant secured a preliminary license from the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) and plans to enhance security and odor control in the retail space.

The zoning analysis confirmed that the business meets the required conditions, allowing operations to proceed under specific stipulations. These include improving the existing gravel parking lot with striping and enhancements and installing a six-foot fence to separate the property from neighboring residences.

A public hearing was opened, but no attendees came forward to speak. However, two written comments were entered into the record. Concerns raised included parking challenges and potential loitering near the dispensary. The City Attorney clarified that conditions addressing parking issues were part of the approval, including a site plan for parking lot improvements and the installation of a fence.

Patrons congregating outside the cannabis business was another point of concern. A police representative clarified that while cannabis use is legal, public consumption is prohibited. Any disturbances would be handled like any other public nuisance issue. This led to a broader discussion on the enforcement of public cannabis consumption laws, with suggestions for developing a city ordinance to simplify enforcement.

The business plan for the dispensary was another discussion point. Consumption of cannabis on the dispensary’s property is prohibited, with clear guidelines stating it cannot occur “in public” or near children. The applicant explained that consumption is not allowed on-site under their retail license, although event licenses could permit singular events. Security measures were emphasized, including a robust internal protocol to manage customer flow and prevent loitering.

Further, the applicant detailed the delivery process, noting that a separate license is required, distinct from the dispensary’s operations. Delivery services involve pre-ordering and ID verification, with security measures during product transfer. The dispensary plans to implement 24/7 surveillance in areas where cannabis inventory is stored or delivered.

Proximity to schools and regulatory compliance were also discussed. It was noted that the city’s code currently does not impose distance restrictions from schools, as permitted by state law. The dispensary’s compliance with regulations will be reviewed annually or as necessary by the city council.

Community concerns were a recurring theme, with residents expressing worries about parking and customer behavior post-purchase. The applicant expressed a willingness to engage with the community, stating a desire to work collaboratively to address these concerns. Comparisons were drawn to liquor stores, where businesses cannot control customer behavior after purchase. The importance of staff training and internal compliance measures was underscored to mitigate risks of theft or underage sales.

The Planning Commission’s role in providing information to the city council was emphasized, with members expressing confidence in the regulatory framework. The conditional use permit’s adherence to state laws and local ordinances was seen as a step toward a positive experience for Bayport residents. The motion to recommend approval of the permit passed without opposition.