The meeting opened with a focus on an ordinance concerning cannabis, specifically addressing low potency hemp edibles and related businesses. City staff presented updates following recent changes in state law that empower municipalities to register retailers and approve cannabis events. The council first tackled the registration fee for low potency hemp edibles retailers. Staff recommended setting the fee at the maximum allowable amount of $125, which is 50% of the state’s fee. This recommendation was accepted unanimously without further debate.

Subsequently, the council discussed operating hours for on-sale liquor establishments that also sell low potency hemp drinks. Staff recommended aligning these hours with existing liquor laws, prohibiting sales after 1:00 AM. This proposal was also approved without opposition. The council then moved to cannabis events, where staff suggested a registration fee of $135 per day, conforming to the fee for temporary on-sale liquor licenses. This recommendation passed unanimously after confirming its alignment with the staff proposal.

A point of discussion arose around the possibility of permitting on-site consumption of cannabis at these events. Without a staff recommendation, the council engaged in a debate, weighing concerns about first-time cannabis experiences and public health considerations. Members referenced Minnesota state statutes that require consumption areas to be designated and not visible to the public, prohibiting alcohol and tobacco consumption there. Ultimately, a motion was made and passed unanimously to permit on-site consumption, contingent upon compliance with state regulations.

The council also examined the duration and frequency of cannabis events, with state law allowing events up to four days. Three options were presented: limiting to one event per year, allowing one event per calendar year without a total restriction, or imposing no limit on the number of events. The council leaned towards a moderate approach, advocating for one event per calendar year, mirroring liquor licensing practices. Discussions included potential zoning restrictions, with some members suggesting that events be confined to specific venue types, such as retail establishments. The city attorney was tasked with exploring provisions to enforce these venue restrictions.

Parallel to cannabis discussions, the council explored the broader implications of a $1.3 million infrastructure grant. Concerns were raised about the feasibility of utilizing this grant for a proposed pedestrian bridge. Some members argued that while the bridge could be beneficial, other city needs might take precedence. One member expressed apprehension about future financial commitments, stating, “as soon as we have to start levying tax dollars or paying back interest on bonds that are going to come from taxpayers, I just struggle with this stuff.” Another echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of aligning grant-funded projects with the city’s best interests.

Procedural aspects of advancing with the grant were also discussed. A motion was made to continue with the grant while exploring additional funding sources, highlighting the pressing deadline for deliverability set by the Michigan Department of Transportation. Concerns about matching funds and the city’s financial obligations were noted, as was the need to address potential ongoing maintenance costs associated with the bridge project.

In another matter, the council addressed a stormwater drainage complaint from resident Dennis Bolig. City staff outlined the historical context, noting a 1987 agreement allowing Bolig to build a garage on a drainage easement, with the understanding that the county held no liability for potential damages. Bolig asserted that the city was using the easement without proper authorization, prompting a debate among council members about the historical agreements and the city’s responsibilities. Chairman Ericson emphasized the need for direct discussions with Bolig, criticizing the staff’s previous lack of action. A motion was made and passed to revisit the issue with further staff review.

The meeting concluded with updates on several construction projects. Public Works Director Habigor reported delays in the 10th Street reconstruction, now postponed to the following year, and ongoing challenges with other projects. The need for council approval on significant project changes was underscored, with assurances given that future decisions would involve all council members.