Lyon County is moving forward with plans to regulate cannabis retail businesses. A public hearing has been scheduled for November 19, giving residents a chance to voice their opinions on the proposed ordinance.
Drafting the Ordinance: A Collaborative Effort
A committee has been hard at work crafting the cannabis business ordinance.
Members include:
- County Attorney Abby Wikelius
- Planning and Zoning Administrator John Biren
- Representatives from Southwest Health and Human Services
“This draft is a work in progress,” said County Administrator Loren Stomberg. Changes are expected as the state’s Office of Cannabis Management finalizes its rules.
Engaging Local Communities
The county is reaching out to cities and townships for input.
Biren mentioned, “We’ll be going to the city councils, asking if they want to defer to this ordinance or if they want to write their own.” So far:
- Balaton and Florence have signed the delegation agreement.
- Garvin wants to review the document before making a decision.
Letters have been mailed to all 20 townships in Lyon County to ensure widespread participation.
Key Points of the Proposed Ordinance
The draft lays out definitions and regulations for cannabis businesses.
Some highlights include:
| Regulation | Details |
|---|---|
| Business Definitions | Types of cannabis businesses under state law |
| Registration Limit | Currently capped at two retailers based on population |
| Compliance Checks | Yearly inspections to ensure adherence to laws |
| Location Restrictions | – Not within 1,000 feet of a school – Not within 500 feet of day cares, treatment facilities, or playgrounds – Not in residential districts |
Failure to comply could result in a misdemeanor charge, according to the draft.
What’s Next?
Residents are encouraged to participate in the upcoming public hearing.
Commissioner Gary Crowley noted that more additions might be made to the ordinance before it’s finalized. With the hearing set for November 19, the county aims to provide a framework that could also assist cities and townships in setting their own regulations if they choose.
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