Local Business Owners Seek Clarity as City Awaits Further Guidance from the Upcoming State Regulatory Framework
A temporary halt to the sales or licensing of THC and marijuana has been implemented by the Fergus Falls City Council in response to the impending August 1st legalization deadline statewide.
The council unanimously voted for the interim ordinance during a public meeting held on July 17th, an occasion that offered the opportunity for citizens to voice their opinions and give feedback on the newly proposed rule.
Emily McCune, owner of Sugar High Cannabis Consulting and Dispensary, was the only one who spoke at the hearing. Previously, McCune had reached out to council members via email, advocating for an amendment to the language of the ordinance.
McCune called for inclusion of language that states, “until January 2025 or until the state regulatory framework takes effect,” clarifying that her suggestion aims to prevent potential delays in the issuance of licenses, should state regulations become effective before the proposed date.
She explained her concerns that the ordinance, if applied strictly until January 2025, might lead to unnecessary postponement if the state regulations come into effect sooner.
“The January 2025 date is an arbitrary possible date. That’s the eighteenth month of how long it may take the state Office of Cannabis Management to be ready to impose the regulation and rules,” McCune said.
McCune also raised an issue with the terminology used in the ordinance, arguing that “recreational THC” is an arbitrary and non-legal term, recommending its replacement with a legally defined alternative.
Despite her suggestions for improvements to the ordinance, McCune stated that she would not contest the moratorium, as it doesn’t currently affect her business.
Responding to McCune’s comments, Tom Rufer, Ward Two council member, queried city administrator, Andrew Bremseth, on the feasibility of making the requested changes. Bremseth confirmed that they were not in a position to make alterations to the ordinance language at this stage.
Bremseth further explained that they are awaiting guidance from the yet-to-be-established Office of Cannabis Management, expressing that cities across the state, including Fergus Falls, are currently in a standstill, pending further directions.
Emphasizing the legality of all current operations under the newly passed moratorium, Bremseth assured that licensing will proceed as soon as there is more direction from the Office of Cannabis Management.
With the council unanimously endorsing the interim ordinance, the pause on THC and marijuana sales and licensing remains in effect until further notice.