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Council Approves 2 Cannabis Dispensary Licenses
In a packed City Council Chambers on Monday, the Albert Lea City Council voted against reconsidering the registration for the owner of The Smoking Tree, while approving licenses for two other out-of-state cannabis dispensary owners.
Chris Gracia of New Mexico plans to open Matchbox Farms at 2316 Hendrickson Road, while Cristina Aranguiz of Washington state will launch Black Husky at 2706 Ekko Ave. Despite his general opposition to recreational cannabis, Mayor Rich Murray voted against both businesses. Fifth Ward Councilor Keith Van Beek supported Matchbox Farms but opposed Black Husky, citing a preference for Minnesota ties in cannabis dispensary approvals.
City Manager Ian Rigg explained that the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) cannot require a city to approve a specific license, only that municipalities must eventually approve at least two registrations. Rigg noted concerns over limited background checks for applicants and suggested implementing criminal checks for cannabis dispensary operators, similar to alcohol licensing.
The rejection of The Smoking Tree stemmed from owner Jacob Schlichter's 2017 gross misdemeanor conviction, which conflicted with the city's ordinance prioritizing public health and safety. Schlichter, who had been the first state-approved cannabis dispensary license holder in Albert Lea, faced charges involving a 16-year-old runaway. Although the charge was later reduced to a misdemeanor, city leaders expressed discomfort with his history and public behavior following the denial.
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