Otter Tail County approves two Pelican Rapids cannabis registrations; questions over park buffer prompt delay on a third

The Otter Tail County Board on Sept. 23 approved two cannabis registration actions and tabled further action on a buffer dispute that commissioners said requires clearer local guidance.

Land and Resources staff presented three Pelican Rapids applications during the meeting. They reported that Wildflower Cannabis (520 Broadway N., owner Danielle Royer) met county buffer requirements — 1,000 feet from schools and 500 feet from day‑care/residential treatment facilities and other cannabis businesses — and recommended approval. The board voted to approve registration with the statutory conditions described by staff.

A second application, Elevated Dispensaries (42nd St. NW, owner Scott Doms), also met the 1,000‑foot buffer to schools but lies about 460 feet from Veterans Memorial River Park. The county ordinance bars cannabis businesses within 500 feet of a park that is “regularly used by minors.” Commissioners disagreed in public discussion over whether Veterans Memorial River Park meets that description. Commissioner Wayne Johnson said he would "have a hard time saying that that park is regularly used by minors," describing it as a small riverfront park with a cannon and picnic tables rather than playground equipment. Other commissioners urged caution to protect children and noted the Office of Cannabis Management guidance is vague.

Given that ambiguity, a commissioner moved to table the Elevated Dispensaries registration to allow a committee to gather evidence, consult the City of Pelican Rapids, and clarify an operational definition of "regularly used by minors." The board agreed to table the matter and set continued consideration for Oct. 28, 2025, after a committee meeting scheduled for Oct. 14 to develop a consistent approach.

Commissioners and staff said the county will request the city’s perspective and any local anecdotes or records about park use. Staff emphasized that the registration process also requires the applicant to secure any necessary land‑use/zoning approvals from the city and a license from the Office of Cannabis Management before opening.

Votes at a glance: the Wildflower Cannabis registration was approved (motion by Lam/Lalman; second Mortensen); the Elevated Dispensaries registration was tabled pending further review (motion to table carried); other pending cannabis and planning items will return to the board with additional information.