Morrison County approves edits to local cannabis ordinance after public hearing

Morrison County commissioners approved revisions to the county’s cannabis ordinance on Feb. 10 after a public hearing produced no public comment.

Nate Merchant, Health and Human Services director, told the board that edits correct earlier duplicative requirements and align local permit steps with the state Office of Cannabis Management. “We added that a copy of the license issued by the state of Minnesota from the Office of Cannabis Management shall be sent to local jurisdiction within, at least 72 hours of the event,” Merchant said, describing the requirement and the related vendor‑list timing.

The board recessed the regular meeting and opened a public hearing at 10:24 a.m. for citizen input on the proposed changes. Staff reported no written comments and there were no speakers when the chair called for public comment three times; the hearing was closed and the board returned to the regular meeting. Commissioner Lemire moved to approve the ordinance changes as presented; Commissioner Casper seconded, and the board voted in favor (voice vote).

The approved changes remove duplicative local requirements and require applicants for temporary cannabis events to include materials the state now collects, and to provide updated vendor lists and proof of state licensure to local authorities at least 72 hours before an event. The amendments are intended to streamline local review while mirroring state processes.

Next steps: The ordinance amendments will be implemented per county procedure and staff said they will continue to coordinate with applicants and the Office of Cannabis Management.