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Battle Creek planning commission postpones decision on marijuana retailer at 625 North Ave
Summary
The Planning Commission voted 5-2 to postpone action on a special use permit for an adult-use marijuana retailer at 625 North Ave, citing a need for more neighborhood input and information about branding and outreach; the applicant warned a delay could void the sale contract.
The Battle Creek Planning Commission voted 5-2 on July 22 to postpone consideration of a special use permit for an adult-use marijuana retail business at 625 North Ave until its August meeting.
Mayor Boehnke moved to table the application, saying he wanted “some additional time to make our decision” and to “get a better feel of what Ward 2 is demanding here.” The motion was seconded and carried with recorded votes of Denison — No; Gray — Yes; Fomato — Yes; Hughes — Yes; Mayor Boehnke — Yes; Morris — No; O'Donnell — Yes.
The public hearing had been opened for PSUP-26-0002, a petition from Top Brands on behalf of 625 Battle Creek LLC to operate an adult-use marijuana retailer in a T3 commercial zoning district. Planning staff recommended approval, saying the application met the T3 zoning requirements and the buffering requirements specified in the ordinance.
Applicant representative David Elwood told the commission the property was built for cannabis use in 2021, is currently mothballed but retains state-approved security systems, and the prospective operator has a clean licensing record in Michigan. Elwood warned commissioners that “the sellers have a contractual obligation with the buyer, and a postponement may affect that where they just withdraw.”
Commissioners cited a need for more neighborhood input, branding details and confirmation of the Neighborhood Planning Council’s position before taking a final vote. Staff noted the local NPC (MPC 2) meets on August 10, and commissioners asked staff to confirm whether that input would be available before the next Planning Commission meeting.
The item will return to the commission in August for further consideration; the applicant and staff may provide additional outreach and branding information before that meeting.
