The Stillwater City Council has unanimously approved a conditional-use permit for the city’s first licensed adult-use recreational cannabis retail business. Silver Therapeutics, set to be located at 1778 Greeley St. S., must still secure a state license before the city finalizes their registration. However, Interim Community Development Director Jason Zimmerman assured council members that the process is “in the works.”
Silver Therapeutics is applying for a state license from the Office of Cannabis Management to operate as a “microbusiness,” which would allow them to grow, produce, and sell consumer products from a single location. However, the Stillwater location will focus solely on retail sales, Zimmerman confirmed. Notably, there will be no on-site consumption.
Regulatory Framework and Local Impact
The approval is significant as it aligns with state law and city ordinances, which permit Stillwater, with a population of 19,200, to issue one cannabis business registration per 12,500 residents. This cap does not extend to medical cannabis combination businesses or lower-potency hemp edible retailers.
Mayor Ted Kozlowski expressed enthusiasm about the decision, stating, “Congratulations. You’re the first legal weed spot in Stillwater. We’re making history tonight.” The mayor acknowledged the complexities involved in the process, highlighting the patience and effort required from all parties involved.
Community and Business Considerations
Silver Therapeutics’ application complied with all city regulations regarding the location of cannabis-related businesses. The site is zoned for business park/commercial use and is situated outside sensitive areas such as residential zones, childcare and educational facilities, and parks frequented by minors. Additionally, it is more than 1,000 feet from any other cannabis business in the city.
A public hearing on the application was held during the city’s June 25 planning commission meeting, where the commission recommended approval. Notably, no public comments were submitted for or against the proposal, and the store’s security plan received approval from the city’s police department.
Business Strategy and Economic Prospects
Silver Therapeutics plans to employ 10 to 14 full-time team members and intends to collaborate with the landlord to invest over $250,000 in property renovations. These improvements aim to enhance both the storefront and interior, facilitating the proposed retail use.
The company will implement a point-of-sale system allowing customers to order products online for in-store pickup, contingent on on-site age verification. This strategy is designed to minimize parking requirements and manage customer flow effectively.
Broader Implications and Future Outlook
The establishment of Stillwater’s first recreational cannabis retailer marks a significant milestone in the city’s economic and regulatory landscape. It reflects a broader trend of increasing acceptance and legalization of cannabis across the United States.
As more states and municipalities navigate the complexities of cannabis regulation, Stillwater’s experience may serve as a model for other small cities considering similar ventures. The success of Silver Therapeutics could pave the way for future business opportunities and economic growth in the region.
Looking ahead, the city will continue to monitor the impact of the new retailer on the community and local economy. The lessons learned from this initial venture may inform future policy decisions and regulatory adjustments.
As the cannabis industry evolves, stakeholders in Stillwater and beyond will be watching closely to see how this pioneering effort unfolds and what it means for the future of cannabis retail in small-town America.
