A decision on a proposed cannabis retail store in North Mankato has been temporarily postponed, following a unanimous vote by the City Council to table the discussion until its next meeting on August 4. The delay stems from the absence of Councilmember Matt Peterson, with the council agreeing that the full body should be present to cast votes on such a significant issue.
The proposed business, which would be located at 300 Belgrade Ave., has generated growing interest and debate within the community. The applicant, Madeline Peck of Cornflower Blue Properties, received preliminary state license approval from the Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) on July 11. City staff had recommended approval of the application, provided the business meets all zoning and buffer requirements set by the city.
During the meeting’s public comment portion, resident Barb Church voiced her support for postponing the decision until all five council members could vote. “I think all five people should be here, and they should all make their vote count,” she said, echoing a sentiment shared by many residents hoping for a thorough and representative decision-making process.
Peck, along with business partner Preston Perreault, also operates Hi-Tech Clouds Vape Shop in Mankato. The pair emphasized their commitment to operating ethically and in full compliance with state and local laws. “We’ve maintained good standing with the city of Mankato,” said Perreault during the meeting.
Despite city staff’s recommendation, some concerns were raised by council members and neighboring business owners. Key issues include parking capacity at the proposed location, increased traffic, and potential impacts on neighborhood safety and property values. While supporters argue that a well-regulated cannabis shop can bring tax revenue and offer a safe, legal alternative to unregulated markets, skeptics remain cautious.
If approved, this store would become one of only two cannabis retail businesses permitted in North Mankato. However, city staff noted that under Minnesota law, if the council does not make a decision within 60 days of the application being submitted, the conditional use permit would be automatically granted.
With a key vote now scheduled for August 4, the future of the proposed cannabis shop at 300 Belgrade Ave. remains uncertain. Until then, both supporters and opponents will continue to watch closely as North Mankato navigates this next step in cannabis retail regulation.
