North Mankato Approves Second Cannabis Shop on Belgrade Avenue
The city of North Mankato continues to make progress in its developing cannabis retail market. On Monday night, the City Council unanimously approved a conditional use permit allowing Craft Bud Ventures to open the city’s second cannabis shop at 422 Belgrade Avenue. The approval passed 5-0, marking another milestone in how North Mankato is managing its entrance into Minnesota’s newly legalized cannabis industry.
The new cannabis shop will occupy a first-floor suite in the Belgrade Business Center, just over a block from Cornflower Blue — the first approved cannabis shop in North Mankato. Both stores meet city ordinance buffer standards, maintaining proper distances from schools, parks, day care centers, and treatment facilities. These guidelines ensure that North Mankato maintains a responsible approach to cannabis business development while supporting new local entrepreneurs.
City officials noted that approving the second cannabis shop generated little debate during the meeting, unlike other items on the agenda. Resident Kevin Draper did express concern about potential increases in nuisance calls, traffic congestion, and possible effects on property values.
The City Council’s focus on structured, compliant growth underscores North Mankato’s effort to balance community concerns with economic opportunity. Many see the arrival of a second cannabis shop as a sign that North Mankato is becoming a competitive destination for legal cannabis retailers in southern Minnesota.
While the cannabis shop approval passed smoothly, the meeting also touched on another major topic a $20,870 expenditure for a geotechnical investigation of a possible public works building site in upper North Mankato. The proposal drew several public comments, but city officials clarified that the site is still under consideration and not officially proposed.
Public Works Director Luke Arnold explained that the investigation cost comes from $1.5 million budgeted for planning. He also noted that building on the current Webster Avenue site would cost about $24 million, nearly the same as the potential new location. The spending measure passed 3-2, with council members Sandra Oachs and Billy Steiner opposing.
As North Mankato prepares for the opening of its second cannabis shop, city leaders emphasize thoughtful growth and transparency. With clear zoning rules and measured oversight, North Mankato is setting the stage for a thriving, well-regulated cannabis marketplace that benefits both business owners and the local community.
