A proposal for an indoor cannabis micro business in Cold Spring, Minnesota, has sparked significant discussion among local officials and residents. The Planning Commission met on July 24, 2025, to review the request for a 20-year interim use permit for the facility, which would be located at 13381 County Road 140.

The proposed operation would consist of a 45-foot by 75-foot building, housing growing rooms, a post-harvest area, and office space. The business plans to employ 2 to 3 staff members, with normal operating hours set from 8 AM to 5 PM. Notably, the facility will not engage in retail sales or on-site consumption of cannabis, focusing solely on cultivation within a 1,200 square foot area, well below the maximum allowed canopy of 5,000 square feet.

Concerns from the community were voiced during the meeting, particularly regarding odor, security, and potential impacts on property values. Residents expressed fears about the facility's proximity to homes and the implications of increased traffic and crime. One resident, Tom Evans, who lives directly across from the proposed site, highlighted worries about odor control and the facility's potential to attract unwanted attention due to the high value of cannabis products.

In response to these concerns, the applicants assured the commission that they would implement state-of-the-art odor control systems and maintain strict security measures, including 24/7 surveillance. They emphasized their commitment to being good neighbors and managing the facility responsibly.

The Planning Commission discussed the length of the interim use permit, ultimately agreeing to a 20-year term, with the possibility of reviewing the operation after the initial phase. The commission also considered setting specific hours for deliveries and pickups, aiming to minimize disturbances to the surrounding community.

As the first cannabis micro business proposal in the area, this application represents a significant step in the evolving landscape of cannabis regulation in Minnesota. The commission's decision will not only impact the applicants but also set a precedent for future cannabis-related operations in Stearns County. The next steps will involve further evaluations and potential adjustments based on community feedback and regulatory requirements.