Two years ago, the voters of Imlay City approved a ballot measure allowing the establishment of medical cannabis facilities within city limits. However, despite this decision, no such facilities have opened since. Now, the same group that supported the November 2022 proposal is pushing for a charter amendment on the city's November 2024 ballot to further "expand access" to medical cannabis in the city.
During a recent Imlay City Commission meeting, City Clerk Dawn Sawicki-Franz reported that the group, now operating under the name "Imlay City Yes 2024," submitted a petition on July 30th with signatures supporting the amendment. This was the final date for submitting ballot proposals for the city's upcoming November 5th general election. Upon reviewing the petition, Sawicki-Franz determined that the petition lacked the required number of valid signatures. Some signatures were disqualified due to being from residents of neighboring townships or due to illegibility. In total, 130 valid signatures were collected, but 137 were needed for the proposal to qualify for the ballot.
Following this, Sawicki-Franz consulted with City Attorney Robert Seibert, who confirmed that the petition did not meet the necessary criteria to move forward. In response, the group filed a motion in Lapeer County Circuit Court to challenge the city's decision and requested an additional ten days to gather the required signatures. The hearing is scheduled for Monday at 9 a.m. in front of Judge Mike Nolan.
The proposed charter amendment, if approved, would end the city's prohibition of cannabis establishments and allow for the operation of up to two medical cannabis facilities. However, City Manager Craig Horton raised concerns about the initiative, stating that the proposal's language is misleading. Horton pointed out that the city does not currently prohibit cannabis establishments; in fact, licenses were granted to two businesses following the 2022 measure, but these businesses chose not to open. He also criticized the proposed scoring system for license applications, which would heavily favor existing license holders, potentially blocking new applicants from securing a license.
Furthermore, city officials have expressed concerns that the amendment could override local zoning ordinances. Currently, medical cannabis businesses in Imlay City are restricted to operating in B-2 commercial districts. The proposed amendment could allow businesses to relocate their licenses and remove restrictions on operating near highway exits.
In the 2022 election, Imlay City voters narrowly passed the charter amendment to permit medical cannabis facilities by a vote of 644 to 599. This required the city to issue eight licenses across various categories, including provisioning centers, growers, and safety compliance facilities. Despite receiving six applications for provisioning centers and issuing two licenses, neither business has yet to open.
The city's medical cannabis department, established as a result of the 2022 amendment, has been operating at a loss. As an unfunded mandate under the city charter, the department relies on transfers from the general budget to maintain operations. The $100 fee for cannabis license applications has proven insufficient to cover the department's costs, according to Sawicki-Franz. She also noted that the deadline for submitting ballot proposal language to the county for the November election passed on August 13th.
The city of Grand Rapids is set to host an unprecedented event that promises to merge the enchanting world of magic with the vibrant culture of cannabis. On Saturday, September 28th, the Wealthy Theatre at 1130 Wealthy Street will transform into a haven for magic enthusiasts and cannabis connoisseurs alike, as it presents "Smokus Pocus: A 420 Magic Show."
Smokus Pocus has garnered acclaim from notable publications, with Las Vegas Magazine guaranteeing it "to blow your mind!" and HuffPost lauding it as "The Best!" This unique performance, led by the talented magician and cannabis aficionado Ben Zabin, invites audiences to experience a night of "Dank Debauchery" filled with innovative magic that seamlessly intertwines with cannabis culture.
The show, described as the "World's Dopest Magic Show," offers an evening where the impossible becomes possible. Attendees will witness jars of bud appear out of thin air, lighters animate with a life of their own, and bongs distort reality in ways that will leave viewers questioning the fabric of their perception. It's a spectacle designed to captivate both those who partake in cannabis and those who prefer to stay sober, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all.
Smokus Pocus has enjoyed sold-out performances across North America, including extended runs in Brooklyn and Las Vegas, thanks to its compelling blend of tokes, jokes, and magical tricks. The show's reputation for delivering a mind-blowing night out is well-earned, with each act crafted to astonish and amuse, leaving audiences marveling at the sheer creativity and skill on display.
For those interested in attending, the event will take place from 8:00 to 9:30 pm EST. Tickets are priced at $40 each, or $140 for a group of four. An early-bird special, available until September 21st, offers reduced pricing at $35 for individual tickets or $125 for a group of four. Premium seating options are also available for $55 per ticket.
To secure your spot at this magical and cannabis-infused extravaganza, or for more information, visit the Smokus Pocus official website at SmokusPocus.com. Prepare to be immersed in a world where caricatures spring to life, objects disappear and reappear in the most unexpected places, and the power of magic meets the culture of cannabis in a celebration unlike any other.
The Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency (CRA) is shifting its approach to inspections of licensed cannabis businesses, moving away from scheduled semi-annual visits in favor of unannounced inspections. This change, set to take effect on October 1st, aims to enhance flexibility and efficiency in regulatory oversight. The CRA believes this approach will also lead to greater awareness and adherence to rules and regulations among employees in the industry.
The CRA announced the new inspection strategy during an educational session held via Zoom on August 22nd. Mandi Cooley and Kevin Cook, representatives from the CRA's enforcement division, emphasized the importance of flexibility in the implementation of these surprise inspections. Cooley noted that the process would be "open to corrective action plans," allowing business owners some autonomy in addressing any noncompliance issues. Cook acknowledged that the transition might not be "flawless" but assured that "accommodations" would be made, with the primary goal of ensuring continuous compliance among licensees.
CRA spokesperson David Harns echoed this sentiment, highlighting the expected benefits of the new plan. "This will help increase efficiency and flexibility with scheduling," Harns stated. "It will also necessitate that businesses educate their employees comprehensively—not just in their specific roles, but in compliance and understanding of the business requirements." The CRA's ultimate goal is to ensure that licensees remain compliant at all times and that employees fully grasp the regulations governing their work environment.
To prepare for the change, the CRA advises cannabis business owners to ensure that their on-site managers and staff are well-prepared for inspections. Employees should be familiar with how to access necessary documentation, such as employee background checks, standard operating procedures, logs, surveillance system records, certifications, and data from METRC, the state's seed-to-sale tracking system. The CRA also recommends that business owners provide their teams with inspection checklists, available on the CRA's official website.
In anticipation of the transition, the CRA is updating and streamlining its inspection checklists and developing new documents to be sent to businesses following inspections. Additionally, regulation officers will proactively contact businesses that are low-staffed or operate on a part-time basis to coordinate the timing of surprise inspections, aiming to avoid arriving at closed facilities. Cooley mentioned that the CRA is "working on the process" for situations where an inspector arrives to find a business closed.
Business owners are encouraged to verify the identity of regulation officers by requesting their CRA-issued photo IDs and to contact the Regulation Office's verification hotline with any concerns. The hotline number will be shared with licensees via an email blast.
Historically, the CRA's semi-annual inspections have shown a regulation compliance rate of approximately 93%, excluding minor deficiencies that are typically remedied quickly. According to Harns, common compliance issues include METRC tracking errors and surveillance equipment problems. Minor issues, such as labeling or standard operating procedure discrepancies, are usually resolved through re-inspection and rarely lead to further investigation. However, more serious noncompliance issues, such as significant METRC tracking failures or insufficient surveillance footage, could prompt an investigation, potentially leading to fines or even license revocation, depending on the findings.
On Saturday, August 24th, 2024, the Cass County Fairgrounds in Cassopolis, Michigan, will come alive with the sounds of music and the aroma of cannabis as the SummerSesh Festival kicks off. This cannabis-friendly outdoor music festival promises a full day of entertainment, community, and celebration for adults 21 and older.
SummerSesh is headlined by some of the most exciting names in the music industry. Rapper Kevin Gates, known for his powerful lyrics and dynamic stage presence, will bring his energy to the festival, delivering a performance that is sure to captivate the audience. Detroit native Dej Loaf, with her distinctive sound and hit tracks, will also grace the stage, offering a blend of hip-hop and R&B that resonates with fans. Adding a unique twist to the lineup, actor and comedian Jim Belushi will be present not just for autographs but also to share his musical talents, creating an eclectic mix of performances that span genres and styles.
SummerSesh stands out as a celebration of cannabis culture, offering a welcoming and inclusive space for cannabis enthusiasts. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore a variety of cannabis-themed activities and vendors, providing a unique festival experience that goes beyond music. The event is designed to foster a sense of community among like-minded individuals, allowing attendees to connect over shared interests in a relaxed and open atmosphere.
In addition to the musical performances, SummerSesh will feature dozens of vendors offering a range of cannabis-related products, from accessories to edibles, ensuring that there is something for everyone. The festival will also host over 20 food trucks, providing a diverse array of culinary options to satisfy all tastes. Whether you're looking to enjoy some local cuisine, discover new cannabis products, or simply soak in the festival atmosphere, SummerSesh offers a rich and varied experience.
The Cass County Fairgrounds, located in Cassopolis, Michigan, provides the perfect setting for this summer event. Known for its scenic beauty and open spaces, the fairgrounds offer a picturesque backdrop for a day of music, cannabis culture, and summer fun. The festival will run from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM EDT, giving attendees plenty of time to enjoy all that SummerSesh has to offer.
Whether you're a music enthusiast, a cannabis connoisseur, or simply looking for a unique way to spend a summer day, SummerSesh promises to deliver an unforgettable experience. With its combination of live performances, cannabis-friendly activities, and a vibrant community atmosphere, this festival is poised to be one of the most anticipated events of the season.
For those interested in attending, tickets and further details are available on the official SummerSesh website. Don't miss your chance to be part of this exciting celebration of music and cannabis culture in Cass County.
At a marathon session on Wednesday, the Grand Traverse County Board of Commissioners voted to allocate $150,000 of cannabis tax revenue to Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services of Traverse City. This decision, reached after over four hours of deliberation and impassioned public input, aims to address the critical shortage of child psychiatric services in Northwest Michigan.
The approved funding, which passed with a 6-3 vote, will be used to recruit, relocate, and onboard a new child psychiatrist for Pine Rest's Traverse City clinic. Local officials have described the need for such services in the region as "urgent and persistent."
Commissioners T.J. Andrews, Brian McAllister, and Scott Sieffert opposed the measure, not due to objections against mental health support but rather concerns over the process by which the funding was awarded. Andrews, speaking on behalf of the dissenters, emphasized the need for a more structured and transparent approach to such funding requests, noting, "This is not a sustainable approach to allocating funds. It has nothing to do with Pine Rest, but it's not our role to hire a psychiatrist."
Pine Rest initially requested $400,000 in May to bolster behavioral health services in the area. That request was denied, with commissioners asking for more detailed information on the necessity and intended use of the funds. On Wednesday, Pine Rest revised their request to $290,000, acknowledging the receipt of $110,000 from other sources since May. The board ultimately approved $150,000, funded by cannabis tax revenues instead of drawing from the county's general fund, a suggestion made by Board Chair Rob Hentschel.
Supporting the funding were Commissioners Darryl Nelson, Ashlea Walter, Lauren Flynn, Penny Morris, Brad Jewett, and Hentschel.
The relationship between the Traverse City Pine Rest clinic and its larger parent organization became a focal point during Wednesday's discussions. Pine Rest, a prominent nonprofit behavioral health provider, operates 21 outpatient clinics across Michigan, along with inpatient programs in the Grand Rapids area. However, the Traverse City clinic is a smaller entity that often spends more on patient services than it generates in revenue, influenced by fluctuating insurance reimbursements and its commitment to providing reduced-rate or free services to low-income families.
In a region chronically underserved by mental health professionals, the Traverse City Pine Rest clinic often acts as a vital resource for patients who do not qualify for services from Northern Lakes Community Mental Health, which primarily serves those without private insurance. The clinic's manager, Kristine Wilmoth, highlighted the clinic's crucial role in serving children and young adults. In 2023 alone, the clinic treated approximately 4,350 patients from Northern Michigan, including 850 under the age of 18.
Wilmoth stressed the growing need for youth mental health services, citing the severe consequences that can arise from inadequate care for children in crisis. "All too often, a 7-year-old who doesn't get mental health services when needed enters a lifelong downward trajectory that leads to substance abuse, unemployment, homelessness, and incarceration," she explained.
The addition of a new child psychiatrist is expected to enable the clinic to expand its services significantly, helping hundreds more young people in urgent need. Wilmoth also noted that this expansion would enhance collaboration with local doctors and hospitals.
Despite financial challenges, Pine Rest's Traverse City clinic is moving to a smaller, more cost-effective office. Wilmoth pointed to the clinic's new 10-year lease as evidence of its ongoing commitment to the community.
Commissioner Penny Morris, representing Long Lake Township, voiced her support for the funding, acknowledging the broader implications of failing to address the need for child psychiatric services. "While I'm concerned about opening the 'First National Bank of the BOC,' I know that these services are much needed, and the impact of not doing it is far-reaching," she said.
Commissioner Darryl Nelson, who represents District 6, initially expressed reservations about the county board's role in reviewing such funding requests but ultimately supported the use of cannabis tax money to jump-start the expansion of psychiatric care for children in the region.
The funding comes from Michigan's cannabis excise tax, a revenue stream established by the 2018 legalization of adult-use recreational cannabis. This law imposes a 10-percent excise tax on all cannabis sales, in addition to the state's standard 6 percent sales tax.
In 2023, legal cannabis sales in Michigan reached approximately $3 billion, a 70 percent increase from the previous year. This generated about $290 million in cannabis tax revenue for the state, far surpassing the $73 million collected from excise taxes on alcohol.
A significant portion of cannabis tax revenue is distributed to municipalities and counties that have licensed dispensaries, with $87 million allocated for this purpose in fiscal year 2023. Another $102 million is directed to the state's School Aid Fund and Michigan Transportation Fund.
Grand Traverse County is expected to receive about $886,000 from cannabis excise taxes for the 2023 fiscal year, while Traverse City will receive $709,000. Smaller amounts are slated for Green Lake Township and Fife Lake Township.
Michigan's cannabis industry has long faced financial challenges due to federal restrictions that prevent the use of traditional banking services for transactions. Specifically, credit card companies like Visa and Mastercard, which are federally chartered, have prohibited their use in cannabis-related transactions. This has left both dispensaries and customers in Michigan grappling with limited payment options, often resorting to cash-only transactions.
In response to these challenges, New Line Processing, a New York-based company, is stepping into the Michigan market with a new financial product designed to help cannabis businesses and consumers navigate these restrictions. Founded in 2014, New Line Processing focuses on supporting regulated and restricted industries, with cannabis being one of its core competencies.
Dan Abadir, CEO of New Line Processing, recently shared details about their new product in an interview. The company is introducing a closed-loop credit system that provides cannabis consumers with revolving lines of credit, which can be used at participating dispensaries. This system, named Omn Credit, is designed to bypass the restrictions imposed by traditional credit card companies while ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations.
The credit limits offered through this system range from $250 to $1,000, depending on the creditworthiness of the applicant. This approach is particularly well-suited to the cannabis market, where the average transaction value hovers around $100 to $140. By offering modest credit limits, the system minimizes risk while providing consumers with convenient access to credit for their purchases.
When a customer enters a participating dispensary, they will be screened using a device provided by New Line Processing. This device verifies the customer's identity and checks for any potential fraud, using data from the DMV and other sources. Once approved, the customer receives an SMS notification with a link to complete their account setup, which involves creating a user ID, password, and accepting the terms and conditions. Upon completion, the customer is issued a digital QR code, which serves as their credit account for purchases.
Unlike other financial instruments that act as intermediaries, such as stored-value cards, this revolving credit line functions similarly to traditional credit cards, except it operates entirely within the cannabis industry's legal framework. The dispensaries benefit from this system as well, receiving free equipment from New Line Processing to facilitate the credit application and transaction process.
While initially designed to assist consumers with limited or weak credit, the Omn Credit system aims to attract a broad range of customers, including those with prime and mid-prime credit ratings. The goal is to expand the product's footprint beyond the cannabis industry, eventually making it a general-purpose financial tool available across various sectors.
This innovative solution offers a much-needed financial service to Michigan's cannabis market, potentially setting a new standard for how transactions in regulated industries can be handled. As New Line Processing continues to grow, it aims to make Omn Credit a household name, providing consumers with a reliable and compliant way to finance their purchases in the evolving cannabis industry.
For more information about New Line Processing and their credit solutions, visit newlineprocessing.com.
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