Prince Albert city council has directed administration to review the current limit on cannabis retail stores following a public forum presentation from a business owner planning to expand downtown.
Councillors approved a notice of motion Monday asking administration to prepare a report examining the city’s cannabis retail store cap and present findings to executive committee. The motion was introduced by Coun. Daniel Brown, who said the review was needed to address growing interest in retail expansion and clarify the city’s position.
“I’ll move that a report be brought forward for consideration at the next executive in camera meeting March 2 regarding an increase to the limit of cannabis retail stores in the city,” Brown said during the meeting.
The motion followed a presentation from Meagan Palidwar, CEO of Into the Weeds Cannabis, who addressed council during the public forum and said her company was preparing to acquire a building on Central Avenue while awaiting council’s review.
“However, based on the city’s decision tonight to take these next steps, we are prepared to take the business risk and officially move forward with the acquisition of the building,” Palidwar said. “We understand that there is still a process to follow, but we are taking possession on March 1 in good faith as the city completes its due diligence.”
Palidwar said her company believes the location has strong potential and emphasized the importance of clear direction from council.
“We know the downtown core needs activation, and we are ready to invest in its revitalization,” she said. “We believe in opening the door to reputable businesses that want to participate in the future of our downtown.”
Council previously established a limit on cannabis retail stores in Prince Albert following federal legalization, but Brown said it was appropriate to revisit the policy as circumstances evolve.
“My whole intent was to bring it back to the executive committee so we can start the talks,” Brown said. “It’s something our strategic plan is saying, find new businesses, attract new businesses into PA councilors keep saying we want to revitalize Central Avenue. Well, there’s an opportunity right there to bring in more tax dollars, bring in a store on Central Avenue.”
Coun. Dawn Kilmer supported reviewing the matter but said the motion should remain focused on gathering information rather than assuming a specific outcome.
“I would ask too that you remove the note regarding an increase, but rather leave it as executive committee in camera meeting regarding the limit of cannabis retail stores,” Kilmer said.
Council approved the motion, directing administration to bring forward a report for further consideration. The review will allow councillors to examine existing limits, assess potential impacts, and determine whether any changes to the city’s cannabis retail policy should be considered.
No changes to the current limit were approved during Monday’s meeting. Any decision to increase or modify the cap would require further discussion and formal council approval following the administration report.
arjun.pillai@paherald.sk.ca
