{KXLG -Watertown, SD} Medical marijuana renewal fees sparked a lengthy discussion within the Watertown City Council tonight that involved some voting confusion, a local business owner called “out of order,” and a reconsideration motion vote that finally approved the renewal fee to be lowered to $5,000.
Roger Meyer, owner of Dakota Dispensary, spoke and sought more than the lowered renewal fee….
Dan Fjerstad, owner of Lion’s Den Dispensary, agreed with Meyer on the renewal fee reduction. He has been open officially since January 2, 2023, and has paid $75,000 in fees.
Nancy York, Watertown resident and former Legislator, talks about the “muddy waters created….”
Councilman Kyle Peters confirmed there are only three medical marijuana dispensary licenses.
Councilman Mike Danforth suggested that a work session be scheduled specific to the industry’s processing, cultivation, and testing. He also said he agreed with what was being presented. He also later suggests the discussion of the proration of fees.
Councilman Randy Tupper inquired if any of the owners at the meeting knew how many processing facilities are in the state, more to find out their supply was limited. Meyer said he was unsure how many are in the state but has personally visited 24.
A substitute motion proposed by Mayor Ried Holien is what some cite later as confusion when voting….
That vote was approved, with Councilman Danforth and Jurrens voting no.
Mayor Holien opened up discussion before the final fee resolution vote in which the renewal fee would have been approved at $25,000, along with all the other fees for the City.
Councilman Jurrens wanted confirmation….
Councilman Peters motioned to reconsider, and Mayor Holien clarified the situation….
Although the public hearing was closed, Meyer commented off and on the microphone….
Councilman Tupper had some closing comments before the vote….
Councilman Peters comments in defense of Mayor Holien….
The vote to change the renewal fee to $5,000 passed and showed no votes from Councilmen Tupper, Schutte, and Mayor Holien.
The vote to approve the resolution establishes fees, city licenses, permits, administration, memberships, user fees, and other miscellaneous items passed with no votes from Mayor Holien and Councilman Schutte.