At last week’s meeting, the Lake County Board spent some time discussing the pros and cons of solvent vs water extraction for cannabis products that are to be grown and processed in Lake County. The issue at hand for the Commissioners centers around what type of zoning is needed for cannabis extraction. Representatives from Finnegan’s Farm met earlier this month with the Board to talk about a water based extraction facility that they would like to establish for their cannabis growing operation near Two Harbors.
Finnegan’s Farm was established in 2006 by Patrick Finnegan and began providing produce and microgreens to Duluth area co-ops and restaurants. In 2019 Finnegan expanded the operation to include hemp and shortly thereafter began selling CBD gummies in Duluth area Super One Stores. 2020 saw the addition of THC and CBD beverages in collaboration with Bent Paddle Brewery.
With the legalization of Cannabis in Minnesota, Finnegan’s Farm is looking to expand into a cannabis growing and THC extraction operation using a water based extraction process. The County Board will be seeking clarification on the possible impacts of the extraction process and the type of facility that will be needed for the operation. As the Board is able to obtain answers to their questions, they will be able to develop appropriate zoning ordinances to cover the expansion and to determine where such a facility could be located.
In other business, the Board accepted a proposal for roof replacement for the Silver Bay (Rukavina) Hockey Arena. Facilities Maintenance Director, Curt Backen is working on a proposal for replacement for the roof at Sonju Arena in Two Harbors and will be bringing that before the Board for action at the next Board meeting.
The next Lake County Board meeting is scheduled for August 26th at 2:00 PM.
