The Hastings Planning Commission had its most recent meeting on January 12. The meeting included a call to order followed by an oath of office for commissioners McGrath, Moes, DePalma, Montgomery, and Silber. Commissioner Peters was elected chair and Commissioner Swedin was elected vice chair. The meeting minutes from the November 24 meeting will be considered at the next meeting.
The primary topic of discussion was a special use permit for Spiral Foods Co-Op for lower potency hemp edibles. A public hearing was held with proponent Matthew Malecha, the co-ops general manager being the only speaker. The commissioners asked questions about sales policies and procedures. Malecha informed the commissioners that the co-op has a lengthy history of sales of lower potency products under the various part rules. Most of the products they sell are topical, including arthritis creams. Malecha added that beverage sales are being considered with locked cases for consumption away from the premises.
The commission voted unanimously to move forward with the permit and the matter will be taken up at the next Hastings City Council meeting on January 20. 