A circuit court judge has sided with the City of Menominee—dismissing claims brought by Puff Cannabis in their attempt to obtain a cannabis dispensary license from the city. In a decision dated April 22nd, Menominee County Circuit Court Judge Mary B. Barglind granted the city’s motion for summary disposition—effectively throwing out all claims filed by Puff Cannabis against the city.

The court found that Puff voluntarily waived its right to challenge the city’s marijuana licensing process when it signed its application. That waiver included language releasing the city from legal claims tied to licensing decisions. The ruling states the waiver was clear, visible, and knowingly agreed to—rejecting arguments that it was unfair or unconstitutional.

The judge also ruled Puff did not have a protected right to receive a marijuana license—meaning the city’s denial does not violate due process. This decision brings a significant legal victory for the City of Menominee, which has faced multiple challenges over how it awards cannabis licenses.

Menominee Mayor Casey Hoffman says that he is very grateful to Judge Barglind for helping Menominee temporarily dodge a legal bullet.He said ”I fully anticipate PUFF Cannabis will appeal this decision. I pray Menominee City Council adopts a policy solution before the appeals process begins.”