The fight over marijuana licenses in Menominee, Michigan, is showing no signs of slowing down.  Since Michigan legalized recreational marijuana in 2018, Menominee has become a hot spot for cannabis shops catering to Wisconsin customers. But efforts to regulate the market have sparked lawsuits, recall petitions, and bitter council fights. In August, residents voted overwhelmingly to cap dispensaries at nine. But Council Member William Plemel sued, and a judge threw out the vote, ordering a new election this November. At the same time, Alderman Joe Dulak is facing a recall effort over alleged conflicts of interest tied to marijuana businesses. Frustrations are boiling over. Mayor Casey Hoffman has pushed a “lawsuit prevention amendment,” but some councilors, including Donna Marineau, say the majority doesn’t want more licenses. Council Member Steve Fifarek says he’s disgusted with how the council has handled the issue.

He adds that the lawsuits and infighting are wearing down both the council and the community.

Voters will get another say this November on how a good deal of marijuana shops the city should allow.

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