2 more south Marquette marijuana retailers, north Marquette development move forward

MARQUETTE, Mich. (WLUC) - The Marquette City Planning Commission approved the concept for a mixed-use development in north Marquette and special land use permits for two marijuana retail facilities in south Marquette at its Tuesday meeting.

The marijuana business sites are at 1210 S. Front Street, currently called the Southgate Center, and 1651 S. Front Street, the former Union Grill building. This would add two more marijuana retailers to the two currently in south Marquette.

Proposed rendering of Stigma Hemp at 1210 S. Front Street, Marquette(Marquette City)

The 1210 S. Front Street site was approved as a marijuana retailer, marijuana designated consumption establishment, marijuana class B grower and marijuana processer - light manufacturing. The consumption site caused concern for one commissioner.

“You’re not allowed to consume and then drive but that is something that will happen just like people who drink and drive home from bars. So I have concerns with an establishment where it’s consumed on the premises,” said commissioner Nathan Frishkorn.

The consumption site business, named Stigma Hemp, was approved by the commission with a 3-1 vote. The outlying vote was from Frishkorn.

The 1651 S. Front Street site was unanimously approved as a marijuana retailer.

The planning commission also gave unanimous approval to a concept proposed unit development in north Marquette called Shophouse Park.

Proposal for Shophouse Park in north Marquette(Marquette City)

It’s on Lot 12 of 480 River Park Circle, which is currently trails. A letter to the planning commission from developer David Ollila of Marquette says it is the intent of Hoponassu OZ LLC to develop the 3.44 acre property.

It would house a variety of “shophouse” buildings for living and working and room for restaurants, outdoor food and beverages, child care, camping and outdoor entertainment. The goal is to blend the natural setting and existing trails with economic growth opportunities, housing solutions and retail services.

A timeline shows the first buildings could open in July 2023.