Zoom Q/A: Cannabis Security & Risk - REPLAY

This zoom meetup provides a comprehensive open Q&A web-based discussion for Minnesota cannabis entrepreneurs to gain a better understanding and managing risks specific to cannabis facilities. From security, government regulations (as of now) and location selection, even a few tips and tricks.​

PANEL

• Will Blauvelt, Director of Government Relations @ Stinson LLP (

  612-335-1500 |  will.blauvelt@stinson.com | https://www.stinson.com/people-WillBlauvelt)

• Jeff Bartley, CFI, Senior Security/Risk Consultant @ Sapphire Risk Advisory Group

  (219-869-9832 Mobile | jbartley@sapphirerisk.com | https://www.sapphirerisk.com/our-cannabis-security-team/)

• Leo Falgout, Chief of Staff @ Sapphire Risk Advisory Group

  (214-845-6800 | lfalgout@sapphirerisk.com | https://www.sapphirerisk.com/our-cannabis-security-team/)

• ​Jared Schroeder, Lead Commercial Cannabis @ Meta Realty

  (952-243-0037 | jared@metarealtymn.com |  https://metarealtymn.com/cannabis-division)

• Matt Carpentier "Carp", Owner/Advisor @ Carpfish Creative

  (952-324-6428 Mobile | carp@carpfishcreative.com)

AI Summary

Minnesota Cannabis Industry Challenges

In the meeting, Carpfish and Will discussed the challenges and uncertainties surrounding the Minnesota cannabis industry. Will, a director of government relations at Stinson Law firm, shared updates on the licensing process, the ongoing litigation, and the potential changes to the draft rules. He also mentioned the potency limit for concentrates, which has been a contentious issue. Carpfish then introduced Leo and Jeff from Sapphire Risk Advisory, who specialize in security and asset protection for cannabis businesses. The conversation ended with Leo and Jeff preparing to share their insights and experiences in the industry.

Security Programs and Cannabis Businesses

Leo and Jeff from the security company discussed their experience in setting up security programs for various states, including Minnesota. They highlighted their role in helping clients during the initial social equity licensing round and their understanding of the fluid situation in the state. Jeff emphasized the importance of understanding the community's perception of the cannabis business and recommended starting discussions with the police chief and city planner before the city council. Leo agreed, suggesting that having a presentation ready for the council is better than opening up to questions too early. They also discussed the importance of due diligence in the application process, as seen in Minnesota's lottery system. Jeff noted that they have experience in 38 states and have seen a decrease in crime when a cannabis business is present in a neighborhood.

Cannabis Security System Challenges Discussed

Leo, Carpfish, Jeff, and Jared discussed the challenges and considerations of security systems for cannabis businesses. They highlighted the importance of having a reliable integrator, the need for redundancies in security systems, and the potential risks of using consumer-grade security systems like Ring. They also discussed the importance of considering the total cost of a security system, including maintenance and repair requirements, rather than just the initial installation cost. The team also addressed the issue of 90-day video storage requirements and the potential for over-bidding by security companies. The conversation ended with a discussion on the need for backup systems, such as generators, to ensure business continuity in case of power outages.

Minnesota City Ordinance and Zoning

Jared discussed his work with city ordinances in Minnesota, noting that many cities have similar restrictions, with some cities being more open to cannabis businesses than others. He emphasized the importance of reaching out to city development teams and police chiefs for approval and to address potential security concerns. Jared also mentioned that some cities are still working on their ordinances and that there is a risk of delays in the approval process. He is currently creating a spreadsheet with all city ordinances and zoning maps, with an interactive map in development. Carpfish and Leo asked about potential issues with stormwater drainage in Minnesota, to which Jared and Carpfish responded that it is not a significant issue in the state.

Minnesota Market Education and Security

Carpfish discussed the need for more education in the Minnesota market, particularly in the cannabis industry. He mentioned a partnership with Cannabis and the plan to build out their operations. Carpfish also highlighted the importance of community involvement in driving the market forward and the need for lawmakers to put supportive measures in place. He emphasized the cost-effectiveness of proactive security measures and the importance of being prepared for potential risks. Carpfish also mentioned plans to provide additional links and recordings and to launch more educational sessions in the coming months. The conversation ended with aan ppreciation for the attendees.