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Anoka Opens Minnesota’s First City-Owned Cannabis Dispensary

City leaders pitch the municipal shop as a community-focused revenue source supplied by nearby tribal producers.

Overview

  • Anoka Cannabis Company held a ribbon-cutting Thursday and began public sales Friday through online reservations, with walk-in service set to start Monday.
  • The 3,000-square-foot store at 839 East River Road stocks adult-use flower, vapes, edibles, drinks, pre-rolls and accessories next to the city’s municipal liquor store.
  • Supply is sourced from the Prairie Island Indian Community and the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe, reflecting early tribal roles in Minnesota’s market.
  • City officials say proceeds could support parks, river projects and the seasonal social district and may help reduce the tax levy, with customer education a stated priority.
  • Anoka’s outlet is one of few government-run dispensaries in the U.S.; other Minnesota cities are pursuing licenses or partnerships as some plans pause, and a prior city-run store in North Bonneville, Washington, closed in 2021.