Albert Lea, Minn. (KTTC) – An Albert Lea business owner has cleared one of the final hurdles in order to become the city’s first cannabis retailer.

The city announced Jacob Schlichter received a cannabis microbusiness license from the state Thursday. He immediately completed his registration with the city.

The city council will need to approve that registration and will next meet on Jul. 28.

Schlichter is the owner of The Smoking Tree. He plans to open his cannabis business at 2718 Bridge Ave.

On Friday, Schlichter spoke about why he chose the Albert Lea community for his business.

“First of all, Albert Lea, Austin, the south-central area of Minnesota is kind of my home,” he said. Schlichter went on to explain, “I wanted to make sure that money stayed in my community.”

Schlichter said he is aware many in the industry have faced “headaches and hurdles” navigating the process.

He said as a social equity applicant, his experience navigating the application process with the state’s Office of Cannabis Management was a smooth one.

He also said he appreciates the city of Albert Lea staff for their cooperation in the process.

Albert Lea has adopted a limit of two cannabis retailers within city limits.

Find stories like this and more, in our apps.

Copyright 2025 KTTC. All rights reserved.