BOS hears plans to build medical marijuana dispensary

Selectmen did not render a decision but took under advisement the application of MD Holistics Co. to build a 5,000-square-foot medical marijuana dispensary at 1 New Boston Drive, off Route 138.

MD Holistics has applied for state licensing approval, and the Mullin family, owners of the company, asked selectmen Tuesday night to send a statement of support or a letter of non-opposition to the state.

Selectmen plan to reach out to Police Chief Ken Berkowitz and Fire Chief Charles Doody and other town officials to review security and other building plans and could render a decision at their April 26 meeting.

The office is planned to be open seven days per week from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The Mullins (Joseph and Drew) said their objective is to locate a high quality facility on a small footprint with an emphasis on patient education and tight security. They noted that in 2012, 59 percent of Canton voters approved a state ballot question that legalized medical marijuana. The company plans to donate proceeds to the town for medical assistance, drug education, or other needs as decided by town officials.

The Mullins described elaborate security plans in which approved patients would go through multiple doors and would be required to show licenses and approved medical cards at various entry points. The office would have 24-hour security with a guard and cameras. Monetary deposits would be sent daily to a bank.

Selectman Victor Del Vecchio asked company officials if their plans would change if voters passed a November 2016 ballot question proposing the legalization of recreational marijuana. The Mullins said their only concerns are to focus on serving their medical patients.

The other major news from Tuesday night’s selectmen’s meeting concerned the insurance proceeds for Metropolis Skating Rink, which remains closed following a roof collapse last winter. After 14 months of insurance and structural review, some clearer numbers are starting to appear.

Jim Hargrove, counsel to selectmen on this matter, said the insurance company believes the rink is repairable and is not a total loss. “The extent of the damage does not meet total replacement,” he said.

The numbers are not final but it appears that the town could receive up to $3.1 million for repairs and $400,000 to cover loss of revenue for two years. To date, the town has received $1.8 million and another $400,000 will be sent to the town soon. Hargrove said once the final numbers are agreed to, the town will have two years to spend the money.

Selectmen Chairman John Connolly said he wants a brand-new facility …

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Posted by Mike Berger on Apr 14 2016. Filed under News, Police & Fire, Town Government. Both comments and pings are currently closed.