Terrace’s first cannabis store passed the public consultation stage without any major controversy Dec. 10.
The city first received notice of an application from the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch (LCRB) on Nov. 6 to open up a retail store at the northwest corner of the Skeena Mall.
The store would be located between Anytime Fitness and Mark’s, and would sell non-medical marijuana, marijuana products and accessories seven days a week.
While the public hearing was well attended, no one offered their feedback to council and simply listened to see if there were any discussions about the retail store.
READ MORE: Four marijuana stores looking at Terrace
City planner David Block says one response was received from a local business in the area inquiring for more details, and the public seems accepting of the city’s newest market. Amber Zanon, manager at the Skeena Mall, says the location of the store was ideal with it being outside of the mall’s main market and overall, the response has been positive.
“I think people in Terrace are ready for something like this, and I think there are a huge number of people who are not comfortable getting weed from the ‘friendly neighbourhood weed dealer’ that will embrace the convenience and professionalism of a retail store,” she wrote in a message to the Terrace Standard.
The City of Terrace started amending their bylaws to allow for retail cannabis sales in June. Stores are allowed to open in select commercial zones downtown and must maintain a 100-metre distance between similar businesses, 300-metres away from schools. A city business license was set at $1,500.
READ MORE: A rundown of what legalized marijuana means for Terrace
There are a still a number of steps required before the cannabis store can open its doors, including renovations and security upgrades, the city could see its first BC Cannabis location open by spring of next year.
Other than the government-owned location, Block says there are about five private businesses looking to come into the city. All are currently awaiting completion of the province’s assessment.
brittany@terracestandard.com
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