Finding the right location for a marijuana grow facility and/or dispensary in Massachusetts and convincing the town’s leadership and its constituents to agree it’s a good idea—is like running a political campaign. You need to get your project elected. Since the Act for the Humanitarian Medical Use of Marijuana was passed in Massachusetts in 2016, developers, landscape architects, horticulturalists, pot enthusiasts, businesspeople, national companies in the marijuana business, investment trusts—are all seeking sites where they can manufacture, cultivate and process medical marijuana products (MIP) or other high-high value agricultural products. Sites must meet the zoning requirements for a Massachusetts Medical Marijuana Dispensary (RMD) and other agricultural uses. Towns have reacted to the marijuana business coming to town in the following ways. Some have:
For the past three decades, BG has been working with developers to assist them in securing permits for development sites in the Commonwealth, typically in communities that are wary of over development or historically anti-development. Many of these same 351 cities and towns may continue to be less than enthusiastic about engaging in the public process to bring marijuana grow facilities and/or dispensaries—into their backyards.
While there may be objections on any given Main Street, the promise of an economic windfall awaits as well – this is where the art of educating stakeholders presents an unprecedented opportunity to get your project elected by navigating the public process and securing the necessary approvals required to open for business.
Phase I: Pre-Campaign Preparation
BG’s Community Launch process and its success are predicated on preparation, preparation and more preparation. Even before the formal public process begins, it’s critical to set the stage by conducting an intense research phase. It’s imperative to “do your homework” to test the thesis that XYZ town is ready for marijuana cultivation and/or a dispensary. This part of the process is not optional and requires patience, perseverance and planning.
Stay tuned for our next blog post that’ll provide insights on how to prepare to launch your project with a coordinated ground game in the community.
If you need help on your permitting or zoning campaign, contact us.