A West Coast cannabis dispensary company is considering opening a recreational adult-use marijuana dispensary in Marion, the town’s Board of Selectmen heard on December 17.
Marion Town Administrator Jay McGrail made it clear before the appointment that the meeting with Lighthouse Dispensary was simply informational and an exchange of ideas rather than anything solid.
To put forward a formal application, he noted, interested parties would need to file an application with the Marion Planning Board.
Ericca Kennedy of the Cannabis Control Commission’s Economic Empowerment Program is seeking to install an adult-use recreational marijuana dispensary at the site of the former Christie’s on Route 6. The lot would maintain its current curb cuts and have entrances on Wells Street and Spring Street, as well as Route 6, and would offer valet parking on a 50-car parking lot. To manage the parking overflow in the busy location, Kennedy assured the selectmen that a full-time parking coordinator would be hired.
Kennedy is seeking to partner with Lighthouse Dispensary in the project. Lighthouse currently operates two dispensaries in Coachella and Palm Springs, California, and is looking to expand into additional states. Alongside Kennedy was Brad Davis, Lighthouse Dispensary’s chief operating officer.
The current Lighthouse Dispensary locations showcase art from the local community, Davis said, something that Kennedy wants to continue in a possible Marion location.
“I want this store to have an immediate and meaningful impact,” Kennedy said. “We would dedicate 100 hours per year to positive impact, including educational workshops and addiction services, including veterans, the elderly, and the disabled.”
Kennedy also noted that the store would maintain a boutique feel, and would respect Marion’s established aesthetic by using soft tones.
Davis noted that Lighthouse uses a different approach to customer service than many other dispensaries.
“We focus on education by informing our consumers so they can make the most appropriate buying decisions, and also by training and creating professional consultants,” said Davis. “When we have a customer leave a store, they should be educated on their product, excited about their purchase, and comfortable enough to enjoy their experience.”
Davis also pointed out that Lighthouse only sources the highest quality national and local cannabis. Highly selective in its quality process, the company will only accept product that exceeds Cannabis Control Commission regulations, as well as any additional local regulations.
Kennedy estimated that the dispensary would fill a minimum of 20 employment positions at a minimum of $18 per hour, as well as being clean, safe, and inclusive for all.
McGrail planned to put Lighthouse on a future Board of Selectmen agenda for discussion amongst the board, while Kennedy noted that she intends to follow up with the Planning Board, as well.
The next meeting of the Marion Board of Selectmen will be on January 7 at 7:00 pm at the Marion Town House.
Marion Board of Selectmen
By Andrea Ray