MPC endorses bylaw to prohibit variances in cannabis separation distances

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City officials say by prohibiting variances, applications that require a variance would be refused by the development authority.

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According to officials, the rationale for refusal is that separation distance is a balance of providing opportunities for the use itself, separating sensitive issues, managing potential cumulative impacts and ensuring an opportunity for a variety of uses.

In the meantime, MPC approved a sixth cannabis retail sales outlet in downtown Red Deer on Wednesday.

‘Starbuds’ will open at the current location of the Compass Cannabis Clinic at 1-4418 50 Avenue once Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission (AGLC) removes its current moratorium on granting new cannabis retail sales licenses in the province.

Graeme Hawkins, Vice President of Compass Cannabis Clinics says he’s very pleased with MPC’s decision and explains they’re currently a medicinal marijuana facility that provides education and counselling services.

“We’re hoping to convert that existing facility into cannabis retail to serve the people of Red Deer,” adds Hawkins. “We’re excited to bring our knowledge and experience. Having been in business for well over a year now and meeting lots of people with the City of Red Deer who really see this as a viable and needed business to serve their needs, we’re very excited to continue that work.”

Once AGLC removes its current licensing freeze for cannabis retail sales applications, Hawkins says they will find another location for their Compass Cannabis Clinic.

“There’s definitely a need for our Compass Cannabis Clinics in the city,” states Hawkins. “This clinic has been by far our best operated clinic in terms of the patients and the need within the area. We’ll move very quickly to make sure that we relocate and are up and operational as soon as we can.”

Hawkins says the Compass Cannabis Clinic in downtown Red Deer currently employs four to five people.

He anticipates the future Starbuds retail outlet to employ between 8-12 people.