After a lengthy process, a second Cannabis store location on George Street in Downtown Prince George was given the green light by Council.
The application would see a new dispensary put in the old Long and McQuade building, located at 356 George Street.
Epik Products Inc. originally floated a temporary land use permit and cannabis license application in September, but the request was denied in a 4-4 split.
Tonight (Monday), Council deliberated on a revised application from the company, with all but one member of Council changing their opinion on the matter.
“I had a chance to talk to the applicant and really learn a little bit more about this, however, I don’t think I have been swayed on this one,” said Councilor Cori Ramsay during the meeting.
“I’m really struggling around the fact that, if these were liquor stores, this wouldn’t be allowed. I think treating liquor and cannabis the same is really important so we are consistent across the board.”
Originally, Councilors Ramsay, Susan Scott, and Frank Everitt, as well as Mayor Lyn Hall, voted in opposition of the application, and all changed tune except for Councilor Ramsay.
“I was looking for an opportunity to tour the site, which I have, as have Councilor Scott and Councilor Frizzell. I was very interested in having my safety concerns alleviated, which they were, and that was uppermost in my mind,” said Mayor Lyn Hall.
He also pointed out that Epik products has an education proponent for first-time customers, something he felt was important.
“That struck a chord with me. It may sound interesting and somewhat off base, for people to have the opportunity to go into a cannabis store, and receive educational material,” Hall explained.
“That is a piece that I don’t see in many other locations.”
Many businesses in the area, including the nearby Grasshopper dispensary, were not pleased with the original application and provided documents to Council asking it to consider the impact it would have on them when they made their choice.
However, it was pointed out the application was strictly for land use, not market impact.
“It is a legitimate, legal business that is making a significant investment in our downtown,” said Councilor Skakun.
“For me, this isn’t about saying no to a temporary use permit or a rezoning because it’s a competition, or close to another business. I think it is another group of individuals willing to invest in the downtown, and I think it says a lot (…) As far as saturation in the market, well, the market will look after itself.”
In the end, the motion was passed 8-1 for both applications, with Councilor Ramsay with the lone vote against.
Also at the meeting, Council heard updates from both the Aquatic Centre and Prince George Transit.
The Aquatic Centre will be increasing its user capacity starting January 2nd.
Meanwhile, Prince George Transit anticipates a revenue loss of approximately $860,000 due to the pandemic.