One of Governor Hochul’s priorities for the executive session is to discuss nominees for the state’s cannabis program.
The governor said this is a long overdue decision, and she would appoint nominees for the executive director and chair person, and they needed to be confirmed by the legislature.
“We lost five and a half months because there was not a decision to name an executive director or chair person, to get this going and get regulations in place.” Governor Hochul said.
Meanwhile, the City of Rensselaer leaders already have their eyes on a potential site for a growth facility. But they need more answers from the state first.
“I think it’s good, if you’re gonna do something that’s positive, lets do it, lets get it out there – they’ve studied it long enough!” Rensselaer Mayor Michael Stammel said.
In early August, the Common Council passed a resolution in support of a proposed cannabis growth facility at a storage facility on the corner of Rensselaer Ave and Columbia Street. It’s owned by William and Robert Brayton. They approached the city to discuss creating a marijuana growing facility. They say the building has the space, is zoned accordingly, and has the water supply. They’re in talks with three potential growing companies.
They have to wait for the state regulations — but they say they’re thankful the common council and mayor are supportive.
Mayor Stammel says it could be positive business for the city.
“As far as revenue goes, I think it’s a positive thing for revenue.” Mayor Stammel said. “I think we could do well over $2-million a year.”
They also expect it to create between 50-100 jobs.
And the Mayor says someone interested in creating a dispensary has approached him too. He expects it to be a competitive industry.
“If we don’t have one here in the city of Rensselaer, there will be one next door to us in East Greenbush or close to downtown Albany, so why not take advantage of the revenue?” the mayor said.
Municipalities have until the end of the year to choose whether they’ll allow or opt-out of cannabis retail dispensaries or on-site consumption licenses.
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