Title
a. Receive a report on initial staff findings related to commercial cannabis consumption lounges;
b. Direct Cannabis Program staff to continue research and return with a proposed Ordinance or discontinue research; and,
c. Provide further direction as appropriate.
Report
RECOMMENDATIONS:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
a. Receive a report on initial staff findings related to commercial cannabis consumption lounges;
b. Direct Cannabis Program staff to continue research and return with a proposed Ordinance or discontinue research; and,
c. Provide further direction as appropriate.
SUMMARY:
Following the July 7, 2022, Board of Supervisors Cannabis Committee (Committee) meeting, Program staff scheduled a meeting with the eight (8) fully licensed and permitted cannabis retailers and their Authorized Agents located within the unincorporated area of Monterey County to discuss consumption lounges.
Local retailers believe that consumption lounges would be a meaningful addition to existing commercial cannabis activities within the unincorporated area of Monterey County. Industry suggests that the County begin with a pilot program within existing retail operations, which might contribute to higher local tax revenues. Staff scheduled a meeting with internal County department representatives for a preliminary review of the consumption lounge business model and anticipated requirements. Staff also scheduled a follow-up meeting with local retailers to receive additional input.
DISCUSSION:
To better understand cannabis consumption lounge business models, statutes and regulations, staff conducted initial research into existing cannabis consumption lounges across the State of California. Twelve (12) jurisdictions throughout California explicitly permit consumption lounges consistent with their local and state regulations (Attachment A). All consumption lounges are approved and regulated at the city level except in the City and County of San Francisco (Sa...
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