Cannabis Permit Appeal Sparks Heated Town Council Debate

In a recent government meeting, the Taos Town Council deliberated on the appeal of Breezy Bear New Mexico, LLC, represented by Tony Fresco, regarding the denial of a cannabis establishment permit at 723 Paseo del Pueblo Sur. The council's discussion centered on the implications of local zoning laws, particularly the 300-foot separation requirement between cannabis establishments.

The planning department had denied Breezy Bear's application on the grounds that it was located within 300 feet of another cannabis business, GSCanja, which operates at 726 Paseo del Pueblo Sur. The council heard from Fresco, who argued that GSCanja had been closed since July 12 due to an expired license, suggesting that the separation requirement should no longer apply. He expressed confusion over the permit process, stating that he believed his cannabis license secured the location despite the proximity to GSCanja.

Dinah, a representative from the planning department, clarified that the town's cannabis ordinance mandates a business registration before a cannabis establishment permit can be issued. She explained that the state had changed its requirements, necessitating a business registration first to avoid complications in the permitting process.

Celeste Trujillo, representing GSCanja, provided insight into her business's situation, explaining that they had been operating as an integrated micro business and were in the process of recertification. She emphasized the challenges faced in obtaining necessary permits and the impact of opening another cannabis establishment nearby, which could jeopardize their sustainability.

The council's decision on whether to uphold or reverse the denial of Breezy Bear's permit remains pending, as they weigh the complexities of local cannabis regulations against the operational realities of existing businesses in the area. The outcome could significantly affect the local cannabis market and the viability of small businesses in Taos.