Chelsea Budd seeks late-night cannabis licensing hours amid downtown construction challenges

The Chelsea Licensing Commission convened on July 14, 2025, to discuss several key matters impacting local businesses and community services. The meeting highlighted the approval of a new garage and repair license for Mel's Tire and Auto Services, as well as a public hearing regarding a proposed change in operating hours for a local cannabis dispensary, Chelsea Budd.

The commission approved Mel's Tire's request to operate from 9 AM to 7 PM Monday through Saturday and 9 AM to 4 PM on Sundays. This decision reflects the city's ongoing efforts to support local businesses by providing them with the necessary licenses to operate effectively. The approval process included a brief discussion to clarify the hours of operation, ensuring that the application accurately reflected the business's intentions.

In a significant discussion, representatives from Chelsea Budd sought to extend their operating hours from 8 AM to midnight. The request was motivated by several factors, including the need to enhance accessibility for customers and to mitigate revenue losses attributed to ongoing construction in downtown Chelsea. The dispensary emphasized its commitment to affordability and accessibility, stating that extended hours would help reduce street sales of cannabis and provide a safer alternative for consumers.

The representatives noted that the construction has adversely affected foot and vehicle traffic, leading to a reported 40% drop in sales for some local businesses. By extending their hours, Chelsea Budd aims to recover some of this lost revenue and better serve the community's needs, particularly during late-night and early-morning hours when demand is high.

The discussions during the meeting underscore the city's focus on supporting local businesses while addressing community needs. The approval of Mel's Tire's license and the consideration of Chelsea Budd's request for extended hours reflect a proactive approach to fostering a vibrant local economy amidst challenges such as construction disruptions. As the commission moves forward, the outcomes of these discussions will likely have lasting implications for the businesses involved and the broader Chelsea community.