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Planning Commission approves MedMen retail cannabis store at 1861 Union Street amid neighborhood debate
Summary
The Planning Commission unanimously approved a MedMen formula retail cannabis store at 1861 Union Street, citing code compliance and equity considerations despite widespread public comment both supporting and opposing the location near a neighborhood commercial corridor and schools.
The Planning Commission voted unanimously on April 1 to approve a conditional use authorization for MedMen to open a formula retail cannabis storefront at 1861 Union Street.
Claire Feeney of the Planning Department summarized the staff recommendation, saying the project complies with planning code sections for formula retail and cannabis retail regulation, found no sensitive uses within the 600-foot standard, and determined the proposal to be consistent with the general plan and local equity policies. "The department finds that the project is on balance consistent with the objectives and policies of the general plan," Feeney said.
Project counsel CJ Higley and MedMen Chief Revenue Officer Tracy McCourt described operations and outreach; equity applicant Malcolm Joshua White said he would run the Union Street store and emphasized community engagement and hiring. McCourt said MedMen aims to support local events and partner with the Union Street Association. "We’re proud to play a part in supporting Malcolm's dream to become a cannabis entrepreneur," McCourt said.
Public comment was split. Supporters — including local merchants, community advocates and an academic in cannabis law — said the store would bring foot traffic, jobs and security to a struggling retail corridor. Opponents raised concerns about proximity to schools, potential mixing with late-night alcohol activity, outreach adequacy and MedMen’s corporate finances. One caller said, "I and others on my block are trying to raise kids in the city... MedMen will install a retail store in our neighborhood that is selling what is actually an addictive and damaging drug." Another caller questioned whether the company’s financial troubles would allow it to deliver on promises.
Commissioners discussed geographic equity, saturation and enforcement. They asked staff for updated counts of approved and under-construction dispensaries in the city; staff reported roughly 11 approved and 19 under construction on the department’s map (noting figures exclude medical dispensaries). Commissioners also discussed mailing radius and outreach; Feeney confirmed mailed notices are sent within 300 feet for commission items. After questions and remarks about equity and neighborhood revitalization, a motion to approve with conditions carried 7-0.
The approval record includes the required good-neighbor policy and conditions noted by staff; commissioners directed staff to share updated dispensary counts and to enforce good-neighbor commitments if complaints arise.
