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Zoning board hears Artist Tree special-permit application for Farmingdale cannabis retail; board reserves decision after public concern about hours and loiter‑g
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Summary
The Town of Babylon ZBA heard a detailed presentation from counsel and design team for Artist Tree (Artistry), a California cannabis retailer seeking a Farmingdale special-use permit. The applicant described security protocols, a fulfillment-room sales model, proposed hours and site improvements; nearby business owners raised concerns about loitering and timing; the board reserved decision and asked for documentation and conditions.
The Town of Babylon Zoning Board of Appeals heard a presentation from Rachel Shelfo, representing Artist Tree (doing business as the Artistry), on an application for a special-use permit to operate a retail cannabis store at 900 Broadhollow Road in Farmingdale.
Shelfo outlined the Artistry's operations: retail displays are for browsing only, orders are placed with staff using iPads and fulfilled from an enclosed "fulfillment room," and customers pick up purchases after ID check-ins. She described security measures including one stationed security guard and an array of cameras, scheduling procedures for deliveries, and an overall site plan with improved drainage, a new dumpster enclosure and restriping. The applicant said the site provides 114 parking spaces where 105 are required.
Attorney Shelfo also requested expanded hours (proposed 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.) citing experience at the company's 12 California locations and a claimed need to serve senior and veteran customers early in the day. "We do feel very strongly, particularly with respect to those early hours," Shelfo said, emphasizing the company’s security protocols and licensing requirements.
Several members of the public spoke. Lisa Rippey, a nearby dispensary owner, said any change to hours should be applied uniformly; Mark Demarsco, representing a neighboring property, described problems at an adjacent vacant building and urged strict adherence to conditions such as the prohibition on on-site consumption. Demarsco said he had found marijuana paraphernalia on nearby property and expressed concerns about increased evening activity.
Board members asked detailed questions about entrances and exits, delivery logistics, staff and security numbers and whether the proposed hours were necessary. Architect Nicholas Williamson described multiple secured entrances and delivery access points. The applicant said there would be roughly 25 employees working at a time (50 employees total) and confirmed security plans.
After public comment and board questions, the panel closed the hearing and reserved decision, leaving the record open for any follow-up items and to allow the board time to consider conditions, including hours and security measures. The applicant indicated willingness to accept standard conditions (no on-site consumption, no special events) if necessary to obtain approval.
The board will issue its written decision by mail once any outstanding materials and conditions are resolved.
