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Local cannabis operators urge clarity on commingling, outdoor events as city explores AB 17‑75 changes
Summary
Industry representatives told council they support the draft AB 17‑75 changes but asked for clarity on commingling rules, special-event permitting for private outdoor spaces, and consistent enforcement to avoid unfair competition.
Several local cannabis operators and trade-group representatives addressed the council’s AB 17‑75 study session on July 22 with recommendations and support for the proposed code changes.
Scott Russick, speaking on behalf of the Coachella Valley Cannabis Alliance Network (CVKAN), thanked staff and asked for precise language on commingling—how much of the cannabis/food mixing is allowed and who bears responsibility for product labeling—so operators avoid future compliance problems. “This commingling concept by the consumer versus the business is super important,” Russick said, urging clarity that businesses not be allowed to prepare unlabeled cannabis-infused foods on-site.
Kevin Lopez, vice president of CVKAN and operator of a local lounge, said operators seek equal opportunity and consistent application of any new rules: “We just want to…be treated fairly and we're all going to have the same availability,” he said. Seth Burke, another operator, argued Cathedral City should move quickly to adopt a local ordinance so it does not fall behind neighboring cities that are implementing similar rules.
Operators also raised concerns about special-use permits for occasional outdoor activities in private, semi-enclosed spaces adjacent to a lounge and requested a streamlined pathway to avoid repeated discretionary permitting for routine, small events. Staff said the draft contemplates post-adoption studies on CUP language and a pilot program approach for events on private property.
Next steps: staff will take industry input to the cannabis task force and refine ordinance language on commingling, outdoor private-space events and odor-control requirements before returning to council for formal readings.
