Licensing-board candidates field questions about cannabis consumption lounges and recusals

Council interviewed multiple applicants for the Liquor and Licensing Authority. The city collector read names of candidates and asked whether they could meet LLA meeting commitments; applicants generally said yes. Councilors sought specifics about industry ties and how members would handle cases involving acquaintances or former employers.

One applicant, who identified a business interest in cannabis consumption, said the interest could create a conflict depending on board business. “I do have an interest in wanting to have a cannabis consumption lounge and I'm also licensed as Green Cuisine Aspen,” the applicant said, and acknowledged that if a conflict arose they might have to recuse. Other applicants described food-and-beverage backgrounds and said they would consult law and recuse where appropriate. Councilors flagged the need to understand how frequently recusals would be required and whether the board could function if many members recused themselves.