05-08-2016, 03:34 PM
This might be a little late for the discussion, but I had a tiny window into the application process and I can say, I am glad this choice was made. Very encouraged the state decided to keep it local.
This process was not easy. You basically had to have the business "ready to go" prior to getting the permit. It took most of them about 2 years to get everything in place to even apply. The process was highly intensive and costly. I met and worked with one of the applicants on their application and I can tell you with certainty their stress level was maxed out for the past 2 years. I really had no envy for those guys and gals going through the process.
There are about 10-12 "groups" of growers from other states that move to the next state that legalizes. Basically, these groups are all vying to be the Walmart of herb. They are well financed, know the legislation and systems and are scaling up their operations on a national level. I truly believe the State did the right thing by not issuing a permit to one of these big, national growers.
This process was not easy. You basically had to have the business "ready to go" prior to getting the permit. It took most of them about 2 years to get everything in place to even apply. The process was highly intensive and costly. I met and worked with one of the applicants on their application and I can tell you with certainty their stress level was maxed out for the past 2 years. I really had no envy for those guys and gals going through the process.
There are about 10-12 "groups" of growers from other states that move to the next state that legalizes. Basically, these groups are all vying to be the Walmart of herb. They are well financed, know the legislation and systems and are scaling up their operations on a national level. I truly believe the State did the right thing by not issuing a permit to one of these big, national growers.