The relatively quiet two-mile stretch of land on the East River known as Roosevelt Island could join the growing list of regulated cannabis dispensary locations in New York City. Owner of Empire Flower Inc., Jarred Spindel applied to the Office of Cannabis Management for a retail cannabis dispensary license in October, proposing to set up shop on Main Street.
"Each new business represents economic growth, community investment, and safer access for consumers," said Felicia A.B. Reid, Acting Executive Director of the New York State Office of Cannabis Management in a recent press release. "Together, they signal that New York's legal cannabis market, industry innovation, and consumer demand are showing no signs of slowing down."
On Nov. 10, Spindel's application was shot down by the Street Life Committee of Manhattan Community Board 8, which represents the Upper East Side and Roosevelt Island. The proposal did not simply come and go as residents adamantly voiced their opinions against the dispensary at the committee and the full board meeting, respectively, urging for the disapproval of the application. Attendees noted the proximity of the proposed location to local schools and a place of worship.
The decision that will determine whether or not Empire Flower Inc. comes to Roosevelt Island and joins the booming cannabis industry is up to the Office of Cannabis Management.