Six years after the legalization of cannabis, British Columbia’s second-largest city is on the verge of seeing its first recreational pot shops.
Surrey city councillors voted Monday night to approve a dozen cannabis stores, to be operated by eight businesses.
The retail outlets will be required to operate under a framework council approved last spring, which bans them from within 200 metres of schools, community centres and other cannabis businesses.
“The residents have been asking for it for a long time,” Surrey City Councillor Linda Annis said.
“The industry is at a place where the stores are very safe and aren’t a risk for public safety. When you visit the stores it’s not youth that is trying to get the product, it’s often middle-aged people that are using it for medicinal purposes.”
Thirty-one applications were submitted to council, which a staff review narrowed down to the eight approved operators. Those who got the green light will now need to obtain rezoning permits, business licences and provincial licensing before they can open their doors.
“This is an opportunity for small businesses to get a start in this industry,'” said Jeff Guignard, executive director of the Alliance of Beverage Licensees of B.C.
“To offer legal, tested, regulated cannabis products out to Surrey’s consumers, and also return something to the tax base of Surrey as well.”
The Surrey Board of Trade also applauded the city’s move.
“By enabling a regulated and responsible cannabis retail industry, Surrey is opening doors for economic growth, job creation, and revenue diversification, while enhancing consumer safety through a regulated market,” interim spokesperson Jasroop Gosal said in a media release.
“This decision is a significant milestone in building a balanced local economy that can meet the diverse needs of our community.”
Surrey’s cannabis framework allows for up to 12 retail stories, with a maximum of two in each of its six communities.