HomeMy WebLinkAboutCSE-20-43 The People's Dispensary RedactedApplication Type
Social Equity Criteria
Applicant (Entity) Information
Social Equity Cannabis Business
Permit Application
CSE-20-43
Submitted On: Nov 13, 2020
Applicant
Isaiah Garner
In order to qualify as a social equity applicant, applicants must
satisfy at least one of the following criteria:
1. Low income household and either:
a. A past conviction for a cannabis crime, or
b. Immediate family member with a past conviction for a
cannabis crime.
2. Low income household in a zip code identified as at least
60% according to the CalEnviroScreen for five (5) consecutive
year period and either:
a. A past conviction for a cannabis crime, or
b. Immediate family member with a past conviction for a
cannabis crime.
3. Low income household and either:
a. Five (5) years cumulative residency in a zip code identified as
at least 70% according to the CalEnviroScreen, or
b. Ten (10) years cumulative residency in a zip code identified
by CalEnviroScreen.
4. Business with no less than fifty-one percent (51%) ownership
by individuals who meet Criteria 1 and 2 above.
5. Cannabis social enterprise with no less than fifty-one percent
(51%) ownership by individuals who meet Criteria 1 and 2
above.
6. An individual with a membership interest in a cannabis
business formed as a cooperative.
Do you meet the above criteria, and want to apply as a Social
Equity Applicant?
Yes
Please state your annual income:
23000
Do you have a past cannabis conviction?
No
Do you claim eligibility based on a family member past
cannabis conviction?
No
Do you represent a cannabis social enterprise?
No
Do you have a membership interest in a cannabis cooperative?
No
Application Type
Proposed Location
Supporting Information
Applicant (Entity) Name:
Isaiah Garner
DBA:
The People's Dispensary Fresno
Physical Address:City:
Fresno
State:
Ca
Zip Code:
93706
Primary Contact Same as Above?
Yes
Primary Contact Name:
Isaiah Garner
Primary Contact Title:
Owner
Primary Contact Phone:
Primary Contact Email:HAS ANY INDIVIDUAL IN THIS APPLICATION APPLIED FOR
ANY OTHER CANNABIS PERMIT IN THE CITY OF FRESNO?:
No
Select one or more of the following categories. For each
category, indicate whether you are applying for Adult-Use (“A”)
or/and Medicinal (“M”) or both
Both
Please make one selection for permit type. If making multiple
applications, please submit a new application for each permit
type.
Permit Type
Retail (Storefront)
Business Formation Documentation:
Limited Liability Company
Property Owner Name:
--
Proposed Location Address:
--
City:
--
State:
--
Zip Code:
--
Property Owner Phone:
--
Property Owner Email:
--
Assessor's Parcel Number (APN):
--
Proposed Location Square Footage:
--
List all fictitious business names the applicant is operating under including the address where each business is located:
The People's Dispensary Fresno 2037 W Bullard Ave #155 Fresno, Ca 93711
Application Certification
Owner Information
Has the Applicant or any of its owners been the subject of any
administrative action, including but not limited to suspension,
denial, or revocation of a cannabis business license at any time
during the past three (3) years?
No
Is the Applicant or any of its owners currently involved in an
application process in any other jurisdiction?
Yes
If so, please list and explain:
We've applied for licenses in Los Angeles, Ca
I hereby certify, under penalty of perjury, on behalf of myself
and all owners, managers and supervisors identified in this
application that the statements and information furnished in this
application and the attached exhibits present the data and
information required for this initial evaluation to the best of my
ability, and that the facts, statements, and information
presented are true and correct to the best of my knowledge and
belief. I understand that a misrepresentation of fact is cause for
rejection of this application, denial of the permit, or revocation
of a permit issued.
In addition, I understand that the filing of this application grants
the City of Fresno permission to reproduce submitted materials
for distribution to staff, Commission, Board and City Council
Members, and other Agencies to process the application.
Nothing in this consent, however, shall entitle any person to
make use of the intellectual property in plans, exhibits, and
photographs for any purpose unrelated to the City's
consideration of this application.
Furthermore, by submitting this application, I understand and
agree that any business resulting from an approval shall be
maintained and operated in accordance with requirements of
the City of Fresno Municipal Code and State law. Under penalty
of perjury, I hereby declare that the information contained in
within and submitted with the application is true, complete, and
accurate.I understand that a misrepresentation of the facts is
cause for rejection of this application, denial of a license or
revocation of an issued license.
Name and Digital Signature
true
Title
Owner
Please note: the issuance of a permit will be determined based
on the application you submit and any major changes to your
business or proposal (i.e. ownership, location, etc.) after your
application is submitted may result in a denial.
For details about the information required as part of the
application process, see the Application Procedures &
Guidelines, City of Fresno Municipal Code Article 33 and any
additional requirements to complete the application process. All
documents can be found online via this link.
For questions please contact the City Manager’s Office at
559.621.5555.
Owner Name:
Isaiah Garner
Owner Title:
Owner
Owner Address:
2037 W Bullard
Owner City:
Fresno
Owner State:
Ca
Owner Zip:
93711
Has Owner Completed Background Check Application?
No
Ownership Percentage (%):
51
INTRODUCTION
The People’s Dispensary Fresno is a community.
The People’s Dispensary will be located in Fresno and will serve the Fresno
metropolitan and rural community. We have a dual focus on providing quality cannabis
products as well as contributing to the city’s equitable economic development. We are
engaged on many fronts in our city’s systematically disenfranchised communities.
The People’s Dispensary Fresno co-founders, licensed mental health therapist Gidai
Maaza and Fresno-born Isaiah Garner, along with community advocate Cesar
Casamayor and The People’s Dispensary management team bring a unique blend of
skill sets and cannabis industry experience to this opportunity in Fresno. This powerful
local combination will establish a quick and strong client base, as well as provide
pathways for underserved communities to access entrepreneurship opportunities
presented by our city’s emerging legal cannabis industry.
The approach to community investment and grassroots direct action is deeply rooted in
our background as immigrants, advocates, working class professionals, and community
members. We are showcasing ourselves as the example of accountability by hiring and
working with communities from our targeted areas. The People’s Dispensary Fresno is
filling a void for those communities that have been marginalized, dismissed and
impacted by the war on drugs by recruiting, hiring and working with criminalized
individuals and their peers.
Our business plan will outline our strategy to create a successful business entity that will
contribute to The City of Fresno’’s growing economic development in the cannabis
industry.
1.1 RESUMES
OUR TEAM
OPENING PROCEDURES
Policy:
It is the responsibility of all opening staff members to follow and comply with company
policies and opening procedures. Opening procedures occur before doors open to the
public. Budtenders are responsible to complete daily tasks in preparing the sales floor
for day-to-day operations. Frontdesk staff is responsible for setting up the customer
check-in area prior to any customers entering the dispensary. Security personnel are to
ensure building premises are well secured, safe, and ready for business. The
Procurement Officer shall perform all necessary inventory audits, changes and updates
to comply with cannabis state and city regulations. Manager and/or Assistant Manager
will ensure opening operations, events, and staff are complying with company, state and
city policies with safety and efficiency.
Purpose:
This section describes the opening procedure for our cannabis retail business.
Scope:
Retail storefront opening procedures
Employees Responsible:
Budtender, Frontdesk, Security, Procurement Officer, Assistant Manager, Manager
1.Upon entering the dispensary at the start of a shift, opening staff shall disable
security alarm, by entering in the given security code.
2.Staff shall lock the front door until opening duties have been completed, and it is
time to open for business.
3.Employees shall clock in and start all opening duties.
4.Technology & Computers
a.All desktop computers on the sales floor must be open with the security
camera monitoring software visible on the screen. All camera monitoring
areas of operation including the exterior of the building should be visible.
b.If security cameras are not functioning properly the dispensary cannot
open until this has been resolved.
c.Enable all register devices and have staff log into the Point of Sale System
- Flowhub so the devices are ready to receive orders.
d.Enable card processing devices, make sure they are logged in and ready
to receive payments.
7.Menu, Sales, & Specials
a.Menu must be checked if updated with new items or items that are sold
out.
b.Menu must be checked via pre order/delivery device, and The People’s
Dispensary website, and printed menu on the sales floor to make sure
sales match or need to be updated with current sales promotion.
c.Sales and promotions must be verified and confirmed with management.
d.Must update product descriptions, pictures, and prices if items are new,
sold out, or on sale.
8.Housekeeping & Cleanliness
a.All areas must be checked for any hazardous, unsafe, or unusual items.
b.Management must be notified immediately should something unusual
occur or major changes happen during the opening shift.
c.Cleanliness is required upon starting the shift and throughout the shift.
d.Daily sweeping, and vacuuming is necessary in front areas and the sales
floor.
e.Mopping is done every other day.
f.Any spills, or hazardous happenings must be cleaned up immediately.
g.All garbage and waste must be thrown away in the waste area outside.
h.All cannabis waste must be given to the Procurement Officer to handle
and properly documented as cannabis waste.
i.Management will need to be contacted if any office or cleaning supplies
are needed or are running low in inventory.
j.Staff break room must remain clean after every use. Dishes must be
cleaned, and put away.
k.Any non-cannabis containers must be cleaned, sanitized and put away for
future use.
9.Administration
a.Check LAN lines for any voicemails, follow up calls, or missed calls.
b.Check for any pre-orders if any have been placed
c.Check work emails for any updates, appointments, or expected deliveries.
10.Unlock the main entrance and turn on the “OPEN” sign.
CLOSING PROCEDURES
Policy:
Budtenders, Frontdesk, Procurement Officer, Manager and/or Assistant Manager shall
perform a closing inspection after the facility closes daily, complying with the cannabis
state and city regulations and internal company policies. All policies will be followed to
ensure proper closing of the dispensary at the end of the day.
Purpose:
This section describes the closing procedure that will be followed at the end of the day
for our cannabis retail store.
Scope:
Retail storefront closing procedures
Employee Responsible:
Budtenders, Frontdesk, Security, Procurement Officer, Assistant Manager, Manager
1.One hour before closing, staff will begin closing procedures.
2.All non-cannabis waste is to be removed and thrown away in an outside
dumpster. Mopping or sweeping if necessary.
3.Restock of all non-cannabis items to prepare for opening staff next business day.
4.If needed, update menus for opening staff next business day.
5.Security will ensure that all last customers are escorted out safely.
6.Security will do closing checks which include: ensuring that the outside of the
premises is safe, walk the outside perimeter and clear of any unusual activity.
7.Security will return to the facility, lock the doors and monitor the security cameras
as staff finishes their closing procedures.
8.Frontdesk will ensure that the customer check-in workstation is shut down
properly, cleaned, and ready for the next day of business.
9.Budtenders are responsible for ensuring all cannabis products are securely
stored in security vaults. All displays will be secured as well.
10.Cash management at the end of the day will be counted by the budtenders. All
deposits will be documented and reported in the Register Daily Log (Exhibit A).
11.Discrepancies will be documented and reported to the Manager to reconcile.
12.Change box will be counted and documented. Budtender will report if change is
needed for the next day.
13.All deposits will be secured in the back of the security vault.
14.Manager will update and advise staff for any changes for the next business day.
15.Closing staff will ensure all secured vaults are locked.
16.Interior facilities will be checked by security prior to leaving the dispensary.
17.Security will report any incidents that have occured during the day.
18.All security systems will be checked by security that they are properly
functioning.
19.All staff will need to clock out, and proceed to exit the door, together.
20.Security will ensure that security alarm is enabled, and set.
This invaluable data allows us to remain competitive with large scale multi-state
operators while providing the best product at the best prices for our customers.
DAY-TO-DAY RETAIL OPERATIONS
Employee Responsible:
Security, Frontdesk, Budtender, Manager, Assistant Manager, Procurement Officer
Operation Procedures:
1.Safety awareness and action is priority. All staff must be knowledgeable of all
safety procedures. Any hazardous material or situation must be reported
immediately to management and handled accordingly. Emergency call buttons
must be located in areas where it is accessible to working staff. In case of fires,
compliant fire extinguishers must be available and located in designated areas of
the dispensary. Security cameras and alarms must be working efficiently and
ready. Security staff members must follow daily procedures to ensure high safety
standards to all patrons and facility. Monthly safety meetings will be held to notify
about updates, and changes that pertain to the security operations of The
People’s Dispensary Fresno. Monthly security agendas will be emailed to all staff
members.
2.Staff members will be properly trained to follow all cannabis state regulations.
Staff will comply with industry standards and safety. All working staff members
must carry valid ID’s and staff badges during their scheduled shift. Staff members
will always check dispensary for any known issues that are not normal to daily
operations and make necessary reports to Manager if needed. Staff members
will continue with opening procedures and will ensure the dispensary is ready to
service customers securely.
3.Sales Floor Setup and Display
a.Only Cannabis products that are compliant for sale will be moved to the
Main Sales floor along with all display items from the security vaults
located in the restricted storage area. At closing all cannabis products
must all be stored back to security vaults and locked.
b.Any cannabis items that are noted as “BOH” aka “Back of House'' will
remain in the security vaults and not moved unless proper transfer was
confirmed via Flowhub Inventory Management Software.
c.When the main sales floor inventory is low and an item must be restocked
it must be properly transferred and confirmed via Flowhub Inventory
Management Software.
d.Accessories and non-cannabis items must be restocked and arranged
neatly on the sales floor ready for purchase.
e.All retail sales computers on the sales floor must be running with the
security camera monitoring software visible in all areas of the operating
dispensary and exterior parts of the building.
f.Back office main security hub must be active and visible at all times.
g.All mobile devices must be actively logged in and ready for use. Devices
include, front lobby menu iPad, POSaBit card processor receiver and ID
check-in and Flowhub’s Nug Customer ID check-in device.
h.All Main Sales floor cash register computers must have Flowhub POS
logged into the Flowhub Cashier app ready for customer transactions.
Product scanner must be working and ready.
i.Product label / barcode printer must be active and ready for print jobs.
j.Cash registers will be properly counted by Budtenders on duty.
k.All cash will be recorded daily in the Daily Register Log (Exhibit A).
l.All discrepancies will be documented in the Daily Register Log (Exhibit A)
and the Manager notified.
m.Promotional signs and boards will be updated to current sales of the day,
week, or future events. All staff should be aware of daily sales on all
platforms and in-store promotions.
4.Cash Management will be handled by authorized staff. Sales registers will be
assigned to Budtenders on duty. Starting cash amount will be $150 in each
active register. Proper change must always be available. Change box is
accessible to staff when needed. Cash change of $200 must be available, and
counted daily. Discrepancies must be documented in the Daily Register Log
(Exhibit A). Deposits will be stored in restricted area vaults and audited by the
Manager. Managers will be responsible for the audit of all daily cash deposits,
and will need to perform proper accounting and documentation of cash.
Managers will need to deposit any cash into main financial accounts. Any
discrepancies will be documented for accounting purposes. All sales will be
inputed via Flowhub Cashier app to complete all cash sales, change, and/or
refunds.
5.Inventory and purchasing will be performed by the Procurement Officer, and
management. Products must be compliant to all cannabis regulations and
properly received from METRC (track and trace software) with all proper
documentation, testing results, and detailed information. All product deliveries,
samples, payments, and miscellaneous items must be scheduled with authorized
personnel, Procurement officer, or management. All vendors must comply with
cannabis state regulations. Daily inventory will be properly reconciled and
documented via Flowhub Inventory Management system and METRC. All
systems must be synced with current inventory. All products must be checked for
efficient quality assurance and ready for sale. Perishable items must be identified
and monitored for shelf life. Any cannabis waste will all be documented and
reported in METRC. All cannabis waste will be properly disposed of and removed
from the facility by an authorized cannabis disposal service. No cannabis waste
is allowed to be distributed to any customers.
6.End of the day procedures will be performed by staff to ensure the dispensary
will be ready for the next day of service. All products will be properly stored back
in the security vaults. All register cash must be properly secured. Any known
safety issues will be reported to management. Closing staff members will ensure
the security alarm system is activated upon exiting the dispensary.
CONCLUSION
In our business plan, we have presented a business structure that is based on our real
time legal dispensary operations in Oregon. Our experience in the operation of a legal
dispensary has prepared us to enter the Fresno cannabis market. We have a strong top
to bottom leadership team as evidenced by our resumes. We are prepared to be a
successful and community inspired cannabis company in The City of Fresno.
services to our employees offsite. We will also offer group health care benefits to all
employees including medical, dental, and vision.
Benefits & Incentives
All people desire to have a life/work balance, and this does not differ in the cannabis
industry. We understand that it is important that our employees have a comfortable
workplace and open communication with our management team and we intend to
cultivate that within our workplace. We will offer our employees specific incentives,
product discounts, perks for sales goals that are reached. We will ensure to have
one on one check-ins with our staff not only for HR employee reviews but separately
from that as mental health check-ins for ensuring that we are continuing to prioritize
our team with a life/work balance.
Paid Time Off
Our Full-Time employees will be provided with 15 days off for paid time off per year to
dedicate to themselves and those they love. We will work with our employees to
ensure that we create schedules and goals that will prioritize their well-being through
timely work breaks, lunch breaks and other needs that might arise depending on their
physical and mental health needs. This collaboration on scheduling, work breaks,
lunch breaks and other breaks that might be needed for each individual staff member
will also be given to Part-Time employees.
Part-Time employees will be provided with 15 days of paid time off per year
accrued.
Religious and cultural observances
We will make accommodations to respect all religious and cultural observances. Any
employee needing to take time off for an extended period of time, whether paid or
unpaid, will need to provide their direct manager or supervisor a two-week notice.
We celebrate diversity and as such encourage applicants of all (or no) faiths to apply for
employment with us. We will provide reasonable accommodation for interested
applicants and team members’ religious beliefs, observances, and practices.
Incentive Programs
We will also offer access to light snacks and a hydration station stacked with
refreshment (coffee,tea, water and non alcoholic drinks), staff lounge for breaks, tiered
employee discounts on in-store products. We will also offer employee rewards and
incentives for supporting BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, disabled, veterans, and women-owned
vendors and retailers in locations where TPD has a presence.
We will offer special rate plans, educational industry-based workshops, and other
cannabis related benefits to our employees to support their health, industry growth
and well-being.
Economically Beneficial
As referenced in more detail below, it is a priority that we provide our employees with
a living wage. Aside from the living wage, we will be giving our employees the
opportunity to invest in the company through an equity compensation program that will
be developed to create equity for them and their families. It is our mission to ensure
that we have continued growth for our employees' and their future.
Breaks to Breastfeed
We will have a safe private area in the back staff room for an employee in need of
relieving themselves of breast milk. If time and distance allows, the employee will be
able to go home to handle this natural health matter. This is required under federal
and state law.
Educational Benefits
We will work with employees to develop personal growth plans to ensure that they
are on a path that aligns with their own personal goals. We will offer capped
educational reimbursements for employees after having been with the company for
over 2 years. The request will have to be submitted to the foundation that is tied to
the dispensary to be reviewed. We will also offer industry-based education in house
and in partnership with trade associations for which our company belongs.
Retirement Benefits
Our goal will be to offer the option for employee opt-in 401k benefits within year two
of our dispensary being operational.
Savings & Investment Program
From day one, our employees will be given the opportunity to open up a special
account that may be used to invest. Through this structured savings program
individuals will be able to set aside a portion of their earnings for 1 year to invest.
Individuals who sign up for this savings program will also receive free financial
wellness courses to support the growth of their knowledge of both saving and
investing.
We believe in social equity and creating financial stability for all. It is our goal to
make sure that generational wealth is created for our employees and that they learn
how to do this in a safe, welcoming, and non-judgmental space.
2.3 COMPENSATION, TRAINING AND
EDUCATION
Compensation
Our dispensary will offer our employees a living wage (see Section 2.1) based on the
federal, state, and city governed standards. We will offer opportunities for our
employees to increase their wages based on performance, seniority, and also in
accordance with industry, federal, and state regulations.
Our dispensary has created a comprehensive On-Boarding and Training Outline as
well as several Training Modules for every new and current employee. Each
employee must be approved by a Manager or Assistant Manager to determine if the
employee has proficient knowledge and is ready to properly sell and distribute
cannabis products.
Employee Training Overview
Each employee must have some basic cannabis knowledge. However, the position
is trainable for all qualified persons of legal age.
1.All Employees including management and security will be trained and
introduced to the following:
●Age regulations for medical (at least 18) and adult-use (21+)
●No product uses onsite (i.e. smoking, vaping, or other)
●No use or sale of alcohol or tobacco on site
●No loitering allowed (within 50 ft of the dispensary)
●Upkeep and cleanliness both inside and outside of the store (i.e.- in
accordance with the ordinance, “all litter must be removed daily from the
premises, including adjacent public sidewalks and all parking lots under
the control of the cannabis retail business or commercial cannabis
business; these areas must be swept or cleaned on a weekly basis to
control debris; upkeep and operating characteristics must be compatible
with abutting properties and the surrounding neighborhood”)
●How to utilize all individual cannabis products to best suit each medical or
adult-use customer’s needs
●Marketing regulations (i.e. social media, signage, window displays, etc)
●New products added to the main sales floor
●Flower Menu
●Preroll Menu
●Non-Flower Menu - Cartridges(Distalites, Live Resin, Cured Resin, CO2
Extracts, Edibles, Topicals, Oils (FECO, RSO) and Tinctures (Oil Based,
Alcohol Based), Capsules, and Extracts (Cured Resin, Live Resin, Sauce,
Diamonds)
●How to work with medical and adult-usel consumers
●Advise regarding the effects of: Non-Psychoactive (CBD with less than 1%
THC) and Psychoactive Products: THC or THC|CBD (1:1, 2:1, 20:1, etc.)
●Dosing, usages, and risks associated with dosing more than
recommended
○5mg or less to start with. (Consumables)
○Wait 30 min. - 90 min. Before consuming a higher dose.
●Not to operate a vehicle or heavy machinery when medicated.
●Medicate in a safe and legal environment.
●Keep away from children
●Emergency Measures
●Security (lead by our licensed security personnel)
●Fire and Safety Prevention
●Odor Mitigation Procedures
●CAL-OSHA Regulations
●Review of Employee Handbook
●Discuss the topics and set expectations:
○Cultural Awareness
○Communication and Interpersonal Skills
○Conflict Resolution
○Harassment Prevention Training
●General Safety & Emergency Preparedness, FA and CPR, Incident Report
Form, (management and hourly)
●Go over the Job Description
●Go over Compliance Regulations and set expectations.
2.Proper ID Training;
Employees will learn how to differentiate what an acceptable ID is.
ACCEPTABLE Identification:
●An unexpired and unaltered U.S. or District of Columbia driver's license.
●An unexpired and unaltered identification card issued by a U.S. state,
District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, United
States Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, with photo, name, date of birth,
and physical description
●An unexpired and unaltered ID card issued by a federally recognized
indigenous tribe with photo, name, and date of birth
●An unexpired and unaltered passport or passport ID card
●An unexpired and unaltered U.S. Military ID card
●An unexpired and unaltered NEXUS or SENTRI card
●Review examples of Identification that are not acceptable as proof of age:
Green card, Social Security card, Veteran Health Identification card,
Student ID cards
●Review city and statewide possession limits for medical card and
adult-use card holders as of date of hire
3.Training and Constant Review of Proper Product Handling Laws:
PACKAGING, LABELING, AND STORING
A.PACKAGING REVIEW:
●Employees will learn to follow the proper protocol for making sure all of the
cannabis products are packaged properly by checking if they are:
○Registered properly from a licensed cannabis business
○Sealed, labeled, and in a medical cannabis container or in child and
light resistant containers consistent with current standards,
including Consumer Product Safety Commission standards
referenced by the Poison Prevention Act
B. LABELING REVIEW:
●Employees will learn to make sure each cannabis product is properly
labeled with all of the following details per California Compliance:
○Registered Cannabis Licensed Business
○Manufacturing License/Date
○METRC Package ID/Tag
○Harvest Date
○Lab Name and Test Results
○Date Tested
○Item Weight (mg/g/oz)
○THC and CBD Percentages (Doses)
○Child Safety Warning Label
C.STORAGE REVIEW:
●During operational hours cannabis products shall be stored in a security
vault accessible to permitted employees
●When the dispensary is CLOSED all cannabis products shall be
maintained and stored in a restricted access area (Vault/Safe Room)
●All Vaults/Safes shall remain locked when the dispensary is closed
●All perishable items must be placed in a bolted down refrigerator
●Refrigerator must remain locked when the dispensary is closed
4. POS and Seed To Sale Training Will Include:
●How to utilize the POS System that is linked to the METRC Seed to Sale
system to make sure cannabis products are being properly administered
within the California compliance laws
●Review the training outline and set expectations of completion time and
order.
○1ST WEEK - F.O.H. (Front of the House) Programs and
Procedures Training, Opening & Closing Duties, Frontdesk
Training, Customer Service
○2ND WEEK - Cannabis 101 & Craft, Budtender Training Program,
Customer Service, Point of Sales Training, Retail and Operations
Training.
○Collect the documents necessary to complete the employee
onboarding and intake process
5. EMPLOYEE GAINS:
●Gain a basic understanding of how to setup dispensary for success at the
start and end of every shift
●Become proficient in using and executing the F.O.H. Procedures and
Programs for:
○POS System (Checking in guests only)
○Slack
○Google Suite Office
●Gain a complete comprehension of Front Desk/Receptionist Employee
responsibilities and employee expectations
A.FRONT OF HOUSE (F.O.H) Training Will Include:
●Dispensary Tour
●Review of emergency procedures
●Opening and closing duties
●Review of F.O.H Folder
○Emergency Contact Information (internal and external (City))
○F.O.H. Procedures
○Call Handling Instructions
○Delivery Instructions (if applicable)
○FAQ List
○Review of address, business hours, phone number, pricing information,
discount information, proper identification, retail and possession limits,
company mission, check in/sign up forms for vendors and guests
●Customer Check-In Procedure
●Vendor/Guest Check-In Procedure - ID and Sign In
●Review of Team Communication Tools
●Review of Relevant Company Files
B. BUDTENDER TRAINING WILL INCLUDE:
●Review of Opening and Closing Procedures
●Cannabis 101
●Craft 101
●Customer Service
●Sales Training
●Medical Customers Sales Training
○Medical Program
○Medical Donation Customers
■Greet customers as soon as they walk through the door
■Address the current medical donation product inventory
■Fill out the Medical Donation Log
■Ring up the free item in Leaflogix and follow proper checkout
procedures. ***MAKE SURE TO SELECT THE MEDICAL
DONATED ITEM IN PRODUCT SEARCH.***
■Note the product in Flowhub in the customer profile. Date, Product
Received, Initials. (Ex. 1/1//21 Sky Luminous Botanical Tincture
E.C.)
■Ask customers if they need anything else
●Recreational Customers Sales Training
●Review of Flower Menu
●Pre-Roll Menu
●Non-Flower Menu
○Cartridges
○Edibles,
○Topicals
○Oils
○Tinctures
○Capsules
○Extracts
●Display review and upkeep
●Checkout procedures
C.POINT OF SALE (P.O.S.) Training Will Include:
●Review Check-In Procedure
●Guest Notes - Understanding the functions
●Tracking Medical Donations
●Important Interactions
●Discrepancies and chargebacks
●Holding Items
●Product Search Bar - How to Ring Up a Product
●Cart Functions
●How to Apply Discounts
D.Opening and Closing Procedural Training Includes:
●Review of Change Box
●Daily Cash Deposits
●Inventory Check
○Restocking Product
○Labeling
○Printing Labels
○Software Training
●P.O.S. System
○Flowhub
○Opening Register Count
○Closing Register Count
○Change Box
○Guest Check
○Envelopes
●Advise managers
○When change is running out
○Dollar bills are close to running
○Coins are running low
○Larger bills are in the register
E.Inventory and Restock Procedural Training:
●Employees will learn and understand how to restock cannabis products from the
back of house vaults/safes of the main sales floor..
○Only one agent-in-charge is to handle restocking inventory on the main
sales floor
●Create a list of products that need to be restocked on the main sales floor
●Fill out the product restock tracking list or the pre-roll restock
○Tracking list with date, time, company name, product name, amount
taken, initials, and signature
○Place items onto the main sales floor. Those items are now live and ready
to be sold
6. Continuing Education
Through established partnerships with both national and industry based trade
associations and cannabis programs, we will offer continuous training and exposure to
industry opportunities. All employees will work alongside their manager to develop
performance goals which will include educational and industry training components that
can influence opportunities for wage increases. We want to ensure that we support our
employees' interest in growing within the company and in turn, the industry as well.
2.4 RECRUITMENT FOR HIRING
Recruitment Plan:
The People’s Dispensary Fresno will seek team members from non-traditional sources
to promote the diversity of our team. We feel that the most impactful way to diversify our
team is to ensure that local ‘yet to reach’ communities are receiving priority and
opportunity to apply for employment with the People’s Dispensary Fresno. To execute
this goal, we will partner with local non-profit and community organizations that offer
employment services dedicated to the City of Fresno and its surrounding rural
communities.
Recruitment Practices:
The People’s Dispensary’s Fresno aligns our recruitment practices with those mandated
by the Department of Fair Housing and Employment (DFEH) and the Equal
Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). We recruit, hire and promote with EEOC
principles in mind, by implementing practices designed to widen and diversify our pool
of potential team members.
Commitment to Local Hires:
The People’s Dispensary Fresno thinks globally and acts locally. The People's
Dispensary Fresno will hire 80% locally and 20% within our surrounding rural
communities. It is our commitment that at least two-thirds of our annual total hours
worked will be dedicated to local hires.
Recruitment Philosophy:
We understand that in order to reach those that are systematically disenfranchised, one
has to have deeply rooted relationships in community. We currently collaborate with a
variety of community stakeholders and organizations geared at reaching out to those
yet to be reached.
Who do we hire:
1.Formerly incarcerated Black and Brown adults (of legal age)
2.Adults (of legal age) exiting the foster care system
3.Adults (of legal age) emerging from the illicit Market and/or convicted of a
cannabis related crime that may have gone to conviction and/or citation
(misdemeanor)
4.Veterans
5.LGBTQIA+
6.Elderly
7.Unemployed
How do we recruit:
We will recruit by utilizing the following areas
1.Employees as a resource for recruitment: We believe that good people refer
good people. The employees who know what it is to work in our company will
refer people who they think are a perfect fit.
2.Neighborhood Job Fairs: We are committed to showcasing our job opportunities
to our city’s most economically dependent areas and the lowest labor force
participation.
3.Partner with local non-profit organizations and hiring agencies: In partnership
with local organizations and hiring agencies such as the Fresno Local
Conservation Corp (https://fresnoeoc.org/lcc/ ) we will work to increase job
visibility and to identify systematically disenfranchised community members for
our employment pool.
4.Make available employment opportunities in places likely to be seen by
underrepresented groups, such as job boards targeting veterans, low income
groups, and formerly incarcerated community members. For example, we will
use We Hire Heroes, a job board dedicated to hiring veterans.
5.Offer information on job opportunities in languages other than English spoken in
the community. For example, Spanish and Hmong represent respectively 76%
and 6.5% of the city’s of Fresno spoken languages.
6.Hosting Dispensary Open Houses centered around cannabis employment
opportunities during non-traditional hours.
7.Guerilla Tactics: Due to the restrictions on both traditional and digital advertising
in the cannabis industry we have to get creative with our recruitment efforts. We
plan to explore more grass-roots “guerilla” tactics in order to recruit ‘yet to reach’
community members in our city.
2.5 LOCAL MANAGEMENT EXPLANATION
Several members of our ownership and management team are long-time Fresno
residents and therefore, we are committed to also maintaining local management within
our retail store. From an enterprise perspective, all owners will play a vital role in the
growth and development of the dispensary and its brand. Our business model centers
itself on building with “the people” from within the communities in which we operate and
do business in our dispensary. This will not be something that we will deviate from. It
will always be our goal and focus to maintain local ownership and management.
2.6 EMPLOYEE ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
MANAGER
Job Title: Manager
Job Status: Regular Full-Time (Exempt)
Reports to (Title): VP of California Operations
Basic Function:
The Manager will help plan and manage all aspects of the day to day operations,
including managing personnel, establishing strong customer relationships, inventory
control and handling the daily ebb and flow of all store related matters while adhering to
strict state guidelines and regulations. This individual must have the ability to
communicate effectively with all levels of the company to implement and maintain
protocols, policies, and procedures in accordance with company standards.
Manager Requirements:
●Supervising Experience: 3 years (Required)
●Customer Service: 3 years (Required)
●Previous retail or customer service experience required
●Previous leadership/management experience preferred
●Bachelor degree or equivalent experience in marketing, management, business
administration, accounting, or similar
●Knowledge of cannabis use is preferred
●Experience working in a regulated industry is preferred
Manager Responsibilities:
●Maintain the highest level of presentation and customer service
●Ensure strict inventory controls during opening, dispensing, and closing
procedures
●Troubleshoot issues as needed
●Ensure product dispensing, inventory management, cash management, and
audits are all functioning at the highest level of integrity through leadership and
compliance controls
●Prepare and deliver content for weekly dispensary meetings
●Ensure supply of office and accessory inventory
●Facilitate the transfer of products to and from the Dispensary
●Ensure our menu is updated and accurate at all times across all platforms
●Managing incoming patient emails/communications
●Personnel management
●Maintaining, reviewing, and updating all Dispensary statements of procedure
●Hiring and on-boarding of new Dispensary staff
●Participating in and leading community outreach efforts
●Ensure standards of quality, health, and safety are met throughout staff
●Scheduling of dispensary staff
●Interact with patients and ensure satisfaction
●Analyze sales data to understand trends and set staff goals
●Create and implement marketing initiatives to drive demand
●Create clear written communication initiatives to staff and customers
ASSISTANT MANAGER
Job Title: Assistant Manager
Job Status: Regular Full-Time (Exempt)
Reports to (Title): Manager
Basic Function:
The Assistant Manager assists with the merchandising, operations, and execution of
store and company standards in addition to resolving both associate and customer
concerns. The Assistant Manager will be responsible for building customer relationships
and partnering with the Manager on new product launches, developing overall store
strategies and tactics to achieve sales, service, and operational goals.
Assistant Manager Requirements:
●2-3 years of customer facing experience
●Proven organizational skills
●Ability to effectively communicate with staff members and managers
●Efficacy with technology and point of sale systems
●A fundamental understanding of cannabinoids and their effects on the body is
preferred
●Working knowledge of inventory and sales reports
●Experience in a retail management position
●Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
Assistant Manager Responsibilities:
●Customer Service - know our customers and resolve any service issues
●Observe and coach the team to improve the overall experience for our customers
●Improve sales & profitability - analyze and report sales trends and opportunities,
train the team and schedule vendor specials and events
●Assume full management responsibilities in the absence of the Dispensary
Manager
●Keep ongoing open communication with the manager and support management
with analysis and input
●Support and manage the dispensary team - help track performance, set goals,
provide feedback and provide motivation to the team
●Solicit input, suggest improvements and continually practice open communication
●Provide additional training for the team
●Compliance - adhere to company and state regulations, track and identify any
holes and fix them immediately
●Report any issues to the Compliance manager
●Flexible and able to cover higher level management roles and functions
●Learn the ins and outs of the Point of Sale System
●Review and assist in receiving all deliveries with diligence and accuracy and in
accordance with company and state regulations
●Create effective organization and information gathering for all inventory regarding
special patient orders, employee patient samples, and weekly deals
●Assist in conducting nightly, weekly and monthly inventory audits in accordance
with company and state guidelines to ensure there is no diversion of inventory,
and effectively respond to discrepancies
●Maintain records for all necessary documents
●Prepare and effectively lead state inspectors through unannounced inspections
●Assist the Dispensary Manager in organizing, planning and implementing
strategy
●Strong written and verbal communication skills with patients, to evaluate their
needs and specifications
●Cash handling
●Open and close Dispensary; Provide emergency shift coverage if needed
●Maintain positive vendor relationships
●Identify solutions that decrease waste, increase efficiency and positively impact
the bottom line
PROCUREMENT OFFICER
Job Title: Cannabis Procurement Officer
Job Status: Regular Part-Time or Full-Time (Non-Exempt)
Reports to (Title): Manager and Assistant
Basic Function:
The Cannabis Procurement Officer will manage the company’s cannabis supply by
establishing relationships with cultivators and sourcing cannabis that meets
the company’s defined standards. This position will be responsible for negotiating,
managing and leveraging favorable supplier agreements and managing the day-to-
day operations of intake and tracking of materials. Coordinate and maintain all
compliance aspects of procurement operations including supplier list, documentation
and QA auditing.
Procurement Officer Requirements:
●High school diploma or relevant qualification.
●Existing relationships with legal cultivators in CA
●Minimum of 3 years experience purchasing cannabis in a medium to
high volume CA-based retail environment or similar
●Extensive knowledge of cannabis trends such as strains, extractions
methods, etc
●Strong negotiating skills
●3+ years experience purchasing cannabis in a small to medium
volume CA-based retail environment
Cannabis Procurement Officer Responsibilities:
●Work with manager and other team members on forecasted needs for flower,
pre-rolls, extract, vapes and trim
●Complete Approved Supplier List; Source and onboard new suppliers; Determine
supply capabilities, transportation logistics, and quality levels
●Maintain current supplier relationships
●Negotiate contracts, pricing and payment terms with cultivators
●Oversee the day-to-day material intake process to ensure incoming product is
properly documented and tracked
●Ensure the quality and accuracy of cannabis procurement deliverables in
compliance with company standards set by the manager
●Coordinate ordering schedules to align with production, quality control and
finance
●Perform monthly, weekly and daily inventory counts
●Count drawers during daily shift change
●Stay current on evolving consumer buying trends, and industry regulations to
ensure business compliance
●Keep back office clean and sanitary
●Perform other duties as required
BUDTENDER
Job Title: Budtender
Job Status: Regular Part-Time or Full-Time (Non-Exempt)
Reports to (Title): Manager and Assistant Manager
Basic Function:
The Budtender will assist customers in selecting suitable cannabis products. The
responsibilities of the Budtender also include greeting and welcoming customers,
informing the manager of customer complaints and operational issues, and sharing
firsthand experiences of cannabis products to address customer concerns. The
employee should also be able to answer customers’ questions regarding the various
strains of cannabis, their medicinal uses, and methods of consumption.
Successful as a Budtenders should keep abreast of the latest developments in cannabis
laws to maintain legal compliance. Ultimately, an outstanding Budtender should be able
to demonstrate excellent communication and customer service skills by ensuring that
customers are well-informed and satisfied with their purchases.
Budtender Requirements:
●High school diploma or relevant qualification
●A valid OLCC Workers Permit
●Proven experience working as a Budtender
●strong ability to multitask
●Sound knowledge of cannabis strains and their medicinal benefits
●Outstanding organizational skills
●Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
●Effective communication skills
●Exceptional customer service skills
Budtender Responsibilities:
●Advising customers on suitable cannabis products based on their needs,
preferences, budgets, and reactions to different strains of cannabis
●Keeping abreast of new cannabis products on the market as well as the latest
industry trends through trade shows and research
●Accurately processing customers' payments using the dispensary's Point of Sale
(POS) system
●Responsible for register count, closing register and cash management
●Ensuring that the dispensary is clean and well-organized at all times
●Educating customers on the safe use of their selected cannabis products
●Correctly weighing, packaging, and labeling cannabis products as required
●Checking customers' identification documents to verify that they are of legal age
●Taking inventory of cannabis products and ensuring that the sales floor is
adequately stocked
●Updating menu
●Taking product photos
●Other duties as required
FRONT OFFICE ATTENDANT
Job Title: Front Desk Attendant
Job Status: Regular Part-Time or Full-Time (Non-Exempt)
Reports to (Title): Manager and Assistant Manager
Basic Function:
A professional Front Desk Attendant oversees all receptionist duties at our main
entrance desk. The employee will perform a range of duties including, but not limited to,
answering phone calls, taking messages, checking in people, assisting the budtender
staff and maintaining the front of the house.
The Front Desk Attendant’s central goal is to provide our clients with outstanding
customer service and support. As the ‘face’ of our company, the successful candidate
will be presentable and friendly, with outstanding people’s skills. The Front Desk
Attendant should also have a talent for multi-tasking, with excellent communication and
organizational skills.
Requirements:
●High school diploma or relevant qualification
●A minimum of 2 years’ proven experience in a similar role
●Superb written and verbal communication skills
●Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities
Responsibilities:
●Greet guests and provide them with superb customer service
●Check in all guests and confirm their eligibility to enter the sales floor
●Ensure the front desk and area are neat, presentable, and equipped with all the
necessary supplies
●Answer all client questions and incoming calls
●Redirect phone calls to the appropriate department and take down messages
●Knowledgeable of current menu items
●Floor prep which includes but is not limited to preparing labels, attaching labels,
updating paper menu and other duties as required
●Accept all letters and packages, and distribute them to their appropriate
departments
●Restocking cannabis items
●Monitoring cameras at all times and being aware of the outside of the store for
any unusual activity
●Other duties as required
SECURITY GUARD
Job Title: Security Guard
Job Status: Regular Part-Time or Full-Time (Non-Exempt)
Reports to (Title): Manager and Assistant Manager
Basic Function:
The Security Guard will be responsible for checking IDs for entry into the store,
supporting store team members with security issues as needed, and will escort delivery
drivers to and from their vehicles for safety.
Requirements:
●Security: 1 year (Preferred)
●Guard Card (Preferred)
Responsibilities:
●Previous professional experience checking IDs
●Valid California Security Guard Permit required
●Security Officer, military, or directly related experience required
As a team, we will also take into consideration and encourage a flexible environment for
employees that want to have a work/student life balance as they pursue further
education. We will work alongside our employees to encourage their development.
As a dispensary, we will commit to paying our employees a living wage as outlined in
2.1, that is a standard for people to be able to have a happy balanced life that allows
them to be able to work and reach their goals.
3.1 Neighborhood Complaints
POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR ADDRESSING COMPLAINTS
Policy - Our company's passion is the community and social equity. Due to this we will
create procedures to address community concerns and complaints about our
dispensary. The people we serve are a reflection of who we are, where we live, and our
community. Therefore, our mission will always be one of being a great neighbor,
partner, health and wellness provider, and valued member of the community.
Purpose - Our company strives to build a bridge of communication between our store,
the neighborhood and our customers. It’s of the utmost importance to address any
concerns or complaints in regards to our dispensary, particularly those that the
community and/or neighborhood may have. With that said, we will be sharing our
procedure for addressing them in a positive and timely manner.
●The purpose is to create a process for addressing, classifying and solving
matters in an honest, transparent, independent, economical and expedient way.
●Set expectations on reasonable time for neighbors, customers and the
community to have resolutions.
●Build resources and processes to address all types of concerns effectively and
efficiently.
Process - Our community outreach person along with our agent in charge will be our
point of contact for all community related complaints. Their information will be
available at the stores as well as posted on our website. Our timeline to reply to
concerns will be within 1 to 2 business days but vary in resolution time depending on
the severity of the complaint. Our stores will keep a complaint log of all
correspondence from the community. The community and customers will be directed
to address their concerns and complaints to the community outreach person. We will
have a posted sign in the store communicating whom to speak to. Additionally, all
employees will be trained to know this information and process.
Processing Steps - Once we receive communication from a
customer/neighbor the following will take place:
1.We will determine if it is a complaint and ensure that it is clear as to
the matter by communicating with the customer/neighbor for it to be
addressed correctly.
2.We will respond to customers/neighbors within 1 to 2 business days,
depending on the situation. We will follow up with a date and
commitment to the next communication.
3.We will create a report for management to review through our log.
Every complaint or form of communication will be logged.
Management will review for any key takeaways we can improve on
that have been uncovered.
Closing Complaints - It is important for us to make sure we have a clear bridge
of communication. Once the complaint is in our hands and categorized, the
Community Outreach Manager working alongside the agent(s) in charge will
take the lead to ensure that all is done to address it fully. This might include
reaching out for more information.
Our own expectations for ourselves is to resolve complaints in a timely and
efficient manner but we know that delays and setbacks can come into play with
the investigations. If a delay occurs our Community Outreach Manager will be in
communication to update the person or persons at hand.
Responses- Some of the ways the Community Outreach Manager will address these
complaints will be through: 1) Alternative response; 2) Investigation; 3) Internal Review
Alternative Response: The Community Outreach Manager can provide an
alternative response through a facilitated discussion, a face to face meeting, or
an informal discussion over the phone.
Investigation: Any complex complaint that brings an issue that needs further
information and time will be investigated. During this time, the Community
Outreach Manager will be in contact with the plaintiff to gather more information
and details to address the complaint and investigate it.
Internal Review: Management will take a look to see how the complaint was
handled internally and what other similar complaints were logged. Another
cause for an internal review would be if the plaintiff disagreed on the way in
which the complaint was addressed or dealt with. Any issues a plaintiff has
should be specific in relation to the Dispensary. In the internal review process
the reasoning as to why this qualifies for an internal review should be
documented and what was the team's solution to this complaint. We want to
make sure we are responsive to all complaints.
provide access to all and will be conducted by members of our team, as well as other
respected experts in the cannabis industry including our vendor and community
partners.
Some of our courses both online and offline will include teaching cannabis basics,
cannabis career courses and workshops, as well as focused talks to help residents
understand the usages, health benefits, regulations, environmental stipulations, and
safety concerns associated with marijuana around vulnerable groups such as animals
and children. Eventually, from these classes and the data compiled from surveys
provided to attendees, additional classes and support groups that support members
of the community needing connection and guidance from hardships to interact, share
stories and advice will be developed. This is an opportunity for the community to get
to know us, our staff, and our business.
Prior to Opening - Homeowners and Renters Outreach
Promoting rental opportunities and homeownership through community building will help
us to align with the mission of our community partners to help to create stability for
individual residents, their families, and our customers. We want to be a place where our
customers and residents can come to us to connect them for more than just cannabis
but also other life and health-centered resources. Within the areas in which each of our
dispensaries are placed, we will reach out to local community homeowners, renters, and
community development groups to request appointments to meet with them and to
provide them with information about our team, our dispensary, our business, and our
forthcoming meetings. We will also host monthly town halls for residents to voice their
concerns and to share important news with one another to further ensure that we are
hearing out their needs, sharing the real estate of our dispensary with the community,
and establishing relationships with residents within our investment model.
Neighborhood Watch Involvement
We plan to reach out to any existing neighborhood watch programs. If the
neighborhood does not have one yet, we plan to assist and align with the community in
the development of one. This includes reaching out to local law enforcement and
understanding the relationship that is existing with the community to help build a bridge
of communication.
3.3 ODOR MITIGATION
Prior to buildout, our team will identify several odor mitigation suppliers and experienced
contractors with experience in industrial odor control who also have several years of
experience providing counsel within the cannabis industry. These individuals will help
us to determine the best air purification and odor mitigation systems that will guarantee
highly efficient scrubbing or treatment of exchanged air within our retail space. In
accordance with the ordinance, our air purification system will serve as an odor
absorbing ventilation and exhaust system that will help to eliminate odors outside of the
dispensary including public rights-of-way, adjacent properties, on or about the exterior
or interior common area walkways, hallways, breezeways, foyers, lobby areas, or any
other areas available for use by common tenants or the visiting public.
Onsite our team and trained staff will also make air quality a priority within our space to
ensure that we alleviate the presence of mold spores and strong odors within our
dispensary. By enforcing this policy, we seek to further ensure the health and safety of
our customers, staff, and visitors. Using high quality air purifiers and filtration systems
within our space will help to ensure that we reduce VOCs while also ensuring that our
products and air remain of the best quality for the treatment of ailments and for those
who are interested in purchasing our products for recreational use.
Understanding that CA has more than 1.9 million patients who have qualified for the
medical marijuana program as of December 2020, we know that this number will
continue to grow as popularity grows, marijuana becomes recreationally legal in Fresno,
and more information is disseminated regarding its health benefits. The growth of
medical marijuana card holders will attract more individuals likely seeking education
regarding this to customers to better support their health and overall safety.
In accordance with state laws and governing agency provisions; as an additional
support to our customers, our principal officers and management team will not only host
events regarding promoting good quality but we will also develop print and digital
collateral specific to our mission to promote healthy air quality while using cannabis at
home. Furthermore, we will also seek to engage and partner with air purification
companies to provide incentives to our customers when they purchase select products
that may be used inside of homes to lessen the carbon and VOCs emitted into the air
while consuming cannabis.
3.4. Potential Sources of Odor
Terpenes and terpenoids are the source of the odor that are produced by cannabis
plants. In retail dispensary settings, different types of cannabis can emit different odor
profiles for instance, “indica” can often emit a skunk-like odor, whereas, “sativa” is
usually described as sweet or spicy, and “hybrids” bridge the gap between the two.
Understanding the source of most odors within a retail space is often due to a lack of
proper retrofitting, insolation, sealing, air purification and ventilation systems. Our
dispensary will be designed to address these potential sources of odor and along with
proper encassing for flowers both on and off the sales floor.
There will be a designated entry point that will separate the front of the house from the
sales floor to better support the flow of air between customers entering and exiting the
dispensary and odors that may at times be emitted from the products being sold or
housed in the primary showroom. All windows will be closed and properly sealed to
ensure that odors, moisture, insects, and other elements do not enter or exit the
dispensary and therefore cause an odorous nuisance within the adjacent businesses or
community.
3.5. Odor Control
Our dispensary will be designed and built with the proper sealants and retrofitting to
ensure that our windows and doors are properly insulated to support our business.
Additionally, our dispensary will feature the best air purification and odor mitigation
systems. To assist with disinfecting the air which can also play a vital role in odor
nuisance, we will work with our odor mitigation and HVAC team to potentially utilize our
HVAC system as a point of disinfection by installing a commercial grade UV-C Air
Disinfection system or to integrate HVAC ductwork so that the air can be disinfected on
a more cyclical basis.
We will leverage carbon and oxidation filtration systems to assist with masking and
neutralizing the air within our dispensary and to further treat the air. Since we are not a
cultivation space, our dispensary will not require a high-output oxidation system. Such
systems produce ozone and are oftentimes quite costly and too aggressive for products
being held in closed dispensary settings.
Also, in accordance with the ordinance, our air purification system will serve as an odor
absorbing ventilation and exhaust system that will help to eliminate odors outside of the
dispensary including public rights-of-way, adjacent properties, on or about the exterior
or interior common area walkways, hallways, breezeways, foyers, lobby areas, or any
other areas available for use by common tenants or the visiting public.
3.6 Staff Odor Training and System Maintenance
All management and staff will be trained regarding odor control. Our company will make
air quality a priority within our space to ensure that we not only respect our neighbors
but also our customers by helping to alleviate the presence of mold spores and strong
odors within our dispensary. Although we will have proper air purification and filtration,
we will not only have an internal odor mitigation policy but we will also train our team
regarding the importance of device maintenance and monitoring, but also keeping doors
and windows closed.
We will maintain a close relationship with our HVAC and industrial odor control
consultants and prior to our grand opening and on a quarterly basis we will offer a 30-60
minute training regarding the importance of odor control, how our dispensary has been
designed to mitigate it, and our roles in ensuring that odor never becomes a nuisance.
Knowing that our consultants are often working more closely in this ever changing
industry, we believe that it is important that we are kept up to date on the latest
changes, enhancements, and trends in this space. By introducing our consultants in a
training capacity, we will also support our commitment to providing continued education
and training for our staff within this industry beyond the flower.
Our policies will also include property recordkeeping of purchases of odor mitigation
devices; filter replacement dates; performed maintenance tracking; documentation and
notifications of all device malfunctions; scheduled and performed training sessions, and
monitoring of administrative and engineering controls.
3.7 Waste Management Plan
To ensure that products reach our customers as safely as possible, quality control will
be a primary focus of our business and when they don’t we will be prepared. In
accordance with the City and the Fresno County Health Department our policies,
practices and plans will be developed and operated in compliance with applicable
Federal and State laws and regulations for the destruction of hazardous waste.
Ensuring this begins with always being closely involved and focused, engaged, and
relational with our supply chain. For all recalls, quarantine, and destruction procedures,
our agent(s) in charge (i.e. - general manager and/or assistant manager) will serve as
our primary liaisons to all owners regarding the oversight of the dispensary’s inventory
control system.
As required by law, our inventory control system will be real-time, web-based and
accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week. All processes, policies, and related
procedures will also always be accessible to our team via our printed handbook, internal
intranet, and HR filing system.
Product Recall
Objective
The primary goal of all recalls is to protect users from the use of cannabis products that
present a risk to public health by removing products, correcting products, and labels that
have been deemed potentially harmful to users due to defective quality, safety, efficacy,
or information. Our recall plan will be used to assist in the proper execution of a recall
by properly defining the proposed roles and responsibilities of key individuals, while also
centralizing contact information, and supplying stringent methods for timely
communication.
All individuals and responsible parties participating in a company recall will review the
recall plan no less than on a quarterly basis to ensure that problems are identified within
the recall plan.
Definitions
Recall When a product is removed from the
market or a correction is made to the
product because it is either defective or
potentially harmful.
Degree of Recall The degree of hazard and the extent of
distribution, the recall strategy will specify,
and the level in which the supply chain is
to extend (i.e. user/consumer, retailer,
wholesaler).
Distribution List A product specific list of distribution sites
that identifies accounts that received the
recalled product. Such records shall be
maintained for a period of time that
exceeds the shelf life and expected use of
the product and is at least the length of
time specified in other applicable
regulations concerning records retention.
Market Withdrawal Or when a product has a minor violation
that would not be subject to legal action.
The firm removes the product from the
market or corrects the violation.
Public Warning An alert to the public that a product being
recalled presents a serious hazard to
health. It is reserved for urgent situations
where other means for preventing the use
of the recalled product appear
inadequate. The party initiating the recall
will issue a publicity via a (i) general
public warning through the general news
media, either national or local as
appropriate, or (ii) public warning through
a specialized news media, (iii) digital
source (i.e. - database/product buyer list).
Recall Committee A committee consisting of key staff, key
suppliers, and key partners with
knowledge, expertise, authority, and
responsibility to manage the recall and
execute its plan.
Recall Plan An ever evolving contingency plan
centered strongly on regulations,
prepared and maintained for use in
initiating and implementing a recall in
accordance with division, department,
state, local, federal (when enacted) and
community standards.
Recall Strategy A planned specific course of action to be
taken in conducting a specific recall that
addresses the depth of recall, need for
public warnings, and extent of
effectiveness checks for the recall.
Stock Recovery A correction or removal of a product that
has not been marked or that has not left
the direct control of the manufacturer.
Recall Category
Recall Scope or Level
Recall Policy
Our principal officers, in accordance with our inventory, monitoring, and recordkeeping
practices and the Fresno, CA rules will enforce a policy for communicating a recall for
cannabis and cannabis derived products that has been shown to present a reasonable
or a remote probability that use of or exposure to the product will cause serious adverse
health consequences. Our procedures will allow for all recalled products to be properly
disposed of by our organization.
Our policy and procedures will include a review of logs that will allow us to review sales
that were made at or prior to the recall notice. These logs will include the following
Class I Recall A situation in which there is a reasonable
probability that the use of, or exposure to,
a product that will cause serious, adverse
health consequences, or death.
Class II Recall A situation in which use of, or exposure
to, a tampered or violative product that
may cause temporary or medically
reversible adverse health consequences
or where the probability of serious
adverse health consequences is remote.
Class III Recall A situation in which use of, or exposure
to, a tampered or violative product is not
likely to cause adverse health
consequences.
Consumer or User Defines the amount and kind of product in
question. Recall involving individual
patients and physicians
Retail Recall to level immediately preceding the
consumer or user level
Wholesale Recall involving all distribution levels
between the manufacturer and retailer
information regarding our products including: A) A description of the products including
the quantity, strain, variety and batch number of each product received; B) The name
and registry identification number of the permitted cultivation center providing the
cannabis; C) The name and registry identification number of the permitted cultivation
center agent delivering the cannabis; D) The name and registry identification number of
the dispensing organization agent receiving the cannabis; and E) The date of
acquisition.
Our logs will also include the following as well as the disposal instructions for cannabis,
including: A) A description of the products, including the quantity, strain, variety, batch
number and reason for cannabis being disposed; B) The best way to communicate with
the oversight division (to be done within 24 hours); C) The best way to communicate
with the cultivation and distribution center, as well as the method of disposal, the name,
address and telephone number of the disposal company; D) Process to communicate
with the media and C) The date of disposal.
Before the close of all sales at the register, our budtenders will ask all buyers what is
their preferred method of communication (i.e. - email, text, phone). An explanation for
the use of their information will also be provided. This information will be
cross-referenced with the information that was received from customers upon entering
the dispensary sales floor because it will be held electronically and within our cloud
based system. Taking such measures will allow us to alert customers quickly, as well as
send a recall notice to our buyers via their preferred method of communication including
the date of their purchase and information as to where they should return the recalled
product.
Understanding that laws and expectations for properly handling recalled products will
continue to evolve on a state and federal level, our team will remain up to date and sign
up for notifications pertaining to such recall laws to ensure that we remain compliant
with the expectations of the local, state, and federal government.
Our Process
A recall shall be initiated as a result of reports or complaints on quality, safety, or
efficacy of the product. Reports or claims shall be referred by manufacturers,
distributors, dispensaries, medical practitioners, patients, and caregivers. A recall shall
also be initiated by the manufacturer or distributor by voluntary recall and/or as a result
of testing or analysis by cultivators, suppliers, governmental department agencies.
1. Consumer Complaint Form
Consumers are offered the opportunity to review products on our website or by
filling out a consumer complaint form.
Once the complaint is received:
●A record of the complaint will be placed in a file that will contain all product
complaints received by the company
○Complainant contact information
○Product along with reported problem
○Product identification
○Product storage
○Purchase date of product and location of product purchase
○Illness and injury details
2. Determination of Need for Recall
The agent in charge and/or the onsite manager will:
●Investigate any suspicion that a product needs to be recalled within 24
hours
●Review the initial complaint
●If the primary assessment indicates recall may be necessary, the agent in
charge and/or manager shall convene the health advisory committee,
recall committee, as well as related trained staff for initial evaluation
●Hazard and safety concerns associated with the product shall be
determined
●A strategy for product removal (and disposal, if necessary) shall be
determined based on the level of threat to health and safety as well as
location in commerce
●Contact appropriate regulatory agencies
●Maintain a log of events of the recall (dates, actions, communications, and
decisions)
a. Reviewing reports of injury or illness said to have been caused by the
product;
b. Retrieving relevant data on the product available from our METRC
system;
c. Identifying potential cause or causes of contamination;
e. Conducting lab tests on samples from the same batch as suspect
product; and
f. Obtaining details regarding duration and manner of storage and/or
transportation of the suspect product by the retailer or other recipient.
3. Communication Recall Procedures
If the agent in charge and/or the manager initiates a recall, he/she will review and
suggest changes to the firm’s recall strategy, to its recall communication, and to
its press release (if necessary).
Other actions include:
●Immediately notifying management and the appropriate agency
overseeing the product recall
●Recalling firm, shall scan and email a copy of the recalling firm’s recall
communication and press release, if any.
●Aligning with our diversity and social equity focus, all communications will
be sent out and listed on our website to be viewed by bilingual,
multilingual, and persons with disabilities
●All recall communications shall be written in accordance with the following
guidelines:
○Brevity
○Clearly identified products such as the product name, size, brand
name, serial numbers, potency, dosage, type, model, lot number(s),
UPC codes, administration route, and any other pertinent
descriptive information to enable accurate and immediate
identification of the product; containing a concise statement of the
reason for the recall; stating the known or potential hazard(s), and
instructions for consignees to follow in handling the recall
○Draft a recall notification to be distributed to consumers
○Utilize Flow Hub to identify consumers who purchased recalled
products and immediately issue a STOP USE warning to relevant
persons
○Alert legal counsel
4. Recall Execution
●Secure, quarantine, and prevent the sale of a recalled product in our
possession;
●Retrieve and ensure all recalled products and quantities
●Utilize Flow Hub to identify consumers who purchased recalled products
and immediately issue a STOP USE warning to relevant persons;
●In appropriate cases, issue a press release regarding recall;
●In the event recalled product must be destroyed, dispose of recalled
product in a secured waste receptacle
●Track the total amount of recalled product, and enter into the track and
trace system a) the weight of the product; b) and reason for destruction;
●Cooperate with the State Department of Public Health enforcement team
to ensure a recommendation of “recall closure” is made as soon as
practicable
●Monitor recall effectiveness
●Remain in communication with the monitoring regulatory agency to ensure
that a determination has to be made and that all recall activity, including
monitoring and final product disposition has been completed. A recall will
not be terminated until the supplier of said product has bought the product
into compliance or disposed of it in an acceptable manner.
5. Removal of Recalled Product
All efforts will be made to remove the recall product from circulation. Recalled
products in commerce shall be detained, segregated, and managed in a manner
determined by the recall team. Recalled products in the firm’s possession will be
detained and segregated. All quantities and identification codes will be
documented to assist in the reconciliation of product amounts.
Control: Another technique to assure the recalled products has been
removed from the market. This must occur to prevent re-entry of this
recalled product to commerce. All recalled products will be documented to
assist in the reconciliation of product amounts.
Disposition: The final disposition of the recovered recall will be reviewed
and approved by the regulatory agency. This includes all quantities,
identification codes, and disposition will be documented. This includes:
●Redirection: Products may be redirected for other uses
●Destruction: Products determined to be unsafe for intended use
may be destroyed and disposed of by appropriate means.
●Recondition: Products may be reworked to remove the safety risk
(example: labeling)
6. Roles and Responsibilities of Individuals Participating in a Recall
The recall committee will be managed by the manager and the agent in charge.
These individuals will liaise with the board and its management team and be
responsible for executing key activities in a recall. These may include, but are not
limited to assuring that documenting all recall decisions and actions are recorded
in a master recall file, 2.) Assembling a recall committee, 3.) Identifying situations
priority assistance and acting accordingly, 4) Make recall decisions 5) implement
product recall, 6) Communicate with management of findings and decisions at all
stages of a recall.
Although these positions may evolve and/or change over time, the committee will
seek to consist of the following persons with said title, skills and/or experience:
Management; manager; Accounting; Consumer Affairs/Public Relations;
Distribution and Supply; Customer Service; IT; Legal Counsel; Marketing;
Operations; Production; Purchasing; Quality Assurance; Sales; Maintenance;
Records Management and Files; Regulatory Affairs; Sanitation
Product Quarantine
Within our dispensary we will have a single-purpose control waste room which will serve
as a surveillanced waste and quarantine room. This room will be access-controlled and
located close to the monitored receiving area to ensure that we can facilitate both a
swift and secure transfer of quarantined for removal from the premises. The quarantine
room will be a separate locked, alarmed and monitored restricted-access area used
exclusively for waste and the storage of products that are expired, damaged,
deteriorated, mislabeled, contaminated, recalled, or whose containers or packaging
have been opened or breached, until such products are returned to the
grower/processor who manufactured such products, or until such products are
destroyed or otherwise disposed of as in accordance with CA government agencies,
state, local, and federal laws (when enacted).
Our team will be dedicated to meeting the requirements and standards for the secure
storage of Schedule I and II drugs and/or an appropriate number of secure, lockable
air-tight storage bins for storage of all quarantined products will be utilized. These
dedicated units for storage of specific categories of quarantined products, will be
labeled accordingly. Each safe/bin will be solely dedicated for each category, e.g.,
“recalls,”, returns,” “damaged packaging,” “mislabeled,” “expired,” “contaminated.” etc.
By creating this system, it allows for a proper investigation or examination of the
products without risk of confusion or cross-contamination which could affect the integrity
of the investigation or examination. The separation also assists with the organization of
the storage area, which supports the accuracy and integrity of any recall and
recordkeeping activities, and assists in the eventual orderly destruction, disposal, and
removal of unsalvageable cannabinoid products.
Disposal and Destruction
Our team understands the risks associated with not properly disposing of or destroying
cannabis and cannabis-infused products in a safe and proper way. When necessary, we
will render these and other such products unusable by taking the following steps:
●Notifying the division and appropriate agencies at least seven days prior to
rendering cannabis unusable and disposing of it.
○Included within the notification will be the date and time the cannabis will
be rendered unusable and disposed of. For all expired contents within a
given week, on said date, our goal is to make this date and time the same
on a weekly basis, if done, we will communicate said date and time with
the Chief of Police, City Manager or their designees, departmental
agencies, and the division. If said date and time changes, our team will
notify the division and Chief of Police, City Manager or their designees.
We will also inquire with our suppliers whether their method of rendering
cannabis waste unusable is compliant with local and state department
standards. (i.e. rendering cannabis waste unusable by grinding and
incorporating the cannabis waste with other ground materials so the
resulting mixture is at least 50% non-cannabis waste by volume or others
said methods approved by the Division before implementation)
○Ensuring that the used grind can fall into the appropriate categories:
○Waste
○Non-compostable waste
●Our agent(s) in charge will be aware of;
○Compostable mixed waste, which may be disposed of as compost
feedstock or in organic waste method which may be mixed with the waste
materials such as food waste, yard waste, vegetable based grease or oils;
or other wastes approved by the Division for agricultural material,
biodegradable products and paper, clean wood, fruits and vegetables,
plant matter
○Non-compostable mixed waste that would be disposed in a landfill or by
another method that may be mixed with paper waste, cardboard waste,
plastic waste, soil, or other wastes that have been approved by the
division and/or state and/or local government (i.e. non-recyclable plastic,
broken glass, leather)
○Cannabis waste that is rendered unusable within our dispensary will be
delivered to a permitted solid waste facility for final disposition (i.e. -
compostable mixed waste with the approval of the jurisdictional health
department)
○Non-compostable mixed waste; landfill, incinerator or other facility with the
approval of the jurisdictional health department
○All waste and unusable product coming from our dispensary shall be
weighed, recorded and entered into the inventory system prior to us
rendering it unusable within an area with video surveillance
○All electronic records regarding the destruction and disposal of said
cannabis shall be maintained for a period of at least five years and/or
according to local, state, division, department, and/or enacted federal laws
APPENDIX A
Example of Letter to Local Businesses
Date:
Dear Sir/ Madam:
This letter is to inform you that we have been approved to move forward in the motion
of the application for dispensary license. We have obtained a license for the second
phase to build out a retail development within your community.
We will adhere to all regulations that have been outlined by the City and the State for
the Cannabis Act. We plan to create a positive impact and contribute to the community
through bringing job opportunities, community involvement, and community
contributions.
Security and safety in and around our store is our top priority for our customers,
employees and neighbors. Our store will have security provisions both inside and
around the store. To further explain, we plan to host a town hall meeting for all to
attend. We will be releasing this information soon.
Education is also one of our top priorities as you will see from the offerings and
services that we plan to provide in alignment with community partners. It is our mission
to be good members of the community and the city while also remaining committed to
community, social equity, diversity, inclusion, and outreach.
If you have any questions in regards to this project, please contact our
Community Outreach Person at etc.
Sincerely,
Youth Detering Campaign
We will develop unique campaigns activated through diverse mediums communicating
warnings and advisory signs to youth from outside our store. The posters will
communicate that anyone under 21 years old will not be allowed in our store as well as
information showcasing the dangers of consuming cannabis underage, unless with a
medical card for anyone of 18 years of age to 21. We are anonymously partnering with
an organization that focuses on the education and support for Fresno youth that has
been impacted by drug abuse. We will sponsor and align with multiple events
throughout the year to address this industry wide challenge. Reference Appendix B.
INTRODUCTION
The People’s Dispensary Fresno continues to build on a social enterprise model we
started in 2018. Our company has and will always be centered around being communal
and inclusive of POC and LGBTQIA+ families and allies. We are actively involved in
economic development advocacy as a business model. The People’s Dispensary
Fresno creates opportunities and practices to ensure our city continues to engage with
communities that have been impacted by the war on drugs. In order to maximize and
uplift the emerging cannabis economy, and stay accountable in the neighborhood, The
People’s Dispensary Fresno is committed to having a majority of our employees reside
in Fresno. We feel strongly that our approach benefits disenfranchised communities and
helps bring together government, business and community organizations.
7.1 SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY PLAN
Local Community Plan
Our company's passion is the community, with that at heart we have and will continue to
create practices and policies within our business model to address community needs as
a dispensary. Our mission is to be a great neighbor and a valued part of the
community. The People’s Dispensary Fresno will help facilitate relationships by
fostering civic engagement and being a resource for “yet to be reached” communities.
We will continue to build communication between our business, the neighborhood,
elected officials, clergy leaders, customers, and various for profit and non-profit
organizations. We will contribute to The City of Fresno’s “Community Benefit Fund''.
Finally, we are committed to funding local projects and entrepreneurs with our impact
fund.
Local Community Plan in Action: 2018-Present:
1.Public engagement participation with key local, state professional leaders and
elected officials.
a.Advocated for Cannabis Business Tax Ordinance 2018: Informed and
successfully placed taxation and community reinvestment fund “The Fund”
on city wide ballot measure by providing policy. (Appendix, Sec 1. A)
b.Letter to mayor and City Council 2018: For social equity to be properly
allocated from Measure A to benefit low income communities and formerly
incarcerated of cannabis violations in our city (Appendix, Sec. 2. H)
c.Signed letter to state legislators and Governor Newsom for best practice
implementation of Prop 64 (Appendix, Sec. 2. K)
d.Met with Congressman Juaquin Arambula staff, Maria Lemus
educating our elected official on the importance of social equity for our
communities and local entrepreneurs in having access into the industry
e.The People’s Dispensary Town Hall: First Congregational Church
May 2019: The People's Dispensary Fresno hosted a town hall of
individuals with diverse knowledge of the cannabis industry, state/national
legislation, entrepreneurship, health advocacy and workforce development
in/out of the industry. Fresno City Council Member Miguel Arias, who
represents District 3, who from the onset of his campaign committed to an
equitable industry, discussed his vision for Fresno’s emerging legal
cannabis industry.(see Appendix Sec 3. L).
f.Fresno Metro Black Chamber of Commerce, Cannabis: A platform for
Economic Development for communities of color : The People’s
Dispensary Fresno gave a presentation on cannabis taxation in our city
as a tool for economic development, business opportunities, and access
to capital for small businesses. (see Appendix Sec. 3: P).
Civic Organization Plan
Constructive relationships between communities and our local government are
necessary to lead towards more equitable, sustainable public decisions, and the overall
physical, social, and emotional well-being of the community as a whole. The People’s
Dispensary Fresno will continue its commitment to collaborate with community
members and our local government in shaping cannabis policy state and citywide.
The People’s Dispensary Fresno began entering the industry with the responsibility to
ensure we remain transparent and accountable as a social business enterprise. We
have written articles on the war on drugs and how our city should enforce a fair and just
industry that is centered on Fresno’s impacted communities of the war on drugs. (See
Appendix Sec 1: A-G).
The People’s Dispensary Fresno has and will continue to advocate for the local
emerging cannabis industry to be inclusive and promote investments that go directly
into communities impacted by the war on drugs. We have advocated, informed, and
presented policy to the City of Fresno’s city council. We championed policy language,
which led to the development of equitable practices included in the development of the
community reinvestment fund (“The Fund”), and language to ensure Black and Brown
communities have fair entry into the industry and that economic development is
addressed fairly and systematically. (See Appendix Sec 1. A-G).
Community Based Volunteer Program
The People’s Dispensary Fresno prides itself on being community founded, community
driven, and an employee first business. We are invested in community and are currently
involved in various community activities and will continue to expand this culture with our
business model.
Below are two active projects we are involved in through our business model and
personal lives.
7.1.3 Utilizing vacant buildings, brownfields land, or blighted areas of the
city for business.
The People’s Dispensary Fresno in accordance and collaboration with Federal and
state mandates, city code enforcement department, Fresno Housing Authority policies,
and the surrounding community are committed to work together to prevent, assess,
safely clean up, and sustainably reuse brownfields, vacant buildings, and/or blighted
areas of our city.
Beyond the latter, we are committed to being good, active, engaged neighbors in the
surrounding community. We will engage in community clean up projects, such as
alleyway restorations and supporting sustainable community gardens accessible to local
residents.
7.2. PUBLIC HEALTH OUTREACH AND
EDUCATIONAL PROGRAM
It continues to be our commitment as The People’s Dispensary Fresno to be
transparent, accountable, and available to the community. Our values will be reflected in
our public health and educational programs. Historically, the War on Drugs has provided
an unsafe narrative which continues to stigmatize Black and Brown communities and
more than often paints cannabis as a problem “drug”. It is our commitment to provide
our community a safe, and harm reduction based public outreach and educational
programs.
Public Health Outreach Plan
1.Keep on hand a current and active multi-resource guide about cannabis for youth
and families in The City of Fresno. These resource guides will be available for
employees, customers, and community members in various languages and
accessible via various platforms (mail, in store, email, social media).
2.We work and continue to support prevention and intervention programs in our
city such as Kids under Pressure, Tough Kids Outreach, Fresno Street Saints,
and Stop the Violence.
3.Dispensary Open House: Alongside our quarterly State of cannabis and the
community impact fund report. The People’s Dispensary Fresno will also
showcase a once a year open house for the surrounding community near our
Dispensary. Community members will have the opportunity to meet employees,
owners and learn about our business model.
I.Fresno, Ca March 2018-September 2020: Various City Council Appearances to
engage, advocate for a equitable
J.National Cannabis Industry Association (NCIA): Lobby Days: May 2019
NCIA | Advocating for the Responsible Cannabis Industry
K.Signed onto letter offering recommendations for Proposition 64 Letter to Gov
Newsom re Youth Fund 8-12-2019 final
Section 3: The People’s Dispensary Fresno Panelist Features
L.The People’s Dispensary Town Hall: First Congregational Church: March 2019
A. TPD FRESNO TOWNHALL 2.0.jpg
B. https://fresnoalliance.com/the-peoples-dispensary-fresno-cannabis-town-hall/
M.41st State Convention of the Black American Political Association of California:
October 11 2019
a.Panelist of social equity in the local cannabis industry
N.National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE): The Link Up Podcast: April 2020
https://anchor.fm/nsbepreneurship/episodes/The-Link-Up-Episode-8---The-Peopl
es-Dispensary-Cannabis-Startup-ejobf1/a-a37vhth
O.Cannabis Education Seminars.org: The Future of Cannabis in the Central Valley:
May 2020: Future Of Cannabis.panel.png
P.Fresno Metro Black Chamber of Commerce Panelist: Cannabis: An economic
development tool for communities of color: July 2020 FNCC Presentation.jpeg
FUNDING PLAN
2021
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
2600 Fresno Street • Third Floor Jennifer K. Clark, AICP, Director
Fresno, California 93721-3604
(559) 621-8277 FAX (559) 498-1026
January 13, 2021 Please reply to:
Rob Holt
(559) 621-8056
Gidai Maaza
The People’s Dispensary
2037 W Bullard Ave
Fresno, CA 93711
Dear Applicant:
SUBJECT: ZONING INQUIRY NUMBER P21-00119 REQUESTING INFORMATION
REGARDING CANNABIS RETAIL FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 426 NORTH
BLACKSTONE AVENUE
(APN 459-071-27)
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the allowance of new cannabis retail uses. The requested
information about cannabis retail uses was analyzed using Article 27, Chapter 15 of the Fresno
Municipal Code (FMC) of the City of Fresno. Please note, all research for this inquiry is based
on existing land development of the subject property. If there are multiple buildings on the
subject property, this research was based on the address provided in the request. This research
does not take into effect of future development unless provided in your application request. With
that, research of a proposed cannabis retail business on the subject property conveys the
following:
1. All cannabis retail businesses must be located on property zoned DTN (Downtown
Neighborhood), DTG (Downtown General), CMS (Commercial Main Street), CC
(Commercial Community), CR (Commercial Regional), CG (Commercial General), CH
(Commercial Highway), NMX (Neighborhood Mixed-Use), CMX (Corridor/Center Mixed-
Use), RMX (Regional Mixed-Use), and must meet all of the requirements for
development in these zones, including, but not limited to, parking, lighting, building
materials, etc.
The subject property is zoned CMX , which is one of the allowable zone districts for
cannabis retail businesses. Development standards of the CMX zone district are
available in Sections 15-1103, 15-1104, and 15-1105 of the FMC. The subject location
meets the zone district requirement, per Section 15-2739.B.1.a of the FMC, for a
cannabis retail business.
2. All building(s) in which a cannabis retail business is located shall be no closer than 800
feet from any property boundary containing the following: (1) A cannabis retail business;
(2) A school providing instruction for any grades pre-school through 12 (whether public,
private, or charter, including pre-school, transitional kindergarten, and K-12); (3) A day
care center licensed by the state Department of Social Services that is in existence at
the time a complete commercial cannabis business permit application is submitted; and,
(4) A youth center that is in existence at the time a complete commercial cannabis
business permit is submitted.
Zoning Inquiry P21-00119
426 North Blackstone Ave
Page 2
January 13, 2021
The subject property is not located within 800 feet of the property boundary of any of the
above-mentioned uses. The subject building meets the separation requirements,
per Section 15-2739.B.1.b of the FMC, for a cannabis retail business.
3. Prior to commencing operations, a cannabis retail business must obtain a Cannabis
Conditional Use Permit from the Planning and Development Department per Section 15-
2739.N of the FMC.
4. No more than 2 cannabis retail businesses may be located in any one Council District. If
more than 14 are ever authorized by Council (more than 2 per Council District), they
shall be dispersed evenly by Council District.
The subject property is in Council District 7. There are currently no cannabis retail
businesses located in Council District 7. This location requirement is satisfied for a
cannabis retail business.
Please review the entirety of Article 33, Chapter 9 (Cannabis Retail Business and
Commercial Cannabis), and Section 15-2739 (Adult Use and Medicinal Cannabis Retail
Business and Commercial Cannabis Business) of the FMC to understand other
requirements of cannabis retail businesses, including but not limited to, application
requirements, signage, etc.
This information was researched by the undersigned per the zoning request. The undersigned
certifies that the above information contained herein is believed to be accurate and is based
upon, or relates to, the information supplied by the requestor. The City of Fresno assumes no
liability for errors and omissions. All information was obtained from public records held by the
Planning and Development Department.
A copy of the Fresno Municipal Code may be obtained by contacting the City Clerk’s office at
559-621-7650. The Fresno Municipal Code may also be searched on the Internet, free of
charge, by going to www.fresno.gov. If you have questions regarding this matter, please
contact me by telephone at 559-621-8056 or at Robert.Holt@fresno.gov.
Cordially,
Rob Holt, Planner III
Development Services Division
Planning and Development Department