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HomeMy WebLinkAboutCSE-20-58 Treehouse Lounge RedactedApplication Type Social Equity Criteria Applicant (Entity) Information Social Equity Cannabis Business Permit Application CSE-20-58 Submitted On: Nov 13, 2020 Applicant Jaeda Ables 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: 1200 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: JAEDA ABLES DBA: -- Physical Address:City: CLOVIS State: CALIFORNIA Zip Code: 93611 Primary Contact Same as Above? Yes Primary Contact Name: JAEDA ABLES Primary Contact Title: MS. 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: Sole Proprietorship Property Owner Name: VIGIL PROPERTIES INC Proposed Location Address: 1435 FRESNO ST City: FRESNO State: CA Zip Code: 93706 Property Owner Phone: -- Property Owner Email: -- Assessor's Parcel Number (APN): 46706414 Proposed Location Square Footage: -- List all fictitious business names the applicant is operating under including the address where each business is located: -- 1048 E ST Fresno, CA 93706 1 1048 E ST Fresno, CA ACT ID ZAA0880004 N O N -E N D OR S E ME N T A N D D I S C L A I ME R N O T I C E Non -Endorsements Marcus &Millichap is not affiliated with,sponsored by,or endorsed by any commercial tenant or lessee identified in this marketing package.The presence of any corporation's logo or name is not intended to indicate or imply affiliation with,or sponsorship or endorsement by,said corporation of Marcus &Millichap,its affiliates or subsidiaries,or any agent,product,service,or commercial listing of Marcus &Millichap,and is solely included for the purpose of providing tenant lessee information about this listing to prospective customers. ALL PROPERTY SHOWINGS ARE BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. PLEASE CONSULT YOUR MARCUS &MILLICHAP AGENT FOR MORE DETAILS . Disclaimer THIS IS A BROKER PRICE OPINION OR COMPARATIVE MARKET ANALYSIS OF VALUE AND SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED AN APPRAISAL.This information has been secured from sources we believe to be reliable,but we make no representations or warranties,express or implied,as to the accuracy of the information.References to square footage or age are approximate.Buyer must verify the information and bears all risk for any inaccuracies .Marcus &Millichap is a service mark of Marcus & Millichap Real Estate Investment Services,Inc.©2018 Marcus &Millichap.All rights reserved . 2 P R E S E N T E D B Y Christopher Ajluni Associate Fresno Office Tel: (559) 476 -5587 Fax: (559) 553 -6227 chris.ajluni@marcusmillichap.com License: CA 01383994 3 1048 E ST 4 INVESTMENT OVERVIEW OFFERING SUMMARY 1048 E ST 5 OFFERING SUMMARY 1961/2016 4,000 SF 0.26 acre(s) 467-066-07 Commercial-DTN Year Built/Renovated Gross Leasable Area (GLA) Price Per Square Foot (GLA) Lot Size APN Zoning Designated Opportunity Zone Yes ◆Former Wells Fargo Branch with Vault and Drive -Thru ◆Recently Renovated Including the Addition of Wrought Iron Security Fences ◆One Block from Highway 99 ◆Two Blocks from Future Fresno High Speed Rail Station ◆Located in Designated Opportunity Zone –Potential Tax Advantages ◆Location also Eligible for New Market Tax Credits ◆Substantial New Development Underway in Immediate Area with More Planned REGIONAL MAP 1048 E ST 6 LOCAL MAP 1048 E ST 7 AERIAL PHOTO 1048 E ST 8 AERIAL PHOTO 1048 E ST 9 FRONT ELEVATION FROM E STREET 1048 E ST 12 DRIVE-THRU LANE AND POTENTIAL PARKING AREA 1048 E ST 13 LOBBY FROM ENTRYWAY 1048 E ST 14 LOBBY AREA AND ENTRY DOOR 1048 E ST 15 LOBBY LOOKING TOWARDS HALLWAY 1048 E ST 16 HALLWAY FROM LOBBY AREA 1048 E ST 17 CONFERENCE ROOM 1048 E ST 18 REAR LOBBY AREA 1048 E ST 19 LARGE HALL BEHIND LOBBY 1048 E ST 20 VAULT DOOR AT REAR OF LARGE HALL 1048 E ST 21 VAULT 1048 E ST 22 KITCHEN AREA AT REAR OF LARGE HALL 1048 E ST 23 RESTROOMS AT REAR OF LARGE HALL 1048 E ST 24 DRIVE THRU WINDOW IN LARGE HALL 1048 E ST 25 www.MarcusMillichap.com Christopher Ajluni Associate Fresno Office Tel: (559) 476 -5587 Fax: (559) 553-6227 chris.ajluni@marcusmillichap.com License: CA 01383994 P R E S E N T E D B Y 26 OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER March 10, 2021 Mr. Matt Garza DD559 LLC Dear Mr. Garza, This letter is to confirm with you that your application for a commercial cannabis business permit, application number C-20-43, is rejected. During our Phase II application review, City staff found that your application did not qualify for further consideration because your proposal conflicts with state and local law. Specifically, your permit application indicates that you are applying for a microbusiness permit. Your business plan indicates you plan to operate two buildings for a total cultivation canopy of 17,250 square feet (page 1-21 of business plan). California Business and Professions Code section 26070(3)(a) requires that microbusiness cannabis cultivation be an area less than 10,000 square feet. Further, Fresno Municipal Code (FMC) Section 9-3304(hh) defines a microbusiness as, “the cultivation of cannabis on an area less than 10,000 square feet, by an entity authorized to act as a licensed distributor and Level 1 manufacturer under state law, provided such licensee can demonstrate compliance with all requirements imposed by state law on licensed cultivators, distributors, and Level 1 manufacturers to the extent the licensee engages in such activities.” In addition, Title 16, Division 42 of the California Code of Regulations, § 5500. Microbusiness (a) states, “In order to hold a microbusiness license, a licensee must engage in at least three (3) of the following commercial cannabis activities: cultivation, manufacturing, distribution, and retail sale.’ Your proposal indicates only two commercial cannabis activities: cultivation and distribution. In accordance with Article 33 of Chapter 9 of the FMC, your application did not qualify for further consideration. FMC section 9-3317 provides that only commercial cannabis business permit approvals may be appealed by the applicant, Mayor, or Councilmember whose district the location is in. All application rejection decisions are final and cannot be appealed. The application process for non-retail permits will be open again in the future. You would be eligible to submit an application at that time. In order to receive a permit OFFICE OF THE CITY MANAGER for both cultivation and distribution, you would need to submit one application for a cultivation permit and one application for a distribution permit. Thank you for your application. Jennifer Ruiz, MBA Project Manager Office of the Mayor and City Manager Office of Cannabis Oversight E-Mail: Jennifer.Ruiz@fresno.gov CC: Thomas Esqueda, City Manager City of Fresno, City Attorney’s Office (NONBINDING) LETTER OF INTENT , 2020 Chris Ajluni Marcus & Millichap 6795 N Palm Ave., Suite 109 Fresno, CA 93704-1088 Re: 1048 E Street, Fresno, CA Dear Mr. Ajluni: The purpose of this letter is to set forth a nonbinding letter of intent between the Owner of Record ("Lessor/Seller”) and Treehouse Lounge, LLC (THL) ("Lessee/Buyer") for the lease with option to purchase (Agreement) of the real property and improvements described below, on the following terms: • Land (approx. 0.26 acres) and building (approx. 4365 sq. ft.) located at 1048 E Street, Fresno CA 93706, APN: 467-066-07). • Said Agreement shall be subject to THL being granted a Permit by the City of Fresno to operate a Retail Cannabis business at the location. • THL anticipates said Permit being granted no later than August 31, 2021. • THL anticipates operation of the business commencing September 30, 2021 but can ex- tend up to 30 days in the event there is a delay in permit issuance due to no fault of THL. 1. Property. The Property to be leased with option to purchase ("Property") consists of approximately 0.26 acres of land and a single-story building of approximately 4365 sq. ft. and all improvements thereon, further identified as APN 467-066-07 2. Lease Price. The total lease price for the Property shall be ), NNN which shall be paid monthly commencing at the time of occupancy. There shall be no tenant improvement allowance. Fifty percent (50%) of all lease payments shall be applicable to the option to purchase price at close of escrow, should said op- tion be exercised. 3. Term. The initial Lease Term shall be for five (5) years with allowance for one (1) each five (5) year renewal period. 4. Deposit. A deposit of ) shall be deposited into Escrow within three days of a fully executed Agreement. The Deposit shall be released to Les- DocuSign Envelope ID: FC089C55-809D-4BE4-872B-A90A856800B8DocuSign Envelope ID: E368F306-CA57-47E5-AF2B-3CEC23653E36 January 22, 2021 sor/Seller immediately upon occupancy by THL and shall constitute the first month’s lease pay- ment. In the event occupancy does not occur for any reason, other than permit denial by the city, then the deposit shall be forfeited to Seller and the parties shall no further obligations. 5. Option to Purchase. THL shall have the option to purchase the property anytime during the lease period by giving the owner 30 days advance notice in writing, for the amount of ), all cash, less the portion of lease payments applicable to the purchase price. This agreement is a nonbonding letter of intent and no party is bound to anything. Notwithstand- ing either party's execution hereof, nothing in this letter shall create a legally enforceable con- tract and no party shall be bound to anything unless and until a definitive lease/option agreement has been fully negotiated, drafted and executed by both parties. This letter is therefore for dis- cussion only and no party shall have any obligation to continue negotiations. Very truly yours, By: Jaeda Ables Its: ______ Date:_December 4 , 2020_______ Agreed: Date: , 2020 By: Its: DocuSign Envelope ID: FC089C55-809D-4BE4-872B-A90A856800B8DocuSign Envelope ID: E368F306-CA57-47E5-AF2B-3CEC23653E36 Mark Carson Principal 1/22/2021 | 15:24:45 PST Spiegel & Utrera, P.C. Counselors & Attorneys at Law JOEL BECK8 COURTNEY RIORDAN10 WILLIAM T. BROWN2 LAWRENCE J. SPIEGEL1 MICHAEL A. BUSTOS4 NICOLAS W. SPIGNER3 GRACIELLE R. CABUNGCAL9 NATALIA UTRERA2 MICHAEL S. FARAGALLA6 MICHAEL WELCHKO6 TAMARA L. KLOPENSTEIN5 ZACHARY A. WESTENHOEFER7 SENIOR PARALEGALS GRACIELA BATTAGLIA CLAUDIA FERNANDEZ January 29, 2021 *Sent Via Secure Portal Upload* City of Fresno – Office of the City Manager Office of Cannabis Oversight 2600 Fresno Street Fresno, California 93721 Phone: (559) 621-5555 Email: Cannabis.regs@fresno.gov Re: Jaeda Ables Social Equity Cannabis Business Permit Application: CSE-20-58 Phase III—Proposed Location and Proof of Capital Dear Sir or Madam: Please be advised that Spiegel & Utrera, P.C. has been retained to assist Jaeda Ables (“Applicant”) with this matter. As per the Phase III requirements: please see the Letter of Intention to Lease, Property Pictures and Information, and Evidence of Possession/Access to Sufficient Capital (Financial Account Statements), regarding the Social Equity Cannabis Business Permit Application set forth in the subject lien above. The Letter of Intent is signed by the Applicant as well as the Landlord/Property Owner, Mark Carson. The Property Pictures and Information consist of an offering summary prepared by or on behalf of the Landlord. Please feel free to contact me if you need assistance in verifying any of the information set forth in Applicant’s Phase III submission. Regards, /s/ Nicolas W, Spigner Nicolas W. Spigner, Esq. attorneyspigner@amerilawyer.com 8939 S. Sepulveda Boulevard Suite 400 Los Angeles, California 90045 Telephone (800) 603-3900 Facsimile (800) 520-7800 2 Licensed in Florida 7 Licensed in New York 6 Licensed in Illinois 3 Licensed in California & Arizona 10 Licensed in Delaware 8 Licensed in Nevada 9 Licensed in New York & New Jersey 4 Licensed in California 1 Licensed in Florida and Registered as a Foreign Lawyer in England and Wales 5 Licensed in Florida, Georgia & Qualified Solicitor in England and Wales Offices located in: Atlanta Chicago Dover, DE Las Vegas Los Angeles Miami New York City Northern New Jersey Phoenix TreeHouse Lounge Neighborhood Compatibility Plan TreeHouse Lounge wants to maintain a good reputation by cleaning up the area and not allowing any non-permissible use of the environment, land or buildings as limited by zoning areas. We will establish and maintain procedures for working to support our community and to resolve community concerns about our operations. In the event that a business or local resident has a complaint, the following policies and procedures will be in place. •Written policies, procedures and corporate standards: − No loitering around store or in parking area − No smoking of any kind in or around the store area or parking lot − Regularly scheduled cleanup and inspection of property throughout the day − Store security measures above and beyond regulations and requirements − TreeHouse Lounge hold our store employees to a high level of excellence Purpose TreeHouse Lounge shall provide the police department and all residents and property owners within one hundred feet with the current name, phone number, secondary phone number and e -mail address of an on-site responsible staff person to whom notice of any operating problems associated with the establishment may be reported. This information shall be updated as necessary to keep it current. We will x encourage neighbors to call this person to try to solve any operating problems. Such calls may be anonymous and need not include an identity of the caller or number. Jaeda Ables, Owner and Operator TreeHouse Lounge, LLC TreeHouse Lounge has a strong desire to encourage open communication between our neighbors and customers and our team members and management. It is crucial that individuals know the procedure for expressing complaints and all concerns that may arise about our operations so that request, questions, concerns, and ideas are addressed in a positive manner and timely fashion. The purpose of these procedures is: • Provide a structure for classifying and resolving matters in a fair, independent, economic, informal, and expedient way. • Set expectations for neighbors and customers about a reasonable timeframe for the resolution of complaints, and • To ensure TreeHouse Lounge has suitable resources for the efficient and effective management of complaints at all levels of complexity. Procedure Informal • Community members/custom ers are encouraged to express their questions, comments and concerns to TreeHouse Lounge management directly. • The store manager's contact information will be posted at the store and also on our website. All contacts will be responded to within forty -eight hours; a log will be kept on all correspondence with the community concerns. Channels of Interaction Correspondence can be received and replied to. The number of channels include - • In person • Telephone • Email • Text • Letter General Considerations After receiving correspondence from a neighbor or customer, general considerations in dealing with this matter include: • Is the correspondence a complaint? If so, we will work to define the complaint with the neighbors/customers so their issu es or concerns can be properly addressed and resolved. • Respond to the neighbors/customers within forty-eight hours with a response or promise a follow up with clear dates for the next communication. • Log all correspondence with neighbors/customers and creat e a report for management to review and share with staff so we can improve any deficiencies that may have been uncovered. How to Manage the Compliant TreeHouse Lounge recognizes the importance of fully understanding the complainants' issues. Upon receiving a complaint, the manager shall take reasonable steps to understand the nature of the complaint by clarifying and seeking any additional information from the complainant. I require timely resolution of complaints; however, I recognize legitimate delays in the assessment, investigation or decision-making process can occur. Reasons for delays in the resolution of complaints will be promptly communicated to the complainant. Complaints can be managed through a number of processes including - • Alternative response • Investigation • Internal review • A combination of any of the three Alternative response And alternative response might be a facilitated discussion, a face -to-face meeting, or informal discussion over the phone between the manager and the complainant or an explanation of TreeHouse Lounge policies /procedures/ regulations, that result in a resolution to the complaint. Investigation Complaints which raise particularly challenging issues or are otherwise especially complex will be investigated. During an investigation, the manager will request additional information or documentation from the complainant to more effectively address the complaint. This will be executed in a timely manner. Internal review An internal review is a systematic way of looking back on how a prior complaint management process or determination was conducted. Essentially, acceptable grounds for the conduct of an internal review include issues the complaint has with the process under taking in the management of their complaint or decision made by the manager. The issues or concerns the complainant has about the process are required to be specific and not global in nature. The request for an internal review should outline the ground or reason the complainant is dissatisfied with a complaint process or the decision made by the manager. This is TreeHouse Lounge’s way of making sure we are responsive to our neighbors, customers, and the community. Follow-up After resolution of complaints, the manager should follow up with complainant within one week to determine their level of satisfaction about how their complaint was handled. These responses will be part of the records and reporting. Anonymous Complaints These matters are assessed agains t the same criteria as any other complaint. When assessing complaints, particular considerations include the nature and complexity of the complaint, the quantity and quality of information and the capability of a productive outcome. Staff Conduct Allegations concerning the conduct of staff will be managed in accordance with relevant human resource management policy. If corrupt conduct is suspected, consultation will occur with the manager. Goal We adhere to the highest standards in the industry with regar ds to compliance, security, and product. Our goal is to provide excellent customer service, educate, be a good neighbor by being involved and promoting our community. Parking Customers will be able to park on street parking, out front along the curb of the facility. This parking availability will allow customers to come in and quickly purchase and leave; customers will not be able to stick around and socialize. A limited availability of parking ensure that there is no room for loitering, security will ensure customers come in, make their purchase, and leave soon after. Signage The treehouse lounge sign will be a simple metal board with the words treehouse lounge in graved. Treehouse will be in Green and lounge will be in a dark gray or silver color. Physical Security Plan Odor Control Odor Mitigation Control TreeHouse Lounge will be taking extreme measures to eliminate all odors emitting from the facility. The multiple layers of odor control that TreeHouse Lounge will install will be more than sufficient to mitigate all odors produced by the facility. These include redundant carbon filtration located throughout the facility, negative air pressure in storage, cannabis purchasing room order ionization technology, and employee standard operating procedures. I. Staff Training Procedures. TreeHouse Lounge has plans to incorporate an extensive training program that includes training specifically for odor mitigation. The importance of keeping doors shut and changing carbon filters are among the other standard operating procedures that all employees will be required to follow. Treehouse Lounge will conduct monthly staff meetings. At these meetings, we will regularly discuss odor mitigation and the importance of keeping up with the process we have in place. II. Record Keeping. Carbon filter report card, this card is maintained and filled out every day by our manager on duty. TreeHouse Lounge will maintain a supply of carbon filters on site, these will be re-ordered by the manager to keep aligned with the facility maintenance program. Should a filter need to be changed sooner, filters will be on the premises to do so. If any maintenance is needed, it will be done immediately as to not affect any parts of the facility. III. Monitoring and Inspection: Every room will be continuously monitored with daily inspections for emanating odors. If any volume of odor is detected by an employee, they will directly inform the manager. If a filter needs to be changed, it will be done so at this time. If doors are not fully closing, doors will be fixed as soon as the problem is detected. Technical System Design and Equipment Instillation HVAC System odor control plan: Closed loop system with limited exhaust All HVAC Sims installed at this facility will be considered “closed -loop” systems. All of the HVAC equipment will recirculate 100% of the supply being distributed to the various rooms throughout the facility. To the extent possible, the odor mitigation will be intended to mitigate other medication to the outside of the building and surrounding areas. This essential component to our odor control system isolates odors and doesn't allow them to escape from the respective areas. Needlepoint Bipolar Ionization (NPBI) Bipolar ionization technology safely cleans the air inside buildings by using an electronic charge to create a plasma field filled with ions. These io ns help collect fine particles, making them easy to filter from the air. Needlepoint Bipolar Ionization Systems kill pathogens by robbing them of their life sustaining hydrogen particles. The ions produced by the system breaks down gases with electron volt potential numbers below twelve to harmless compounds prevalent in the atmosphere, such as, oxygen, nitrogen, water vapor and carbon dioxide. The resultant compounds are a function of the entering contaminants into the plasma field. In this case the VOC or terpene odors generated by the cannabis breakdown to carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and water vapor, thus eliminating the odor. The positive and negative ions are drawn to airborne particles by their electrical charge. Once the ions attached to the particle, t he particle grows larger by attracting nearby particles of the opposite polarity, thereby increasing the filtration’s effectiveness. Bipolar ionization technology safely kills bacteria, viruses and mold similar to how positive and negative ions surround pa rticles; they are also attracted to pathogens. When the ions combine on the surface of a pathogen, they rob the pathogen of the hydrogen necessary for them to survive. Active Carbon Filters Active carbon filters absorb its molecular weight of content contaminants when it comes into contact with it. Absorption is a distinct process where organic compounds in the air react chemically with the activated carbon, which causes them to stick to the filter. The more porous the activated carbon is the more contaminants it will capture. These filters are most notably used to remove Turpin compounds in marijuana cultivation facilities. Common Areas High efficiency carbon filtration units will be installed throughout the common areas of TreeHouse Lounge. Along with bipolar ionization units, filters will be changed out and maintained on a fixed schedule. Maintenance Plan Bipolar Ionization Units: Expect to get ten to twelve years out of a system with no maintenance and very little energy consumption. (a) Active Carbon: The active carbon filters absorb its molecular weight of contaminants it comes in contact with. Absorption is a distinct process where organic compounds in the air react chemically with the activated carbon, which causes them to stick to the filter. The more porous the activated carbon is the more contaminants it will capture. These filters are most notably used to remove turbine compounds in cannabis facility air purification systems. The physical process of adsorption Is followed by chemical adsorption. This is a chemical reaction in which the two substances react together in the resulting chemical is trapped on the filter material. The impregnation of filter media can greatly extend the range of gases that be can be removed from the airstream. ENVIRONMENTAL PLAN THL is dedicated to conducting its operations in a manner that is ecologically sustainable from an energy consumption, water consumption and waste generation standpoint. THL will, at a minimum, adopt and adhere to Best Management Practices that include methods, policies and procedures in the following areas: 1. As to maximizing energy efficiency, t he implementation of measures that include the following: a. For lighting equipment and controls: I. Use of fluorescent/LED lighting in all areas of the premises ii. Use of Energy Star lighting products iii. Use, where appropriate, of photo -controls for exterior lighting unless security needs dictate otherwise b. For air filtration equipment and controls: I. Installation of vent dampers ii. Analysis of systems and replacement of inefficient components iii. Use of programmable thermostats and controls iv. Sealing and insulation of ducts and hot water pipes v. Use of Energy Star HVAC products c. For the building: I. Install and/or increase roof and wall insulation ii. Control Air Leakage iii. Install storm doors iv. Insulate and seal skylights and window v. Use of storm/insulated windows carrying the Energy Star label 2. The dispensary will apply for and utilize any and all available PG&E programs for free technical assistance in creating an energy efficient plan for construction of the building shell, tenant improvements, building systems an d processes and effectuating the other goals stated in this part 3. The dispensary will use green building measures whenever feasible, utilizing materials such as denim insulation, non-toxic paint, and materials that do not emit gas. 4. As to water quality and conservation measures - a. The dispensary will instruct, train and educate its staff as to water conservation measures, including the following methods: I. Avoiding water wasting techniques, such as - 1. Allowing water to run during washing or rinsing procedures when no active washing or rinsing is occurring; 2. Using the toilet to flush and dispose of small items that are more properly disposed of using trash containers ii. The identification and reporting to appropriate management members of leaks in any portion of the water delivery, distribution and plumbing systems in and about the premises where the dispensary conducts its operations b. TreeHouse Lounge will employ water conserving equipment and materials, as follows: I. Water meter monitor including technology to identify leaks ii. The use of low flow equipment in sinks and toilets iii. The use of cleaning agents that do not rely on water c. The dispensary will train and instruct its staff in the following methods for preventing discharge to sewer drains: I. Identification of chemicals and other substances that are inappropriate for discharge into sewer drains ii. Development of a spill prevention and cont rol program iii. Prohibiting the use of petroleum-based cleaning products, acids, phosphates or other similar agents or solvents that may produce liquid discharge or run-off iv. Prohibiting the use of any products which contain heavy metals or which breakdown into heavy metals v. Painting of any portion of the roof of the building comprised of galvanized sheeting with an enamel paint vi. Proper storage and segregation of all cleaning and sanitizing products so as to prevent leakage vii. Frequent sweeping of the premises viii. Placement of dumpsters and other waste containers in areas that are not directly exposed to rainwater or with covers that are watertight d. Except for statutorily specified cleaning agents, the dispensary will restrict the use of cleaning agents to use non-toxic materials such as vinegar, baking soda and environmentally-friendly surfactants in cleaning, and sanitizing operations 5. As to solid resource conservation: a. Using, where available, paper, plastic and other containers that have been produced using recycled materials, identifying vendors of such products, and training staff as to the use of such vendors. We will endeavor to minimize packaging and waste wherever possible. b. Instituting a recycling program whereby- I. Staff are trained as to recycling programs operated by local waste management providers and private recycling providers ii. Used or discarded paper, plastic or other items are placed for pick up and recycling by waste management providers or transported to private recycling centers. 6. Disposal and Destruction Program a. As to the material that cannot be used in such a manner and which therefore must be discarded or destroyed, the dispensary will use the following approach: I. TreeHouse Lounge will identify one or more local landfills or transfer stations that will receive marijuana waste materials and wi ll further identify one or more facilities that receive organic or other waste for energy generation purposes ii. The dispensary will identify a manager responsible for segregating and disposing of marijuana plant waste matter iii. Any cannabis product t hat is designated for destruction or disposal will be identified by date, batch and volume by the Inventory Control System. iv. Once processed for disposal, the material to be discarded or <destroyed will be combined with mulched cardboard, used plant soil s or other non-toxic inert material so as to render unusable the marijuana <matter contained b. Following the rendering of any potentially unusable marijuana non -viable by the above-described method, the dispensary employee responsible for the destruction/disposal of the material will isolate and identify said material pending transfer to a designated waste or energy generation facility c. At the time of transfer, the dispensary employee responsible for the disposal will prepare a tentative trip plan identifying the matter to be <transported, the employee transporting said matter, the destination where the matter is to be transported and the route to be used in transporting such matter d. In addition, a certificate confirming the weight delivered will be recorded in <order to verify it matches the weight which left our facility. e. As more regulations are released in regards to cannabis waste from a retailer, TreeHouse Lounge will follow all new laws and procedures. FIRE PLAN To make sure we develop a fire protection plan adequate in all of the occupancy categories relevant to a medical cannabis dispensary; we will connect with the downtown Fresno Fire Department to ensure our building eva luated and assist us in crafting a comprehensive plan. Fire Safety We fully understand the importance of fire safety for operations. TreeHouse Lounge will do its best to learn from other examples to prevent problems from occurring with our facility. TreeHouse Lounge recognizes that a prime motivation for regulating medical cannabis dispensaries is to protect the peace, health, safety, and welfare of the community from these types of problems. Electrical fires not only cause millions of dollars of property damage annually, but they also affect lives. Because of the complex nature of a dispensary, which combines moderate - hazard manufacturing, medical-type services, and finished goods made available to a limited public, it needs to meet safety standards for F -1 (moderate-<hazard manufacturing), B (professional service), and M (merchant) occupancy classifications. Fire Plan Overview Preventive Safety Measures 1. Patient Service Areas of the Dispensary a. In addition to the above, further fire safety measures must be adopted the dispensary areas that will be frequented by patient members: I. Promulgation of a strict no -smoking policy and other fire prevention rules to all members ii. Clearly marked and illuminated exits and evacuation routes iii. A dispensary staff trained and routinely drilled in the proper procedures to evacuate members 2. Fire Suppression a. TreeHouse Lounge will employ many techniques to mitigate and control fires if they occur. Smart mitigation techniques limit fire damage and danger, and they conserve the resources of the Fresno Fire Department by reducing the number of incidents that require response by firefighters. These mitigation techniques include the following: I. Fire Alarms ii. Sprinklers iii. Extinguishers iv. Monitoring Services v. Fire Evacuation Plan 3. Standardization of Procedures a. Standardization of procedures is the only way to ensure accountability and comprehensive preparedness. Accordingly, TreeHouse Lounge has developed a set of standardized forms and checklists to ensure that our safety procedures are correctly implemented and followed. In our Fire S afety Plan, we provide a sample of these safety procedure forms and checklists: I. Fire Risk Survey ii. General Fire Prevention Checklist iii. Exits Checklist iv. Flammable and Combustible Materia l Checklist 4. First Aid and Safety a. TreeHouse Lounge will provide a first aid kit and A.E.D. defibrillator on site for employees and customers. TreeHouse Lounge Medical & Recreational Marijuana Dispensary Business Plan Jaeda Ables, Owner and Operator TreeHouse Lounge, LLC Outline 1) Executive Summary 2) Market Analysis 3) Organization and Management 4) Products 5) Marketing 6) Growth 7) Finances Executive Summary TreeHouse Lounge is an aspiring medicinal and recreational cannabis dispensary that will be located in Fresno, California. I am in the process of applying for my dispensary license and leasing a suitable facility. The facility will be well positioned and match the ideal picture of a community dispensary store. Being involved in the retailing of medicinal and recreational marijuana, we would like to make our presence known through our core products. Medical and recreational cannabis flowers, edibles, concentrates, tinctures, vapors, transdermal creams, CBD oils, low THC/high CBD strains of products will be in high demand. We will also be involved in the retail of a wide range of brands and products of convenience foods, books, shoes apparel, and other related products. Seminars, workshops, and actives, and events like high yoga, cannabis cooking classes and lit journaling are some of the experiences that will be offered at TreeHouse Lounge, along with immeasurably more. TreeHouse Lounge will be in business to serve a wide range of customers in the communities of the Central Valley, Fresno California. Generally, those who utilize medical and recreational marijuana range from those with severe pain, insomnia, anxiety, depression, cancer and many other ailments that medical marijuana is deemed fit for. Our customers can be categorized into the following: •Households •Business people •Corporate executives •Parents •College Students •Athletes •Elderly people •Creative artists Vision statement My vision is to become the largest medical and recreational cannabis dispensary in not only the Central Valley but all throughout California; until I am able to be in the top 5 dispensary stores in the United States of America. Mission statement Our mission it that we embrace the need for compassionate care to customers who truly need it. Our focus is to provide a safe and legal venue for both patients and individuals to receive the care they need. TreeHouse Lounge aims to be a method of healing, relief and relaxation for those whom are in need; adults who need to cope with losing a loved one, mothers in need of sadness relief when coping with troubling family issues. Plans for community outreach and education regarding medicinal cannabis will be ongoing. This includes educating the community with regards to the benefits of cannabis and how to legally obtain it. Provide – relaxation, relief, a life full of creativity and fun, dedi cated to meeting the needs of the community Market Analysis & Marketing SALES AND MARKETING STRATEGY Marketing OBJECTIVES Due to the fact that cannabis is illegal under federal law, state governments and online advertising platforms are placing strict rules on how companies can market their products. In view of data and opportunities presented within this plan, the following summarizes general marketing objectives for TreeHouse Lounge in the next one to two years of operation: • Create a strong digital presence in Monterey County • Become the preferred local cannabis brand • Create public awareness regarding TreeHouse Lounge cannabis products and byproducts • Establish and grow a target patient base • Attract recreational cannabis users with the local population and • Establish relationships with dispensing organizations to sell products owned by TreeHouse Lounge Google, Facebook, and Twitter all have advertising policies that restrict the promotion of the sale of cannabis. Google's policy prohibits ads that promote “Substances that altered mental state for the purpose of recreation or otherwise induce “highs”” and “Ads for products or services marketed as facilitating recreational drug use”. Facebook restricts any “Illegal, prescription, or recreational drugs”. And Twitter bans, “Illegal drugs” as well as substances that cause “legal highs”. Instagram and Facebook have decided to go a step further by removing pages of cannabis related businesses. The most effective strategies for legal marijuana companies are direct marketing industry conferences and other events and building communities around marijuana related concerns such as health and wellness. The marketing and sales strategy of TreeHouse Lounge will be based on generating long-term personalized relationships with manufacturers, distributors and the surrounding local communities. Marketing and Advertising campaign includes- − Meeting with distributors and retailers − Email marketing − Advertising articles in the Fresno Bee − Radio advertisement − Brochures − Utilizing US Postal Service mailing service through every door direct mail < − Website development with search engine optimization − Cannabis business directories and platforms Weedmaps ▪ https://weedmaps.com/ ▪ Over 7,750 listings throughout the US, Canada, and Europe ▪ Over 7 million visits per month Leafy ▪ https://www.leafly.com/ ▪ Leafy is a cannabis information resource for finding the right strains and products ▪ Leafy has over 226 thousand visits each month BRANDING AND POSITIONING TreeHouse Lounge will secure a domain name and engage a professional graphic artist and website designer in creating a strong brand that is designed to uphold TreeHouse Lounge vision as a premium cannabis brand. This brand image will be used to set them apart from competitors. Additionally, this effort will be supplemented with the following efforts: • Create the campaign - Support Local Pharming. This campaign will be geared toward opening the TreeHouse Lounge’s doors to all local grow operations across Monterey County. • Professionally packaged customer facing logos and pictures which are relevant to the types of products being offered • A recognizable brand, logo, and simple catchphrase which will be used in packaging design for physical products as well as consistently match all digital marketing channels MARKETING / PROMOTIONAL TACTICS After the creation of a recognizable brand, logo, and simple catchphrases marketing campaigns will focus on the following: • Targeted digital marketing by age, gender, and preferred dispensing method • The creation of a strong web presence that is SEO friendly • Forming partnerships with industry relevant website and leaders to grow the presence of TreeHouse Lounge Wellness Center • Use of Animated GIF ads • Use of promotional codes and tracking URL’s to see what marketing is or is not working • Data collection to build targeted campaigns – including emails and texting. We will establish a regular cadence of marketing with existing customers – keeping in mind that not too much should be sent to prevent being viewed as spam • Full use of all Social Media platforms, including Leafy, Weedmaps, Eaze, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, Google+, Vine, LinkedIn, and Pinterest Organization & Management Jaeda Ables will manage this family-owned business in a friendly and caring atmosphere at TreeHouse Lounge. I have a BS degree in Healthcare Administration. Throughout my educational career, I worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant, and I have seen through first -hand experience the dire need for pain management in those elderly patients who have exhausted all avenues for effective pain medicine. Also, through my personal ailment, Sickle Cell Anemia, I know what it feels like to need successful pain medication. I am quite aware of the rules and regulations governing the cannabis industry, which is why I decided to recruit only qualified team members as foundational staff. I hope to leverage on their expertise, as well as the knowledge gained from Momentum; I want to build a business brand that will benefit all the stakeholders (owner, workforce, and customers) in the future. Positions that will eventually be filled include: • Store manager • Merchandise manager • Information technician specialist (software) • Sales agents (budtenders) • Cleaners • Security A comprehensive operation manual to guide every aspect of daily operations will be adopted by TreeHouse Lounge. The manual details will include policy and procedures, provide an excellent basis for training, and address a wide variety of topics including: • Processing and storage • Information technology • Dispensing procedures • Bookkeeping and banking • Security and emergency procedures TreeHouse Lounge does face some light milestones, but with a new business that can be expected. The knowledge acquired is signifi cant for a sustainable dispensary. Though I have an idea of the hard work, dedication and perseverance required, an on-going quest for more knowledge and wisdom is welcome to be added to my collective repertoire of business skills. OPERATORS MANUAL AND EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK A comprehensive handbook will provide information to guide employees’ behavior and relationship with TreeHouse Lounge. The manual, which will be furnished to all employees upon being hired, addresses: • TreeHouse Lounge philosophy • New employee onboard procedures • Attendance, tardiness, and uniform policy • Safety/security policies and guidelines • Drug and alcohol policy • Anti-discrimination policy • Anti-harassment policy CONTINUING EDUCATION The organization invests in the professional development and education of its personnel to uphold a standard of excellence and provide patients comprehensive product knowledge when selecting their medicinal marijuana products. The organization will requir e all employees to participate in the assigned education and training programs. Any employees that fail to pass the education and testing requirements may experience disciplinary action and or termination. Dispensary Personnel Training All Dispensary employees will go through a comprehensive training. The program incorporates state of California requirements and regulations including background checks, as well as new-hire training and continuing education protocol. The training program will include the following: Procedure Description Legal We will distribute a worksheet regarding state laws as well as include a section in our manual and SOP’s addressing the law, compliance, and law enforcement interaction. Processing and Storage This will outline the procedures regarding how medicine will be received, handled, and stored safely. Accounting and Cash Procedures This will include training on the point of sale, how to manage cash, accounting, and banking procedures. Inventory Control Plan Will spell out how TreeHouse Lounge will address inventory and includes protocols to ensure operational consistency and proper compliance with the state of California. Emergency Procedures Will provide the specific protocols in case of medical, police or other emergencies to ensure rapid response involving the appropriate personnel and/or outside authorities. Security Patient, worker, and neighborhood security are our highest priority. As discussed more fully in our Security Plan, we institute state-of-the-art security procedures to take advantage of the security industry’s best practices and most up-to-date technology. This will ensure that our dispensary facility operates at the highest level of legal compliance and security preparedness Legal We will distribute a worksheet regarding the state of the law as well as include a section in our manual and SOP’s addressing the law, compliance, and law enforcement interaction. Background Screening We will perform background checks on all employees, volunteers, principals, directors, and board members. We will also perform background checks on any contractors or vendors who regularly work within the facility or will be employed there for an extended time. Copies of any public records obtained through the background check process will be provided to the individual concerned. To ensure transparency, the entire background checking process will be conducted by a third - party. We will not employ anyone who has been convicted of a felony. Also, we elect not to engage any contractors or vendors who would have access on a regular basis or for an extended time to restricted areas of our facility if they have been convicted of any felony offenses. 1. TreeHouse Lounge will obtain age of applicant on each employee application. 2. A copy of applicant’s valid, unexpired California driver’s license will be made and attached to each employment application. 3. If employee will be working in capacity of “transporter”, a copy of current auto insurance will be placed in employee and verified that insurance meets states’ minimum standards. 4. A criminal background check including the disqualifying offenses 5. Individuals will submit a full set of fingerprints to the department, vendor, entity, or agency authorized for processing by the state which may be forwarded to the DOJ Personnel Records We will maintain personnel records for each employee, agent, or volunteer that includes- • Application, • Documentation of all required training, • A signed statement from the individual indicating the date, time, and place that he or she received training and the topics discussed, including the name and title of the presenters, and • Record of any disciplinary actio n taken against employee at any time during employment. • These personnel records will be maintained for a period of at least six months past the end of the individual’s affiliation with us. ACCESS TO THE DISPENSARY Security personnel will be the first to greet any person(s) attempting to enter the facility. They will check that the patient either has a TreeHouse Lounge membership card (pre-screened) or that they are in possession of a valid (not outdated) medical cannabis recommendation. If the person(s ) has a valid recommendation or TreeHouse Lounge membership card, they will be granted access into the waiting area of the dispensary. Any person that has a valid ID and is twenty-one years or older may be granted access. Waiting Area Once in the waiting area of the dispensary, patrons will not have access to the retail area until they have been screened a second time by the receptionist. For those who have previously been verified by TreeHouse Lounge, the receptionist will do a quick check to ensure their recommendation on file is still valid (not outdated). If the records show it is, they will be granted access into the retail area through a buzz door that is controlled by the employees within the retail area. The receptionist will oversee communicated entry to the retail area employees. For those who are new to TreeHouse Lounge, the receptionist will have them complete a membership agreement which outlines the rules for becoming a member. As the new patient is filling out the paperwork, the receptionist will verify their medical recommendation by either calling the physician's office or using any website that may be listed on the paper’s recommendation. In addition, the receptionist will verify that the physician's license number who issued the medical recommendation is still valid within the state of California. If it is not valid, the receptionist will inform the new customer and have them leave the premises until a new recommendation is obtained. If the receptionist finds the medical recommendation to be valid and the physician’s license to be up-to-date, the patient will be entered into the computer system that houses all patient information and create a TreeHouse Lounge specific membership card for the customer. In addition to verifying medical recomm endations, TreeHouse Lounge will ensure that the person has a valid proof of identification (which matches the name on the medical recommendation). Acceptable forms of identification include the following: • A document issued by a federal, state, county, o r municipal government, or a political subdivision or agency thereof, including, but not limited to, a valid motor vehicle operator's license, that contains the name, date of birth, physical description, and picture of the person; o r • A valid identification card issued to a member of the Armed Forces that includes a date of birth and a picture of the person; or • A valid passport issued by the United States or by a foreign government. After these protocols have been met, patients will be let into the retail area one at a time with a maximum of 3 patients at once. This is to prevent crowding and excessive noise (multiple customers speaking with budtenders) in the retail area. By preforming these thorough checks for everyone that visits our store, we will avoid any underage person(s). Medical patients must be eighteen years of age or older and adult use customers must be twenty -one years or older. TreeHouse Lounge will not sell to those who cannot meet the requirements listed in this section. Retail Area TreeHouse Lounge’s employees will always be physically present in the retail area when there are individuals who are not employees of the dispensary in the retail area. The display of cannabis goods for sale will only occur in the retail area during the operating hours of the dispensary. TreeHouse Lounge will not display any cannabis goods in areas outside of the retail area. We will not display cannabis goods in a place where it is visible from outside the licensed premises. Cannabis goods on display will not be readily accessible to the customers, only visually. Cannabis Goods Display The amount of cannabis goods that are displayed shall not exceed the average amount of cannabis goods the licensed dispensary sells during an average one - day period. The remainder of the licensee’s inventory of cannabis goods shall be stored outside of the retail area. Cannabis goods may be removed from their packaging and placed in containers to allow for customer inspection. The containers shall not be readily accessible to customers without assistance of dispensary personnel. A container must be provided to the customer by the licensee or employee, who shall remain with the customer at all times that the container is being inspected by the customer. Cannabis goods removed from their packaging for display shall not be sold, shall not be consumed, and shall be destroyed according to local and state regulations when the medical cannabis goods are no longer used for display. Cannabis Goods for Sale TreeHouse Lounge shall not make any cannabis goods available for sale or delivery to a cannabis patient or primary caregiver unless: • The cannabis goods were received from a licensed distributor; and • TreeHouse Lounge has verified that the cannabis goods have not exceeded their expiration or sell-by date if one is provided. Transactions Once a patient has decided what they would like to purchase, they will be guided to the cash register with the budtender who has been supervising and assisti ng them. When possible, TreeHouse Lounge will encourage the patient to pay via a debit or credit card in order to limit the amount of cash circulating in the dispensary. A budtender will ring up the transaction into the dispensaries point of sale software. The patient will be given the option to receive their receipt immediately by print or digitally via email. Products PRODUCTS AND SERVICES TreeHouse Lounge will offer a full line of medical an d recreational cannabis products to California local patrons and tourists. This location will be designed with “class” and will have a welcoming rustic farming environment that makes customers feel welcome. Employees will be highly regarded for their frien dly attitude and overall knowledge about cannabis. Dried Cannabis: Sativa, Indica, & Hybrids Raw Cannabis Flower will be sold in a mix of Indica and Sativa depending on customer demand. Indica is known to reduce nausea, increase appetite and fight depression while Sativa is known for its uplifting effects that energize patients with strong cerebral effects. The effectiveness of cannabis is directly related to strain selection; therefore, we will recommend care be taken in selecting appropriate strains to meet patient needs. Patients will be encouraged to use vaporizers, or ingest cannabis medicine to reduce any potential risks from smoking. Finished, dried, manicured, cured medical cannabis will be sold in .5g increments. TreeHouse Lounge plans to begin with 25-50 medicinal varieties of cannabis. Edibles A cannabis edible is a THC-infused product that can be consumed by the customer. Infusing cannabis into foods is a long-practiced and very effective method to use cannabis as medicine. TreeHouse Lounge plans to offer several different edible product lines to cater to the various medical, nutritional, financial and taste needs of patients. Infusing cannabis into foods is a long-practiced and very effective method to use cannabis as medicine. Careful dosing is important. Edibles can be used as effectively as smoking or vaporizing. This may include beverages, coffees, pastries, chocolates, and gummies. Edibles can be as effective as smoking or vaping. Concentrates This type will ensure patients have a variety of consumption methods that suit each person’s needs and lifestyle. Our line is designed to provide high levels of cannabinoids and THC in a readily accessible form which provides instant relief for serious conditions. Tinctures A cannabis tincture is a cannabis-based extract that is infused with alcohol. Typically, the flowers and trim leaves are used. This product provides easy dosing for patients with rapid absorption. This line is designed to make dose control easy for patients, with rapid absorption and effect. Tinctures can be flavored for better taste. Topicals Topicals are ideal for assisting patients who are arthritic or have aching injuries. Topicals have an analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect to reduce or eliminate pain. These will be sold in the forms of sprays or lotions. Dispensing Devices Patrons will be able to purchase the dispensing device associated with the cannabis product that is purchased. This will include bongs, vape pens, bowls, pipes, and papers. Ancillary Items To further our brand image, we intend on selling apparel and other TreeHouse Lounge branded items. Alternative Medicine Education Services Keeping patients in mind, TreeHouse Lounge intends on providing educational services to patrons. This will include education on the healing and curative powers of cannabis, how to us cannabis effectively, and other educational classes. PACKAGING AND LABELING In order to remain compliant with emerging state regulations which will be effective by the time a permit is issued, TreeHouse Lounge shall not accept, from a distributor cannabis, goods that are not packaged as they will be sold at final sale, in compliance with this division. TreeHouse Lounge shall not purchase dried flower that is not already packaged for final sale, in compliance with this division. TreeHouse Lounge shall not package or label cannabis goods. EXIT PACKAGING Cannabis goods purchased by a customer will not leave the dispensary premises unless they are placed in an exit package. An exit package will meet all of the following requirements: • The package shall be designed or constructed to be significantly difficult for children under five years of age to open and not difficult for adults to use properly, as defined by 16 C.F.R. 1700.20. • The package shall be opaque so that the cannabis goods cannot be seen from outside the packaging. • For any cannabis goods that are intended for more than a single use, the package shall have the ability to be resealed. • The package shall be labeled properly pursuant to local and State laws. FLOWHUB POINT-OF-SALE TreeHouse Lounge will be utilizing Flowhub for point-of sale transactions. Flowhub is a state-of-the-art platform that has been built specifically for the cannabis industry. This software reduces transaction times and increases the speed at which you can get people through the doors. Flowhub also integrates with METRC which is the software California has chosen for track and trace. The largest retailers in the industry trust Flowhub to power their supply chain and POS infrastructure. INVENTORY CONTROL TreeHouse Lounge will maintain an accurate rec ord of its inventory. We will provide the city of Fresno and the Bureau of Cannabis Control with a record of its current inventory upon request. TreeHouse Lounge will keep a record of the following information for all cannabis goods the dispensary has in i ts inventory: • A description of each item in the dispensary inventory. This description will be such that the cannabis goods can easily be identified; • An accurate measurement of the quantity of the item; • The date and time the product was received by the l icensed dispensary; • The sell-by or expiration date on any medical cannabis goods, if any; • The name and license number of the licensed distributor that delivered the medical cannabis goods; • The price the licensed dispensary payed for the medical cannabi s goods, including taxes, delivery costs, or any other costs. INVENTORY RECONCILIATION TreeHouse Lounge will perform a reconciliation of its inventory at least once every seven days. We will verify that the dispensary’s physical inventory matches the licensed dispensary’s records pertaining to inventory. The result of inventory reconciliation will be retained in the dispensary’s records and will be made available to City of Fresno and the Bureau of Cannabis Control upon request. If TreeHouse Lounge identifies any evidence of theft, diversion, or loss, the dispensary will notify the Fresno Police Department and the Bureau of Cannabis Control. If a significant discrepancy is discovered between the physical inventory and the inventory records, we will notify the Fresno Police Department and the Bureau of Cannabis Control. Track and Trace Our dispensary will enter the following events into the track and trace system: 1. Receipt of cannabis goods from a distributor or transporter; a. Enter the following information: I. Distributor’s name and license number; ii. Name of licensee who transported the cannabis goods and license number; iii. Type of cannabis goods received; iv. Amount received, by weight or count; v. Best-by, sell-by, or expiration date, if any, of each product received; vi. The date of receipt of cannabis goods; vii. The unique identifiers associated with the cannabis goods received; and viii. Other information required elsewhere by law. 2. Sale of medical cannabis goods to a cannabis patient or primary caregiver; a. Enter the following information: I. The name of the licensed dispensary employee who processed the sale; ii. The name or a patient identification number of the medical cannabis patient or primary caregiver who made the purchase; iii. The date and time of the transaction; iv. A list of all of the cannabis goods purchased, including a description of the quantity purchased; v. The unique identifiers associated with the cannabis goods sold and; vi. Other information required elsewhere by law. 3. Return of cannabis goods to a distributor; a. Enter the following information: I. Distributor’s name and license number; ii. Name of licensee who transported the cannabis goods and license number; iii. Type of cannabis goods returned; iv. Amount received, by weight or count; v. Best-by, sell-by, or expiration date, if any, of each cannabis good returned; vi. The date of the return of medical cannabis goods; vii. The unique identifiers associated with the cannabis goods returned; and viii. Other information required elsewhere by law. 4. Destruction of cannabis goods; a. Enter the following information: I. The name of the licensed dispensary employee who performed the destruction; ii. The date and time of the destruction; iii. A list of all of cannabis goods destroyed, including a description of the quantity destroyed; iv. The unique identifiers associated with the cannabis goods destroyed; and v. Other information required elsewhere by law. 5. Transfer of cannabis goods to a distributor for destruction; a. Enter the following information: I. Distributor’s name and license number; ii. Name of licensee who transported the cannabis goods and license number; iii. Type of cannabis goods transferred; iv. Amount transferred, by weight or count; v. The date of the transfer of cannabis goods; vi. The unique identifiers associated with the cannabis goods transferred; vii. Other information required elsewhere by law. Physical Security Plan TreeHouse Lounge Jaeda Ables, Owner and Operator TreeHouse Lounge, LLC ATTACHMENT A PROJECTED BUDGET TreeHouse Lounge Jaeda Ables, Owner and Operator TreeHouse Lounge, LLC ATTACHMENT B OWNER RESUME TreeHouse Lounge Jaeda Ables, Owner and Operator TreeHouse Lounge, LLC ATTACHMENT C TREEHOUSE LOUNGE, LLC ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION & STATEMENT OF INFORMATION LLC-12 Secretary of State Statement of Information (Limited Liability Company) IMPORTANT — Read instructions before completing this form. Filing Fee – $20.00 Copy Fees – First page $1.00; each attachment page $0.50; Certification Fee - $5.00 plus copy fees This Space For Office Use Only 1. Limited Liability Company Name (Enter the exact name of the LLC. If you registered in California using an alternate name, see instructions.) 2. 12-Digit Secretary of State File Number 3. State, Foreign Country or Place of Organization (only if formed outside of California) 4. Business Addresses a. Street Address of Principal Office - Do not list a P.O. Box City (no abbreviations) State Zip Code b. Mailing Address of LLC, if different than item 4a City (no abbreviations) State Zip Code _____________________ Date ____________________________________________________________ Type or Print Name of Person Completing the Form _________________________ Title __________________________________ Signature   c. Street Address of California Office, if Item 4a is not in California - Do not list a P.O. Box City (no abbreviations) State Zip Code If no managers have been appointed or elected, provide the name and address of each member. At least one name and address must be listed. If the manager/member is an individual, complete Items 5a and 5c (leave Item 5b blank). If the manager/member is an entity, complete Items 5b and 5c (leave Item 5a blank). Note: The LLC cannot serve as its own manager or member. If the LLC has additional managers/members, enter the name(s) and addresses on Form LLC-12A (see instructions). 5. Manager(s) or Member(s) a. First Name, if an individual - Do not complete Item 5b Middle Name Last Name Suffix b. Entity Name - Do not complete Item 5a c. Address City (no abbreviations) State Zip Code 6. Service of Process (Must provide either Individual OR Corporation.) INDIVIDUAL – Complete Items 6a and 6b only. Must include agent’s full name and California street address. a. California Agent's First Name (if agent is not a corporation) Middle Name Last Name Suffix b. Street Address (if agent is not a corporation) - Do not enter a P.O. Box City (no abbreviations) State CA Zip Code CORPORATION – Complete Item 6c only. Only include the name of the registered agent Corporation. c. California Registered Corporate Agent’s Name (if agent is a corporation) – Do not complete Item 6a or 6b 7. Type of Business a. Describe the type of business or services of the Limited Liability Company 8. Chief Executive Officer, if elected or appointed a. First Name Middle Name Last Name Suffix b. Address City (no abbreviations) State Zip Code 9. The Information contained herein, including any attachments, is true and correct. Return Address (Optional) (For communication from the Secretary of State related to this document, or if purchasing a copy of the filed document enter the name of a person or company and the mailing address. This information will become public when filed. SEE INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE COMPLETING.) Name: Company: Address: City/State/Zip: LLC-12 (REV 01/2017) 2017 California Secretary of State www.sos.ca.gov/business/be 20-E62697 FILED In the office of the Secretary of State of the State of California NOV 16, 2020 TREEHOUSE LOUNGE, LLC 202031710227 CALIFORNIA SPIEGEL & UTRERA, P.A., WHICH WILL DO BUSINESS IN CALIFORNIA AS SPIEGEL & UTRERA, P.C. (C2237836) ABLESLJAEDA MEDICAL AND RECREATIONAL DISPENSARY 11/16/2020 JAEDA L ABLES OPERATING MANAGER Page 1 of 1 TreeHouse Lounge Jaeda Ables, Owner and Operator TreeHouse Lounge, LLC ATTACHMENT D PROOF OF CAPITALIZATION Financial Account Statements TreeHouse Lounge Community Benefits and Investment Plan The most impactful community benefits partnerships will result in all of the goals and commitments listed below becoming memorialized in a Community Benefits Agreement between the new dispensary and the community. TreeHouse Lounge Ancillary Services TreeHouse Lounge has an old-school methodology of putting values and community first. Our staff and everything we do aims to promote toleran ce, sharing and compassion. This values-based foundation fuels our mission: providing the best cannabis, served by the nicest people. This is not just good for our community; it’s good for our bottom line. For example, TreeHouse Lounge would like to sectio n off the lounge where we will offer Cannabusiness 101 classes where budding entrepreneurs can learn from experts on how to start a business, get funded and obtain a marijuana permit. We will provide free grow classes, canna -cooking classes, a book club, a massage, an annual school-supply drive and a registered nurse (RN) and dental hygienist on duty starting off once a month to consult with clients. It’s also important to grow our community connections. One great way to do this is by creating cross -promotional partnerships with other local businesses. Examples of such initiatives could be passing out other local small business's promotional fliers, implementing goods and services from other businesses into our rewards program. Imagine giving everyone who sp ends more than at your dispensary a coupon for a free coffee at a local shop, or 10 -percent off at the next-door auto shop. Collaborating in these ways builds good will within the Jaeda Ables, Owner and Operator TreeHouse Lounge, LLC community that TreeHouse Lounge is an active community participant inve sted in neighborhood improvement. Every month TreeHouse Lounge host First Friday's. Customers can come join in on the fun and connect with the community. We will have game nights, the opportunity to perform spoken word, a massage therapist and an esthetici an to provide facials on site to soothe customers as they relax. The war on mental health is silent but still very relevant. Every third Thursday of the month, we will host mental health activities such as lit journaling. Customers can take part in the therapeutic benefits of journaling. Journaling helps control your stress symptoms and improve your mood: Helping you prioritize problems, fears, and concerns, and tracking any symptoms day -to-day so that you can recognize triggers and learn ways to better control them. Providing an opportunity for positive self-talk and identifying negative thoughts. Also, our high yoga program branches will be incorporated. Yoga leaves you feeling so good that it activates your parasympathetic nervous system, lengthens and strengthens muscles, and calms breathing. These therapeutic activities will help our customers get centered and stable, providing a calm and healthy atmosphere. Community Benefits Plan TreeHouse Lounge has a desire to integrate into the community as seamlessly and authentically as possible. Prior to opening, TreeHouse Lounge advertisement’s will be placed in the Fresno Bee as well as mail delivered to residence w ithin a 2-mile radius of the building location. We will host educational classes to explain the health benefits of medical marijuana and experts will teach cannabis basics to help Fresno/Clovis residents understand the uses, benefits, regulations, and safety concerns surrounding cannabis. Moreover, to further develop these education classes into patient support groups once a need within the community has been identified. It is imperative to offer an environment free from judgment for those seeking guidance, knowledge and connection with others struggling with the same issues. This group of individuals will have the ability to interact, share stories of advice and encouragement. They will understand the benefits of medical marijuana versus physician-prescribed over-the-counter opioids. General Consumer Education Educating customers on the safe and responsible consumption of marijuana is essential to the success of TreeHouse Lounge in the cannabis industry and its entirety. I am working to accumulate a vast body of knowledge to educate both employees and customers through exposure and workshops. Education is the key to customer interaction. This will be accomplished through pamphlets, educational classes and open communication with customers. TreeHouse Lounge will create several educational pamphlets and han douts which will be made available to every customer. We will outline basic guidelines for safe consumption rules on where consumption is legal. Possession limits, the importance of not driving while impaired, and how to best keep marijuana out of the hands of children and away from pets. Outreach TreeHouse Lounge has decided to partner with a few nonprofits: Reading Heart, nonprofit, 501(c)(3) Book donation program dedicated to serving children in hospitals and children in areas with limited access to boo ks. Reading Heart is run by some of the most determined, motivated and driven kids in the Central Valley; they are learning how to make the community better and grow into a brighter tomorrow. I plan to donate funds for their Little Book Bins. Donations help supply materials such as building supplies and logistics and keep the book bins stocked with free books that are placed all over Fresno County. KIDWISE, nonprofit, 501(c)(3) is a tutoring enrichment center that focuses on cultivating the mind and body through education and physical wellness. KIDWISE promotes an environment that will cultivate students’ minds through educational experiences that will allow children, teens, and young adults t o develop their minds and prosper throughout their entire lives, as well as promote physical fitness. I plan to donate an annual charitable donation towards this program in order to help children succeed in their education. Homelessness The location of TreeHouse Lounge dispensary is surrounded by a considerable number of homeless individuals. We are for the community. I wish to reach out and help those in need of jobs and housing in order to help the homeless thrive. I have plans of raising funds to purchase a shower trailer in the future. For the homeless, a shower offers dignity and hope of a clean start, and I intend to give them that. In order to add value and uplift the community in which TreeHouse Lounge is located, we will assist the community 365 d ays of collecting items, raising funds, and eventually purchasing a building as a way to house and feed the homeless. Not only will we have hygiene, clothing and food drives during the holiday season, we will also have designated clothing, hygiene and food containers within TreeHouse Lounge. As a benefit to those purchasing products from TreeHouse Lounge, we will have weekly or monthly discounts pertaining to the donation boxes. For example, on a particular week, we will have a 5 to 10% discount on the purchases of products. Customers will be asked to bring in hygiene products or socks or whatever that item may be that is advertised for a discount of the week or month. TreeHouse Lounge Job Fair TreeHouse Lounge is committed to engage in professional recruiti ng practices to hire the most qualified candidates. Additionally, an active effort will be made to recruit a diverse workforce based out of Fresno, California. We will do this through local job fairs and other recruiting events. Our employees will be well paid, well qualified, and well-trained personnel. All employees will be fingerprinted and will have to successfully pass a criminal background screening. All staff will be required to wear photo identification at all times, while on the dispensary premises. Employees will be provided precise definition of responsibilities, clearly understood chains of authority and thorough training. Our staff will be expected to uphold TreeHouse Lounge’s professional brand image. Once TreeHouse Lounge has been awarded a retail dispensary license, an advertisement will be placed on (radio, Fresno bee, etc.) to hire ten to fifteen employees. TreeHouse Lounge prefers to hire local residents from the community to work in the facility. I anticipate a strong response to the job f air, the starting wage of fifteen dollars an hour; this is three dollars above minimum wage depending on experience. All employees will receive two weeks paid time off after one year of full-time employment, as well as yearly bonuses distributed to all employees and the opportunity to apply for a college scholarship to further their education. I will implement contests, reward incentives, and on -the-spot cash bonuses for exemplary performance. Also, we will be offering medical, dental, vision and life insurance policies to all employees. A one -week paid training will be held prior to our grand opening. This will ensure an adequately trained staff upon opening. ♦ I encourage involvement and participation in the community one day every quarter of the year; team members will have the opportunity to volunteer at community organizations, for example: ▪ Fresno Rescue Mission ▪ Habitat for humanity ▪ The Terraces at San Joaquin Valley ▪ Poverello house All employees will be paid above the State of California’s minimum wage which is per hour. Our average hourly rate will be per hour. The Security Manager will be paid a minimum of per hour. Below is an outline of the hourly minimum wages that will be paid to employees working for TreeHouse Lounge Budtender Security Manager Annual Food Drive Every year, TreeHouse Lounge will have an annual Thanksgiving food drive. We will work with Central California Food Pantries through our food drives. Food drives help food banks, food pantries, and soup kitchens collect food donations to keep their shelves stocked. Food drives are also a great way to raise awareness about hunger in the community and encourage others to help. Hunger affects every community, but many people don't realize it. And I want to assist in these hardships. We will organize a food drive within the facilit y by creating a donation box to afford employees and customers the opportunity to donate canned and nonperishable boxed goods to be given to local needy residents. Holiday Toy Drive TreeHouse Lounge will partner with Toys for Tots in order to be a designated toy drop off location. Toys for Tots is a program run by the United States Marine Corps Reserves which distributes toys to children whose parents cannot afford to buy them gifts for Christmas. The box will be set up so that employees and customers will be able to donate unwrapped toys to be given to many children during the holiday season. Social Policies & Procedures POLICIES AGAINST DISCRIMINATION: TreeHouse Lounge is committed to a workplace that does not discriminate regardless of race, color, gender, national origin, religion, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation or age; and provides a safe, fun, and exciting environment for employees to work. To drive this atmosphere, we believe a diverse workforce is necessary. Diversity Plan TreeHouse Lounge is an "equal opportunity employer." We will not discriminate and will take mea sures to ensure that our policies continue to protect against discrimination in employment, recruitment, and advertisements for employment, compensation, termination, upgrading, promotions, and other conditions of employment against any employee or job app licant on the basis of race, creed, color, national origin, or sex. Additionally, we will exhibit evidence of diversity and inclusion by including minority persons and veterans in TreeHouse Lounge workforce. Finally, TreeHouse Lounge will make significant efforts to employ individuals who fall into the category of protected classes. These are individuals who are older than forty. The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) forbids age discrimination against people. TreeHouse Lounge recognizes the value that these individuals could add to our organization. We will seek out diverse talent and hire on the merit an individual will bring to our organization. Anti-Harassment Policy TreeHouse Lounge is committed in all areas to providing a work environment that is free from harassment. Harassment based on an individual's sex, race, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion or any other legally protected characteristics will not be tolerated. All employees, including supervisors and other management personnel, are expected and required to abide by this policy. No person will be adversely affected in employment with the employer as a result of bringing complaints of unlawful harassment. If an employee feels that he or she has been harassed on the basis of his or he r sex, race, national origin, ethnic background, or any other legally protected characteristic they should immediately report the matter to his or her supervisor. If that person is not available, or if the employee feels it would be unproductive to inform that person, the employee should immediately contact that supervisor's superior or human resources. Once the matter has been reported, it will be promptly investigated, and any necessary corrective action will be taken where appropriate. All complaints of unlawful harassment will be handled in as discreet and confidential a manner as is possible under the circumstances. TreeHouse Lounge will take any and all claims of harassment seriously. All claims of harassment reported will be logged and investigated. Any employee determined to engage in improper harassing behavior will be subject to disciplinary action, including the possible termination of employment. TreeHouse Lounge will establish and maintain procedures for working to support our community and to resolve community concerns/complaints about our operations. In the event that a business or local resident has a complaint, the following policies and procedures will be in place. • Written policies, procedures and corporate standards: − No loitering around store or in parking area − No smoking of any kind in or around the store area or parking lot − Regularly scheduled cleanup and inspection of property throughout the day − Store security measures above and beyond regulations and requirements − TreeHouse Lounge hold our store employees to a high level of excellence Purpose TreeHouse Lounge has a strong desire to encourage open communication between our neighbors and customers and our team members and management. It is crucial that individuals know the procedure for expressing complaints and all concerns that may arise about our opera tions so that request, questions, concerns, and ideas are addressed in a positive manner and timely fashion. The purpose of these procedures is: • Provide a structure for classifying and resolving matters in a fair, independent, economic, informal, and expedient way. • Set expectations for neighbors and customers about a reasonable timeframe for the resolution of complaints, and • To ensure TreeHouse Lounge has suitable resources for the efficient and effective management of complaints at all levels of complexity . Procedure Informal • Community members/customers are encouraged to express their questions, comments and concerns to TreeHouse Lounge management directly. • The store manager's contact information will be posted at the store and also on our website. All cont acts will be responded to within forty-eight hours; a log will be kept on all correspondence with the community concerns. Channels of Interaction Correspondence can be received and replied to. The number of channels include- • In person • Telephone • Email • Text • Letter General Considerations After receiving correspondence from a neighbor or customer, general considerations in dealing with this matter include: • Is the correspondence a complaint? If so, we will work to define the complaint with the neighbors/custo mers so their issues or concerns can be properly addressed and resolved. • Respond to the neighbors/customers within forty-eight hours with a response or promise a follow up with clear dates for the next communication. • Log all correspondence with neighbors/customers and create a report for management to review and share with staff so we can improve any deficiencies that may have been uncovered. How to Manage the Compliant TreeHouse Lounge recognizes the importance of fully understanding the complainants' issues. Upon receiving a complaint, the manager shall take reasonable steps to understand the nature of the complaint by clarifying and seeking any additional information from the complainant. I require timely resolution of complaints; however, I recognize legitimate delays in the assessment, investigation or decision -making process can occur. Reasons for delays in the resolution of complaints will be promptly communicated to the complainant. Complaints can be managed through a number of processes i ncluding- • Alternative response • Investigation • Internal review • A combination of any of the three Alternative response And alternative response might be a facilitated discussion, a face -to-face meeting, or informal discussion over the phone between the manager and the complainant or an explanation of TreeHouse Lounge policies /procedures/ regulations, that result in a resolution to the complaint. Investigation Complaints which raise particularly challenging issues or are otherwise especially complex will be investigated. During an investigation, the manager will request additional information or documentation from the compl ainant to more effectively address the complaint. This will be executed in a timely manner. Internal review An internal review is a systematic way of looking back on how a prior complaint management process or determination was conducted. Essentially, acceptable grounds for the conduct of an internal review include issues the complaint has with the process undertaking in the management of their complaint or decision made by the manager. The issues or concerns the complainant has about the process are requir ed to be specific and not global in nature. The request for an internal review should outline the ground or reason the complainant is dissatisfied with a complaint process or the decision made by the manager. This is TreeHouse Lounge’s way of making sure w e are responsive to our neighbors, customers, and the community. Follow-up After resolution of complaints, the manager should follow up with complainant within one week to determine their level of satisfaction about how their complaint was handled. These r esponses will be part of the records and reporting. Anonymous Complaints These matters are assessed against the same criteria as any other complaint. When assessing complaints, particular considerations include the nature and complexity of the complaint, the quantity and quality of information and the capability of a productive outcome. Staff Conduct Allegations concerning the conduct of staff will be managed in accordance with relevant human resource management policy. If corrupt conduct is suspected, consultation will occur with the manager. Goal We adhere to the highest standards in the industry with regards to compliance, security, and product. Our goal is to provide excellent customer service, educate, be a good neighbor by being involved and promotin g our community. Odor Control Odor Mitigation Control TreeHouse Lounge will be taking extreme measures to eliminate all odors emitting from the facility. The multiple layers of odor control that TreeHouse Lounge will install will be more than sufficient to mitigate all odors produced by the facility. These include redundant carbon filtration located throughout the facility, negative air pressure in storage, cannabis purchasing room order ionization technology, and employee standard operating procedures. I. Staff Training Procedures. TreeHouse Lounge has plans to incorporate an extensive training program that includes training specifically for odor mitigation. The importance of keeping doors shut and changing carbon filters are among the other standard operating procedures that all employees will be required to follow. Treehouse Lounge will conduct monthly staff meetings. At these meetings, we will regularly discuss odor mitigation and the importance of keeping up with the process we have in place. II. Record Keeping. Carbon filter report card, this card is maintained and filled out every day by our manager on duty. TreeHouse Lounge will maintain a supply of carbon filters on site, these will be re-ordered by the manager to keep aligned with the facility maintenance program. Should a filter need to be changed sooner, filters will be on the premises to do so. If any maintenance is needed, it will be done immediately as to not affect any parts of the facility. III. Monitoring and Inspection: Every room will be continuously monitored with daily inspections for emanating odors. If any volume of odor is detected by an employee, they will directly inform the manager. If a filter needs to be changed, it will be done so at this time. If doors are not fully closing, doors will be fixed as soon as the problem is detected. Technical System Design and Equipment Instillation HVAC System odor control plan: Closed loop system with limited exhaust All HVAC Sims installed at this facility will be considered “closed -loop” systems. All of the HVAC equipment will recirculate 100% of the supply being distributed to the various rooms throughout the facility. To the extent possible, the odor mitigation will be intended to mitigate other medication to the outside of the building and surrounding areas. This essential component to our odor control system isolates odors and doesn't allow them to escape from the respective areas. Needlepoint Bipolar Ionization (NPBI) Bipolar ionization technology safely cleans the air inside buildings by using an electronic charge to create a plasma field filled with ions. These ions help collect fine particles, making them easy to filter from the air. Needlepoint Bipolar Ionization Systems kill pathogens by robbing them of their life sustaining hydrogen particles. The ions produced by the system breaks down gases with electron volt potential numbers below twelve to harmless compounds prevalent in the atmosphere, such as, oxygen, nitrogen, water vapor and carbon dioxide. The resultant compounds are a function of the entering contaminants into the plasma field. In this case the VOC or terpene odors generated by the cannabis breakdown to carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and water vapor, thus eliminating the odor. The positive and negative ions are drawn to airborne particles by their electrical charge. Once the ions attached to the particle, the particle grows larger by attracting nearby particles of the opposite polarity, thereby increasing the filtration’s effectiveness. Bipolar ionization technology safely kills bacteria, viruses and mold similar to how positive and negative ions surround particles; they are also attracted to pathogens. When the ions combine on the surface of a pathogen, they rob the pathogen of the hydrogen necessary for them to survive. Active Carbon Filters Active carbon filters absorb its molecular weight of co ntent contaminants when it comes into contact with it. Absorption is a distinct process where organic compounds in the air react chemically with the activated carbon, which causes them to stick to the filter. The more porous the activated carbon is the mor e contaminants it will capture. These filters are most notably used to remove Turpin compounds in marijuana cultivation facilities. Common Areas High efficiency carbon filtration units will be installed throughout the common areas of TreeHouse Lounge. Alo ng with bipolar ionization units, filters will be changed out and maintained on a fixed schedule. Maintenance Plan Bipolar Ionization Units: Expect to get ten to twelve years out of a system with no maintenance and very little energy consumption. (a) Active Carbon: The active carbon filters absorb its molecular weight of contaminants it comes in contact with. Absorption is a distinct process where organic compounds in the air react chemically with the activated carbon, which causes them to stick to the filter . The more porous the activated carbon is the more contaminants it will capture. These filters are most notably used to remove turbine compounds in cannabis facility air purification systems. The physical process of adsorption Is followed by chemical adsorption. This is a chemical reaction in which the two substances react together in the resulting chemical is trapped on the filter material. The impregnation of filter media can greatly extend the range of gases that be can be removed from the airstream. ENVIRONMENTAL PLAN THL is dedicated to conducting its operations in a manner that is ecologically sustainable from an energy consumption, water consumption and waste generation standpoint. THL will, at a minimum, adopt and adhere to Best Management Practices that include methods, policies and procedures in the following areas: 1. As to maximizing energy efficiency, the implementation of measures that include the following: a. For lighting equipment and controls: I. Use of fluorescent/LED lighting in all areas of the premises; ii. Use of Energy Star lighting products. iii. Use, where appropriate, of photo -controls for exterior lighting unless security needs dictate otherwise. b. For air filtration equipment and controls: i. Installation of vent dampers ii. Analysis of systems and replacement of inefficient components; iii. Use of programmable thermostats and controls iv. Sealing and insulation of ducts and hot water pipes v. Use of Energy Star HVAC products c. For the building: I. Install and/or increase roof and wall insulation ii. Control Air Leakage iii. Install storm doors iv. Insulate and seal skylights and window v. Use of storm/insulated windows carrying the Energy Star label 2. The dispensary will apply for and utilize any and all available PG&E programs for free technical assistance in creating an energy efficient plan for tenant improvements, building systems and processes and effectuating the other goals stated in this part. 3. The dispensary will use green building measures whenever feasible, utilizing materials such as denim insulation, non-toxic paint, and materials that do not emit gas. 4. As to water quality and conservation measures - a. The dispensary will instruct, train and educate its staff as to water conservation measures, including the following methods: I. Avoiding water wasting techniques, such as - I. Allowing water to run during washing or rinsing procedures when no active washing or rinsing is occurring. ii. Using the toilet to flush and dispose of small items that are more properly disposed of using trash containers. iii. The identification and reporting to appropriate management members of leaks in any portion of the water delivery, distribution and plumbing systems in and about the premises where the dispensary conducts its operations. b. TreeHouse Lounge will employ water conserving equipment and materials, as follows: I. Water meter monitor including technology to identify leaks ii. The use of low flow equipment in sinks and toilets iii. The use of cleaning agents that do not rely on water c. The dispensary will train and instruct its staff in the following methods for preventing discharge to sewer drains: I. Identification of chemicals and other substances that are inappropriate for discharge into sewer drains. ii. Development of a spill prevention and control program. iii. Prohibiting the use of petroleum-based cleaning products, acids, phosphates or other similar agents or solvents that may produce liquid discharge or run-off. iv. Prohibiting the use of any products which contain heavy metals or which breakdown into heavy metals. v. Painting of any portion of the roof of the building comprised of galvanized sheeting with an enamel paint. vi. Proper storage and segregation of all cleaning and sanitizing products so as to prevent leakage. vii. Frequent sweeping of the premises. viii. Placement of dumpsters and other waste containers in areas that are not directly exposed to rainwater or with covers that are watertight; d. Except for statutorily specified cleaning agents, the dispensary will restrict the use of cleaning agents to use non-toxic materials such as vinegar, baking soda and environmentally-friendly surfactants in cleaning and sanitizing operations. 5. As to solid resource conservation: a. Using, where available, paper, plastic and other containers that have been produced using recycled materials, identifying vendors of such products, and training staff as to the use of such vendors. We will endeavor to minimize packaging and waste wherever possible. b. Instituting a recycling program whereby- I. Staff are trained as to recycling programs operated by local waste management providers and private recycling providers; ii. Used or discarded paper, plastic or other items are placed for pick up and recycling by waste management providers or transported to private recycling centers. 6. Disposal and Destruction Program a. As to the material that cannot be used in such a manner and which therefore must be discarded or destroyed, the dispensary will use the following approach: I. TreeHouse Lounge will identify one or more local landfills or transfer stations that will receive marijuana waste materials and will further identify one or more facilities that receive organic or other waste for energy generation purposes. ii. The dispensary will identify a manager responsible for segregating and disposing of marijuana plant waste matter. iii. Any cannabis product that is designated for disposal will be identified by date, batch and volume by the Inventory Control System. iv. Once processed for disposal, the material to be discarded or destroyed will be combined with, used plant soils or other non- toxic inert material so as to render unusable the marijuana matter contained. b. Following the rendering of any potentially unusable marijuana packaging, the dispensary employee responsible for the disposal of the material will isolate and identify material pending transfer to a designated waste or energy facility. c. At the time of transfer, the dispensary employee responsible for the disposal will prepare a tentative trip plan with a waste management company, identifying the matter to be transported, the destination, and the route to be used in transporting s uch matter. d. In addition, a certificate confirming the weight delivered will be recorded in order to verify it matches the amount of waste which left our facility. e. As more regulations are released in regards to cannabis wast e, TreeHouse Lounge will follow all new laws and procedures. TreeHouseLounge Social and Local Enterprise Plan Social and local enterprise needs cannot bring anything but good to all involved. They both must be a businesses’ focus because people in the community need to have access to opportunities to thrive. My plan is to make my company a community interest company. To aid in providing goods and services for the community, I plan to match my business with other earned income local community businesses and engage local community leaders. We can work together to drive sustainable economic growth and create new jobs, thereby creating a better environment for future business ventures. Combining these three entities can result in a strong partnership and bring a new dimension to businesses and consumers. Partnering with students and teachers is one goal I have. And make the consumer and the homeless in the community more socially aware and give them the ability to engage in potential business opportunities. I plan to partner with local businesses and local community leaders to make a difference with the community, schools, and the homeless. Investing in the homeless, education, and the community deserves an action plan; it will give me pleasure to fulfill this duty. I would like to include investors and give my employees and the community the chance to become investors as my business grows. Profit generated stays with the community. People within the community will experience the “Random Sparkle of Kindness” any day of the week or month. This random sparkle of kindness will come in the form of randomly paying for a customer’s purchase, for example. Operation Schoolyard will be a program to help students and teachers. I envision involving local businesses and local community leaders coming together to carry out projects that can benefit the community . For instance, holding ongoing “drives” to gather school supplies and clothing needed for high Jaeda Ables, Owner and Operator TreeHouse Lounge, LLC achievement. A coat drive may be another significant need. My short-range plan is to partner with a different school monthly. Gender discrimination has no place in the workplace. Everyone deserve s an equal chance to live the life they cherish. A formula for keeping a steadfast and progressive business is to make it a priority to keep the workplace pleasant , under optimum working conditions. I expect and will urge my employees to treat others the way they want to be treated. The well-being of the workplace will be such that my employees will know that respect for each other will be emphasized and noted. A worker who is a victim of harassment or bullying is not going to be a productive worker because they are dealing with the issue of trauma. The issue of sexual harassment or bullying are very serious issues in my workplace. Encouragement to feel comfortable talking with conflict management with timely solutions if conflicts arise. I want the utmost happiness for my workplace because a cheerful and high- spirited atmosphere creates happy employees. Also, a family environment is what I will pursue. Pressed upon my mind is the urgency to help the homeless, who have been disenfranchised for different reasons. People driving by most likely see them as someone who do not care about doing better for themselves. But we do not know their story. Most who are mentally ill fit into that category through no fault of their own. I believe, with the right help, their minds can be restored. They go through life behaving perfectly normal, then one day, when they reach the age of young adulthood, something happens, but they do not realize what happened to their mental state. Some have lost finances and are forced to be homeless; some suffer mental illness first then self-medicate to stop the voices they hear in their heads; or disillusionment where a scorched imagination takes over when saneness once existed. I speak from experience because my brother now falls into the realm of mental illness. My brother functioned normally until age twenty. One example that pointed to his mentality. Suddenly, he would put a blanket over the television. When we asked why, he said, “They told me to do it,” pinpointing no one in particular. My mother took him to several doctors. They informed her that this mental condition is common for someone who has a recessive gene of mental illness in their bloodline. She asked each doctor if this condition could be attributed to drug use. Each doctor said that mental illn ess strikes first followed by self-medicating. Because of my brother’s hallucinations, we located him a place for housing, but he would not stay. Consequently, he became homeless. It has been eight years since he was diagnosed; to this day, my mother is st ill relentlessly fighting to persuade Jamar to get the help he needs, including a comfortable place to sleep. Because of my brother’s plight, I know what developments led to his downfall. There must be others who have suffered this fate too. This has led me to want to help the homeless , no matter what led them to this situation. Hiring the homeless, paying the going market wages, providing them with a livelihood, and giving them dignity while calling upon local private businesses and community leaders to work together to furnish the homeless with what they need. Bend-for-the-homeless will be a program that allows the community to donate needed items where containers will be placed: one for toiletries; one for clothes; one for socks; and one for blankets, for instance. My dream is to buy a place and turn it into a shower trailer with washer and dryer access for the homeless. A “putting the homeless to work” campaign is what I want to put forth so they can put themselves in a position where they can see themselves gaining ground one day at a time until fruition becomes reality , and they are no longer homeless. Marrying my ideas with local businesses and local community leaders can uplift the community, schools, and the homeless. 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 December 4, 2020 Please reply to: Rob Holt (559) 621-8056 Jaeda Ables Dear Applicant: SUBJECT: ZONING INQUIRY NUMBER P20-04466 REQUESTING INFORMATION REGARDING CANNABIS RETAIL FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 1048 E STREET (APN 467-066-07) 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 DTN, which is one of the allowable zone districts for cannabis retail businesses. Development standards of the DTN zone district are available in Sections 15-1503, 15-1504, and 15-1505 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 P20-04505 1048 E Street Page 2 December 4, 2020 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 3. There are currently no cannabis retail businesses located in Council District 3. 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