The private agreement between the cannabis company and the BID has been a source of contention, as it imposes restrictions on the sale of pre-rolled products and minimum purchase prices for adult-use cannabis. The cannabis company, Patriot Care, challenged these restrictions, arguing that they are discriminatory and prevent them from serving a broader customer base, including low-income consumers. They presented data on consumer demand for purchases under $35 and the importance of pre-roll products to their business, which account for a portion of their sales across Massachusetts. Patriot Care representatives emphasized the competitive disadvantage they face due to these restrictions, as other dispensaries in the vicinity of Boston are not subject to similar conditions.

The discussion revealed the complexities of balancing business interests, community agreements, and regulatory oversight. While the Board expressed reluctance to intervene in the private agreement between Patriot Care and the BID, it acknowledged the challenges faced by cannabis businesses under the current restrictions. The Board took the matter under advisement, acknowledging the need for further discussions with the BID.

Another topic of the meeting was the application by Rooted in LLC for a marijuana courier license. Aaliyah Forest, the director of business strategy for the company, highlighted their equity certification, noting the beneficial interest holders’ residency in areas of disproportionate impact and their identification as Asian. Rooted in LLC’s presentation outlined their proposed operations on Newberry Street, Back Bay, with an emphasis on community engagement and support for local businesses. The company plans to employ a fleet of all-electric vehicles, provide charging stations, and ensure security through body cameras on drivers and GPS tracking. The applicant received letters of support from community figures and organizations.

The applicant’s detailed operational plans, including the number of trips per day, the stationed delivery vehicle in a back alley, and the parking arrangements, were scrutinized by the commissioners who raised concerns about traffic congestion and the need to comply with Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) regulations.

Public comments during the meeting offered a mix of support and opposition. While some expressed concerns about increased traffic and the impact on public safety, others, including the United Food and Commercial Workers, supported the plan for its potential benefits to workers and the community. The president of the downtown BID reaffirmed the organization’s position on license restrictions, emphasizing the collaborative process involving board members, stakeholders, and public input in shaping policies.

In a related presentation, Mr. Nichols from the BID provided an update on the retail environment in the downtown area, noting a reduction in retail vacancies and an increase in business activity, signaling economic recovery and progress in revitalizing the area.

The meeting also featured a presentation by Pure Oasis, Boston’s first cannabis dispensary. The co-owner raised concerns about the impact of pre-roll sales restrictions on communities of color and lower-income individuals, as well as the disparities in regulations across different neighborhoods in Boston.