Larry Darara, representing Sony LLC, argued for the necessity of a dispensary in Mission Hill, emphasizing that residents currently need to travel to other areas such as Hyde Square and Brookline Village to purchase cannabis products. The establishment aims to operate from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on weekdays and 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. on weekends.

Adi Sony, the managing partner and CEO, presented the application, detailing the operational and security measures planned for the dispensary. He stressed that the facility would comply with all Cannabis Control Commission (CCC) regulations and highlighted the proposed $75,000 in community benefits over three years. Sony also addressed community concerns about potential littering and loitering, promising robust security measures and staff training to maintain neighborhood standards.

A point of debate involved a buffer zone conflict due to the proximity of another cannabis establishment on Tremont Street. Chairwoman Kathleen Joyce clarified that the conflict pertains to active Host Community Agreements (HCAs) rather than operational establishments. The board discussed the need for additional dispensaries in the densely populated Mission Hill neighborhood, which houses over 24,000 residents.

Public testimony revealed a divided community. Some residents, including Ajit Bti, a cancer researcher, and a neurologist who has known the Sony family for years, expressed strong support for the dispensary, citing its potential health benefits and the family’s positive impact on the community. They praised the Sony family as responsible business owners capable of managing a regulated establishment.

Conversely, several residents voiced strong opposition. Maryanne Nelson criticized the applicant’s changing ownership and lack of a concrete plan to mitigate the adverse effects of drug law enforcement on the community. She highlighted ongoing issues with garbage management at the proposed site and questioned the applicant’s ability to handle a regulated cannabis business. Adam Sarbo echoed these concerns, emphasizing the lack of written commitments to the community and the applicant’s failure to address ongoing neighborhood issues.

Further opposition came from Dave Greenup, who cited numerous code violations associated with properties owned by the Sony family. He questioned their ability to manage the business responsibly and expressed distrust based on their history of neglect. Tony Comps, another resident, raised concerns about inadequate parking and the unsatisfactory management of the previous business at the proposed site.

In response, Sony LLC representatives promised ongoing community engagement and efforts to address local concerns. They mentioned hiring a new trash service and committing substantial funds for renovations and business operations. They emphasized their commitment to regulatory compliance, stating that they would not be granted a license without meeting CCC guidelines.

The board also discussed employment policies, with plans to hire 15 to 20 employees, both full-time and part-time, at a starting wage of $20 per hour. The representatives committed to hiring over 85% of the workforce from Boston, with specific goals for diversity in hiring, including at least 50% women and significant representation from minorities.

Community benefits were another focal point, with concerns raised about the timeline for these benefits, set to commence once the facility achieves positive cash flow, projected in six to twelve months. The board emphasized the importance of a proactive plan to hire and support the community, rather than contingent on profitability.