21:53The main event of the meeting was the public hearing concerning Green Meadows Farms LLC’s application for a special permit amendment. The company sought approval to offer medical marijuana sales in addition to its existing adult-use sales. The proposal was presented by CEO Chris Dawaki, who explained the company’s acquisition of rights from Calvert Naturals, the previous cannabis dispensary applicant. Dawaki highlighted their goal to establish a third dispensary in the state, emphasizing the quality and safety of the medical cannabis they planned to offer. He assured the council and attendees of their commitment to community engagement and highlighted their successful operations in Massachusetts with dispensaries in Southbridge and Fitchburg. These locations already combined adult and medical use sales, with medical sales accounting for approximately 12 to 15 percent of their business.

29:43During the hearing, no opposition was voiced by the public, and council members questioned the company’s operational practices. One council member inquired about the percentage of medical versus adult-use sales at existing locations, to which Dawaki provided a detailed breakdown. Concerns about on-site consumption were raised, but Dawaki reassured the council of their strict procedures and security measures to prevent such issues. The council’s lack of opposition suggested strong support for the amendment, aligning with the city’s approach to fostering business growth while ensuring regulatory compliance.

34:55In another major development, the municipal aggregation program was reported to have saved Marlborough residents over $2.6 million in the calendar year 2024, contributing to nearly $40 million in total savings since 2007. The program, which offers a competitive rate below National Grid while providing 100% renewable energy, was met with unanimous council approval.

36:14The meeting also addressed several financial requests and transfers. A transfer request of $41,533.50 from the recreation department was introduced. Additionally, a larger transfer of $364,517.93 was requested to fund collective bargaining agreements with the engineers’ foreman and patrol unions. Both requests were referred to the finance committee without opposition.

37:20The council reviewed a draft open space plan for 2025 to 2032, with a motion to refer it to the open space committee for further examination. The extensive work involved in preparing the report was acknowledged, and community engagement with the plan was encouraged to ensure broad-based input and successful implementation.

38:41Further agenda items included a communication related to cemetery and perpetual care trust fund guidelines, which received acknowledgment for the diligent work of city staff. A motion to accept and file this report passed unanimously.

44:55In zoning matters, the council accepted and filed a communication related to amendments for medical and adult-use marijuana testing laboratories. This was an administrative step. Additionally, the council approved a temporary sign authorization for the annual 2025 Colonial Fair and muster.

41:39The meeting concluded with the referral of an application for a special permit from 27 Curtis Ave LLC for car wash renovations to the Urban Affairs Committee and the approval of a taxi livery license application.