City of WL Cannabis Survey Results prompt Engagement

 Courtesy of the City of Williams Lake:

The City of Williams Lake recently conducted a public consultation survey to seek City residents' input on plans by Williams Lake First Nation (WLFN) and the wholly-owned WLFN limited partnership, Sugar Cane Cannabis LP, to build a micro-cannabis manufacturing facility and farm-gate retail outlet on San Jose Reserve (IR6) next to the existing cannabis retail store. 

Although the City has no authority to regulate development on reserve lands, the survey was conducted to seek input from residents, as the IR6 lands are entirely embedded within the City boundaries. The online survey found respondents to be generally supportive of the proposed cannabis manufacturing facility on IR6. 

In response to concerns raised with respect to land use, possible odour, and environmental issues, both organizations had meaningful discussions that provided reassurance that these issues were addressed in the design stage. 

The facility will comply with federal Health Canada standards. Since 1994, the City and WLFN have been bound by the Tillion Agreement, which grants the City access to the River Valley sewer infrastructure passing through the Tillion Reserve, located at the confluence of the Fraser River and Williams River. 

In exchange, the City committed to supplying water and sewer services to the IR6 land at no charge. Discussions are underway regarding the City and WLFN entering into a servicing agreement that may include fire protection, snow removal, sidewalks, storm drainage, and road maintenance for the development, and is expected to address concerns raised by residents. 

City of Williams Lake Council has provided public support for the project, provided residents’ issues are adequately addressed. 

The City would like to congratulate Williams Lake First Nation for its historic agreement with the Province of British Columbia supporting farm-gate sales of own-grown craft cannabis products. The City looks forward to the expanded opportunities for our community and region through job creation, economic stimulation, and tourism.