Another pot shop proposed for Blackstone

BLACKSTONE – A third retail cannabis shop is being proposed for downtown Blackstone.

Bradford Randall, a spokesman representing a group of investors called Elevated Roots, told the Planning Board last week the group is eyeing 2,500 square feet of vacant retail space inside a building at 114 Main St. for a recreational retail cannabis dispensary. The building houses three other businesses, including Richdale Food Shops and Casa Burrito.

Randall’s introductory meeting with the planners was the first time the group’s plans have been made public. Randall is also scheduled to discuss the proposal with the Blackstone selectmen this week in hopes of eventually entering into a host community agreement with the town. Prospective marijuana businesses are required to secure host community agreements before they can apply for a license from the state. Under the law, local officials can also set the tax rate on marijuana sold within their city or town’s limits, up to 3 percent.

Elevated Roots has a similar agreement with town officials in Kingston, Mass., where the groups is proposing to build a retail shop near the Plymouth border.

The Blackstone planners’ initial reaction to the proposal was mixed. Planner Anthony Catalano said his concerns include traffic congestion, parking and the proposed shop’s close proximity to the Blackstone Public Library and senior citizen complex at Foxbrook Manor.

“In general, I’m concerned about the possibility of a third recreational marijuana business in our town,” he said.

Planner Kirk Van Dyke said Elevated Roots’ proposal could actually benefit the residents of the nearby senior citizens complex.