WEST SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – West Springfield's first recreational cannabis dispensary will officially open this Friday. This marks a significant milestone in the growing cannabis industry in Western Massachusetts. Mayor William C. Reichelt estimates his community, by initially not allowing adult-use recreational cannabis sales, lost out on between $6 million to $7 million in tax revenue over the past few years.
Tom Keenan and Curt Gezotis, co-owners of Cannabis Connection, stand on the future retail floor at 1102 Riverdale St., where their dispensary is located. The journey to opening the dispensary was not without challenges, including delays exacerbated by the coronavirus pandemic. However, after months of hard work, Cannabis Connection opened its doors four months ago on June 9 to serve the growing demand for legal cannabis products in the area.
At its meeting on March 18, the Westfield Legislative & Ordinance committee began work on proposed changes to the city's marijuana regulations. This highlights the ongoing efforts to adapt local laws to accommodate the burgeoning cannabis industry in the region. The first orders for Cannabis Connection were placed at 10 a.m. Tuesday, with pickups starting at noon. As noon passed, just a few vehicles sat outside the dispensary, a sign of the steady flow of customers eager to explore the offerings.
The first marijuana dispensary in Westfield has quickly become a focal point for cannabis enthusiasts in the area. These 20 Massachusetts recreational marijuana dispensaries are within 20 minutes of the Connecticut border, highlighting the convenience for out-of-state visitors looking to enjoy legal cannabis products. Cannabis Connection's opening has also attracted attention from neighboring communities, signaling a potential shift in attitudes towards cannabis legal in the region.
In addition to the positive developments in the cannabis industry, other news stories are also making headlines. For instance, a man on parole has been convicted of rape again, underscoring the complex societal issues that continue to pose challenges. Meanwhile, a woman is suing a library after sustaining an injury in the bathroom, shedding light on the importance of public safety measures in shared spaces. Amidst these stories, the opening of a hot chicken spot serves as a reminder of the diverse business landscape in the region.
Overall, the emergence of Cannabis Connection in Westfield represents a significant step forward for the cannabis industry in Western Massachusetts. The co-owners' dedication to providing high-quality products and services has resonated with the local community, driving interest and demand for legal cannabis options. As regulations continue to evolve and public perceptions shift, the future looks bright for the cannabis connection in Westfield and beyond.
