Spinney adds partner, is still in the race for Grafton marijuana license

A request to transfer the Host Community Agreement for former Selectman Bruce Spinney’s planned marijuana retailer was approved by Select Board despite one member’s continued opposition to its site.

Spinney, who resigned from the board two years ago to pursue one of two Grafton marijuana licenses, sought to transfer the HCA from his business, Noble Manna, Inc., to a new enterprise, Discern’d Cannabis Purveyors, which will be run by Spinney and his new business partner, Allan Villatoro. With Noble Manna on the fast track to open a marijuana business in Mendon, Spinney wanted a separate entity to continue the Grafton process.

“We’re ready to move forward with alacrity,” Spinney said.

Select Board member Doreen DeFazio questioned why Spinney is moving forward in Grafton, since two businesses, Resinate and M.J.’s Market, are ahead of him in the process. A third, Nature’s Remedy, also has a HCA.

“If we have two licenses already in town, what does this mean?” she asked.

Back in June, Spinney attempted to have Town Meeting approve a third marijuana license for just this reason. The citizens petition failed. But on Tuesday, he reminded DeFazio that his competitors had only provisional licenses and were still working through architectural planning, funding, and construction.

“It’s always been a race to the finish line. It’s a far cry from being able to open a store,” Spinney said.

DeFazio also reminded Spinney that she was not a fan of using 130 Worcester St., a long-abandoned building beside the Mass Pike.

“This is not a location where a lot of residents want to see a cannabis business built,” she said.

Select Board member Ed Prisby reminded her that the town has projected income from marijuana through several budget cycles, yet none have opened. He remarked that some town officials have talked about supporting new business only to be hostile to some applicants.

“I don’t see anybody racing anywhere,” he said. Surrounding communities are already in the marijuana business — including Millbury, which now hosts a Nature’s Remedy retailer.

Select Board member Mat Often reminded DeFazio that the proposed location is zoned for business/industrial, on a main road, and a rehab of an eyesore.

“I feel like these guys are trying to bust their tails to get a business open in Grafton… and we should support that,” Often said.

The HCA transfer was approved unanimously.