I support changing the K2 zoning for Edipure to proceed with their business plan.

Being familiar with the state’s marijuana licensing laws, I’m comfortable that Edipure is a positive addition to our community. I feel that much of the opposition is based on ignorance of the law for this new industry. We overwhelmingly approved legal marijuana here; let’s get on with this new industry and let islanders enjoy the financial gains.

Jobs are needed. Precious few new jobs are created here. Others have tried to make this white elephant property usable, but none successfully. Opposition to electricity demands doesn’t make much sense because they will just do business elsewhere, using the same amount of electricity.

A horticultural operation will not tax Water District 19’s supply, as a rainwater catchment system will be used. Another user might not be able to use rainwater, possibly creating a large demand on our already stretched District 19 supply.  Any pollution that may already exist on the property will not be exacerbated by Edipure’s use.

Edipure’s pending purchase is an absolute gift to our community. They have stated that they cannot possibly use all the buildings onsite and are interested in making some available to non-profits. Another purchaser might not be interested in that or in a financial position to do so. The zoning was changed from Industrial to accommodate the plans of a potential purchaser. Changing it back makes sense because it is an industrial property.

We need our limited assets used to create jobs. The benefits to all our business owners should not be ignored. More paychecks positively affect every islander.

How many more years might we have to wait for this great asset to be put back to use?

We need Edipure doing business here instead of driving them off-island to a different facility.

— Linda Schaeffer