Williams, Ore., — A marijuana farm in Williams wants to expand its business.
Due to zoning laws, it can’t put a proposed processing plant on its property.
But the location it was eyeing caused some concern in the community.
Siskiyou Sungrown wanted to put its new plant right in the center of town, in between a children’s center and a community center.
Now that’s changed.
In a growing industry, sometimes there are growing pains.
“I believe if we were extracting echinacea there for example, I don’t think we would have received this reaction.”
Siskiyou Sungrown owner, Cedar Grey is trying to open a marijuana processing plant in Williams to help expand his current marijuana farm.
“I’ve lived in Williams for 18 years and very proud of our business, and have a vision of making a very positive impact on our community.”
But the community wasn’t happy about the location he chose.
“There’s close proximity to the day care center, our grange is next door, the post office stores and so on.”
Neighbors went so far as to contact the county, and schedule a vote against the move.
“We’re gonna have to go through legal measures, and there’s always the potential for the parents becoming considerably upset over this.”
But that wasn’t necessary.
When Grey heard about the concerns, he knew he had one choice.
“Listening to the segment of the community that’s upset about this, we’re gonna find another site.”
While building a business is important to Grey, he says building goodwill is his top priority.
“We have a greater priority here of collaborating with the community for the peace, and well being of everyone here.”
Grey says the new site they are looking at is in a more industrial zone away from schools, neighbors and any other potential issues.
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