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US: Proposed marijuana club in Pueblo West denied permit Planning commission rejects permit by 6 to 2 vote Michelle San Miguel, KRDO.com Wednesday 29 Oct 2014 The Pueblo County Planning Commission denied a request from Sweet Leaf Cannabis Club for a special use permit for a private marijuana club on 420 S. McCulloch Blvd in Pueblo West. After more than three hours of public testimony, the planning commission voted 6 to 2 to deny the permit. Most commission members cited that the four owners listed in the application had not provided enough information, namely on the number of people who would be allowed in the club, and how the club would comply with the Clean Air Act. Ted Ferkel spoke on behalf of the four owners during the beginning of the hearing. He said he and his friends moved to Pueblo from Illinois earlier this year to pursue their dream. "Back in high school, me and my friends here, we all had this dream that maybe someday people could come to a place where they could smoke marijuana and socialize and enjoy it and not be afraid of any law enforcement or any stigma," Ferkel said. Planning commission members questioned Ferkel afterward, concerned about how the club would ensure that guests don't drive while highly intoxicated by marijuana. Ferkel said customers would be encouraged to take a taxi home. The proposed club would not be allowed to sell marijuana. The application filed with the county states the owners intend to sell food and drinks, marijuana paraphernalia, and pre-taxed cigars. In addition, the club would be closed on Sundays to accommodate Friends of God Church which is housed in the same building. Paula McPheeters, a Pueblo West resident who has repeatedly voiced opposition to marijuana businesses, said she's concerned about the location's proximity to Swallows Charter Academy. "It's the precedent that you're setting for future clubs and where they're located, not just for Pueblo West but the entire county. The decisions you make tonight, if you approve this, you will need to live with repeatedly," she said to the planning commission. Sweet Leaf co-owner Joshua Stevens said the company plans to appeal the planning commission's decision. The applicants have ten days to do so. It is up to Pueblo County commissioners whether to hear the appeal. Commission members Roger Lowe and Kiera Hatton voted in favor of the permit. Betty Alt, Ron Greenwell, Epimenio Griego, Jr. Phillip Mancha, Ronald Leyba and Arnold VanZandt voted to deny the permit. Chairman Donald Bruestle abstained from the vote since it was not a tie. http://www.krdo.com/news/proposed-marijuana-club-in-pueblo-west-denied-permit/29398866
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