There’s no way to know how long it could be before Okotoks sees the doors open on its first retail marijuana store. While the Town has approved six development permits, the application process to open a retail cannabis location is a lengthy one, said Okotoks development services director Michael MacIntyre. First, applicants have to apply to Alberta Gaming Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC), and with proof of eligibility they are able to approach the Town for a development permit, he said. “Once the applicant is approved and issued a development permit, at that point the applicant can apply for their building permit,” said MacIntyre. “Then they have to go back to AGLC for final inspection of the premises.” The Town’s inspector will provide a report to the AGLC office in St. Albert, and the interim report can be used to apply for a Town of Okotoks business licence, he said. With the business licence in-hand, the applicant is able to go back to AGLC. “They can confirm they have the green light from the Town, and at that point AGLC can issue the provincial permit to sell cannabis,” said MacIntyre. Development officer Craig Davies said all of the current development permit applications in Okotoks have passed the standard 21-day appeal process and permits have been issued. At this point there’s no telling how long it could take to open up a storefront, he said. “The ball is in the applicants’ court now with regards to how fast they move forward with securing the approvals,” said Davies. Applicants have up to one year to make any necessary changes to their lease areas, he said. The approved cannabis retail locations are as follows: 130-100 Stockton Ave., 2A-220 North Railway Street, 225-200 Southridge Drive, 411-200 Southridge Drive, 743-201 Southridge Drive, and 353-105 Southbank Blvd.
