Canndara Cannabis store wins appeal

The Whitecourt Subdivision and Development Appeal Board held a public hearing December 18 regarding Development Permit 18-144 (Discretionary Use of Retail – General) for cannabis sales on Kepler Street. The space is currently occupied by Big Guy Outdoor Sports.                                

Edmonton based Canndara, a national franchise of cannabis stores had its application initially approved November 1, 2018 by the Whitecourt Development Authority; however, Big Guy Outdoor Sports submitted an appeal to the Town of Whitecourt along with a petition of 1,500 signatures to not only save their business from having to relocate, but to appeal the permit based upon the number of cannabis retail stores already approved to operate within the town.

After the allotted 15 days, the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board made its decision on December 27 and denied the appeal. The Board’s decision to deny the appeal and grant the permit for Canndara was based on Land Use Bylaws, and the proposed development complies with the provisions of the Municipal Development Plan. The Appeal Board stated in their Notice of Decision document that while they do note the concerns expressed, the Board is of the opinion that the comments relate to landlord/tenant issues and/or business competition matters which are non-relevant planning considerations.

Ricki Sawyer, owner of Big Guy Outdoor Sports, said the family-owned business has been in operation at that location for over nine years and approximately 75 per cent of its business comes from the ease of access and highway traffic. The business’s future is uncertain.