The Guilderland Zoning Board of Appeals has approved plans for a new recreational cannabis store at the site of the former Cone Zone ice cream shop, located at 2028 Western Ave. The board voted 4 to 1 on May 7, allowing Jason Southwood to establish the cannabis retail outlet.
Southwood, a resident of Altamont who attended Guilderland High School, has a history of entrepreneurship, having opened various businesses with his wife over the past two decades. Their most recent venture, Cannabis Central, a 3,000-square-foot store in Halfmoon, started operations last November. Despite their extensive business experience, this will be their first retail operation in Guilderland.
At the board meeting, three local residents voiced concerns about the potential impact of the cannabis shop on neighborhood traffic and safety. Ken Smith, a long-time resident, expressed worries about the increased traffic, especially with grandchildren visiting frequently. Barbara Nottke, another resident, highlighted the small size of the neighborhood and the potential influx of cars, particularly given the proximity of local schools and a church.
Southwood acknowledged the stigma surrounding cannabis, comparing it to historical perceptions of alcohol following prohibition. He noted that the Cone Zone had operated seasonally and that a year-round cannabis store might alter the neighborhood’s dynamics.
Despite the opposition, Southwood pointed out that his store complies with all state regulations, including being located more than 1,000 feet from the nearest school and 500 feet from the nearest church. He emphasized that traffic from his store would not exceed levels seen during busy times at the Cone Zone. He estimated that his average customer visit lasts around eight minutes, with about six to seven customers in the store at any given time.
Concerns about safety and property values also arose. Cristina Genovesi-Nania, whose home is adjacent to the proposed store, expressed fears for her family’s safety, particularly regarding the potential for drug use in the vicinity. Southwood assured that the establishment would have security cameras and that consumption of cannabis on-site would be strictly prohibited.
The cannabis store plans to create 25 to 30 jobs, with four to five employees working at any time. The Zoning Board granted approval with conditions, including adherence to lighting regulations. While traffic issues were a major point of concern among residents, the board clarified that traffic safety falls outside its jurisdiction.
This new store will mark Guilderland’s second cannabis retail outlet. Previously, the Verilife store transitioned from a medical-only dispensary to include recreational cannabis but later moved to Colonie for better visibility. Southwood remains optimistic that once the shop opens, community apprehensions will diminish as they see the business operations in action.
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