York, Maine, is set to welcome a new cannabis dispensary as the Tops Farm Medical Marijuana Dispensary received Planning Board approval to construct a facility at 464 U.S. Route 1, adjacent to Bangor Savings Bank. This marks a significant development for the town, as Tops Farm currently serves as the only licensed medical marijuana storefront in York and has been operating out of Meadowbrook Plaza since 2021.
Owner Cyrus Clark plans to self-finance the construction, which means the project will not commence until 2027. Clark expressed his excitement following the Planning Board’s approval on June 12, noting that the process has been long but ultimately positive.
The new facility will feature a barn-like design, characterized by brown and white siding, a gable-style roof, and barn doors. Clark aims to avoid overt marijuana branding; the building will not include green colors or marijuana leaf images. Instead, it will be landscaped extensively, with Clark emphasizing a commitment to beautifying the area. Planning Board Chair David Woods II remarked on the potential for the new building to improve the vacant lot’s appearance.
The new dispensary will occupy approximately 2,100 square feet, with around 1,000 square feet allocated for public access. The facility will include ten parking spaces and a two-way entrance. Clark noted that the current location’s condition is “dire,” making the new facility a welcomed upgrade. He also highlighted the fiscal advantages of the new location, which would offer better visibility.
Tops Farm is dedicated to remaining a medical marijuana dispensary until federal legalization occurs. Maine legalized medical marijuana in 1999 and recreational use in 2016, but Tops Farm will focus on medical cannabis until the federal government changes its classification of marijuana as a Schedule 1 controlled substance.
Despite the challenges in the cannabis market, including a saturation point and a correction phase, Clark remains optimistic. He pointed out that while some multi-state operators are profitable, many are still facing losses. He emphasizes the importance of quality over quantity in the cannabis industry.
In addition to running the dispensary, Clark has actively engaged with the local community, donating over $30,000 to York charities through his Make a Difference Monday initiative. He has also maintained regular meetings with York Hospital to ensure patients receive appropriate cannabis medicine. Clark’s commitment to patient care and community involvement continues to be a cornerstone of Tops Farm’s operations.
In summary, the new Tops Farm facility promises to bring a fresh aesthetic and improved services to York’s cannabis market. With construction slated to begin in 2027, the dispensary aims to maintain its focus on medical cannabis while preparing for potential future changes in legalization.
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