Kamloops now has approved the first two private pot shops, meaning only B.C. Government approval is required before they can start operating.
Council voted unanimously, rubber-stamping the locations at 399 Tranquille Road and the other at the Fortune Shopping Centre.
“Certainly we don’t have the final word, it has to go back to the province,” Coun. Tina Lange said. “But I think it’s a good use. I’m pleased that Nadine and Chris Lyth have been in Kamloops for a long time and they’ve worked hard to put this together. I think they’ll be responsible business owners.”
One of the owners, Chris Lyth, is looking forward to the opportunity.
“Government has made it clear that no location will receive grandfather rights, and everyone starts on an equal opportunity,” he said. “We have followed all regulations. Once approved, we intend to meet, and exceed, all regulatory requirements.”
The B.C. Government wants to add another two government stores in Kamloops, but there’s no indication on when those applications will go before the new Kamloops council.