Niles approves 2 marijuana consumption lounges

The South Bend Tribune reports that the Niles-Buchanan corridor has felt the rejuvenating impact of the marijuana industry with millions of dollars in investments and hundreds of new jobs over the past couple of years, and Niles has approved two public consumption facilities that could be among the first in the state:

…Niles recently gave the go-ahead for two consumption establishments that would allow operators to provide a public place where marijuana could be consumed.

Both those operators envision venues with food, entertainment and possibly private areas where people could use marijuana.

The owners of the ReLeaf Center, which has been operating a grow facility as well as a dispensary at 1840 Terminal Road, Niles, are still looking for a location to house such a business.

…ReLeaf has been in negotiations for a spot in a high-traffic area that would be suitable to house such a facility, said Randy Barr, compliance director for the business. It would be similar to a sports bar or lounge, but without the alcohol.

“We envision a place with a stage for live entertainment, pool and ping-pong tables, food and maybe a large screen for movies,” said Barr, adding that there would be a smoking and a non-smoking area in the establishment.

Since there isn’t a well-defined model for such a business, those involved aren’t sure whether it would require some sort of cover charge or membership to help support the operation, especially since patrons could bring their own marijuana or order it from whatever dispensary they want.

While ReLeaf is looking for a high-traffic area, Native Michigan Remedies is planning on a more discreet environment at 2112 Industrial Drive in the Niles Industrial Park. The 31,000-square-foot building most recently served as headquarters for a KFC franchise operator, but has recently begun growing marijuana plants.

Lots more in the Tribune & you can read more about Michigan cannabis consumption lounges on the MCT!