Cannabis = Jobs in Grand Rapids

mLive reports that the second medical marijuana grow operation in Grand Rapids opened today with a ribbon-cutting by the mayor.

The new growing operation by Fluresh is expected to have more than 100 workers and produce roughly 40,000 to 48,000 pounds of medical marijuana annually when operating at full capacity, according to company officials.

…“I’m happy to be here for the ribbon-cutting, because Fluresh is really leading the way in our community in this new industry, and they’ve made significant commitments to the community, especially this neighborhood,” Mayor Rosalynn Bliss said. “I’m happy to be here to support their efforts.”

Fluresh CEO Tom Benson said the company is working with Black and Brown Cannabis Guild and LINC UP, a nonprofit community development organization, to hire diverse employees. He said the company is specifically hoping to source workers from the 49507 ZIP code, which includes the grow operation and a good portion of the city’s Southeast Side.

“One of our key focuses is really collaborating with community partners in Grand Rapids,” Benson said. “We’ve made significant investment, financial investment in this facility and really want to collaborate with the community, bring employment opportunities and really focus on having a positive local impact and bring employees from the local area.”

Read more at mLive & kudos to Fluresh for advancing social equity in West Michigan!