SPRINGFIELD — The city’s decision to extend the deadline for proposals for marijuana retail stores in Springfield, due to a website mixup, spelled relief for a number of companies yesterday.
It was not immediately known how many companies missed the intended deadline at 2 p.m. Monday. The city said the confusion was related to a city Law Department webpage incorrectly saying the deadline was 5 p.m.
The city is extending the deadline to 2 p.m. Wednesday, a 48-hour extension, said Theo Theocles, the city’s deputy procurement officer.
Springfield grants 48-hour extension for marijuana shop proposals, citing webpage confusion
The city received 19 proposals for Springfield marijuana businesses by the May 20 deadline, but some potential bidders said there was confusion as to the due time.
Ezra Parzybok, a consultant for two proposed marijuana sites in Springfield, was among the late arrivers at City Hall on Monday, and praised the city for the extension on Tuesday. The fear of multiple companies being disqualified existed, but the city acted fairly, he said.
Parzybok represents two companies: Bay State Canna Holdings LLC, proposing a marijuana business at the former Russell’s Restaurant at 461 Boston Road, and Hennep Inc., proposing a marijuana shop at 15 Hampden St. downtown.
Both proposals were submitted about 4 p.m. Monday, and now count as being in on time, he said.
“I am happy that the city extended the timeline because I feel the teams should compete in the marketplace and not complete for the right to open,” Parzybok said. “I feel that all the projects are going to be a great benefit to the communities.”
Another company that was initially considered late was Primus Cannabis Group LLC, proposing to open a marijuana store at 666 State St., McKnight. Company manager Lamont Clemons praised the city for extending the deadline.
“Fortunately, the city was extremely accommodating,” Clemons said. “We’re happy we have an opportunity to compete in the process.”
The city will initially verify if the proposals submitted comply with the city’s zoning ordinance. Then, a city internal review committee consisting of city department heads and City Councilor Tracye Whitfield will evaluate and rank all proposals, with recommendations forwarded to Mayor Domenic J. Sarno.
Sarno said he anticipates selecting up to four companies for the first phase of new marijuana stores in Springfield. Those companies will negotiate host community agreements with the city that will need approval from Sarno and the City Council.
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