THUNDER BAY — The Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce says allowing legal cannabis retailers to operate in the community will show that the city is "open for business."
The statement came in a letter sent by president Charla Robinson to members of Thunder Bay City Council.
At its meeting Monday evening, council will receive an initial report from city administration outlining the pros and cons of permitting bricks-and-mortar cannabis retail outlets.
Robinson's letter said if council decides to opt in, it will be sending "a positive message" that it is open for business and "is welcoming of new industries as we work together to build a City of Opportunity."
She noted that a recent survey conducted by Deloitte found that 51 per cent of Canadian consumers are interested in buying cannabis from licensed private retailers, whereas only 33 per cent are interested in purchasing online.
The chamber cited the benefits to the city including new jobs, new property taxes, increased demand for commercial space, and tourism.
It also pointed to the provincial government's promise to provide a financial incentive to municipalities that opt in.
City administration's report for council includes a summary of the views of 15 city departments, divisions and city-related committees.
Five recommend approval of cannabis retail operations, nine take a neutral position, and only the Thunder Bay Police service is opposed.
