'Waste of time' as Springfield Cannabis Co. criticized for inability to answer questions
SPRINGFIELD -- Showing up late and unable to answer questions with specificity about jobs, traffic and security, a representative of a proposed marijuana facility was criticized Tuesday for being unprepared.
"It doesn't strike me that you're entirely prepared," City Councilor Michael A. Fenton said. "But it strikes me that this meeting today is a colossal waste of time."
Fenton is the councilor for Ward 2, where Springfield Cannabis Co. is proposing to open a marijuana business at vacant industrial property at 732 Cottage St.
Steven Mrowzinski, president of Springfield Cannabis, apologized for arriving late to the meeting at the John Boyle O'Reilly Club, 33 Progress Ave., and being unable to address residents' questions.
"It's a little bit of a rough start. I apologize for that," he said, adding, "I understand what you're saying and we're trying our best here."
He said he would take up residents and officials on the suggestion that another community meeting be held later when he is able to provide more answers to their questions.
About 30 people attended the meeting.
Springfield Cannabis lists Steven Mrowzinski and Michelle Mrowzinski, both of Middle Island, N.Y, as the corporate officers and directors. Steven Mrowzinski is listed as company president.
Philip Dromey, the city's deputy planner, said that a fully detailed security plan is part of the submission required by the city and state. In addition, he said he would expect that a traffic study will be needed from the company.