East New York, Brooklyn — Community Board 5's Cannabis Committee voted 6–1 on March 2 to support the renewal of Bud City, a licensed dispensary at Fulton Street and Crescent Street in East New York, after a tense public review.
During the meeting at 127 Pennsylvania Avenue, several board members said they remained frustrated that the dispensary opened despite the board previously voting against it. Now, they said, the business had returned seeking the board's support as part of the renewal process.
"We all did feel very slighted about the decision that was made."
The discussion highlighted what some members described as a gap between local input and state authority over cannabis licensing. Community boards can issue advisory votes on dispensaries in their districts, but final decisions are made by the state Office of Cannabis Management.
Bud City representatives said the company is working to build stronger relationships in the neighborhood. The store's general manager said the business has tried to educate residents about regulated cannabis, hire local workers and partner with organizations in the area.
Board members said they want to see more consistent engagement moving forward.
"We want to see you in the community, not just when you need something from us."
The meeting also included questions about product safety, child-resistant packaging, loitering concerns and the role licensed dispensaries can play in pushing back against illegal cannabis shops.
The committee ultimately backed the renewal while making clear that Bud City will face closer scrutiny going forward. The recommendation now moves forward through the community board's advisory process before the renewal decision advances further.