HomeMy Public PortalAbout2017-03-14 ATG - RMD /1630
Watertown Town Council
Administration Building
149 Main Street
p�Ce co
Watertown, MA 02472
Phone: 617-972-6470
ELECTED
OFFICIALS:
Committee on Economic Development and Planning
Mark S.Sideris, Meeting: March 2, 2017
Council President Report: March 14, 2017
Vincent J.Piccirilli,Jr., The Committee convened at 7:00 pm on Thursday March 2, 2017 in the Philip Pane Lower
Vice President Conference Room. Present were Susan Falkoff, chair; Kenneth Woodland,vice-chair; and
Michael F.Dattoli, Vincent Piccirilli, secretary. Staff present were Stephen Magoon,Director of Community
Councilor At Large Development&Planning/Assistant Town Manager; Andrea Adams, Senior Planner; and
Aaron P.Dushku, Mark Reich, Town Attorney/KP Law. See attached sheet for other attendees.
Councilor At Large
Review the Application for Alternative Therapies GrouD(ATG) for a Recistered Mariivana
Susan G.Falkoff, DisDensary at 36 Arlincton Street to determine if it is readv to be broucht to the Town
Councilor At Large Council for a vote for a letter of suDDort or non-oDDosition.
Anthony Palomba,
Councilor At Large Chris Edwards,the petitioner, gave an overview of his application, along with Julio Fuentes,
his Chief Financial Officer. (see addendum for revised application)
Angeline B.Kounelis,
District A Councilor
Key changes from Alternative Therapies Group's prior application:
Lisa J.Feltner, • They provided a detailed facility plan with proposed security measures, and parking
District B Councilor arrangements.
Kenneth M.woodland, • They now agree to a Host Community Agreement with a mitigation payment, term
District D Councilor of the agreement is life of the facility, and a limitation on recreational marijuana
sales.
The Committee discussion included these key points:
• Councilor Piccirilli noted that their proposed financial projection shows them in the red by year
three, and asked for clarification. Mr. Edwards stated that they believe that recreational marijuana
sales will begin to cut into their business by year 3, and that they will need to begin selling
recreational marijuana to stay competitive.
• Mr. Magoon asked about the parking arrangements, and said that this building had a history of
parking problems, and was also the subject of a prior Special Permit condition on parking. Mr.
Edwards stated he was not aware of that,but had been negotiating for additional parking spaces with
the landlord, and that a parking study is in process.
• Mr. Magoon asked about the loitering he observed at their Salem facility, and how ATG will
address this in Watertown. Mr. Edwards stated that they will educate their patients to wait inside
the lobby to wait for rides.
• Mr. Reich provided a marked-up copy of the Host Community Agreement(see Attachment A),
stating that there was much back-and-forth with the petitioner on the wording. Two problematic
areas were the mitigation payment, and the agreement not to sell recreational marijuana. Mr.
Edwards said they do expect to offer recreational sales once this is legal, and that he expects the
Town will be allowing this sometime soon. Mr. Reich cautioned that this is not correct, and the
Town is not currently working on any regulations for recreation sales.
Page 1 of 2
Committee on Economic Development and Planning Report March 14, 2017
• Councilor Woodland asked about the mitigation payments for"negative impacts"which would be
determined by the Town in its"reasonable discretion", and asked if this would create future legal
battles over what are the negative impacts and what they are worth. Mr. Edwards stated that they do
not expect any negative impacts so they don't see the need to make any payments to the Town.
• Councilor Falkoff noted that presenting a financial projection that shows losing money in the third
year seems like a poor business plan, and it seems like they are setting this up to create a necessity
to sell recreational marijuana by year 3.
• Councilor Woodland stated that this Committee's job is not to weigh the merits of the application,
but rather to insure that the application is complete, as described in the November 9, 2016
Committee report,to bring before the Town Council for a vote. Mr. Reich concurred.
• Councilor Piccirilli agreed that the application appears complete and ready to send to the Town
Council for a vote,but expressed concern about the apparent conflicting positions the petitioner has
taken on both the mitigation payments and the prohibition on recreational marijuana sales.
• Mr. Magoon stated that prior to coming forward for a Town Council vote,the petitioner must hold a
community meeting.
4 Action Item: Councilor Woodland made a motion, seconded by Councilor Piccirilli, to refer the
application for a Medical Marijuana Treatment Center at 36 Arlington Street by Alternative Therapies
Group,back to the Town Council for a vote for a letter of support or non-opposition. The motion was
affirmatively voted 3-0.
Reuse of the Former Police Station
Mr. Magoon presented a memo (see Attachment B)with input from various departments. He also had the
on-call architect perform a quick review of the estimated costs, and the found the costs in line. The
discussion generated two schemes for moving forward:
1. If the School Department moves its administrative offices to the building, it will take a majority of the
available space,but could potentially co-exist with the fire boat storage, consolidated Town/School IT
operations, and the Library's Hatch Program. This use would also require significant changes to the
municipal parking. A feasibility study for future school needs is currently underway and should be
completed in six months, so more will be known at that time about the need for administrative space if
the Phillips School is used as an additional school or as temporary space while other buildings are being
renovated or replaced.
2. If the School Department does not need to use the building,then uses could include the entire DCDP, as
well as the consolidated IT servers, fire boat storage, and Hatch. This will not significantly impact
municipal parking because DCDP employees are already working in the municipal center and it would
allow Town Hall space to be allocated in a more effective way.
The Committee agreed to reconvene after the School's feasibility study is done for further discussion.
The meeting adjourned at 8:30 pm.
Report prepared by Vincent Piccirilli
Page 2 of 2
Watertown Town Council
Administration Building
149 Main Street
Watertown, MA 02472
ELECTED Phone: 617-972-6470
OFFICIALS:
Mark S.Sideris,
Council President MEETING NOTICE
Vincent J.Piccirilli,Jr., COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND PLANNING
Vice President
THURSDAY,MARCH 2, 2017, 7:00 P.M.
Michael F.Dattoli, PHILIP PANE LOWER CONFERENCE ROOM, GROUND FLOOR
Councilor At Large ADMINISTRATION BUILDING
Aaron P.Dushku,
Councilor At Large
Susan G.Falkoff,
Councilor At Large
1. Call to Order
Anthony Palomba,
Councilor At Large
2. Review the Application for Alternative Therapies Group for a Registered
Angeline B.Kounelis, Marijuana Dispensary at 36 Arlington Street to See if it is Ready to be Brought
District A Councilor to the Town Council for a Vote for a Letter of Support or Non-opposition.
Lisa J.Feltner,
District B Councilor 3. Re-Use of the Former Police Station Building
Kenneth M.Woodland,
District D Councilor 4. Adjournment
Councilor Susan G. Falkoff, Chair
cc: Honorable Town Council
Committee Members:
Susan G. Falkoff, Chair
Kenneth M. Woodland, Vice-Chair
Vincent J Piccirilli, Jr., Secretary
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Attachment A
TOWN OF WATERTOWN
AND ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES GROUP,INC.
HOST COMMUNITY AGREEMENT
tHIS HOST COMMUNITY AGREEMENT ("AGREEMENT") is entered into this day of Commented[AS]:In addition to the provisions contained herein,
2016r2017 by and between Alternative Therapies Group,Inc.,a Massachusetts not-for-profit I many municipalities have negotiated Host Community Agreements
that address some of the following:
corporation with a principal office address of 24R Pleasant St, Unit 2, Newburyport, MA,01950 ("the
Company'), and the Town of Watertown, a Massachusetts municipal corporation with a principal The potential for the RMD•s engagement in the cultivation,
processing and sale of marijuana for recreational purposes in this
address of 149 Main Street, Watertown, MA 02472 ("the Town"), acting by and through its Town Agreement(see provision included below)
Manager.
I Restrictions on the production of sale of items that resemble or are in
the form of candy,such as lollipops,gummy bears,jelly beans or
WHEREAS, the Company wishes to locate a Registered Marijuana Dispensary ("RMD") similar products,as well as hours of operation.
dispensing facility (but not a cultivation or processing facility) at 36 Arlington I Commitments to provide staff to participate in Town-sponsored
Street in the Town in accordance with regulations issued by the educational programs on public health and drug abuse prevention,
Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Public Health DPH" and the Town's Zoning and departments
cooperatively witheFICAother ownpunhcsafety
p ("DPH") I departments not mentioned in the FICA.
Ordinance;and
Required coordination with the Police Department in a similar
manner as the NS AGO HCA provides.
WHEREAS,the Company intends to provide certain benefits to the Town in the event that it
11 pt
receives a license from the DPH to operate an RMD dispensing facility(the"DPH License")and receives Formatted:Font:(Default)+Body(Calibri),
all required local permits and approvals;and
WHEREAS,the Companv is seeking a letter of support/non-opposition from the Town regarding
the Comoanv's application for the DPH License.
NOW THEREFORE,in consideration of the provisions of this Agreement,the Company offers and
the Town accepts this Agreement in accordance with G.L c.44, §53A,and the Company and the Town
agree as follows:
1. In the event that the presence of Companv's dispensary facilitv results in negative impacts on- Formatted:List Paragraph,Add space between paragraphs
the Town. Companv agrees to mitigate these impacts through Davments to the Town uD to a of the same style,Numbered+Level:1+Numbering Style:
1,2,3,...+Start at:1+Alignment:Left+Aligned at: 0"+
maximum amount of S200,000 per vear ("Mitigation Pavments"). Negative Impacts and Indent at: 0.5"
associated mitigation costs are to be determined by the Town in its reasonable discretion. —�Formatted:Font:(Default)+Body(Calibri),11 pt
z. The !`.......a Ry agFees to I., nwAal pmyme..#r the Tr...,.. in the a Rd 1 Rd PF♦I...
teFF.s..r,..,ided h Fei.,(the 461...I..r,,.....#,,.... ) The C;9M..aRy.hall:vo i!::1hi Tcvg;W..,,..,th @RR...,..,,..I
Prefit_and Less Statements,as seen as they beEGme available, FefleEting gFOSS sales figWes fer
thp RMD dispensing farHity located in thp Town eevies of its veriedie financial filings to the DPH
.J,.,.. ___a gross revenues and also a ceov of i+r anneal f:lina i1 a Fiar.r/af:+ ifs., +n+t+..+he
a. In the first, of epeFatien: 25 pement of the RMD's gross ales revenue geneFated
+..A Tn..,n rluring the first year of operation, e be paid within 60 days after♦t.n ens.Af
the First ye@F of a ri ir., Pk')[ W? s of$100 000 GeRSOStiRg of tW8 paymeRts 9
$50 000 each to he marlp. :thin an days after each of the following milestones:(•I)the
receipt of all the Townes Spee+al Permits, occupancy permits, etc. as required to
cernmenee Donn n -,tinny (2) the remmenrement of sales at the onnn dispensing
h. IM tV.1 I ' .Rd and r p-dinn yeaFs of epeFatien: 3.00 peFeent of the DnAn'r gFOSS ales
Fevenue nd 6 n the Teimn ch yeaF of epeFation, to be paid within cn days
after the end of the yeaF of n r^tien, In the ev 1fal.the l>n
that i RA,.^" :Hall tha n^^^t°^^'L^I^"than v.1 Commented[A2]:The Town may wish to consider adding such
language.
3. TI-- f^'^"of this Agreement shall be Fenegetiated by the Gemn-.n.,and the T-eWR iRgeed fait L.-, Formatted:Font:(Default)+Body(Calibri),11 pt
fallow" k:.,� ., f^ ^t:..,,,.,.r 9peF^t:� nn facility ^r Formatted•Font: Default +Bod Calibri 11 t
t.. �i 1kr f1A ^ t"^ ^'rrrl yhr11k11 ( ) v( ), p
TewHe2v_iMm_ w h^'t community .,:t L. ;in. add.it:nn^I R.M.D.TLntits/cf this.%gFeement
Formatted:Normal, No bullets or numbering
Commented[A3]:I would advise against this language as the
ceRegetidi.m rf thif Arai rim@PA rh rU.incl„de a Feview of n^riti„e and negative 0mpaets„n^n the T-ewR Company would have limited incentive to renegotiate once it isfully
approved by DPH and operating.
;�ui�enlf, ur.d h�winuf_ nri lirtaildi3rr,
GeMMURityT11MAV., Wlfllft?d bUSiReS5 gfe`•th a4ieeFime, use of T-9WR _�, p,..;-.(—
prepeFtyimpacts,and theF documentedimpacts. In the n yyAol*.a Company enters
host community nt for onnn yith o1hcr ir,AAR'c alit.. the Cm -,Itl. of
the
nn-,rr^^l..r,.tt tt.-.t'Inteim firstfiif.1&rlwf 1hfl. tfs flllfbill,19 what the!'..mn RFA
,:.J..
tTt�CxN lfurll.lurlt to this AweemeRt then the i9apties shall FeeiaeR this 1-men1 tr.�Ira^->a94atte_vn
RMIRR14MIMI 1191VIIIln;in fiRaRei..l beRpfitr tR the Tn..,n eeawiyaleRt eF rwmnrinr to these nrn,.idpel to the
r1her rtAo.-% pd6ltV
4.2. The Treasurer of the Town shall hold theall DenationsMitiaation Pavments in a separate
account,to be expended by the Town Council without further appropriation pursuant to G.L.
c.44, §53A, for the purposes of addressing the potential health, safety, and other effects or
impacts of the RMD facility on the Town and on municipal programs, services, personnel, and
facilities. While the purpose of these payments is to assist the Town in addressing any public
health, safety and other effn^ts or i:Yil'!./7�Ic fys FIN^n dispensing f^^:lit., May have the
Tnivp hese issues, the Town may expend the above-referenced payments at its sole and
absolute discretion,as determined by the Town.
- Formatted:Justified
3. The Company, in addition to any aaaualMitieation P-payments specified herein,shall annually
contribute to public charities in an amount no less than a sum of$25,000,said charities to be
determined by the Company in its reasonable discretion.
4. Except as provided herein,tThe provisions of this Agreement shall be applicable as long as the- Formatted:Justified
Company operates a RMD dispensing facility in the Town, pursuant to a license issued by DPH,
subject to the provisions of Paragraph 89,below.
6-The Company ill w .~..I,,m Teke�.^ff^~t'_shall work in a good faith, legal and non-discriminatory manner �Formatted:Font:(Default)+Body(Calibri),11 pt f
to hire qualified, local vendors, suppliers, contractors, builders and employees who are Town
residents,and t tiliie, orlon b.agnrl i the Tn.•,n
2
*a roc). property of the Roan dispensing fae'lity shall he
treated a taxable and the r,...,pan shall not object to or ether. .,i-a ahr"It'.Of J'.e taxability a
crL. pvl.gnKdpoy, but reseFves any Fights it might have with respect to the Valuation Of SEIMP
The r,......any, te the e* ant IKM it rnt;#hUir:1 Pit IIti0ioMj..^^ as a Fen pFefit eFganiEatieR
t. pliGable MaSSae!RUSettS IaW Shall b eXefflpt fFeffl the PayffleRt Rf taxeg AR
PeFSE)nal PFE)PeFty W the s ^91V9rot 17 arri2ar .Rd faCiliti PM epeFating within the
Town..The Companv shall pav all local,state and federal taxes as required by applicable law,as Formatted:Font:(Default)+Body(Calibri),11 pt
now existing or as hereafter may from time to time be enacted. repealed or modified. The
Companv shall not request anv tax credits or subsidv from the Town for the development of
land or the Facilitv, including but not limited to anv request for a real estate tax exemption or
abatement as a non-profit corporation,and shall not obiect or otherwise challenge the taxabilitv
of land or the RMD. Notwithstanding the foregoing. (i) if real or personal property is
determined to be non-taxable or partially non-taxable.a determination of which the Companv
agrees not to seek at anv time during this Agreement or (ii) if the value of such property is
abated with the effect of reducing or eliminating the tax which would otherwise be paid if
assessed at fair cash value as defined in G.L.c.59,§38,or NO if the Companv is determined to
be entitled or subiect to exemption with the effect of reducing or eliminating the tax which
would otherwise be due if not so exempted,then the Companv shall pav to the Town an amount
which when added to the taxes.if anv.paid on such property,shall be equal to the taxes which
would have been pavable on such property at fair cash value and at the otherwise applicable tax
rate, if there had been no abatement or exemption; this pavment shall be in addition to the
IFAl9aGt ^^ 'i^^Mitigation Pavments made by the Companv under Section .1 of
this Agreement.
6. The Companv,its successors,assigns or related parties herebv agrees to waive any rights it has- Formatted:Justified
or may have to cultivate, sell or Process non-medical mariivana or to operate a Mariivana Formatted:Font:(Default)+Body(Calibri),11 pt
Establishment,as defined in G.L.c.94G,§1,for non-medical use at the site of its RMD within the
Town and herebv agrees that it shall not engage in cultivating.selling or processing mariivana
and mariivana products for non-medical use within the Town without first obtaining prior
written authorization from the Watertown Town Council and comolving with all State and local
regulations and obtaining all necessary State and local licenses and permits. The Companv
further agrees that in the event the Companv becomes licensed and permitted to operate a
Mariivana Establishment at the same location as the RMD, the parties shall renegotiate the
terms of this Agreement.including but not limited to increasing the amount of the oMitigation
Pavments to be made to the Town.in recognition that the additional purposes of the RMD may
have greater impacts and effects on
the Town. in ne rase shall the annual I enati^^Pavments-
be
9-. The obligations of the Company and the Town recited herein are specifically contingent upon
the Company obtaining the DPH License for operation of a RMD dispensing facility in the Town,
and the Company's receipt of any and all necessary local approvals to locate, occupy, and
operate a RMD dispensing facility in the Town. If the Companv fails to secure either a Final
Certificate of Registration, or any of the required municipal approvals aforementioned, this
Agreement shall be null and voidi hewe or,ir.i►nk virsumstaRees,the Gempany Shall FeiMbUFse
the T-GwR fGF its legal feesasser"atpel with the n ffee....nt tirt;a�r ,1is ..
I&8_This Agreement does not affect, limit, or control the authority of Town boards, commissions,
and departments to carry out their respective powers and duties to decide upon and to issue,or
3
deny, applicable permits and other approvals under the statutes and regulations of the
Commonwealth, the General and Zoning Bylaws Ordinances of the Town, or applicable
regulations of those boards, commissions, and departments, or to enforce said statutes,
Sylawsordinances,and regulations. The Town,by entering into this Agreement, is not thereby
required or obligated to issue such permits and approvals as may be necessary for the RMD
dispensing facility to operate in the Town, or to refrain from enforcement action against the
Company and/or its RMD dispensing facility for violation of the terms of said permits and
approvals or said statutes,Bylawsordinances,and regulations.
44-.9. The Company shall not assign,sublet or otherwise transfer this Agreement,in whole or in part,
without the prior written consent of the Town,and shall not assign any of the monies payable
under this Agreement,except by and with the written consent of the Town.
4-L 10. This Agreement is binding upon the parties hereto, their successors, assigns and legal
representatives. Neither the Town nor the Company shall assign or transfer any interest in the
Agreement without the written consent of the other.
4-3,11. The Company agrees to comply with all laws, rules, regulations and orders applicable to the
RMD dispensing facility, such provisions being incorporated herein by reference, and shall be
responsible for obtaining all necessary licenses, permits, and approvals required for the
performance of such work. The Company agrees not to assert or seek exemption as an
agricultural use under the provisions of G.L. c.40A, §3 from the requirements of the Town's
Zoning BylawsOrdinances.
Any and all notices,or other communications required or permitted under this Agreement,shall- — (Formatted:Justified
be in writing and delivered by hand or mailed postage prepaid, return receipt requested, by
registered or certified mail or by other reputable delivery service,to;e paFtito r`1hr r4olfair21
set4s.-.c a,,%Pons 1 or f„rRishp d F.rr,lima to 1iwo i,,%writing hereafteF by, party to the atheparty. Any qUICh RGtiCe eF reFrespendence shall be deemed given%A.FhP_.R se deliveFed by hand,i
so mailed,when deposited�k�t *)nc YL. P9stal Service eF, if sent by pFivate evernight 9F other
d liveFy seFYiee,when.J..pesited,.41;side..deli eFy seFY,,., _,and will be effective upon receipt
for hand or said delivery and three days after mailing, to the other Partv at the following
addresses:
If to TOWN: Michael J.Driscoll - Formatted:Space After: o pt
Town Manager - Formatted.Indent:Left: 1.5',Space After: 0 pt
----------------------------------------------
149 Main St. - Formatted:Space After: 0 pt
Watertown,MA 02472
If to the Comoanv: n e^dPnt and CFQAlternative Theraoies Grouo - — Formatted:Space After: o pt
24R Pleasant St,Unit 2
NewburvDort.MA 019501 Commented[A41:This needs to be confirmed.
Formatted:Font:(Default)+Body(Calibri),11 pt�
4
44-. 2. If any term or condition of this Agreement or any application thereof shall to any extent be held
invalid, illegal or unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction,the validity, legality, and
enforceability of the remaining terms and conditions of this Agreement shall not be deemed
affected thereby unless one or both parties would be substantially or materially prejudiced.` Formatted:Font:(Default)+Body(Calibri),11 pt J
Further,the Companv agrees it will not challenge, in anv iurisdiction,the enforceabilitv of anv
provision included in this Agreement; and to the extent the validity of this Agreement is
challenged in a court of competent iurisdiction,the Companv shall pay for all reasonable fees
and costs incurred by the Town in enforcing this Agreement.
4-5 13. This Agreement shall be governed by,construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of
the Commonwealth of Massachusetts,and the Company submits to the jurisdiction of any of its
appropriate courts for the adjudication of disputes arising out of this Agreement.
4&14. This Agreement, including all documents incorporated herein by reference, constitutes the
entire integrated agreement between the Company and the Town with respect to the matters
described herein. This Agreement supersedes all prior agreements, negotiations and
representations, either written or oral, and it shall not be modified or amended except by a
written document executed by the parties hereto.
15. This Agreement shall also be null and void in the event that the Company shall not locate a RMDt Formatted:Justified,Space After: 0 pt J
dispensing facility in the Town or shall relocate such RMD dispensing facility out of the Town. In
the case of any relocation out of the Town,an adjustment of funds due to the Town hereunder
shall be calculated based upon the period of occupation of the RMD dispensing facility within
the Town, but in no event shall the Town be responsible for the return of any funds already Formatted:Font:(Default)+Body(Calibri),11 pt
provided to it by the Company, Formatted:Normal,Justified, No bullets or numbering
the «; «; c this n « ~ Formatted:Numbered+Level:1+Numbering Style:1,2,
3,...+Start at:1+Alignment:Left+Aligned at: 0"+
Indent at: 0.5"
t Formatted:Space After: 12 pt,Numbered+Level:1+
4q—.----IThis agreement shall become null and void if and when the Commonwealth of Massachusetts or- Numbering Style:1,2,3,...+Start at:1+Alignment:Left+
Aligned at: 0"+Indent at: 0.5"
the Town of Watertown adopts an excise tax, fee, or assessment that entitles the Town to Formatted:Space After: 12 pt
revenue from the Company in addition to the annual campensationMitigation Pavments
(section-21).charitable donations(section 3),or. tax payments(section 5S)set forth in Formatted:Font:(Default)+Body(Calibri),11 pt
this agreement) Formatted:Font:(Default)+Body(Calibri),11 pt
16. Formatted:Font:(Default)+Body(Calibri),11 pt
— The Tai.vn may terminate this Agreement at any time by providing wFitten n—,.--- I \ Commented[A5]:The Department of Revenue has determined
III that the sales tax exemption for prescription medicine in G.L.c.
64H.§6(1)applies to sales of marijuana and products containing
marijuana to a qualifying patient or the patient's personal caregiver
II pursuant to a written certification by a licensed physician.Any other
supplies,educational materials or other items sold by the medical
marijuana treatment center are subject to tax unless another
IN WITNESS WHEREOF,the parties hereto have executed this Agreement on the day and year it exemption applies.
first above written. Further,under the so-called Recreational Marijuana Act,the Town
Imay impose a sales tax of up to 2%for non-medical use of
I1 marijuana.
Il Formatted:Font:(Default)+Body(Calibri),11 pt
TOWN OF WATERTOWN ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES GROUP,INC. Formatted:Font:(Default)+Body(Calibri),11 pt
Formatted:Space After: 12 pt,Numbered+Level:1+
Numbering Style:1,2,3,...+Start at:1+Alignment:Left+
Aligned at: 0"+Indent at: 0.5"
5
By: By:Christopher Edwards
Its: Its:Executive Director
.572784/WATR/0001 Formatted:Font:11 pt
6
Gmail -FW: Old Police Station report review Page 1 of 5
Attachment B
MG m a l l Vincent Piccirilli <vincent.piccirilli@gmail.com>
FW: Old Police Station report review
Magoon, Steven <smagoon@watertown-ma.gov> Fri, Feb 24, 2017 at 12:15 PM
To: Town Councilors <TownCouncilors@watertown-ma.gov>
Cc: "Driscoll, Michael" <mdriscoll@watertown-ma.gov>, "Tracy, Thomas" <ttracy@watertown-ma.gov>, "Mee,
Gerald" <Jmee@watertown-ma.gov>, "Lawn, Michael" <mlawn@watertown-ma.gov>, "Rosati, Deborah"
<drosati@watertown-ma.gov>, "Mahoney, Joseph" <jmahoney@watertown-ma.gov>, "Centola, Peter"
<pcentola@watertown-ma.gov>, "Cole, Leone" <Icole@watertown-ma.gov>, John Brackett
<john.brackett@watertown.k12.ma.us>, "Orangio, Mario Fwd Mail to Fire" <morangio@fire.watertown-ma.gov>
At the last Economic Development and Planning subcommittee meeting, Councilors requested some
additional information from staff regarding the architects report and departments that are interested in
using the renovated space.
Below is a preliminary review from one of our current on-call architects with options for further study. I
have also attached several responses that I have gotten from various departments, and summarize all of
this below.
The cursory review would suggest the cost figures are not out of line, but that the assumption as to the
number of staff that could be housed may have been high. Based on this, I would suggest that we assume
a renovated building could accommodate approximately 40 staff members, as opposed to the 63
originally envisioned by the previous architects in the renovated space of 12,788 square feet. While we
may be able to accommodate more with a final design, I would suggest the more conservative approach
at this point. We should also assume that a renovation should cost approximately$4.8 million.
Regarding departmental needs, I have received the following;
Library—HATCH needs at least 1500 square feet of open area, lots of electricity and preferably a sink.
Leone Cole has also suggested the idea of a larger innovation space,with a commercial kitchen and office
space for teaching and entrepreneurs.
Information Technology—The former dispatch center could be a good location for a combined School and
Town IT department. There are already a considerable amount of communication and technology
equipment in the building basement that will need to remain with any future scenarios.
Recreation—The desire would be for an office space,two multipurpose rooms, storage space of 1250
square feet.
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=b467d28eb7&view=pt&q=police%20station&q... 3/9/2017
Gmail -FW: Old Police Station report review Page 2 of 5
School Department—They currently occupy approximately 10,S00 square feet in the Phillips Building with
30 staff members who would potentially relocate. If we apply the architects approximation of 325 square
feet per employee, they would require 9750 square feet.
Health Department—There is a need for temporary animal storage, which currently is being done in the
former jail cells. They also suffer from dispersed office space in Town Hall.
Fire Department—they currently house a response boat and trailer in the sally port. They also need to
maintain the access immediately outside the former police station to the fire house.
Community Development and Planning—We currently have 16 staff positions spread between floors in
Town Hall. Again, applying the 325 square foot standard would result in 5200 square feet. The additional
benefit would be consolidating the office and providing a coordinated departmental public interface.
Record Storage—There is a definite need for record organization and storage across Town government.
In 2008 an analysis was done by King Systems that suggested we would need 2000 square feet and
$65,000 to set up a records management system.
From: Bandini, Raeleen
Sent:Thursday, February 23, 2017 11:01 AM
To: Magoon, Steven <smagoon@watertown-ma.gov>
Cc: Driscoll, Michael <mdriscoll@watertown-ma.gov>;Tracy,Thomas<ttracy@watertown-ma.gov>
Subject: FW: Old Police Station report review
FYI below, options for review for your consideration.
From: Dale Gienapp [mailto:dgienapp@gienappdesign.comj
Sent:Thursday, February 23, 2017 10:22 AM
To: Bandini, Raeleen <rbandini@watertown-ma.gov>
Cc: Imelda Barnhurst<i barn hurst@gienappdesign.com>
Subject: RE: Old Police Station report review
Raeleen,
Of course we will be happy to provide a proposal to perform a peer review of the report.To prepare the proposal I
have briefly looked at the report. Based on that, I think the right scope of work for us to do depends on what you
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=b467d28eb7&view=pt&q=police%20station&q... 3/9/2017
Gmail -FW: Old Police Station report review Page 3 of 5
are hoping to gain from our review. I have described this in Proposal scenario A, B or C below. But, I will offer the
following based on a thumb-through of the report:
1. 1 think their order of magnitude of$525 sf(p.2)for replacement is realistic. I would expect ultimately under
public bid costs replacement is not a viable option; it will be more frugal, per seat,to construct a larger building.
2. 1 have not studied their assumptions and assessment. But,assuming they are correct,the costs per sf on page 5
of$324-$378/sf are not surprising.
3. We did not drill down into the cost estimate. But,we do reviews of Fogarty's estimates frequently. I doubt they
are widely off.
4. Although their plans work'in theory', I think the number of seats shown in the Complete Renovation Plan is not
realistic. Due to general office needs,acoustics, meeting space,storage space,etc. I do not think one would ever
'pack it'that tight.The head count and sf indicates 201sf/person. In our experience,for most any office other than a
call center,telemarketer or similar,anything under 300 sf/person starts to be cramped due inadequate storage and
meeting space,etc. I don't think a sufficient number of toilet fixtures are shown to meet code,or to be practical.
The kitchen and lunch room is too small to satisfy workers,there is not enough meeting space.When those things
are added, it will end up at more like 300-325 sf/person or more.
5. 1 doubt it is practical to add a third floor.As they indicate on page 4,to consider adding a third floor it would
require a structural assessment. It is very unlikely a structural assessment is going to show it is practical to add a
third floor.Changes to the seismic code has eliminated that as a practical opportunity for most buildings of this
vintage and construction. It would probably mean a new column structure to the ground.
6. 1 have not done a real evaluation, but it appears very little cost is included for the exterior work. I am concerned
that will have considerable cost creep.
The purpose of my brief review was to determine a fee to do a peer review. I would suggest either of two options:
Proposal Scenario A: For$1,500 we could do a thorough review of the information and with our own staff do a
review of the line items in the cost estimate.We would also do a bit more evaluation of their planning options and
comment on the number of seats and code information (but not draw an new plan). If the goals of the peer review is
to confirm if the scope of work is correct and there will not be excessive scope creep as a project, I think this would
be a useful review. Ideally we would add$500 and do a walkthrough of the building.The product will be letter
report with comments.
Proposal Scenario B: For$5,000 we could do a walkthrough of the building, do a thorough review of the planning
options and have our professional cost estimator check the estimate.We will include a more detailed review of the
plans and likely do a drawing to determine what we think is a more realistic number of staff that would be
accommodated. I think this is right level of review if you are really determining if this is a 'Go or No-Go'decision
based on the cost of number of staff to be accommodated and construction cost. I think this level is appropriate if
you are debating whether to appropriate money to proceed with final design. It will also be a better check that
everything is included and help protect against scope creep.Our product will be a letter report with a check of the
cost estimate and diagrams or drawings to address any findings.
Proposal Scenario C—No Proposal: I am not clear on what your goals for a peer review may be. I have some
concern on the items 1-6 above. I do not think a peer review will indicate the cost will be any/significantly less than
presented and further study may not be merited. If the above information provides you what you are looking for,
there is no cost.
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Gmail -FW: Old Police Station report review Page 4 of 5
The report seems to present this as a renovation for'administrative offices'. I assume this is for town use and
therefore public construction. If the building is up for consideration for sale,and this evaluation is an exercise to
value the building and the renovation would be a private project,then the cost may less than presented.
If you would like further consider one of the proposal scenarios above let us know and we can do a formal proposal.
Sincerely,
Dale Gienapp
Gienapp Design
20 Conant Street
Danvers, MA 01923
978-750-9062 x 112
www.gienappdesign.com
-----Original Message-----
From: Bandini, Raeleen [mai Ito:rbandini@watertown-ma.gov]
Sent:Tuesday, February 21, 2017 9:37 AM
To: Dale Gienapp<dgienapp@gienappdesign.com>; Imelda Barnhurst<i barn hurst@gienappdesign.com>
Subject: FW:Old Police Station
Hello Dale and Imelda:
Attached is the request I received last week from Steve Magoon,Asst.Town Manager/Comm. Development and
Planning,with the request below. I reminded him that there would be a cost associated with request of your
review. Please send us a price proposal for your review and opinion of the attached.Thank you.
Regards,
Raeleen
-----Original Message-----
From: Magoon,Steven
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=b467d28eb7&view=pt&q=police%20station&q... 3/9/2017
Gmail -FW: Old Police Station report review Page 5 of 5
Sent:Tuesday, February 14, 2017 5:08 PM
To: Bandini, Raeleen<rbandini@watertown-ma.gov>
Subject:Old Police Station
As we discussed,attached is the report prepared by MDS regarding options for the reuse of the old Police Station
property. The Council committee asked that we have our current on call architects review the study and give an
opinion if the per square foot costs appear to be reasonable. Let me know if you have any questions. Thanks
Your message is ready to be sent with the following file or link attachments:
20170214170412439
Note:To protect against computer viruses,e-mail programs may prevent sending or receiving certain types of file
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20170224094126888.pdf
263K
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=b467d28eb7&view=pt&q=police%2Ostation&q... 3/9/2017
Magoon, Steven
From: Cole, Leone
Sent: Wednesday,January 25, 2017 8:45 AM
To: Magoon, Steven
Cc: Driscoll, Michael
Subject: RE: Former Police Station
Hi Steve,
For HATCH we need at least 1500 sf of open space. Lots of electricity. A sink in the space would be preferable. And
access to a restroom.
Thanks,
Leone
From: Magoon, Steven
Sent: Monday,January 23, 2017 2:16 PM
To:John Brackett<john.bracl<ett@watertown.kl2.ma.us>; Rosati, Deborah <drosati@watertown-ma.gov>; Centola,
Peter<pcentola@watertown-ma.gov>; Mee, Gerald <Jmee@watertown-ma.gov>; Cole, Leone <lcole@watertown-
ma.gov>
Cc: Driscoll, Michael <mdriscoll@watertown-ma.gov>
Subject: Former Police Station
As you are aware, the Council Subcommittee requested that I compile the space needs each of your prospective uses
might need if the farmer Police Station were renovated. Could you please forward any information you have as to
square footage, or number of staff. I will then pass this information along to the Council.
Let me know if you have any questions. Thanks
Steve Magoon
Director, Community Development and Planning/Assistant Town Manager
149 Main Street
Watertown, MA 02472
Office 617 972-6417
Cell 617 987-1136
smaPoo n(a)watertown-ma.gov
1
Magoon, Steven
From: Cole, Leone
Sent: Thursday, February 16, 2017 2:07 PM
To: Magoon, Steven
Cc: Driscoll, Michael
Subject: RE: Vision for former police station
Hi Steve,
At this point I do not have a good estimate of the number of people it could serve. I do know that there are waiting lists
for commercial kitchens in Boston and surrounding areas and I do know that our meeting spaces and computers are
used to capacity. We turn people away regularly who are looking for meeting and work spaces. Here are a few articles
about similar projects:
httPs://www.nycedc.com/program/entrepreneur-space
htto://www.Rravitvtanl(.com/bloc/intersection of space
httn:/Jai incu bator.ora/
Leone E. Cole
Library Director
Watertown Free Public Library
123 Main St.
Watertown, MA 02472
617-972-6434
www.watertownlib.org
From: Magoon,Steven
Sent:Thursday, February 16, 2017 1:46 PM
To: Cole, Leone <Icole@watertown-ma.gov>
Cc: Driscoll, Michael<mdriscoll@watertown-ma.gov>
Subject: RE:Vision for former police station
Do you have ideas about size number of people you are thinking? Thanks
From: Cole, Leone
Sent:Thursday, February 16, 2017 11:52 AM
To: Magoon, Steven <smaaoon(@watertown-ma.gov>
Cc: Driscoll, Michael <mdriscoll(@watertown-ma.gov>
Subject:Vision for former police station
We have been thinking about the potential for that building/space, especially given its prime location in town.
We envision the building being used for community collaboration, learning and entrepreneurship.
HATCH will be located there, as well as the following:
1
Commercial kitchen that would be used for classes and also rented out (there is a huge demand for this)
Office cubicles for rent
Meeting/classroom/collaboration spaces for rent
Would there be state economic development money available to make this a reality?
Currently, the high tech hub of Watertown is in the Arsenal Street corridor. A project like this one would bring those
people to the Watertown Square area.
These are just my initial thoughts and may not be possible, but I wanted to at least get them out there for consideration.
Thanks,
Leone
Leone E. Cole
Library Director
Watertown Free Public Library
123 Main St.
Watertown, MA 02472
617-972-6434
www.watertown li b.orp
2
Magoon, Steven
From: Mahoney, Joseph
Sent: Friday, January 27, 2017 3:28 PM
To: Magoon, Steven
Subject: Former Police Station -IT Department
Hello Steve,
The dispatch room in the former Police Station may be a suitable size for a modern data center(IT Dept. CIP item.)This
would facilitate Town and School computer equipment.Thank you.
Joseph Mahoney
Information Technology Manager
Town of Watertown
149 Main Street
Watertown, MA 02472
Tel. 1-617-972-6463 ( Fax 1-617-972-6453 1 www.watertown-ma.gov
When responding,please be aware that the Massachusetts Secretary of State has determined that most email is public record and therefore cannot be kept
confidential.
1
Magoon, Steven
From: Centola, Peter
Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2017 8:57 AM
To: Magoon, Steven
Cc: Thebado, Ernest
Subject: recreation - police station request
Steve,
Sorry for the delay, I was still trying to update the square footage of the storage space
required.
In a perfect world, we would like to be in all in one place.
This would include:
• An office suite with privacy for four full time staff.
• A couple of multi-purpose rooms - class room / conference to host meetings,
small information sessions, classes such as arts and crafts, baby sitting, yoga,
movie etc.
• Storage area for our archives - photo, news paper, digital disks.
• Adjacent storage area for most of our equipment so that it is easily accessible. I
think 1250 square feet should work.
At the minimum, we need to maintain and/or increase by 20% our equipment storage
capacity.
As a side bar recommendation, all of our files should be stored by a private, separate,
storage company off site.
I would support the Hatch to be located in the police station as well.
Peter
Peter Centola
Director of Recreation
617-972-6494
617-312-9007
Join us at Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
Facebook: http;//www.facebook.com/watertownrecreationdepartment
Twitter: @watertownrec and @watertownsummerhoop
Instagram: watertownrecreation
t
Magoon, Steven
From: John Brackett <john.brackett@watertown.kl2.ma.us>
Sent: Wednesday, February 22, 2017 2:38 PM
To: Magoon, Steven
Subject: Re: Old Police Station
Hi Steve,
We currently have 30 regular employees with Phillips as their assigned work place. These would be the
employees most likely relocated to a new site and does not include the preschool staff nor Steve Romanelli and
maintenance staff.
Thanks
jolm
John R. Brackett, Ed.D,
Interim Superintendent
On Thu, Feb 16, 2017 at 1:00 PM, Magoon, Steven <smacoon(iUwatertown-ma.Lrov>wrote:
One additional piece of information I need is the number of staff people you would potentially relocate to the
building to go with the square footage you already provided. Thanks
Steve Magoon
Director, Community Development and Planning/Assistant Town Manager
149 Main Street
Watertown, MA 02472
Office 617 972-6417
Cell 617 987-1136
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Watertown Town Council
Administration Building
149 Main Street
p�Ce co
Watertown, MA 02472
Phone: 617-972-6470
ELECTED
OFFICIALS:
Committee on Economic Development and Planning
Mark S.Sideris, Meetings: March 2, 2017
Council President Report: March 14, 2017
Vincent J.Piccirilli,Jr., ADDENDUM TO THE REPORT
Vice President
Michael F.Dattoli,
Councilor At Large Revised Application for Registered Marijuana Dispensary
Aaron P.Dushku, Alternative Therapies Group, 36 Arlington St
Councilor At Large
1. Supplemental information dated February 13, 2017
Susan G.Falkoff, 2. Patient Education Package
Councilor At Large 3. 3 Yr. Patient Ramp and Revenue Projections
Anthony Palomba, 4. Capital Expenditures
Councilor At Large 5. 3-year Profit and Loss Statement
Angeline B.Kounelis, 6. ATG Proposed Host Community Agreement
District A Councilor
Lisa J.Feltner,
District B Councilor
Kenneth M.Woodland,
District D Councilor
Page 1 of 1
ALTERNATIVE
i THERAPIES GROUP
February 13, 2017
Attn: Councillor Falkoff
Watertown Town Council
149 Main Street
Watertown, MA 02472
Dear Economic Development & Planning Committee members:
Thank you once again,for the opportunity to present to your subcommittee. Please accept the following
supplemental materials for your consideration of our proposal to site a Registered Marijuana Dispensary
at 36 Arlington Street in Watertown.
I would be happy to go into greater detail on any area that you would like, and I will reiterate my offer
to provide a tour of our Salem facility, where you will see first-hand the level of professionalism that
characterizes our organization.
Sincerely,
Christopher Edwards
Executive Director
CC: Steven Magoon
CC: Mark Sideris
24R Pleasant Street, Unit 2• Newburyport, MA 01950• 617-549-8575 p•617-674-2480 f•www.atama.oro,
Introduction
Alternative Therapies Group, Inc (ATG), is a non-profit organization founded in 2012 with a goal of
operating a Registered Marijuana Dispensary(RMD) here in Massachusetts. ATG was selected from a
large pool of applicants to operate the very first RMD in the state. We began serving patients in Salem,
MA in June 2015. We are in the process of trying to site additional dispensaries in the state, and we feel
that Watertown would be an ideal location for this type of facility.
ATG has withstood a staggering amount of scrutiny throughout a highly competitive selection process in
the state. I believe ATG was selected by the state to operate the first dispensary for a few reasons:
• We are fortunate to have an experienced and competent team,with credentials including
PhDs, MDs, MBAs, and law enforcement professionals, all successful and with clean
backgrounds.
• We are transparent, and willing to meet and work with municipal and community
stakeholders, and to address their concerns.
• We forge strong, mutually beneficial relationships with our community hosts.
• We work hard and we avoid the drama that has plagued some of the other applicants.
• Lastly, we are doing this for the right reasons. Many members of our team have,
unfortunately, been surrounded by illness in their families. We share a common belief that,
when facing a debilitating illness, all treatment options should be available, in a safe and
regulated way, and without stigma.
ATG has an excellent reputation,with references to back it up. Mayors Driscoll (Salem) and Gray
(Amesbury) as well as members of their City Council and Chiefs of Police have served as references for
us numerous times. Should you decide to consult with any of these individuals directly, I am confident
they will confirm that ATG has reliably held up their end, and will also validate that an RMD is a valuable
service to have in the community.
The state of Massachusetts has established the most restrictive Medical Use of Marijuana regulations in
the nation. It is very different from some of the stories you may have heard about the programs in
states such as California or Colorado. For example,the patient must have a qualifying debilitating
medical condition such as cancer,AIDS,ALS, multiple sclerosis or Parkinson's disease in order to qualify
for Medical Use of Marijuana. Only a licensed physician with a documented, bona-fide patient/doctor
relationship may certify a patient for use of marijuana.The penalties for diversion of medical marijuana
include imprisonment of up to 5 years.
Every day we serve patients in Salem who report benefits to their health from use of our products which
include help with nausea, insomnia, quelling of seizures, reduced muscle spasticity, reduced pain, and
successfully weening off of opiates.As far as the crisis with opiate addiction—the medical marijuana
industry is part of the solution, not a contributor to the problem.
24R Pleasant Street, Unit 2 • Newburyport, MA 01950 • 617-549-8575 p• 617-674-2480 f•www.atgma.ora
Whv Watertown?
In November 2012,the people of Watertown voted to approve Medical Use of Marijuana by an
overwhelming majority. For the moment, Watertown is situated in an under-served part of the state.
The nearest RMDs are located in Boston, Brookline and Newton at this time. Clearly,this presents an
inconvenience for Medical Use of Marijuana patients living in the area, many of whom have difficulty
getting around. In a way,these patients are facing discrimination relative to patients who are able to
obtain their medication from conventional pharmacies including CVS and Walgreens right in their home
community.
Our proposed location in Watertown offers excellent access to major roadways,which has been an
important criteria in the state's review process over the past years. Public transportation including buses
and taxis is readily available.
Our presence in Watertown would provide several important benefits to the community:
• Our presence would result in as many as 15-18 professional jobs being added to this community,
and a handful more at our Amesbury cultivation facility.The Watertown jobs would consist of 4
Security Guards, 2 Dispensary Managers, 2 RMD Team Leads, and between 7 and 10 part-time
Patient Provisioning Specialists. Watertown residents will be given priority consideration for
these positions.
• Our presence would boost commerce in the short term, as we spend several hundred thousand
dollars to build out our facility at the proposed location, and in the long-term as we attract
patients from surrounding communities,who will hopefully spend money in Watertown.
• Our presence will allow the Town to avoid the hardship clause, which allows patients to grow
marijuana in their homes for Medicinal purposes—something that many law enforcement
officials appreciate.
• Our presence will provide a financial benefit to local charities.
• We're a local team.The vast majority of our team were all born and raised right here in
Massachusetts.There are numerous applicants for RMD licenses from Colorado, California and
other states with a very different philosophy on this industry and way of doing business.
• Working with, and supporting the efforts of responsible applicants like ATG gives municipalities
control over the selection process. We hope that Watertown will embrace the opportunity to do
so!
Whv ATG?
ATG is differentiated from many RMD operators and applicants in several ways. We are a medical
organization,with a focus on helping our patients to derive the maximum benefit from the medications
that we offer. We were not involved with or supportive of the effort in this state to legalize marijuana
for recreational purposes. We respectfully ask the Town of Watertown to consider supporting ATG for
the following reasons:
24R Pleasant Street, Unit 2 • Newburyport, MA 01950 • 617-549-8575 p• 617-674-2480 f•www.atgma.ora
• ATG was founded, and continues to operate,with a fundamental philosophy that patients facing
a debilitating illness should have safe access to cannabis as a treatment option. We provide
patients with the information needed to make informed decisions about cannabis, in a stigma-
free and safe environment.ATG offers the lowest prices of the 9 active RMDs in the state, as
well as a Financial Hardship Program which provides discounts on medicine to patients with a
demonstrated financial hardship.
• ATG is comprised of a team of experienced professionals. Credentials include PhDs, MD's,
MBAs, CFAs, etc,with a proven track record of success in the cannabis industry in multiple
states. We are honest,transparent, hard-working, and have avoided the drama that has plagued
many of the other Massachusetts applicants over the past 3 years. Please refer to Exhibit S.
• ATG received the fifth highest score in the state during the application process under the Patrick
Administration.As the field of applicants was reduced from nearly 200, down to 100,then 11,
and then 9 organizations, ATG sailed through all rounds of local and state-level scrutiny.ATG
was selected by the state to open the very first dispensary in the state.
• ATG has continuously operated the state's first dispensary(Salem, MA) since June 24, 2015
without incident, and while maintaining an excellent reputation with the patient/medical
community, state regulators, and our municipal hosts.
• Mayor Driscoll of Salem has provided a written reference supporting ATG's efforts to site a
dispensary in Watertown. We are happy to arrange for additional discussion with Salem and/or
Amesbury officials upon request.
• ATG has made a continual effort to reach above and beyond what is required by regulation,
particularly in the areas of security and compliance.
• Because ATG has an established cultivation facility, with proven genetics and products, we are in
a unique position which allows us to commence operations in Watertown on an accelerated
timeline. Other applicants will require a minimum of 1 year before they can receive the
necessary state approvals, construct their facilities, and grow their first crops of cannabis.
Realistically,the timeline for new applicants is closer to 18 months. No other applicant can offer
access to cannabinoid medicine for Watertown patients faster than ATG at this time.
Proposed location
ATG has vetted multiple properties in Watertown before arriving at 36 Arlington Street as the ideal
location. Our first proposed location was 640 Arsenal Street.The feedback we received was that the site
was too prominent, and therefore not a good fit. Another property that we considered was 23 Elm
Street. Because the property only offers 9 parking spaces, it is not a viable location for an RMD whose
staff alone would consume all of the available parking.The next property we vetted with Town officials
was 246 North Beacon St.The feedback we received here was that the off-street parking was not
adequate.
Our proposed location at 36 Arlington Street is an existing masonry structure which is correctly zoned
for a Registered Marijuana Dispensary according to Watertown's zoning ordinance.The structure
consists of two levels, approximately 22,500 s/f per level. Our interest is in the southern half of the top
24R Pleasant Street, Unit 2 • Newburyport, MA 01950 • 617-549-8575 p• 617-674-2480 f•www.atama.ora
level,where we propose to build a professional and secure facility which complies with all local and
state ordinances and regulations. Some additional notable facts about the location:
1. There are multiple municipal bus stops within a 3-5 minute walk of the proposed location.
2. There are no schools or other facilities where children commonly congregate in the area.
3. The mix of uses in the neighborhood includes retail, municipal and industrial. Our use is not
expected to negatively impact any of these establishments.
4. The facility includes approximately 150 shared parking spaces. Please refer to Exhibit 4.
Proposed facilitv
Our proposed facility layout is based on over a decade of experience in operating state-compliant
dispensaries in Massachusetts and Maine. Please refer to Exhibit 3.The facility design is ADA compliant,
functional, and secure.A security guard will be stationed outside the facility, performing a cursory
review of each arriving patient's identification documents.The guard will be responsible for monitoring
the ATG patient parking area, and for enforcing our no-loitering and no-on-site consumption policies.
Patients who are awaiting a ride will not be allowed to loiter outside the facility.A waiting area for this
purpose will be made available inside the common area vestibule, near the main entrance for the
building.
After a cursory ID check by an ATG security guard, patients will enter a secure man-trap, one at a time. A
second security guard will be stationed inside the man-trap. An ATG agent working inside a secure
check-in office will confirm the patient's status in a centralized DPH patient registration database before
activating an electronic mag-lock that opens the inner steel door, allowing the patient to enter the
dispensary.
First time patients are required to participate in an educational presentation hosted by our Chief
Medical Officer, Walter Panis, MD. Patients are educated on a variety of topics including symptom
indications, methods of ingestion, dosage, monitoring and documenting effects, drug interactions, and
substance abuse. A copy of ATG's new patient educational materials packet has been provided
separately as "Patient-Education-Packet.pdf".
Upon completion of the new patient onboarding process, patients are able to speak privately with our
staff about their symptoms and treatment goals, and to ask questions about the different products. All
products are sold in state approved child-resistant packaging, and stapled inside an opaque bag before
exiting the facility. On-site consumption of the medicine is not allowed—a rule that our staff is trained
to strictly enforce.
Our proposed facility also includes ADA compliant bathrooms, an employee break area, and a manager's
office. ATG uses just-in-time inventory management procedures, storing just enough product onsite
required for 2-3 days of sales. Final packaging is conducted in a sanitary packaging area by ATG staff.
The entire dispensary is highly secure.ATG's goal is to not only meet, but to exceed state security
requirements. Some of these requirements include redundancy in camera angles, alarm systems, alarm
24R Pleasant Street, Unit 2 • Newburyport, MA 01950 • 617-549-8575 p• 617-674-2480 f•www.atgma.ora
monitoring services, and electrical power. All camera footage is stored for a minimum of 90-days. Many
of our security procedures are sensitive, and not appropriate for inclusion in a document which could be
made public. We have presented a detailed security design and discussed the details of our security plan
with Chief Lawn, and he expressed that he was satisfied with our proposal.
Home delivery
Although Alternative Therapies Group is not currently providing a home delivery service for registered
patients or their caregivers, we are open to offering such a service in the future. We occasionally receive
requests for home delivery from our patients, some of whom are shut-ins or unable to drive. State
regulations for transportation of marijuana and marijuana products are highly detailed. Here are a few
highlights from the state-mandated requirements, which far exceed the requirements for transportation
of opioids and other DEA-regulated pharmaceuticals:
• All products must be weighed on camera and added to a transportation manifest, signed by two
dispensary agents prior to placing the medicine into a vehicle
• Storage in a vehicle must be done inside a secure lock box, which has been made a permanent
part of the vehicle.
• Transportation routes must be varied, and must be monitored remotely.
• Two dispensary agents must be present in the vehicle.
We have had zero incidents with product transport between our facilities or the third-party testing
laboratories that we use. We are confident that we can provide a safe, secure home delivery service to
patients and caregivers in the future, in full compliance with state regulations.
Hours of operation
Our proposed hours of operation are Sam to 8pm, 7 days per week. Realistically,we will operate fewer
hours than this, but having permission to operate within this range affords us some flexibility to shift our
schedule forward or back based on real world conditions (such as traffic patterns) in the neighborhood.
Community Host Agreement
ATG has proposed a Community Host Agreement which legally outlines the relationship between our
organization and the Town. It provides for a generous annual contribution to a worthy local charity.As
we have discussed,ATG has recently revised its original proposed CHA by removing the municipal
revenue share portion. This decision is driven by industry developments in neighboring Cambridge.
The City of Cambridge has agreed to support/not oppose multiple dispensaries, and not to require a
municipal revenue share, or any municipal contributions for that matter.The Cambridge City Council has
expressed that:
• Community Host Agreements are intended to mitigate negative impacts resulting from the
presence of a business. It has been clearly demonstrated that there are in fact no negative
impacts of a dispensary on its host community.
24R Pleasant Street, Unit 2 • Newburyport, MA 01950 • 617-549-8575 p• 617-674-2480 f•www.atgma.ora
• The costs associated with these agreements will flow directly to patients, which is unfair to
patients and contrary to the intent of MA law—a state that does not tax medicine.
It is our position that an RMD which agrees to make municipal financial payments in the Watertown
market, or any border community, will find themselves at a significant competitive disadvantage to
RMDs in Cambridge. If municipal payments from RMDs to the City of Cambridge were to become
commonplace in Cambridge in the future,we would be course be willing to reconsider this position, so
long as a level playing field can be achieved.
The following narrative is intended to accompany ATG 3-Yr PL Proiections.xlsx
General Assumptions and Some Facts:
• ATG will be the only dispensary in Watertown
• Competitive dispensaries will be (or are already) open in Cambridge, Boston, Brighton,
Somerville, Newton, Brookline and Arlington during 2017
• Based on political feedback to date and public voting numbers, Watertown will not initially be
open to adult use sales, while some neighboring communities will be
• Dispensaries that are allowed to participate in recreational sales will have higher sales volume
which will allow them to offer lower product pricing relative to "medical only" dispensaries
• Consumers are price sensitive
• Approximately 90 RMD applicants have already received a Provisional Certificate of Registration
from the Department of Public Health. We expect most of these to open during 2017, with the
balance in early 2018
• We expect the number of approved Provisional Certificates of Registration to continue to grow
as the application pipeline continues to swell
• Given the new adult use law's provision which allows for home grows, we expect that many
citizens will attempt to do so
• Each of the preceding three assumptions will lead to significant price degradation as
experienced in states like CO, CA, and WA
• ATG is 100% vertically integrated, as the medical marijuana law requires. Not all adult use
dispensaries will be 100% vertically integrated as allowed by the new law. This puts ATG at a
cost disadvantage, having already built a vertically integrated infrastructure.
Patient Ramp and Revenue Projections: Year 1
• We assume the Watertown dispensary would open on July 1, 2017
• Given expected competition in surrounding communities, we expect that ATG's population base
will be approximately 79,000 citizens--comprised of 100% of Watertown's population plus
approximately SS%of the populations of both Belmont and Waltham, which are not expected to
have dispensaries at this time
• We expect the penetration rate to ramp up moderately from 1% to 1.5% during year 1. The
national long-term average is 2-2.5%
24R Pleasant Street, Unit 2• Newburyport, MA 01950 •617-549-8575 p• 617-674-2480 f•www.atanna.ora
• Patient counts are expected to grow from 790 to 1185 patients during year 1
• The average patient purchases the equivalent of 1 ounce of flower per month
• The cost of an ounce is expected to be $300 at opening,falling to$275 by the end of year 1
• This results in quarterly revenue ranging from $700k to $980k in year 1
Patient Ramp and Revenue Projections: Year 2
• Given expected competition in surrounding communities, we expect that ATG's population base
will be approximately 79,000 citizens--comprised of 100% of Watertown's population plus
approximately 55%of the populations of both Belmont and Waltham, which are not expected to
have dispensaries at this time
• However, given that we expect some of the neighboring communities will allow adult use sales,
we expect to lose about 25% of our target population to dispensaries in those communities due
to their ability to offer lower prices. This will result in a population base of approximately
59,000 citizens
• We expect the penetration rate to continue to ramp up moderately from 1.75%to 2.25% during
year 2
• Patient counts are expected to initially drop to 1033 in 1Q of year 2 as ATG loses patients to
pricing in neighboring dispensaries, but then grows to 1328 patients in 4Q of year 2 as our
expected penetration rate continues to grow
• The average patient purchases the equivalent of 1 ounce of flower per month
• The cost of an ounce is expected to fall from $275 to $250 during the year as competition
continues to intensify
• This results in quarterly revenue ranging from $852k to $996k in year 2
Patient Ramp and Revenue Projections: Year 3
• Given expected competition in surrounding communities, we expect that ATG's population base
will be approximately 49,000 citizens--comprised of 100% of Watertown's population plus
approximately 60% of the population of Belmont which we do not expected to have a
dispensary at this time. We now expect Waltham to have a dispensary which results in a
significant loss in ATG's targeted population
• Additionally, given that we expect some of the neighboring communities will allow adult use
sales, we expect to lose about 40% of our target population to dispensaries in those
communities due to their ability to offer lower prices. This will result in a population base of
approximately 29,000 citizens
• We expect the penetration rate to continue to ramp up moderately from 2.25%to 3.25% during
year 3
• Patient counts are expected to initially drop to 653 in 1Q of year 3 as ATG loses patients to
pricing in neighboring dispensaries and Waltham's opening, but then grows to 943 patients in
4Q of year 3 as our expected penetration rate continues to grow
• The average patient purchases the equivalent of 1 ounce of flower per month
• The cost of an ounce is expected to fall from $250 to $200 during the year as competition
continues to intensify
• This results in quarterly revenue ranging from $489k to $566k in year 3
24R Pleasant Street, Unit 2 • Newburyport, MA 01950 • 617-549-8575 p• 617-674-2480 f•www.atama.ora
A Few Comments about the Profit and Loss Projections:
• ATG's vertical integration results in certain administrative and cultivation costs that must be
properly allocated across all revenue centers (dispensaries)
• Expenses shown here are ATG's Watertown dispensary's share of overall and direct expenses
• ATG is able to produce a small profit in years 1 and 2, but not in year 3 as pricing pressures and
the loss of patients to lower cost providers really takes hold
• The ability to achieve relatively high sales volumes, and thus become one of the lowest cost
providers, is entirely contingent on being allowed to participate in the adult use market
• Dispensary operational costs are somewhat variable and linked to the level of sales, however
certain minimum standards/costs are required to properly operate a dispensary regardless of
the level of sales
• While the net income and cash flow projections are not exactly what ATG would like,
Watertown remains an attractive opportunity because it would allow ATG to add incremental
sales to help cover already existing significant fixed costs related to our 100% vertical
integration structure
• We remain somewhat hopeful that Watertown will reconsider its stance on adult use once we
have shown a short history of responsible operations
• ATG is well aware of the challenges and business failures that intense competition and falling
product prices have brought to the industry in states like CA, CO, and WA. We are also aware of
how quickly these things occurred in those states. Many facts have changed and come to light
since we first began discussions with Watertown and submitted our initial documents (the
passing of the adult use law, details of the number of dispensaries coming in surrounding
communities, details of surrounding Community Host Agreements, Watertown's resistance to
adult use sales, etc.). To ensure that ATG can be the best long-term partner, we must adjust to
these facts.
24R Pleasant Street, Unit 2 • Newburyport, MA 01950 • 617-549-8575 p• 617-674-2480 f•www.atgma.ora
Exhibit 1: 36 Arlington St—street view
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Exhibit 4: 36 Arlington Street Parking Analysis
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Customer parking for the "GymIt" Members
C Represents the spaces that are available adjacent to the hotel now 30+/- Spaces
under construction at the corner of Arlington &Arsenal St.
Spaces to be used "in common"with hotel designated for the
exclusive use of customers of the property(non-employee)
D Represents space that could possibly be used for employees of the 30 +/- Spaces
building as well as spill-over customer parking
Also, additional two hour street parking is also available along the even numbered side of
the street.
24R Pleasant Street, Unit 2- Newburyport, MA 01950- 617-549-8575 p-617-674-2480 f-www.atama.ora.
Exhibit 5: Board of Directors and Executive Management Team Biographies
Tracy Lessor, PhD, Board of Directors:
Tracy is Vice President for Feinstein Kean's Healthcare practice and brings with her more than 20 years
of science communications experience, providing strategic communications counsel, planning and
implementation.A scientist by training,Tracy offers clients great depth and breadth of scientific
knowledge, and her strength lies in the translation of complex scientific information into simplified
language for non-scientists.
Tracy has significant experience in oncology both as a scientist and as a science communicator. When
she left the bench,Tracy worked closely with the National Cancer Institute and the Van Andel Research
Institute for many years on scientific communications, and also served as a journalist for the Journal of
the National Cancer Institute and Cancer&You, a Time Inc. publication for cancer patients. She served
as a senior clinical editor of continuing medical education (CME) programs in every therapeutic area at
Pri-Med Institute,where she also launched Oncology Updates and Neurology Updates for oncologists
and neurologists, respectively. She then entered the world of personalized medicine within regulatory
strategy and intelligence while at Millennium Pharmaceuticals where she was responsible for developing
company position statements on personalized medicine for FDA and EMEA. At FKH,Tracy works closely
with many pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, policy organizations and payers, including, but
not limited to, Pfizer, Novartis Oncology, EMD Serono, Silicon Valley Biosystems Inc., Aetna/Healthagen,
Turning the Tide Against Cancer and the Personalized Medicine Coalition.
Tracy has authored more than 75 scientific and clinical publications, co-authored "Sustaining Progress
Against Cancer in an Era of Cost Containment" and served as managing editor and co-author of PMC's
"The Case for Personalized Medicine 3rd Edition".
Tracy earned her MBA in entrepreneurship from Babson College, PhD in molecular and cell biology from
the University of Maryland Greenebaum Cancer Center, and BSc in exercise science and chemistry from
the University of Massachusetts at Amherst and the University of East Anglia in Norwich, England. In
2005,Tracy became a board certified editor in the life sciences (ELS).
Tracy is a firm believer in the medical utility of cannabis,the most investigated therapeutic substance in
history. With her scientific training and medical communications background, she actively supports
ATG's medical and community education efforts to help separate the myths from facts of medical
marijuana, and extend understanding of ATG's contribution to the lives of its patients and other
stakeholders.
Edward Jenkins, Board of Directors:
Edward F.Jenkins is a practicing attorney,former high-level public safety official, and a security
professional with deep roots in Essex County and the North Shore. For over 20 years, Ed served with
distinction in the Essex County Sheriff's Department, beginning as a Correctional Officer and ultimately
24R Pleasant Street, Unit 2 • Newburyport, MA 01950 • 617-549-8575 p• 617-674-2480 f•www.atgma.ora
advancing to Assistant Director of Security for the Department in 2005, and then in 2007,to Assistant
Superintendent, a position from which he oversaw the implementation of an updated comprehensive
set of security protocols and procedures designed to leverage new technologies and opportunities for
real-time efficiencies. His efforts,which extended to his retirement from the Department in 2012,
helped lead to its first-time accreditation from the American Correctional Association. Ed received a B.S.
in Criminal Justice from Salem State University, and his J.D.from Massachusetts School of Law, in
Andover, MA.
Kevin Lombardi, Board of Directors:
Kevin Lombardi is a seasoned healthcare professional with extensive experience in strategic planning,
technology implementation and project accountability. Kevin served for 9 years as a Senior Director for
the Center for Health Care Financing at the UMASS Medical School,with a focus in cost-containment
strategies and IT solutions deployment. He led the creation of the Center's Strategic Management
Consulting Group, which was charged with providing organizational analysis and design across all levels.
Additionally, he drove the implementation of a revised set of best practices, policies, and procedures,
including a special emphasis on accounting, budgeting, and market forecasting.
Following his brother Anthony's diagnosis, in 2007, of severe MS, Kevin has become a passionate
ambassador for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and has raised over$500,000 in an ongoing
fundraising campaign conducted through the Anthony V. Lombardi Foundation. Additionally, Kevin
regularly speaks before regional and national conferences about his experience raising awareness within
communities that were previously unacquainted with the personal toll MS can take on individuals and
their families. As a Board member, Kevin helps to guide and support the efforts of ATG's Executive
Management Team, and helps the organization connect to local patient support organizations. Kevin
received a B.A. in Political Science from Suffolk University, and a M.A. in Health Care Administration
from Framingham State University, where he served as a member of the Health Care Administration
advisory board following graduation.
Scott Reed, Board of Directors:
Scott K. Reed is a veteran, hands-on retail executive with immediate experience in the regulated medical
marijuana industry.As the COO of Maine Organic Therapy(MOT), one of six licensed cultivation and
dispensary non-profit organizations in the State of Maine, Scott has helped ensure safe access for
registered patients and full regulatory compliance.
Scott enjoyed a 20 year career leading conventional and natural food grocery chains throughout New
England, first with Shaw's Supermarkets and then later as a top performing Store Director and Regional
Director of Operations for Wild Oats Markets, Inc. In this latter role, from 2001-2008, Scott was
responsible for overall operations of 16 stores throughout 6 states (ME, MA, CT, NJ, OH and FL)with an
24R Pleasant Street, Unit 2 • Newburyport, MA 01950 • 617-549-8575 p• 617-674-2480 f•www.atgma.ora
annual operating budget of 250 million dollars. His charge included budget adherence and delivering,
region-wide, extraordinary customer experiences.
Since 2011, Scott has worked with MOT leadership to build relationships with the Maine patient and
physician communities so that patient stories and corresponding needs are more accurately understood.
From an operational position, Scott has accelerated the organization's adoption of industry best
practices, a process of continuous improvement evidenced in acknowledgement by State regulatory
officials and, concurrently, heightened patient satisfaction reports.
As a Board member of Alternative Therapies Group, Scott brings his full complement of skills and
experience to help build a strong, safe and compliant medical marijuana industry in Massachusetts.
Sherie Kennedy, Board of Directors:
Sherie is a registered nurse, with deep clinical and personal experience with assisted living and palliative
care. Sherie currently serves as Health Care Coordinator at Sunrise Senior Center, in Lynnfield, MA. In
this role, she assesses potential residents, devises care plans, manages change of status issues, and
addresses the communication needs of families and their loved ones. She also manages the facility's
medication program, and oversees personnel hiring within it.
Previously, Sherie worked as a surgical nurse at Lowell General Hospital; as a case manager RN with
Home Health VNA, in Lawrence, MA; and as a care nurse supervisor at Ashland Farms, based in North
Andover, MA. During this period, she received numerous awards, including"Unsung Hero" and "Service
Champion of the Month" on repeated occasions.
She believes that a properly operated medical marijuana dispensary can do much to ease the suffering
of qualified members of its community. She brings all her skill and compassion to ATG's mission,with a
particular focus on local outreach and best practices.
Christopher Edwards, Executive Director:
Since 2000, Chris served as the CEO or CTO of four technology-focused startups prior to joining ATG as
its Executive Director in October 2012. In his 2.5+years in this position, Chris has been responsible for
reporting to the Board of Directors, has overall strategic and operational responsibility for ATG's staff,
programs, expansion, and execution of its mission. He has deep knowledge of state regulations,
company retail and manufacturing operations, and business plans. In addition to having direct oversight
of the company's retail and cultivation operations,the ED has direct oversight responsibilities for
Security,Trade Association participation, Human Resources, and Patient/Community Outreach.The ED
also has secondary responsibilities over the Finance, Compliance, and Administrative functions.
24R Pleasant Street, Unit 2 • Newburyport, MA 01950 • 617-549-8575 p• 617-674-2480 f•www.atgma.ora
Jason Beauchesne, Director of Operations:
Jason brings more than a decade of experience from the health care and non-profit sectors to the team.
Since earning his Master's degree in Organizational Management and Leadership,Jason has focused his
career on managing programs related to senior services for the Kane Group and for the Easter Seals
organization. His responsibilities have included multi-site staff leadership and management, OSHA and
state-level compliance, and coordination with physicians, staff, and community stakeholders. He is an
experienced manager of practical and emotional support services teams which serve frail, elderly and
otherwise challenged individuals.Jason recognizes that many of the registered patients in
Massachusetts often experience similar challenges- isolation, physical disability and overall life
uncertainty. In his last position,Jason managed a program that collaborates with area physicians on
health care plans and coordinates with clients to ensure that they understand and follow their care
plans correctly.Jason has significant experience with health regulatory compliance and patient privacy
best practices. In his role with ATG,Jason develops strategic planning and implements new processes.
He leads the performance management process that measure and evaluate progress against
organizational goals. He provides strong day-to-day leadership presence, bridging production and
dispensary operations.
Julio Fuentes, Chief Financial Officer:
Julio has been serving as CFO of ATG since the organization was officially incorporated in October 2012.
In his 2.5+years in this position,Julio has lead the performance management process that measures and
evaluates progress against goals for the organization. Working in partnership with the ED,Julio is
responsible for the financial, compliance, and administrative functions at ATG. He has implemented the
infrastructure/systems needed to support substantial growth over the coming years. He will continue to
build and manage effective and streamlined administrative, compliance, and financial systems, including
financial accounting, legal, and physical infrastructure. In addition to having direct oversight over the
company's Financial, Compliance and Administrative functions,Julio assists in the oversight of the retail
and cultivation operations.Julio also has secondary oversight responsibilities for Security,Trade
Association participation, Human Resources, and Patient/Community Outreach.As a member of the
Executive Management Team,Julio is involved in strategic planning, evaluation, and professional
development initiatives, as well as planning for ATG's expansion to meet patient demand.
Derek Brock, Director of Cultivation:
Derek's responsibilities with marijuana for medical use cultivation operations began in 2010 as "Head
Cultivation Manager"for Maine Organic Therapy-one of 8 Maine state-licensed RMDs. Derek served as
the lead grower for their 13,000 s/f indoor, organic medicinal cannabis cultivation facility. Derek
designed and facilitated construction of all propagation,vegetative and flowering areas in the facility.
His responsibilities included overseeing all cultivation activities, managing the rotation of eight different
24R Pleasant Street, Unit 2 • Newburyport, MA 01950 • 617-549-8575 p• 617-674-2480 f•www.atgma.ora
strains, overseeing harvest, processing, sanitation and quality control activities. Derek was responsible
for identification and control of diseases and pests, using an Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
strategy. He managed a five member cultivation and processing team. Derek began working as ATG's full
time Director of Cultivation in October 2014. His responsibilities include overseeing all aspects of crop
propagation, including cloning, watering, selecting and administering nutrients, identifying and
addressing deficiencies, light cycle and intensity adjustments, monitoring and adjustments of
environmental conditions and more. Derek currently manages a five-person grow team.
G. Robert Christy, Director of Security:
Rob Christy is an accomplished security expert with extensive experience with high value installations in
the military and civilian sectors. A 13-year veteran of the United States Navy, in both active and reserve
capacity, Rob has served as a Counterterrorism Analyst, specializing in biometric collection,tactical site
exploitation and tactical questioning. Prior to joining ATG, Rob worked for Logan Airport Aviation
Security as Manager of Compliance. Rob began working full time as ATG's Director of Security in
December 2014. His responsibilities in this role have included design and planning for cultivation and
dispensary security systems and procedures, staff training relative to security, internal audits for security
and compliance, point person for DPH inspections, and coordination with police and other stakeholders.
Walter Panis, MD, Chief Medical Officer:
Dr. Walter Panis has had a distinguish career in Neurology and Pain Management. Having held positions
at Massachusetts General Hospital, New England Baptist Hospital, and Spaulding Rehabilitation,
amongst others, he has been a practicing clinician since finishing a Fellowship in Cerebral Vascular
Disease in 1979.As an attending physician at Massachusetts Rehabilitation Hospital (the forerunner of
Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital), he was director of one of the Stroke Rehabilitation Services. In
addition to patient and family care, he was the supervisor and mentor for stroke fellows until he left
that position to complete his second residency in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. During those
years, he was active in Tufts Medical School teaching both in the classroom and hospital. Occasionally,
MGH residents interested in stroke neurology and rehabilitation would participate.
He was an active member of the medical staff holding many positions (executive committee, laboratory
committee, URC, ethics committee, residency planning committee) over the years concluding with
serving as President of the Medical Staff. He has participated as a director for Massachusetts Wheel
chair and Sports as well as a volunteer for ice skating/hockey program for a special needs program.
His career has been guided by his strengths. He is a clinician who has been recognized by his peers as
caring and thoughtful. He has received an Occupational Medicine Service Achievement Award as well as
having recently been recognized by his peers in being named to the "Best Doctors" list by US News and
World Report.
24R Pleasant Street, Unit 2 • Newburyport, MA 01950 • 617-549-8575 p• 617-674-2480 f•www.atgma.ora
Judith Ronshagen, Director of Patient Provisioning:
As a veteran New England pharmacist, pharmacy systems administrator, and industry leader,Judy
Ronshagen has served patients and institutions in a variety of clinical settings for more than 38 years.
Since graduating from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy& Health Sciences in 1970,Judy established
herself as a trusted resource for both patients and local physicians in roles including Assistant Pharmacy
Director and Coordinator of Pharmacy Systems at Elliot Hospital, in Manchester, NH.An expert
networker,Judy has helped mentor numerous women who have recently achieved top leadership
positions in the pharmacy field. She's served in significant positions of influence on many industry
groups and associations, including the New England Council of Hospital Pharmacists,the New Hampshire
Board of Pharmacy,the American Pharmaceutical Association, and the American Society of Health
Systems Pharmacists.Throughout her career,Judy received a great many awards and statements of
recognition, including the 1985 "Pharmacist of the Year" from the New Hampshire Pharmacists
Association, "Award for Educational Excellence", in 1986,from New England Hospital Assembly, and the
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy, "Alumni Achievement Award", in 1983.
24R Pleasant Street, Unit 2 • Newburyport, MA 01950 • 617-549-8575 p• 617-674-2480 f•www.atgma.ora
ALTERNATIVE
THERAPIES GROUP
Mission:
To provide registered, qualifying Massachusetts patients access to safely-cultivated and
responsibly-dispensed alternative forms of pain and symptom management, in strict compliance
with Department of Public Health regulations.
Vision:
A community in which the alternative palliative needs of its members are met in a safe, effective,
and properly regulated manner.
General Warninas:
The federal government still classifies marijuana as a class 1 drug, thus it has not been
analyzed or approved by FDA (federal government). There is limited information on side effects
and there may be health risks associated with using marijuana.
Marijuana should be kept away from children!
When under the influence of marijuana, driving is prohibited by law (M.G.L. c. 90, s. 24).
When under the influence of marijuana machinery should not be operated.
Important Medical Facts About Cannabis
Cannabis is being used as a medication (a substance used for medical treatment), and you
have been certified to have a medical condition for which cannabis may be appropriate.
Cannabis is a powerful substance, which is why it is being used for your chronic medical
condition. It has psychoactive (brain) as well as somatic (body) effects.
For many reasons, cannabis has not been as extensively studied and tested as other
medications are before they can be used by health care professionals.
Our Products
We provide high-quality marijuana that is grown to maximize the medicinal properties. We
never use chemical pesticides, and we test all of our products to be sure they are free of
1
pathogens and mold. We offer a wide variety of products, recognizing that different
strains have unique properties and effects on patients.
Effects of Cannabis:
The effects of marijuana can vary greatly depending on sub-species and strain. The plant
species Cannabis sativa L. has two main sub-species used for medicinal purposes: Cannabis
indica and Cannabis sativa.
Indicas
Effects: Indica strains are known as sedatives/relaxants, and are effective for treating the
symptoms of medical conditions such as anxiety, chronic pain, insomnia, muscle spasms and
tremors. Indicas generally have higher levels of CBD and other cannabinoids than Sativas,
which may result in a sedated effect. Because Indica strains may cause feelings of sleepiness
and heaviness, many patients prefer to medicate with this type of cannabis at night.
Potential Benefits: Aids in sleep; Reduces pain; Muscle relaxant; Relieves spasms;
Stimulates appetite; Reduces nausea; Bronchiole-dilator and expectorant; Reduces intra-
ocular pressure; Relieves headaches and migraines; Reduces inflammation; Reduces anxiety
and stress.
Sativa
Effects: Sativa dominant strains are known to have stimulant qualities, and be effective in
appetite stimulation, relieving depression, migraines, chronic pain and nausea. Sativas
generally have a higher level of THC than Indicas, which results in a psychoactive and energetic
effect. Because sativa strains may cause feelings of alertness and optimism, many patients
prefer to medicate with this type of cannabis during the day.
Potential Benefits: Reduces nausea; Energizes and stimulates; Promotes creativity; Stimulates
appetite; Relieves headaches and migraines; Fights depression; Relaxes muscles; Relieves
pain; Acts as an expectorant.
Hybrids
Hybrids and cross-breeds of indica and sativa strains produce varieties that carry some
characteristics of each parent. For example, adding sativa to indica strains adds mental
clarity and decreases sedation effects. Adding indica to sativa strains can decrease or
even eliminate the sativa tendency to stimulate anxiety. Instead of using pure indica or
pure sativa, many patients can benefit from the use of hybrid strains.
ASK YOUR DOCTOR!
Medical marijuana is a versatile medicine that can help with the side effects and
symptoms of countless medical conditions. Ask your doctor which medical marijuana
strain is best for your medical condition.
Delivery Svstems
The effects of cannabis may be obtained from smoking, vaporization, eating cannabis infused
food, tinctures, or topical application of lotions, creams or patches.
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The goal is to select the right delivery system to achieve the proper dose of medication for the
best relief for the longest period of time.
Smoking:
Smoking cannabis is probably the most commonly used delivery method, but it may not be the
most effective. An advantage is the rapid absorption into the system, which makes dosing
easier. However a big disadvantage is irritation to the respiratory system. Smoking anything,
including cannabis, is not beneficial for your lungs or respiratory system.
The onset of action is 1-5 minutes, with a duration of 1-4 hours.
Vaporization:
Like smoking, vaporization doses can be more easily titrated (effects measured, dose increased
or decrease by small intervals) by inhalation. The effectiveness can be determined within a few
minutes. Patients can more readily control the dose to achieve the desired effect. Since vapors
are generally much less irritating to the lungs than smoking, patients that have historically
smoked cannabis might not realize the amount that they are consuming while vaporizing
because it doesn't feel like smoke.
The onset of action is quick - 2 to 5 minutes, with a duration of 1-4 hours
Edibles:
The effects of cannabis consumed orally (eating) typically last longer and generally fade more
slowly than either smoked or vaporized cannabis. The absorption, however, is much slower and
more unpredictable due to stomach acids & digestive enzymes. Dosing of edible cannabis can
be difficult to achieve because of this slow absorption. It is difficult to know if you have taken
the right dose. The best rule for purchased edible products is to cut them into 4-8 pieces & eat
1 piece to start. If there's no effect within 30-60 minutes, repeat the dose. If you are feeling
relief, do not repeat the dose. The best rule for edibles is to start with a small amount and repeat
the dose if needed.
Most patients will experience some effect within 30-90 minutes, but it may take up to 180
minutes with peak effect in about 2 hours. The effect might last approximately 6-8 hours.
Tinctures:
Tinctures are concentrated extracts made with alcohol, oils or glycerin. They can be fast-acting,
as they are absorbed directly into the bloodstream. Place the tincture drops under your tongue,
and hold the tincture in your mouth for 30-60 seconds before swallowing.
Tinctures are a popular delivery system because they are convenient, discrete (minimal odor),
and easy to dose correctly.
The onset of action is generally about 5-15 minutes, with a peak effect in about 30 minutes and
an expected duration of 1-6 hours.
Topicals:
Topical medication may be delivered quickly and effectively due to the large number of
receptors in the skin. The medication is absorbed directly through the skin, and enters the
bloodstream quickly.
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Since there is a possibility of an allergic reaction to topical products, caution should be used
when starting this therapy. Apply a test dose, and watch for a rash or reaction over the next 24
hours or so. In spite of some people having an allergic reaction to topical products, it is
generally a well-tolerated delivery system.
Dosing
Dosing of this powerful drug is very individualized, and probably the most important part
of a successful therapy. Start low and titrate until the proper dose is achieved. The right dose
is actually the smallest effective dose needed to achieve the desired relief. More is not better
when we are talking about cannabis.
Overmedicating cannabis may cause an unpleasant experience.
Monitoring the Effects
Patients may respond differently to the medication.
Although the ingestible products, lotions and patches have known concentrations of the active
ingredient(s), it is only an estimate of how much medication you are taking with smoking
cannabis (which is not suggested) or using a vaporizer. You will need to be responsible for
recognizing and recording the effects of the cannabis.
You will be given a strain journal that may, over time, help you determine what the best product
is for you. In all situations, please start with the lowest dose possible and use it infrequently.
Dosage and frequency can be increased as the effects of the medication become known.
There are many different strains of cannabis with different chemical compositions and different
effects on the body and brain. We hope you and your physician can use your medical history
and experience with cannabis to help determine what strain is best for you with the fewest side
effects.
Potencv of Mariivana
How Strong is Marijuana?
The main ingredient in marijuana responsible for its psychoactive, or mood altering, effects is a
cannabinoid called delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or "THC" for short. In combination with other
cannabinoids, the amount of THC in marijuana determines the strength of the effect of the drug.
The level of THC in marijuana is not always the same. It can vary depending on the strain or
variety of the plant, the way in which the plant is grown, the part of the plant that is used, and
the way the plant is prepared for use and how it is stored.
Strain and Cultivation Technique
The way marijuana is grown can affect the amount of THC in the plant, and therefore its
potency. Cannabis sativa is the species of plant that most commonly produces the drugs known
as marijuana, hash, or hashish. Normally, the male cannabis plant fertilizes the female plant. If
female plants are grown in isolation, then the flowering tops of the plant remain unfertilized.
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These unfertilized flowering tops, known as "sinsemilla," have particularly high THC levels.
Crossbreeding and genetic selection can also produce strains of the cannabis plant with
particularly high levels of THC.
Some argue that cannabis grown hydroponically or under artificial light is stronger than
cannabis grown outdoors in natural light. Because the amount and quality of resin produced
depends on temperature, humidity, light, and soil acidity. Cannabis grown outdoors varies
considerably in potency, whereas intensive indoor cultivation, often done with female plants and
clones, under artificial light, and without soil, produces optimized cultivation conditions and
cannabis of a consistently higher potency (UNODC, 2009). Some users of the drug say they can
tell when they are using "hydro" cannabis versus "bush weed" because the effects are so much
stronger. However, some people do not believe it is hydroponic cultivation itself that makes
cannabis stronger; large scale hydroponic cultivators may simply be more likely to use more
potent strains and grow plants to their full potential.
Part of Plant Used
The flowering tops, or "buds" of the female cannabis plant have the highest concentrations of
THC, followed by the leaves. Much lower THC levels are found in the stalks and seeds of the
cannabis plant.
Preparation for Use
The cannabis plant can be prepared in different ways for use, and these different forms have
different potency. The strongest preparation is known as "hash oil," which is made by extracting
THC from the cannabis plant in oil. Hash oil has been found to contain 15% to 30% THC. The
resin secreted from the plant can be dried to make "hash," which is the second strongest
preparation. Hash has THC concentrations ranging from 10% to 20%. The form with the lowest
THC level is the dried buds and leaves of the plant, commonly known as marijuana. Marijuana
is the most common form of cannabis available in the USA and can vary widely in potency from
less than 1% to 20%.
Has Marijuana Become Stronger?
The marijuana used today is stronger than it used to be, but not as strong as has been written in
some media reports (claiming marijuana is 30 times stronger today than during the 1970s).
Depending on how analysis was conducted and the sample analyzed, marijuana strength has
increased by 2 to 7 times since the 1970s, measured by THC levels.
Another difference between then and now is that marijuana users in the 1970s were more likely
to smoke the leaves and to initiate use around 20 years of age. Marijuana users today,
however, often start in their mid-teens and prefer to smoke the more potent flowering tops,
(buds) of the plant. Research shows that young, regular (daily or near daily) users are most at
risk for many of the adverse effects of marijuana, including mental health problems and
dependence.
So What's the Story?
Anecdotal reports as well as measurement in lab tests suggest that cannabis used today is
stronger than in the past. Based on available scientific evidence, it would appear that the
strength of marijuana has increased to some extent over the last 25 years, though far less than
is sometimes claimed.
Instead, it is likely that the main difference today is the part of the plant people smoke and the
age at which people begin regular use. It is more common for people today to smoke the
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flowering heads of the plant which are much more potent than the leaf product. These changes
in the patterns of use may result in users of today taking in higher levels of THC than in the
past. Additionally, the younger age at which people start, and the more regularly they use, the
more likely they are to be adversely affected by marijuana. Simply focusing on marijuana
potency may obscure the fact that young regular users are most at risk of marijuana related
harm.
References:
• Cascini F, Aiello C, Di Tanna G. Increasing delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (A-9-THC) content in
herbal cannabis over time: systematic review and meta-analysis. Curr Drug Abuse Rev.
2012 Mar;5(1): 32-40. doi: 10.2174/1874473711205010032
• McLaren J, Swift W, Dillon P, Allsop S. Cannabis potency and contamination: a review of the
literature. Addiction. 2008 Jul;103(7):1100-9. doi: 10.1111/i.1360-0443.2008.02230.x
• Mehmedic Z, Chandra S, Slade D, Denham H, Foster S, Patel AS, Ross SA, Khan IA,
ElSohly MA. Potency trends of A9-THC and other cannabinoids in confiscated cannabis
preparations from 1993 to 2008. J Forensic Sci. 2010;55(5):1209-17. doi:
10.1111/i.1556-4029.2010.01441.x
• Sevigny EL. Is today's marijuana more potent simply because it's fresher? Drug Test Anal.
2013 Jan;5(1):62-7. doi: 10.1 002/dta.1430
• United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. Why does cannabis potency matter? World Drug
Report 2009 Series. httr)://www.unodc.ora/unodc/en/frontr)acle/2009/June/whv-does-
cannabis-r)otencv-matter.htmI
See more at: httD:Hadai.uw.edu/mariivana/factsheets/r)otencv.htm#sthash.ulG8vJNi.dr)uf
Drua Interactions
There's more documentation of drug interactions with oral cannabis than with other delivery
systems but caution should be used with all forms. The drug interactions can either increase or
decrease the effects of the drug or the cannabis.
This is a list of drugs that are known to increase the effects of orally administered marijuana:
Amiodarone, Clarithromycin, Diltiazem, Erythromycin, Fluconazole, Isoniazid, Itraconazole,
Ketoconazole, Miconaole, Ritonavir, Verapamil.
This is a list of drugs that can decrease or interfere with orally administered marijuana:
Carbamazepine, Phenobarbital, Phenytoin, Primodone, Rifabutin, Rifampicin, St John's Wort.
Also, cannabis increases the effects of alcohol, benzodiazepines and opiates whether smoked,
vaporized or orally ingested.
Adverse Effects
Please tell your health care providers about all medications that you are taking, including
cannabis and other complimentary products you are using. Generally, it is best practice to
consume as little medicine as possible to achieve the desired effect. New patients or elderly
patients must approach this therapy with caution and supervision.
The most important thing to remember if you are dealing with a side effect is to remain calm,
breathe deeply and relax.
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A common side effect is postural or orthostatic hypotension or feeling faint. This may cause a
loss of consciousness or lightheadedness when standing from a sitting or lying position. This is
a common occurrence for people that suffer from high blood pressure.
Some short-term therapy side effects are: rapid heartbeat, dry mouth, coughing (usually from
smoking or vapor therapy), confusion, panic attacks, anxiety, dry eyes, dry mouth and paranoia
or feelings of suspicion.
Long-term therapy side effects - especially for heavy long-term smokers - may be severe or
chronic bronchitis, along with cognitive and memory impairment.
Patients with high blood pressure, heart disease, angina or irregular heartbeat, chronic
obstructive pulmonary disease, an immune disorder, severe depression, bipolar disease or
schizophrenia should discuss these issues with their physician prior to initiating therapy.
Cannabis is unsafe in pregnancy and likely unsafe if breastfeeding.
Other effects are euphoria (feeling high), increased appetite, rapid heart rate, a general
weakening of the immune system making it more difficult to fight an infection, and may worsen
lung problems if the cannabis is smoked.
It has been recommended to stop the use of cannabis 2 weeks before anesthesia, but certainly
tell your doctors about all the medications you are taking.
It is recommended not to combine cannabis with sedatives as it may cause excessive
sleepiness or drowsiness. Cannabis may decrease the effectiveness of Theophylline(for
asthma). There are also interactions with Antabuse, SSRI's(anti depression medications), and
Coumadin or Warfarin (blood thinners). It is against the law to drive or operate equipment while
using cannabis.
Ingestible cannabis is in a form that may be attractive to children and animals. Care must be
taken that the medication is stored properly and cannot be accessed by anyone except those
who the medication is intended for.
One needs to be aware that dependence and addiction can occur with Marijuana use.
Mariivana addiction can be defined as:
• Tolerance, as defined by: A need for markedly increased amounts of the substance to
achieve intoxication or desired effect. However, tolerance can occur without addiction.
• Tolerance, as defined by: Markedly diminished effect with continued use of the same
amount of the substance.
• Withdrawal, as manifested by: The characteristic withdrawal syndrome for the
substance. Characterized by "irritability, sleeplessness, decreased appetite, anxiety, and
drug craving."
• Taking the substance often in larger amounts or over a longer period than was intended.
• Having a persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control substance use.
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• Recurrent substance use resulting in a failure to fulfill major role obligations at work,
school or home.
• Recurrent substance use in situations in which it is physically hazardous.
• Recurrent substance-related legal problems.
• Continued substance use despite persistent or recurrent social or interpersonal
problems caused or exacerbated by the effects of the substance
• You don't need to have all of those symptoms, but if you do, you need to tell your doctor,
call a substance abuse program or tell us and we can help you find a program.
Substance Abuse Signs and Svmptoms
Signs, Symptoms, and Help for Drug Problems and Substance Abuse
Some people are able to use recreational or prescription drugs without ever experiencing
negative consequences or addiction. For many others, substance use can cause problems at
work, home, school, and in relationships, leaving you feeling isolated, helpless, or ashamed.
If you're worried about your own or a friend or family member's drug use, it's important to know
that help is available. Learning about the nature of drug abuse and addiction—how it develops,
what it looks like, and why it can have such a powerful hold—will give you a better
understanding of the problem and how to best deal with it.
Understanding drug use, drug abuse, and addiction
People experiment with drugs for many different reasons. Many first try drugs out of curiosity, to
have a good time, because friends are doing it, or in an effort to improve athletic performance or
ease another problem, such as stress, anxiety, or depression. Use doesn't automatically lead to
abuse, and there is no specific level at which drug use moves from casual to problematic. It
varies by individual. Drug abuse and addiction is less about the amount of substance consumed
or the frequency, and more to do with the consequences of drug use. No matter how often or
how little you're consuming, if your drug use is causing problems in your life—at work, school,
home, or in your relationships—you likely have a drug abuse or addiction problem.
Why do some drug users become addicted, while others don't?
As with many other conditions and diseases, vulnerability to addiction differs from person to
person. Your genes, mental health, family and social environment all play a role in addiction.
Risk factors that increase your vulnerability include:
• Family history of addiction
• Abuse, neglect, or other traumatic experiences in childhood
• Mental disorders such as depression and anxiety
• Early use of drugs
• Method of administration—smoking or injecting a drug may increase its addictive potential
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Drug addiction and the brain
Addiction is a complex disorder characterized by compulsive drug use. While each drug
produces different physical effects, all abused substances share one thing in common: repeated
use can alter the way the brain looks and functions.
• Taking a recreational drug causes a surge in levels of dopamine in your brain, which trigger
feelings of pleasure. Your brain remembers these feelings and wants them repeated.
• If you become addicted, the substance takes on the same significance as other survival
behaviors, such as eating and drinking.
• Changes in your brain interfere with your ability to think clearly, exercise good judgment,
control your behavior, and feel normal without drugs.
• Whether you're addicted to inhalants, heroin, Xanax, speed, or Vicodin, the uncontrollable
craving to use grows more important than anything else, including family, friends, career,
and even your own health and happiness.
• The urge to use is so strong that your mind finds many ways to deny or rationalize the
addiction. You may drastically underestimate the quantity of drugs you're taking, how much
it impacts your life, and the level of control you have over your drug use.
How drug abuse and addiction can develop
People who experiment with drugs continue to use them because the substance either makes
them feel good, or stops them from feeling bad. In many cases, however, there is a fine line
between regular use and drug abuse and addiction. Very few addicts are able to recognize
when they have crossed that line. While frequency or the amount of drugs consumed don't in
themselves constitute drug abuse or addiction, they can often be indicators of drug-related
problems.
• Problems can sometimes sneak up on you, as your drug use gradually increases over time.
Smoking a joint with friends at the weekend, or taking ecstasy at a rave, or cocaine at an
occasional party, for example, can change to using drugs a couple of days a week, then
every day. Gradually, getting and using the drug becomes more and more important to
you.
• If the drug fulfills a valuable need, you may find yourself increasingly relying on it. For
example, you may take drugs to calm you if you feel anxious or stressed, energize you if
you feel depressed, or make you more confident in social situations if you normally feel
shy. Or you may have started using prescription drugs to cope with panic attacks or
relieve chronic pain, for example. Until you find alternative, healthier methods for
overcoming these problems, your drug use will likely continue.
• Similarly, if you use drugs to fill a void in your life, you're more at risk of crossing the line from
casual use to drug abuse and addiction. To maintain healthy balance in your life, you
need to have other positive experiences, to feel good in your life aside from any drug
use.
• As drug abuse takes hold, you may miss or frequently be late for work or school, your job
performance may progressively deteriorate, and you start to neglect social or family
obligations. Your ability to stop using is eventually compromised. What began as a
voluntary choice has turned into a physical and psychological need.
The good news is that with the right treatment and support, you can counteract the disruptive
effects of drug use and regain control of your life. The first obstacle is to recognize and admit
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you have a problem, or listen to loved ones who are often better able to see the negative effects
drug use is having on your life.
5 Myths about Drug Abuse and Addiction
MYTH 1 : Overcoming addiction is simply a matter of willpower. You can stop using drugs if you
reallv want to. Prolonged exposure to drugs alters the brain in ways that result in powerful
cravings and a compulsion to use. These brain changes make it extremely difficult to quit by
sheer force of will.
MYTH 2: Addiction is a disease: there's nothing you can do about it. Most experts agree that
addiction is a brain disease, but that doesn't mean you're a helpless victim. The brain changes
associated with addiction can be treated and reversed through therapy, medication, exercise,
and other treatments.
MYTH 3: Addicts have to hit rock bottom before thev can get better. Recovery can begin at any
point in the addiction process—and the earlier, the better. The longer drug abuse continues, the
stronger the addiction becomes and the harder it is to treat. Don't wait to intervene until the
addict has lost it all.
MYTH 4: You can't force someone into treatment; thev have to want help. Treatment doesn't
have to be voluntary to be successful. People who are pressured into treatment by their family,
employer, or the legal system are just as likely to benefit as those who choose to enter
treatment on their own. As they sober up and their thinking clears, many formerly resistant
addicts decide they want to change.
MYTH 5: Treatment didn't work before, so there's no point trvinq again. Recovery from drug
addiction is a long process that often involves setbacks. Relapse doesn't mean that treatment
has failed or that you're a lost cause. Rather, it's a signal to get back on track, either by going
back to treatment or adjusting the treatment approach.
Signs and symptoms of drug abuse and drug addiction
Although different drugs have different physical effects, the symptoms of addiction are similar.
See if you recognize yourself in the following signs and symptoms of substance abuse and
addiction. If so, consider talking to someone about your drug use.
Common signs and symptoms of drug abuse:
• You're neglecting your responsibilities at school, work, or home (e.g. flunking classes,
skipping work, neglecting your children) because of your drug use.
• You're using drugs under dangerous conditions or taking risks while high, such as
driving while on drugs, using dirty needles, or having unprotected sex.
• Your drug use is getting you into legal trouble, such as arrests for disorderly conduct,
driving under the influence, or stealing to support a drug habit.
• Your drug use is causing problems in your relationships, such as fights with your partner
or family members, an unhappy boss, or the loss of old friends.
• You've built up a drug tolerance. You need to use more of the drug to experience the same
effects you used to attain with smaller amounts.
• You take drugs to avoid or relieve withdrawal symptoms. If you go too long without drugs,
you experience symptoms such as nausea, restlessness, insomnia, depression,
sweating, shaking, and anxiety.
• You've lost control over your drug use. You often do drugs or use more than you planned,
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even though you told yourself you wouldn't. You may want to stop using, but you feel
powerless.
• Your life revolves around drug use. You spend a lot of time using and thinking about drugs,
figuring out how to get them, and recovering from the drug's effects.
• You've abandoned activities you used to enjoy, such as hobbies, sports, and socializing,
because of your drug use.
• You continue to use drugs, despite knowing it's hurting you. It's causing major problems
in your life—blackouts, infections, mood swings, depression, paranoia—but you use
anyway.
Warning signs that a friend or family member is abusing drugs
Drug abusers often try to conceal their symptoms and downplay their problem. If you're worried
that a friend or family member might be abusing drugs, look for the following warning signs:
Phvsical warnina sians of drug abuse
• Bloodshot eyes, pupils larger or smaller than usual
• Changes in appetite or sleep patterns. Sudden weight loss or weight gain
• Deterioration of physical appearance, personal grooming habits
• Unusual smells on breath, body, or clothing
• Tremors, slurred speech, or impaired coordination
Behavioral sians of drua abuse
• Drop in attendance and performance at work or school
• Unexplained need for money or financial problems. May borrow or steal to get it.
• Engaging in secretive or suspicious behaviors
• Sudden change in friends, favorite hangouts, and hobbies
• Frequently getting into trouble (fights, accidents, illegal activities)
Psvcholoaical warnina sians of drua abuse
• Unexplained change in personality or attitude
• Sudden mood swings, irritability, or angry outbursts
• Periods of unusual hyperactivity, agitation, or giddiness
• Lack of motivation; appears lethargic or "spaced out"
• Appears fearful, anxious, or paranoid, with no reason
Warning Signs of Commonly Abused Drugs
• Marijuana: Glassy, red eyes; loud talking, inappropriate laughter followed by sleepiness; loss
of interest, motivation; weight gain or loss.
• Depressants(including Xanax, Valium, GHB): Contracted pupils; drunk-like; difficulty
concentrating; clumsiness; poor judgment; slurred speech; sleepiness.
• Stimulants(including amphetamines, cocaine, crystal meth): Dilated pupils; hyperactivity;
euphoria; irritability; anxiety; excessive talking followed by depression or excessive
sleeping at odd times; may go long periods of time without eating or sleeping; weight
loss; dry mouth and nose.
• Inhalants(glues, aerosols, vapors): Watery eyes; impaired vision, memory and thought;
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secretions from the nose or rashes around the nose and mouth; headaches and nausea;
appearance of intoxication; drowsiness; poor muscle control; changes in appetite;
anxiety; irritability; lots of cans/aerosols in the trash.
• Hallucinogens (LSD, PCP): Dilated pupils; bizarre and irrational behavior including paranoia,
aggression, hallucinations; mood swings; detachment from people; absorption with self
or other objects, slurred speech; confusion.
• Heroin: Contracted pupils; no response of pupils to light; needle marks; sleeping at unusual
times; sweating; vomiting; coughing, sniffling; twitching; loss of appetite.
Warning signs of teen drug abuse
While experimenting with drugs doesn't automatically lead to drug abuse, early use is a risk
factor for developing more serious drug abuse and addiction. Risk of drug abuse also increases
greatly during times of transition, such as changing schools, moving, or divorce. The challenge
for parents is to distinguish between the normal, often volatile, ups and downs of the teen years
and the red flags of substance abuse. These include:
• Having bloodshot eyes or dilated pupils; using eye drops to try to mask these signs
• Skipping class; declining grades; suddenly getting into trouble at school
• Missing money, valuables, or prescriptions
• Acting uncharacteristically isolated, withdrawn, angry, or depressed
• Dropping one group of friends for another; being secretive about the new peer group
• Loss of interest in old hobbies; lying about new interests and activities
• Demanding more privacy; locking doors; avoiding eye contact; sneaking around
Getting help for drug abuse and drug addiction
• Visit a Narcotics Anonymous meeting in your area. See Resources & References below.
• Call 1-800-662-HELP in the U.S. to reach a free referral helpline from the Substance Abuse
and Mental Health Services Administration.
Recognizing that you have a problem is the first step on the road to recovery, one that takes
tremendous courage and strength. Facing your addiction without minimizing the problem or
making excuses can feel frightening and overwhelming, but recovery is within reach. If you're
ready to make a change and willing to seek help, you can overcome your addiction and build a
satisfying, drug-free life for yourself.
Support is essential to addiction recovery
Don't try to go it alone; it's all too easy to get discouraged and rationalize "just one more" hit or
pill. Whether you choose to go to rehab, rely on self-help programs, get therapy, or take a self-
directed treatment approach, support is essential. Recovering from drug addiction is much
easier when you have people you can lean on for encouragement, comfort, and guidance.
Support can come from:
• family members
• close friends
• therapists or counselors
• other recovering addicts
• healthcare providers
• people from your faith community
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When a loved one has a drug problem
If you suspect that a friend or family member has a drug problem, here are a few things you can
do:
• Speak up. Talk to the person about your concerns, and offer your help and support, without
being judgmental. The earlier addiction is treated, the better. Don't wait for your loved
one to hit bottom! Be prepared for excuses and denial by listing specific examples of
your loved one's behavior that has you worried.
• Take care of yourself. Don't get so caught up in someone else's drug problem that you
neglect your own needs. Make sure you have people you can talk to and lean on for
support. And stay safe. Don't put yourself in dangerous situations.
• Avoid self-blame. You can support a person with a substance abuse problem and
encourage treatment, but you can't force an addict to change. You can't control your
loved one's decisions. Let the person accept responsibility for his or her actions, an
essential step along the way to recovery for drug addiction.
Don't
• Attempt to punish, threaten, bribe, or preach.
• Try to be a martyr. Avoid emotional appeals that may only increase feelings of guilt and the
compulsion to use drugs.
• Cover up or make excuses for the drug abuser, or shield them from the negative
consequences of their behavior.
• Take over their responsibilities, leaving them with no sense of importance or dignity.
• Hide or throw out drugs.
• Argue with the person when they are high.
• Take drugs with the drug abuser.
• Feel guilty or responsible for another's behavior.
Adapted from: National Clearinghouse for Alcohol& Drug Information
When your teen has a drug problem
Discovering your child uses drugs can generate fear, confusion, and anger in parents. It's
important to remain calm when confronting your teen, and only do so when everyone is sober.
Explain your concerns and make it clear that your concern comes from a place of love. It's
important that your teen feels you are supportive.
Five steps parents can take:
• Lay down rules and consequences. Your teen should understand that using drugs comes
with specific consequences. But don't make hollow threats or set rules that you cannot
enforce. Make sure your spouse agrees with the rules and is prepared to enforce them.
• Monitor your teen's activity. Know where your teen goes and who he or she hangs out with.
It's also important to routinely check potential hiding places for drugs—in backpacks,
between books on a shelf, in DVD cases or make-up cases, for example. Explain to your
teen that this lack of privacy is a consequence of him or her having been caught using
drugs.
• Encourage other interests and social activities. Expose your teen to healthy hobbies and
activities, such as team sports and afterschool clubs.
13
• Talk to your child about underlying issues. Drug use can be the result of other problems.
Is your child having trouble fitting in? Has there been a recent major change, like a move
or divorce, which is causing stress?
• Get help. Teenagers often rebel against their parents but if they hear the same information
from a different authority figure, they may be more inclined to listen. Try a sports coach,
family doctor, therapist, or drug counselor.
Reference: The drug addiction and symptom information above was attained from the following
website:
httiD://www.heliDauide.ora/articles/addiction/drug-abuse-and-addiction.htm
14
Local Substance Abuse Treatment Programs:
1. Cab Health & Recovery Services
27 Congress Street
Suite 105
Salem, MA
(978) 745-8890
www.cabhealth.ora Cr'
2. North Shore Medical Center/Salem Hosp
81 Highland Avenue
Salem, MA 1970
1-800-394-4220
3. St Jeans House
21 Salem st
Salem MA 01970
1-800-394-4220
4. Health and Education Services Inc
800 Cummings Center
Beverly, MA 1915
1-800-394-4220
5. Veterans Center for Addiction Trt
200 Springs Road
Bedford, MA 1730
1-800-394-4220
15
ALTERNATIVE
THERAPIES GROUP
Cannabis Strain Journal
STRAIN NAME:
AVERAGE DURATION OF EFFECT:
Are you usina other Medications at this time? If Yes, please list:
TYPE: Indica Sativa Hybrid
STRENGTH: Mild Medium Strong
FORM: Vaporizer Edible Tincture Topical Smoke
EFFECT: MAKES ME FEEL
Creative Euphoric Uplifted Energetic
Lazy Focused Happy Talkative
Giggly Tingly Hungry Sleepy
MEDICAL: HELPS RELIEVE
Migraines Nausea Insomnia Pain
Anxiety Stress Stomach Cramping Lack of Appetite
Muscle Spasms Joint Pain
NEGATIVES— UNFORTUNATELY, 1 EXPERIENCED
Anxiety Headaches Paranoia Dizziness
Dry Eyes Dry Mouth Severe Fatigue Other
16
DAILY JOURNAL:
AMOUNT INGESTION DURATION DESIRED BRIEF
DATE/TIME STRAIN CONSUMED METHOD OF EFFECT COMMENTS
(DOSAGE) EFFECT ACHIEVED?
17
OVERALL IMPRESSION
NOTES:
18
ALTERNATIVE
THERAPIES GROUP
Patient's Anti-Diversion Statement and Sianature
Alternative Therapies Group, Inc.'s mission is to provide registered, qualifying Massachusetts
patient's access to safely-cultivated and responsibly-dispensed alternative forms of pain and
symptom management, in strict compliance with Department of Public Health regulations.
Alternative Therapies Group, Inc. (ATG) is committed to providing safe, high quality marijuana
for medicinal purposes, to registered qualifying patients and registered qualifying patients only.
ATG views its responsibility to keep its products out of unintended hands as a top priority of the
organization. Each and every member of the ATG organization is tasked with doing his/her part
in consistently meeting this goal.
Additionally, State law restricts registered qualifying patients and/or caregivers from re-
distributing the registered qualifying patients' marijuana to any other individual. Patients that
engage in the diversion of marijuana will be subject to immediate termination of patient access
and possible prosecution by law enforcement. State law also requires that patients return all
unused, excess, or contaminated product back to Alternative Therapies Group, Inc. for disposal
I attest that I, , will not engage in the diversion of marijuana. I have read
and understand the State's regulations regarding patient rights, limitations, and responsibilities.
Patient Signature Date
19
Alternative Therapies Group
3 Yr. Patient Ramp and Revenue Projections
Year 1 (July 1,2017-June 30,2018)
Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Total
Area Population:
Watertown 34,000 34,000 34,000 34,000 34,000
Added Population from Underserved
Communities--some portion of Waltham
and Belmont 45,000 45,000 45,000 45,000 45,000
Total Population: 79,000 79,000 79,000 79,000 79,000
Penetration Rate: 1.00% 1.25% 1.35% 1.50%
#of Patients: 790 988 1,067 1,185 1,185
Price Per Ounce of Flower $300 $300 $300 $275 $ 275
Average Patient Purchase Per Month=1 oz
of flower 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
Revenue $ 711,000 $ 888,750 $ 959,850 $ 977,625 $ 3,537,225
Year 2(July 1,2018-June 30,2019)
Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Total
Area Population:
Watertown 34,000 34,000 34,000 34,000 34,000
Added Population from Underserved
Communities--some portion of Waltham
and Belmont 45,000 45,000 45,000 45,000 45,000
Lost Population due to Cheaper Medicine
in Neighboring Communities (20,000) (20,000) (20,000) (20,000) (20,000)
Total Population: 59,000 59,000 59,000 59,000 59,000
Penetration Rate: 1.75% 2.00% 2.00% 2.25%
#of Patients: 1,033 1,180 1,180 1,328 1,328
Price Per Ounce of Flower $275 $275 $250 $250 $250
Average Patient Purchase Per Month=1 oz
of flower 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
Revenue $ 851,813 $ 973,500 $ 885,000 $ 995,625 $ 3,705,938
Year 3(July 1,2019-June 30,2020)
Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 Total
Area Population:
Watertown 34,000 34,000 34,000 34,000 34,000
Added Population from Underserved
Communities--some portion of Waltham
and Belmont 15,000 15,000 15,000 15,000 15,000
Lost Population due to Cheaper Medicine
in Neighboring Communities (20,000) (20,000) (20,000) (20,000) (15,000)
Total Population: 29,000 29,000 29,000 29,000 34,000
Penetration Rate: 2.25% 2.50% 3.00% 3.25%
#of Patients: 653 725 870 943 943
Price Per Ounce of Flower $250 $225 $200 $200 $200
Average Patient Purchase Per Month=1 oz
of flower 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
Revenue $ 489,375 $ 489,375 $ 522,000 $ 565,500 $ 2,066,250
ATG Pre-Year 1 Costs
Buildout:
New Entrance $ 40,000.00
Internal Buidout $ 450,000.00
Finishes (fixtures, counters etc.) $ 150,000.00
Furniture and Systems $ 30,000.00
Security Equipment and Install $ 130,000.00
Other Related Costs:
Various Permits, Licensing Application Fees (Local and DPH) $ 95,000.00
Rents to Hold Property: $ 40,000.00
Professional Fees(drawings, legal, etc.): $ 30,000.00
Total: $ 965,000.00
ATG 3-Year Profit/Loss:
1QYr-1 2QYr-1 3QYr-1 4Q Yr-1 Year-1 1QYr-2 1QYr_2 1QYr_2 1QYr_2 Year-2 1QYr-3 1QYr-3 1QYr-3 1QYr-3 Year-3
Income
Total Sales $ 711,000.00 $ 888,750.00 $ 959,850.00 $ 977,625.00 $ 3,537,225.00 $ 851,812.50 $ 973,500.00 $ 885,000.00 $ 995,625.00 $ 3,705,937.50 $ 489,375.00 $ 489,375.00 $ 522,000.00 $ 565,500.00 $ 2,066,250.00
Total Income $ 711,000.00 $ 888,750.00 $ 959,850.00 $ 977,625.00 $ 3,537,225.00 $ 851,812.50 $ 973,500.00 $ 885,000.00 $ 995,625.00 $ 3,705,937.50 $ 489,375.00 $ 489,375.00 $ 522,000.00 $ 565,500.00 $ 2,066,250.00
Cost of Goods Sold $ - $ - $ -
Cultivation Equipment&Supplie $ 37,566.29 $ 37,566.29 $ 37,566.29 $ 37,566.29 $ 150,265.14 $ 39,358.20 $ 39,358.20 $ 39,358.20 $ 39,358.20 $ 157,432.79 $ 30,699.39 $ 30,699.39 $ 30,699.39 $ 30,699.39 $ 122,797.57
Employment Expense $ - $ - $ -
Healthcare $ 9,994.55 $ 9,994.55 $ 9,994.55 $ 9,994.55 $ 39,978.18 $ 10,471.28 $ 10,471.28 $ 10,471.28 $ 10,471.28 $ 41,885.14 $ 8,167.60 $ 8,167.60 $ 8,167.60 $ 8,167.60 $ 32,670.41
Total Employment Expense $ 9,994.55 $ 9,994.55 $ 9,994.55 $ 9,994.55 $ 39,978.18 $ 10,471.28 $ 10,471.28 $ 10,471.28 $ 10,471.28 $ 41,885.14 $ 8,167.60 $ 8,167.60 $ 8,167.60 $ 8,167.60 $ 32,670.41
Equipment rental $ 5,377.50 $ 5,377.50 $ 5,377.50 $ 5,377.50 $ 21,510.00 $ 5,634.01 $ 5,634.01 $ 5,634.01 $ 5,634.01 $ 22,536.03 $ 4,394.53 $ 4,394.53 $ 4,394.53 $ 4,394.53 $ 17,578.10
Insurance Expense $ 4,087.35 $ 4,087.35 $ 4,087.35 $ 4,087.35 $ 16,349.40 $ 4,282.32 $ 4,282.32 $ 4,282.32 $ 4,282.32 $ 17,129.27 $ 3,340.21 $ 3,340.21 $ 3,340.21 $ 3,340.21 $ 13,360.83
Packaging $ 2,611.58 $ 2,611.58 $ 2,611.58 $ 2,611.58 $ 10,446.30 $ 2,736.15 $ 2,736.15 $ 2,736.15 $ 2,736.15 $ 10,944.59 $ 2,134.19 $ 2,134.19 $ 2,134.19 $ 2,134.19 $ 8,536.78
Paraphanelia $ 2,433.95 $ 2,433.95 $ 2,433.95 $ 2,433.95 $ 9,735.78 $ 2,550.04 $ 2,550.04 $ 2,550.04 $ 2,550.04 $ 10,200.18 $ 1,989.03 $ 1,989.03 $ 1,989.03 $ 1,989.03 $ 7,956.14
Pest control $ 232.50 $ 232.50 $ 232.50 $ 232.50 $ 930.00 $ 243.59 $ 243.59 $ 243.59 $ 243.59 $ 974.36 $ 190.00 $ 190.00 $ 190.00 $ 190.00 $ 760.00
Professional Fees $ 46,942.02 $ 46,942.02 $ 46,942.02 $ 46,942.02 $ 187,768.08 $ 49,181.15 $ 49,181.15 $ 49,181.15 $ 49,181.15 $ 196,724.62 $ 38,361.30 $ 38,361.30 $ 38,361.30 $ 38,361.30 $ 153,445.20
Depreciation Expense $ 33,750.00 $ 33,750.00 $ 33,750.00 $ 33,750.00 $ 135,000.00 $ 35,359.88 $ 35,359.88 $ 35,359.88 $ 35,359.88 $ 141,439.50 $ 27,580.70 $ 27,580.70 $ 27,580.70 $ 27,580.70 $ 110,322.81
Regulatory Expense $ 8,794.19 $ 8,794.19 $ 8,794.19 $ 8,794.19 $ 35,176.74 $ 9,213.67 $ 9,213.67 $ 9,213.67 $ 9,213.67 $ 36,854.67 $ 7,186.66 $ 7,186.66 $ 7,186.66 $ 7,186.66 $ 28,746.64
Rent Expense $ 74,823.21 $ 74,823.21 $ 74,823.21 $ 74,823.21 $ 299,292.84 $ 78,392.28 $ 78,392.28 $ 78,392.28 $ 78,392.28 $ 313,569.11 $ 61,145.98 $ 61,145.98 $ 61,145.98 $ 61,145.98 $ 244,583.90
Utilities $ 45,370.95 $ 45,370.95 $ 45,370.95 $ 45,370.95 $ 181,483.80 $ 47,535.14 $ 47,535.14 $ 47,535.14 $ 47,535.14 $ 190,140.58 $ 37,077.41 $ 37,077.41 $ 37,077.41 $ 37,077.41 $ 148,309.65
Total Cost of Goods Sold $ 238,234.07 $ 238,234.07 $ 238,234.07 $ 238,234.07 $ 952,936.26 $ 249,597.83 $ 249,597.03 $ 249,597.83 $ 249,597.83 $ 998,391.32 $ 194,686.31 $ 194,686.31 $ 194,686.31 $ 194,686.31 $ 778,745.23
Gross Profit $ 472,765.94 $ 650,515.94 $ 721,615.94 $ 739,390.94 $ 2,584,288.74 $ 602,214.67 $ 723,902.17 $ 635,402.17 $ 746,027.17 $ 2,707,546.18 $ 294,688.69 $ 294,688.69 $ 327,313.69 $ 370,813.69 $ 1,287,504.77
Expenses $ - $ - $ -
Advertising and Promotion $ 1,492.50 $ 1,492.50 $ 1,492.50 $ 1,492.50 $ 5,970.00 $ 1,563.69 $ 1,563.69 $ 1,563.69 $ 1,563.69 $ 6,254.77 $ 1,219.68 $ 1,219.68 $ 1,219.68 $ 1,219.68 $ 4,878.72
Automobile Expense $ 2,946.84 $ 2,946.84 $ 2,946.84 $ 2,946.84 $ 11,787.36 $ 3,087.40 $ 3,087.40 $ 3,087.40 $ 3,087.40 $ 12,349.62 $ 2,408.18 $ 2,408.18 $ 2,408.18 $ 2,408.18 $ 9,632.70
Bank Service Charges $ 9,516.26 $ 9,516.26 $ 9,516.26 $ 9,516.26 $ 38,065.02 $ 9,970.18 $ 9,970.18 $ 9,970.18 $ 9,970.18 $ 39,880.72 $ 7,776.74 $ 7,776.74 $ 7,776.74 $ 7,776.74 $ 31,106.96
Computer and Internet Expenses $ 6,828.90 $ 6,828.90 $ 6,828.90 $ 6,828.90 $ 27,315.60 $ 7,154.64 $ 7,154.64 $ 7,154.64 $ 7,154.64 $ 28,618.55 $ 5,580.62 $ 5,580.62 $ 5,580.62 $ 5,580.62 $ 22,322.47
General Administrative Expense $ 28,125.00 $ 28,125.00 $ 28,125.00 $ 28,125.00 $ 112,500.00 $ 29,466.56 $ 29,466.56 $ 29,466.56 $ 29,466.56 $ 117,866.25 $ 22,983.92 $ 22,983.92 $ 22,983.92 $ 22,983.92 $ 91,935.68
Interest Expense $ 32,752.58 $ 32,752.58 $ 32,752.58 $ 32,752.58 $ 131,010.30 $ 34,314.87 $ 34,314.87 $ 34,314.87 $ 34,314.87 $ 137,259.49 $ 26,765.60 $ 26,765.60 $ 26,765.60 $ 26,765.60 $ 107,062.40
Meals and Entertainment $ 4,408.25 $ 4,408.25 $ 4,408.25 $ 4,408.25 $ 17,632.98 $ 4,618.52 $ 4,618.52 $ 4,618.52 $ 4,618.52 $ 18,474.07 $ 3,602.44 $ 3,602.44 $ 3,602.44 $ 3,602.44 $ 14,409.78
Office Supplies $ 5,136.05 $ 5,136.05 $ 5,136.05 $ 5,136.05 $ 20,544.18 $ 5,381.03 $ 5,381.03 $ 5,381.03 $ 5,381.03 $ 21,524.14 $ 4,197.21 $ 4,197.21 $ 4,197.21 $ 4,197.21 $ 16,788.83
Payroll Expenses $ 288.84 $ 288.84 $ 288.84 $ 288.84 $ 1,155.36 $ 302.62 $ 302.62 $ 302.62 $ 302.62 $ 1,210.47 $ 236.04 $ 236.04 $ 236.04 $ 236.04 $ 944.17
Company Contributions $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ - $ -
Health Insurance $ 5,434.05 $ 5,434.05 $ 5,434.05 $ 5,434.05 $ 21,736.20 $ 5,693.25 $ 5,693.25 $ 5,693.25 $ 5,693.25 $ 22,773.02 $ 4,440.74 $ 4,440.74 $ 4,440.74 $ 4,440.74 $ 17,762.95
Total Company Contributions $ 5,434.05 $ 5,434.05 $ 5,434.05 $ 5,434.05 $ 21,736.20 $ 5,693.25 $ 5,693.25 $ 5,693.25 $ 5,693.25 $ 22,773.02 $ 4,440.74 $ 4,440.74 $ 4,440.74 $ 4,440.74 $ 17,762.95
Taxes $ 43,081.28 $ 43,081.28 $ 43,081.28 $ 43,081.28 $ 172,325.10 $ 45,136.25 $ 45,136.25 $ 45,136.25 $ 45,136.25 $ 180,545.01 $ 35,206.28 $ 35,206.28 $ 35,206.28 $ 35,206.28 $ 140,825.11
Wages $ 236,786.66 $ 236,786.66 $ 236,786.66 $ 236,786.66 $ 947,146.62 $ 248,081.38 $ 248,081.38 $ 248,081.38 $ 248,081.38 $ 992,325.51 $ 193,503.48 $ 193,503.48 $ 193,503.48 $ 193,503.48 $ 774,013.90
Total Payroll Expenses $ 28S,S90.82 $ 285,590.82 $ 285,S90.82 $ 28S,590.82 $ 1,142,363.28 $ 299,213.50 $ 299,213.S0 $ 299,213.S0 $ 299,213.50 $ 1,196,854.01 $ 233,386.S3 $ 233,386.S3 $ 233,386.S3 $ 233,386.53 $ 933,546.13
Postage and Delivery $ 75.00 $ 75.00 $ 75.00 $ 75.00 $ 300.00 $ 78.58 $ 78.58 $ 78.58 $ 78.58 $ 314.31 $ 61.29 $ 61.29 $ 61.29 $ 61.29 $ 245.16
Rent-Dispensary $ 151,250.00 $ 151,250.00 $ 151,250.00 $ 151,250.00 $ 605,000.00 $ 96,250.00 $ 96,250.00 $ 96,250.00 $ 96,250.00 $ 385,000.00 $ 98,175.00 $ 98,175.00 $ 98,175.00 $ 98,175.00 $ 392,700.00
Repairs and Maintenance $ 13,092.30 $ 13,092.30 $ 13,092.30 $ 13,092.30 $ 52,369.20 $ 13,716.80 $ 13,716.80 $ 13,716.80 $ 13,716.80 $ 54,867.21 $ 10,699.11 $ 10,699.11 $ 10,699.11 $ 10,699.11 $ 42,796.42
Sales Tax $ 3,600.00 $ 3,600.00 $ 3,600.00 $ 3,600.00 $ 14,400.00 $ 3,771.72 $ 3,771.72 $ 3,771.72 $ 3,771.72 $ 15,086.88 $ 2,941.94 $ 2,941.94 $ 2,941.94 $ 2,941.94 $ 11,767.77
Trade association $ 2,250.00 $ 2,250.00 $ 2,250.00 $ 2,250.00 $ 9,000.00 $ 2,357.33 $ 2,357.33 $ 2,357.33 $ 2,357.33 $ 9,429.30 $ 1,838.71 $ 1,838.71 $ 1,838.71 $ 1,838.71 $ 7,354.85
Travel Expense $ 3,709.85 $ 3,709.85 $ 3,709.85 $ 3,709.85 $ 14,839.38 $ 3,886.80 $ 3,886.80 $ 3,886.80 $ 3,886.80 $ 15,547.22 $ 3,031.71 $ 3,031.71 $ 3,031.71 $ 3,031.71 $ 12,126.83
Uniforms $ 1,442.22 $ 1,442.22 $ 1,442.22 $ 1,442.22 $ 5,768.88 $ 1,511.01 $ 1,511.01 $ 1,511.01 $ 1,511.01 $ 6,044.06 $ 1,178.59 $ 1,178.59 $ 1,178.59 $ 1,178.59 $ 4,714.36
Total Expenses $ 552,216.55 $ 552,216.55 $ 552,216.55 $ 552,216.55 $ 2,208,866.18 $ 516,342.65 $ 516,342.65 $ 516,342.65 $ 516,342.65 $ 2,065,370.60 $ 425,847.27 $ 425,847.27 $ 425,847.27 $ 425,847.27 $ 1,703,389.07
Net Operating Income $ 79,450.61 $ 98,299.39 $ 169,399.39 $ 187,174.39 $ 375,422.56 $ 85,872.02 $ 207,559.52 $ 119,059.52 $ 229,684.52 $ 642,175.58 $ 131,158.57 -$ 131,158.57 -$ 98,533.57 -$ 55,033.57 $ (415,884.29)
Other Expenses $ - $ - $ -
Community Host Fees $ 6,250.00 $ 6,250.00 $ 6,250.00 $ 6,250.00 $ 25,000.00 $ 6,250.00 $ 6,250.00 $ 6,250.00 $ 6,250.00 $ 25,000.00 $ 6,250.00 $ 6,250.00 $ 6,250.00 $ 6,250.00 $ 25,000.00
Total Other Expenses $ 6,250.00 $ 6,250.00 $ 6,250.00 $ 6,250.00 $ 25,000.00 $ 6,250.00 $ 6,250.00 $ 6,250.00 $ 6,250.00 $ 25,000.00 $ 6,250.00 $ 6,250.00 $ 6,250.00 $ 6,250.00 $ 25,000.00
Net Other Income $ 6,250.00 -$ 6,250.00 -$ 6,250.00 -$ 6,250.00 $ (25,000.00) .$ 6,250.00 -$ 6,250.00 -$ 6,250.00 -$ 6,250.00 $ (25,000.00) $ 6,250.00 -$ 6,250.00 -$ 6,250.00 -$ 6,2S0.00 $ (25,000.00)
Net Income $ 85,700.61 $ 92,049.39 $ 163,149.39 $ 180,924.39 $ 350,422.56 $ 79,622.02 $ 201,309.52 $ 112,809.52 $ 223,434.52 $ 617,175.58 $ 137,408.57 $ 137,408.57 $ 104,783.57 $ 61,283.57 $ (440,884.29)
Federal Corp Tax(45%to capture IRS
Rule 280E) $ (38,565.27) $ 41,422.23 $ 73,417.23 $ 81,415.98 $ 157,690.15 $ 35,829.91 $ 90,589.28 $ 50,764.28 $ 100,545.53 $ 277,729.01 $ (61,833.86) $ (61,833.86) $ (47,152.61) $ (27,577.61) $ (198,397.93)
Cash Flow(NI-
Taxes+Depreciation) $ (13,385.34) $ 84,377.16 $ 123,482.16 $ 133,258.41 $ 327,732.41 $ 79,151.99 $ 146,080.11 $ 97,405.11 $ 158,248.86 $ 480,886.07 $ (47,994.01) $ (47,994.01) $ (30,050.26) $ (6,125.26) $ (132,163.55)
TOWN OF WATERTOWN
AND ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES GROUP, INC.
HOST COMMUNITY AGREEMENT
THIS HOST COMMUNITY AGREEMENT ("AGREEMENT") is entered into this day of
2017 by and between Alternative Therapies Group, Inc., a Massachusetts not-for-profit
corporation with a principal office address of 24R Pleasant St, Unit 2, Newburyport, MA, 01950 ("the
Company"), and the Town of Watertown, a Massachusetts municipal corporation with a principal
address of 149 Main Street, Watertown, MA 02472 ("the Town"), acting by and through its Town
Manager.
WHEREAS, the Company wishes to locate a Registered Marijuana Dispensary ("RMD")
dispensing facility (but not a cultivation or processing facility) in the Town in accordance with
regulations issued by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Public Health ("DPH"); and
WHEREAS, the Company intends to provide certain benefits to the Town in the event that it
receives a license from the DPH to operate an RMD dispensing facility (the "DPH License") and receives
all required local permits and approvals;
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the provisions of this Agreement, the Company and the
Town agree as follows:
1. The Company shall annually contribute to Watertown public charities in an amount no less than
a sum of$25,000, said charities to be determined by the Company in its reasonable discretion.
2. Should recreational marijuana sales become a viable option in Watertown for the Company, it
agrees to work in good faith with Watertown officials on appropriate implementation plans, and
comply with all local ordinances.
3. The terms of this Agreement shall be renegotiated by the Company and the Town in good faith
following five (5) years of continuous operation of the RMD facility.The terms of this Agreement
shall continue in full force and effect unless the parties reach accord on a subsequent
agreement. Any renegotiation of this Agreement shall include a review of positive and negative
impacts upon the Town, its residents, and businesses resulting from operation of the RMD,
including, without limitation, community health, associated business growth, traffic, crime, use
of Town resources, proximate property value impacts, and other documented impacts.
4. The provisions of this Agreement shall be applicable as long as the Company operates a RMD
dispensing facility in the Town, pursuant to a license issued by DPH, subject to the provisions of
Paragraph 7, below.
5. The Company will make efforts to hire qualified employees who are Town residents, and to
utilize vendors based in the Town.
6. The Company agrees that the value of the real property of the RMD dispensing facility shall be
treated as taxable and the Company shall not object to or otherwise challenge the taxability of
such real property, but reserves any rights it might have with respect to the valuation of same.
The Company, to the extent that it maintains its classification as a non-profit organization
pursuant to applicable Massachusetts law, shall be exempt from the payment of taxes on
personal property to the same extent as similar organizations and facilities operating within the
Town.
7. The obligations of the Company and the Town recited herein are specifically contingent upon
the Company obtaining the DPH License for operation of a RMD dispensing facility in the Town,
and the Company's receipt of any and all necessary local approvals to locate, occupy, and
operate a RMD dispensing facility in the Town.
8. This Agreement does not affect, limit, or control the authority of Town boards, commissions,
and departments to carry out their respective powers and duties to decide upon and to issue, or
deny, applicable permits and other approvals under the statutes and regulations of the
Commonwealth, the General and Zoning Bylaws of the Town, or applicable regulations of those
boards, commissions, and departments, or to enforce said statutes, Bylaws, and regulations.
The Town, by entering into this Agreement, is not thereby required or obligated to issue such
permits and approvals as may be necessary for the RMD dispensing facility to operate in the
Town, or to refrain from enforcement action against the Company and/or its RMD dispensing
facility for violation of the terms of said permits and approvals or said statutes, Bylaws, and
regulations.
9. Neither the Company nor the Town shall assign or otherwise transfer any of its rights or
obligations under this Agreement, in whole or in part, without the prior express written consent
of the other.
10. The Company agrees to comply with all laws, rules, regulations and orders applicable to the
RMD dispensing facility, such provisions being incorporated herein by reference, and shall be
responsible for obtaining all necessary licenses, permits, and approvals required for the
performance of such work. The Company agrees not to assert or seek exemption as an
agricultural use under the provisions of G.L. c.40A, §3 from the requirements of the Town's
Zoning Bylaws.
11. Any and all notices, or other communications required or permitted under this Agreement, shall
be in writing and delivered by hand or mailed postage prepaid, return receipt requested, by
registered or certified mail or by other reputable delivery service, to the parties at the addresses
set forth on Page 1 or furnished from time to time in writing hereafter by one party to the other
party. Any such notice or correspondence shall be deemed given when so delivered by hand, if
so mailed, when deposited with the U.S. Postal Service or, if sent by private overnight or other
delivery service, when deposited with such delivery service.
12. If any term or condition of this Agreement or any application thereof shall to any extent be held
invalid, illegal or unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, the validity, legality, and
enforceability of the remaining terms and conditions of this Agreement shall not be deemed
affected thereby unless one or both parties would be substantially or materially prejudiced.
2
13. This Agreement shall be governed by, construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of
the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and the Company submits to the jurisdiction of any of its
appropriate courts for the adjudication of disputes arising out of this Agreement.
14. This Agreement, including all documents incorporated herein by reference, constitutes the
entire integrated agreement between the Company and the Town with respect to the matters
described herein. This Agreement supersedes all prior and contemporaneous agreements,
negotiations and representations, either written or oral, and it shall not be modified or
amended except by a written document executed by the parties hereto.
15. This Agreement shall also be null and void in the event that the Company shall not locate a RMD
dispensing facility in the Town or shall relocate such RMD dispensing facility out of the Town. In
the case of any relocation out of the Town, an adjustment of funds due to public charities
hereunder shall be calculated based upon the period of occupation of the RMD dispensing
facility within the Town, but in no event shall a selected public charity be responsible for the
return of any funds already provided to it by the Company.
16. This agreement shall become null and void if and when the Commonwealth of Massachusetts or
the Town of Watertown adopts an excise tax, fee, or assessment that entitles the Town or public
charities to revenue from the Company in addition to the charitable donation (section 1) and/or
tax payments (section 6)set forth in this agreement.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement on the day and year
first above written.
TOWN OF WATERTOWN ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES GROUP, INC.
By: By: Christopher Edwards
Its: Its: Executive Director
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