Pot growers rush to apply for licenses

The online licensing process began Monday, Sept.26, for Santa Cruz County’s several hundred cannabis growers – an anonymous arrangement meant to stimulate participation.
Growers have until midnight, Nov. 6, to pay $500, upload their application and become eligible for the next step of the licensing process.  Cultivators only need to submit an email address, user name and password to create an account.
“This allows growers to get their foot in the door to register,” said Jason Hoppin, county communications manager, adding that users will be notified if they meet the draft ordinance’s regulations.  “This is so they can become compliant.”
In November growers may complete a $2,500 official licensing application that identifies them by name and parcel number. Growers without internet access can apply at a registration kiosk at the county building on Ocean Street.
The county is developing an environmental impact report (EIR) to accompany the final ordinance. The timeline for completion of that document is expected to be about a year.
Meanwhile, the county has hired a cannabis licensing manager to oversee the cultivation program. Daniel Peterson begins his duties Oct. 17.
Peterson has several years of management experience in a regulatory environment. His most-recent post was principal engineer for water resources in YubaCounty.
Chosen from more than 180 applicants, Peterson is familiar with the county’s regulatory environment and how it relates to this relatively new area of law.
“Mr. Peterson stood out as someone ready to work with neighbors, growers and patients to strike a balance and achieve a medical cannabis regulatory system that works well for everyone,” said Susan Mauriello, county administrative officer.
The county’s regulatory process is not expected to change if state voters approve legalizing marijuana for recreational use in November, according to Hoppin.