The Twin Counties' first licensed and permanent dispensary is now open for business.

Cannabis Store.Photo byBudding .onUnsplash

On July 1, Riverbend Mercantile, a clothes business, closed and was replaced by Riverbend Dispensary, located at 531 Warren St.

One of the dispensary's owners, Rudy Huston, has been a Hudson resident for twenty-two years. About four years ago, Ed Glickman, his co-owner and business partner, approached him about launching a dispensary.

Clearance For A Retail Dispensary License

Last summer, the facility received clearance for a retail dispensary license for adult usage under certain conditions. Glickman qualified for a license under the initiative, which gave the first permits in the state to those who had served time in prison or had been convicted of a felony involving cannabis.

Huston stated, He [Glickman] had been arrested in '77 while traveling to college. He applied and we were approved last summer since he met all the requirements for a license.

However, Huston and Glickman's opening was prevented when other city applicants were also granted cannabis licenses.

Delayed Licensing Program

The state was sued by a group of veterans, and the action resulted in a delay of the licensing program until it was resolved in November.

There were concerns during the licensing process that the dispensary might not be able to open, according to Huston.

According to Huston, learning that the dispensary would open was terrifying.

Despite considering other options, Huston and Glickman ultimately chose to remain at the Warren Street location.

Seven Farms In Columbia County

The "bud bar," where cannabis flowers are sold, at the dispensary is a representation of seven farms in Columbia County.

Two years ago, Huston and Glickman began visiting farms in the county that grew marijuana, he said.

Sunday is the grand opening celebration for Riverbend Dispensary. Monday through Sunday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. is when the store is open.