Grass Valley has made its initial selection of approved cannabis businesses, and as expected, there were more applications in the dispensary category than available licenses. City Attorney Michael Colantuono, says as a result, the city is in a position to establish an appeal process to handle concerns of unsuccessful applicants.

That process has been available for public comment for over a week and will be available through the end of today.

Following public comment, Community Development Director Tom Last will adopt the appeal process.
As part of the process, the two appeals will go to neutral hearing officer, retired Judge Al Dover. City staff is recommending the hearing officer have the power to decide if an oral hearing or paper hearing is appropriate.

The council will also vote on a decision made by the hearing officer. If still unsuccessful, the appeal could then be challenged in Superior Court if the applicant wishes to continue the dispute.
If all is approved regarding the process, it is expected that the two appeals will go the hearing officer and a decision made early next year.