From: Michael Craig
To: Brad Rawson
Cc: save-east-belmont-discuss; City Council
Subject: Re: Marijuana
Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 5:46:59 PM
Hello Brad,
Thanks for your reply. As you can see from my previous email, the source you use from Wikipedia is not perfect either as the co-founder clearly states that Wikipedia has a left leaning bias and specifically talked about how Wikipedia didn't talk much at all about the harms of drug legalization. We all should take ANY source online with a grain of salt-even the supposed "fact-checkers."
Most media in America is far left leaning and not everyone is that far left nor are they that far right either. If we believed everything we read online or saw on TV then 1/2 the country are Commies and the other 1/2 are Nazi's. Clearly this is not true.
I know that not everything I read online is true, however, the statistics on heavy marijuana use from people who started in their teens and in their early 20's having psychotic breaks is very concerning and not something anyone had heard of from marijuana users 40 years ago. The difference is the strength of the dosage. By your example, it would be like teenagers starting to drink but drinking 100 proof alcohol only. I am sure after 5 years of daily drinking the highest proof that their livers would be shot.
The other difference is addicted daily users of the strong 100% THC have a much higher chance of a mental breakdown and potential suicidal thoughts.
Kids in Middle School at Ralston are already vaping (I witnessed it as a Parateacher) so it might become Marijuana they are smoking next.
I am glad Marijuana is not going to be near schools but my preference would be that people drive to Redwood City to get it or order it online where it can be delivered by numerous Uberlike services for Marijuana delivery in 20 minutes or less.
Thanks for caring and clarifying that your email was not meant to slander.
I think if you actually watch the video you might be surprised. It features Dr Drew who talks about factual info about potency as well as personal experiences as a Doctor dealing with young people experiencing very negative side effects from daily Marijuana use.
Best Regards,
Michael Craig
(650)921-1515
On Tue, Mar 25, 2025, 5:27 PM Brad Rawson <[email protected]> wrote:
Hey Michael,
In no way did I call you a homophobe or racist. I also in no way provided an argument against your statement.
The manufacture of THC concentrate is tasked with the inherent goal of producing the highest purity of THC.
There is no doubt in my mind that companies are distilling THC product that is 100% pure.
Just as Alcohol producers distill 100% ethanol used as “booster” to increase ABV in items like wine, beer and pre mixed cocktails.
The inclusion of the screenshot was to simply outline the source media you requested others to view is hosted and distributed by a severely biased outlet, and while while it may provide some factual information, it will most likely also contain partisan and misleading statements in support of a particular ideology. Excluding some facts, presenting data in a skewed light is disingenuous.
Those weren’t your statements. Just the sources you cited to support your message.
I appreciate your passion in defending your stance. But please, Don’t take my statements as slander.
Brad Rawson
(831)-801-1733
On Mar 25, 2025, at 4:18 PM, Michael Craig <[email protected]> wrote:
Hello Brad,
I guess suggesting watching videos of differing viewpoints makes it OK to call people names? You clearly have not watched ANY PragerU videos and think its OK to call anyone who does a Racist, Homophobe, etc.? Please explain what about the video I linked to is misinformation or factually incorrect? If not-keep your own bigotry to yourself. I have actually toured a facility that makes 100% THC for marijuana manufacturers. This is a fact. Marijuana grown 40 years ago averaged only about 3-5% THC which is also a FACT. The highest potency 40 years ago was only 10%.
"In the US, some of the most extensive research on cannabis strength comes from the Potency Monitoring Program, a
project led by the National Institute on Drug Abuse and carried out at the University of Mississippi. The data shows a clear trend: over the last 50 years, the average amount of
tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in cannabis – the plant’s main psychoactive component – has increased more than tenfold." Quote from Newscience.com article written by Alex Wnuk on October 11th 2023.
I would have provided the link but it seems easier to just put in email.
Which facts do you disagree with and why?
Name calling is NOT an argument.
Michael Craig
(650)921-1515
On Tue, Mar 25, 2025, 12:04 PM Brad Rawson <[email protected]> wrote:
Michael,
I appreciate this information. You are a true scholar and patriot. <image0.jpeg>
Brad Rawson
(831)-801-1733
On Mar 25, 2025, at 11:06 AM, Michael Craig
<[email protected]> wrote:
What's Wrong with Marijuana? | 5-Minute Videos | PragerU https://www.prageru.com/video/whats-wrong-with-marijuana In this video it tells how Marijuana now has THC levels as high as 100% which is NOT the marijuana that most adults 40+ grew up with. I have actually toured a facility that makes this pure 100% THC and is NOT a greenhouse with plants-its a high tech biotech lab that uses many other chemicals and lab equipment to make this 100% pure THC. When I asked what products it was used for, I was told "any and all products that the manufacturers they sell to want."
This is highly addictive and at these levels and are not really medicinal-at this point its about the greatest high.
Watch the video.
Michael Craig
(650)921-1515
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From: Brad Rawson
To: [email protected]
Cc: save-east-belmont-discuss; City Council
Subject: Re: Marijuana
Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 5:27:31 PM
Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important
Hey Michael,
In no way did I call you a homophobe or racist. I also in no way provided an argument against your statement.
The manufacture of THC concentrate is tasked with the inherent goal of producing the highest purity of THC.
There is no doubt in my mind that companies are distilling THC product that is 100% pure.
Just as Alcohol producers distill 100% ethanol used as “booster” to increase ABV in items like wine, beer and pre mixed cocktails.
The inclusion of the screenshot was to simply outline the source media you requested others to view is hosted and distributed by a severely biased outlet, and while while it may provide some factual information, it will most likely also contain partisan and misleading statements in support of a particular ideology. Excluding some facts, presenting data in a skewed light is disingenuous.
Those weren’t your statements. Just the sources you cited to support your message.
I appreciate your passion in defending your stance. But please, Don’t take my statements as slander.
Brad Rawson
(831)-801-1733
On Mar 25, 2025, at 4:18 PM, Michael Craig <[email protected]> wrote:
Hello Brad,
I guess suggesting watching videos of differing viewpoints makes it OK to call people names? You clearly have not watched ANY PragerU videos and think its OK to call anyone who does a Racist, Homophobe, etc.? Please explain what about the video I linked to is misinformation or factually incorrect? If not-keep your own bigotry to yourself. I have actually toured a facility that makes 100% THC for marijuana manufacturers. This is a fact. Marijuana grown 40 years ago averaged only about 3-5% THC which is also a FACT. The highest potency 40 years ago was only 10%.
"In the US, some of the most extensive research on cannabis strength comes from the Potency Monitoring Program, a project led by the National Institute on Drug Abuse and carried out at the University of Mississippi. The data shows a clear trend: over the last 50 years, the average amount of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in cannabis – the plant’s main psychoactive component – has increased more than tenfold."
Quote from Newscience.com article written by Alex Wnuk on October 11th 2023.
I would have provided the link but it seems easier to just put in email.
Which facts do you disagree with and why?
Name calling is NOT an argument.
Michael Craig
(650)921-1515
On Tue, Mar 25, 2025, 12:04 PM Brad Rawson <[email protected]> wrote:
Michael,
I appreciate this information. You are a true scholar and patriot. <image0.jpeg>
Brad Rawson
(831)-801-1733
On Mar 25, 2025, at 11:06 AM, Michael Craig
<[email protected]> wrote:
What's Wrong with Marijuana? | 5-Minute Videos | PragerU https://www.prageru.com/video/whats-wrong-with-marijuana In this video it tells how Marijuana now has THC levels as high as 100% which is NOT the marijuana that most adults 40+ grew up with. I have actually toured a facility that makes this pure 100% THC and is NOT a greenhouse with plants-its a high tech biotech lab that uses many other chemicals and lab equipment to make this 100% pure THC. When I asked what products it was used for, I was told "any and all products that the manufacturers they sell to want."
This is highly addictive and at these levels and are not really medicinal-at this point its about the greatest high.
Watch the video.
Michael Craig
(650)921-1515
--
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From: Michael Craig
To: Brad Rawson
Cc: City Council
Subject: Re: Marijuana
Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 5:22:28 PM
Larry Sanger, co-founder of Wikipedia, has been critical of Wikipedia since he was laid off as the only editorial employee and departed from the project in 2002.[34][35][36] He went on to found and work for competitors to Wikipedia, including Citizendium and Everipedia. Among other criticisms, Sanger has been vocal in his view that Wikipedia's articles present a left-wing and liberal or "establishment point of view".[37][38][39][40] Sanger has cited a number of examples for what he views as left-wing and liberal bias, such as that "Drug legalisation, dubbed drug liberalisation by Wikipedia, has only a little information about any potential hazards of drug legalisation policies"
Michael Craig
(650)921-1515
On Tue, Mar 25, 2025, 12:04 PM Brad Rawson <[email protected]> wrote:
Michael,
I appreciate this information. You are a true scholar and patriot.
Brad Rawson
(831)-801-1733
On Mar 25, 2025, at 11:06 AM, Michael Craig <[email protected]> wrote:
What's Wrong with Marijuana? | 5-Minute Videos | PragerU https://www.prageru.com/video/whats-wrong-with-marijuana In this video it tells how Marijuana now has THC levels as high as 100% which is NOT the marijuana that most adults 40+ grew up with. I have actually toured a facility that makes this pure 100% THC and is NOT a greenhouse with plantsits a high tech biotech lab that uses many other chemicals and lab equipment to make this 100% pure THC. When I asked what products it was used for, I was told "any and all products that the manufacturers they sell to want." This is highly addictive and at these levels and are not really medicinal-at this point its about the greatest high.
Watch the video.
Michael Craig
From: Michael Craig
To: Brad Rawson
Cc: save-east-belmont-discuss; City Council
Subject: Re: Marijuana
Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 4:18:43 PM
Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important
Hello Brad,
I guess suggesting watching videos of differing viewpoints makes it OK to call people names? You clearly have not watched ANY PragerU videos and think its OK to call anyone who does a Racist, Homophobe, etc.? Please explain what about the video I linked to is misinformation or factually incorrect? If not-keep your own bigotry to yourself. I have actually toured a facility that makes 100% THC for marijuana manufacturers. This is a fact. Marijuana grown 40 years ago averaged only about 3-5% THC which is also a FACT. The highest potency 40 years ago was only 10%.
"In the US, some of the most extensive research on cannabis strength comes from the Potency Monitoring Program, a project led by the National Institute on Drug Abuse and carried out at the University of Mississippi.
The data shows a clear trend: over the last 50 years, the average amount of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in cannabis – the plant’s main psychoactive component – has increased more than tenfold."
Quote from Newscience.com article written by Alex Wnuk on October 11th 2023.
I would have provided the link but it seems easier to just put in email.
Which facts do you disagree with and why?
Name calling is NOT an argument.
Michael Craig
(650)921-1515
On Tue, Mar 25, 2025, 12:04 PM Brad Rawson <[email protected]> wrote:
Michael,
I appreciate this information. You are a true scholar and patriot.
Brad Rawson
(831)-801-1733
On Mar 25, 2025, at 11:06 AM, Michael Craig <[email protected]> wrote:
What's Wrong with Marijuana? | 5-Minute Videos | PragerU https://www.prageru.com/video/whats-wrong-with-marijuana In this video it tells how Marijuana now has THC levels as high as 100% which is NOT the marijuana that most adults 40+ grew up with. I have actually toured a facility that makes this pure 100% THC and is NOT a greenhouse with plantsits a high tech biotech lab that uses many other chemicals and lab equipment to make this 100% pure THC. When I asked what products it was used for, I was told "any and all products that the manufacturers they sell to want." This is highly addictive and at these levels and are not really medicinal-at this point its about the greatest high.
Watch the video.
Michael Craig
(650)921-1515
--
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---
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From: Michael Craig
To: Brad Rawson
Cc: save-east-belmont-discuss; City Council
Subject: Re: Marijuana
Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 4:18:43 PM
Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important
Hello Brad,
I guess suggesting watching videos of differing viewpoints makes it OK to call people names? You clearly have not watched ANY PragerU videos and think its OK to call anyone who does a Racist, Homophobe, etc.? Please explain what about the video I linked to is misinformation or factually incorrect? If not-keep your own bigotry to yourself. I have actually toured a facility that makes 100% THC for marijuana manufacturers. This is a fact. Marijuana grown 40 years ago averaged only about 3-5% THC which is also a FACT. The highest potency 40 years ago was only 10%.
"In the US, some of the most extensive research on cannabis strength comes from the Potency Monitoring Program, a project led by the National Institute on Drug Abuse and carried out at the University of Mississippi.
The data shows a clear trend: over the last 50 years, the average amount of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in cannabis – the plant’s main psychoactive component – has increased more than tenfold."
Quote from Newscience.com article written by Alex Wnuk on October 11th 2023.
I would have provided the link but it seems easier to just put in email.
Which facts do you disagree with and why?
Name calling is NOT an argument.
Michael Craig
(650)921-1515
On Tue, Mar 25, 2025, 12:04 PM Brad Rawson <[email protected]> wrote:
Michael,
I appreciate this information. You are a true scholar and patriot.
Brad Rawson
(831)-801-1733
On Mar 25, 2025, at 11:06 AM, Michael Craig <[email protected]> wrote:
What's Wrong with Marijuana? | 5-Minute Videos | PragerU https://www.prageru.com/video/whats-wrong-with-marijuana In this video it tells how Marijuana now has THC levels as high as 100% which is NOT the marijuana that most adults 40+ grew up with. I have actually toured a facility that makes this pure 100% THC and is NOT a greenhouse with plantsits a high tech biotech lab that uses many other chemicals and lab equipment to make this 100% pure THC. When I asked what products it was used for, I was told "any and all products that the manufacturers they sell to want." This is highly addictive and at these levels and are not really medicinal-at this point its about the greatest high.
Watch the video.
Michael Craig
(650)921-1515
--
Please keep messages in this group civil and respectful, and limit discussion to issues specifically related to East Belmont.
---
You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "save-east-belmont-discuss" group.
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March 14th, 2025
City of Belmont
Mayor’s Office & City Council
1 Twin Pines Ln.
Belmont, CA 94002
RE: Letter of Support & Recommendation for NUG CV BLMT LLC (the “Applicant”) @ 1538 ECR STE C Madame Mayor & Council Members,
My name is Barbara Jiang, and I have owned and managed a commercial mixed-use property on El Camino Real (1538 El Camino Real) in Belmont (“City”) for almost 12 years. As a longtime local resident to San Mateo County, I am a dedicated member of Belmont’s business community and the San Mateo County general community and take great pride in investing into the City and helping achieve its’ full potential. I support Belmont’s Commercial Cannabis Business Program and recommend the Applicant be considered and selected a for a cannabis business permit to operate a CCB retail storefront with delivery services at my property.
The Applicant’s Retail Operations Director and co-owner, Hrant Ekmekjian, is local to the San Mateo County Area (living in Foster City) and is qualified with experience in the cannabis retail industry in California. His partners are also cannabis retail operators and together, they have over 30 cannabis businesses. He supports community benefits, local hiring, and social justice within the cannabis industry as he participates in San Francisco’s social equity program. He champions the voice of the City through his community benefits proposal that supports the City’s Strategic Plan.
I have communicated with co-owner Adam Peterson on several occasions, he owns and manages Nug Inc., which operates over 10 commercial cannabis retail stores in California. I own the property with my brother (Henry Jiang), and we both visited a Nug retail store in San Leandro and were pleased with their operation. They are part of the Applicant group, and I believe their retail operational prowess, coupled with Hrant’s dedication for the community, will make for a valuable asset to the City.
I am impressed with the quality layout and design of the proposed cannabis retail storefront, along with the professionalism presented by the Applicant. After my conversations with Hrant and Adam, I feel assured that the Applicant will be a positive addition to this neighborhood. I have secured a lease agreement with the Applicant and their business will provide an additional level of security for its surroundings.
I encourage the City to approve the Applicant’s proposal, in that I know this will be a big step in the right direction for the City. Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions. I am available by mobile phone or email.
Best Regards,
__________________________________
Barabara Jiang
Property Owner (1538 El Camino Real)
[email protected]
M: (415) 812-2432
From: Raj J. Pottabathni
To: City Council
Cc: Hrant Ekmekjian; Adam Peterson; John Oram
Subject: 1538 ECR Property Owner (Barbara Jiang) Video RE: CUP for NUG CV BLMT Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 2:27:55 PM
Attachments: BLMT_Letter of Recommendation (Barbara Jiang, Property Owner) 3-14-25.pdf Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important Mayor Mates, Vice Mayor Pang-Maganaris, Council Members Jordan, McCune, & Latimerlo,
On behalf of the ownership group for the applicant NUG CV BLMT regarding Agenda Item 11A specific to 1538 El Camino Real, please see the attached video message from the property owner of 1538 El Camino Real, Barbara Jiang. She also provided a Letter of Support & Recommendation (attached) that was also included in Attachment 9 of the Staff Report (NUG Community-Neighborhood Outreach Materials - 1538 ECR). We thank you for your diligence and time.
1538 ECR Property Owner (Barbara Jiang) Video Message Link Regards,
RAJ J. POTTABATHNI
____________________
Principal & Managing Director
C: +1-732-801-6300
E: [email protected]
3056 Castro Valley Blvd. (#111)
Castro Valley, CA 94546
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: The contents of this electronic mail or message including any attachments/links are intended solely for the addressee(s) as an individual or entity and may contain confidential and/or privileged information and shall be legally protected from disclosure. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution or use of any of the information contained in this message is strictly prohibited. If you have received this transmission in error, please delete all copies and notify us immediately by forwarding a copy of this message to [email protected]. Thank you.
From: Bottle & Bottega Redwood City, CA
To: x-City Clerk"s Office
Cc: [email protected]; Carlos de Melo
Subject: Agenda Item 11A Non Opposition for NUG CV Belmont @1538 ECR Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 11:43:02 AM
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important My name is Laura Ah Tye and I am the owner of Bottle & Bottega, serving Bemont and the surrounding community for over 6 years. Hrant Ekmekjian cordially approached me to share information regarding the proposed cannabis retail storefront at 1538 ECR. While I am indifferent to cannabis, in general, this project seems well put together. I attended the neighborhood meeting and was comfortable with their business plan and them being a co tenant in the complex. I do not oppose the project.
Thank you,
Laura Ah Tye
--
From: Michael Craig
To: save-east-belmont-discuss
Cc: City Council
Subject: Marijuana
Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 11:06:37 AM
Importance: Low
Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important
What's Wrong with Marijuana? | 5-Minute Videos | PragerU https://www.prageru.com/video/whats-wrong-with-marijuana In this video it tells how Marijuana now has THC levels as high as 100% which is NOT the marijuana that most adults 40+ grew up with. I have actually toured a facility that makes this pure 100% THC and is NOT a greenhouse with plants-its a high tech biotech lab that uses many other chemicals and lab equipment to make this 100% pure THC. When I asked what products it was used for, I was told "any and all products that the manufacturers they sell to want."
This is highly addictive and at these levels and are not really medicinal-at this point its about the greatest high.
Watch the video.
Michael Craig
(650)921-1515
From: Raj J. Pottabathni
To: City Council
Cc: Hrant Ekmekjian; John Oram; Adam Peterson
Subject: Calidad Services Security Letter & Video RE: CUP for NUG CV BLMT @ 1538 ECR Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 9:48:46 AM
Attachments: Signed NUG CV BLMT_Calidad Letter (Retail Cannabis Dispensary) 032425.pdf Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important Mayor Mates, Vice Mayor Pang-Maganaris, Council Members Jordan, McCune, & Latimerlo,
On behalf of the ownership group for the applicant NUG CV BLMT regarding Agenda Item 11A specific to 1538 El Camino Real, please see attached Security Letter and Video link from former Stockton Lieutenant Dennis Smallie. He and his son Blake Smallie, own and operate Calidad Services, focused on security & technology services. They have vast experience in cannabis business and retail security and Dennis has made a brief video message as seen in the link below for Belmont's respective City Council members.
Calidad x Dennis Smallie x Nug.mp4
We thank you for your time. Thank you.
Regards,
RAJ J. POTTABATHNI
____________________
Principal & Managing Director
C: +1-732-801-6300
E: [email protected]
3056 Castro Valley Blvd. (#111)
Castro Valley, CA 94546
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: The contents of this electronic mail or message including any attachments/links are intended solely for the addressee(s) as an individual or entity and may contain confidential and/or privileged information and shall be legally protected from disclosure. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution or use of any of the information contained in this message is strictly prohibited. If you have received this transmission in error, please delete all copies and notify us immediately by forwarding a copy of this message to [email protected]. Thank you.
March 24, 2025
Honorable Julia Mates, Mayor
Belmont City Council Members
SUBJECT: City Council Agenda Item 11A for Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for Retail Cannabis @ 1538 El Camino Real Dear Mayor Mates and City Council Members,
I am writing on behalf of NUG CV BLMT LLC (“NUG”) Retail Cannabis Dispensary to discuss the security plan for the upcoming City Council meeting on March 25, 2025.
As a retired Lieutenant with the Stockton Police Department, with 30 years of experience, and a former Assistant to the Mayor of Stockton who has dealt with use permits from both law enforcement and city administration perspectives, I bring a comprehensive understanding of the balance needed between business operations and public safety.
I have spoken to Raj Pottabathni, the applicant’s Managing Director, and am aware of his teams’ experience in California’s cannabis retail industry. I reviewed NUG’s written security plan and associated security diagram. It is comprehensive, compliant, and the proposed security approach includes remote video surveillance and leveraging advanced remote guarding with AI software for continuous surveillance and proactive crime prevention. This strategy has been highly effective in other cannabis dispensaries and has prevented crimes through immediate detection and the use of talk-down speakers.
Our security company, Calidad Services, that I operate with my son, is tailored around empowering businesses with cuttingedge technology, remote guarding solutions, and advanced low voltage systems and integration. Security is our mission.
Technology is revolutionizing security at an unprecedented pace, and Calidad Services is at the forefront of this transformation.
From cutting-edge CCTV installations and access control systems to advanced intrusion detection, audiovisual integration, and AI-powered surveillance, we are reshaping the way security is designed, deployed, and managed. Our 24/7 In House Security Operations Center (SOC) and Remote Guarding solutions are redefining security response, offering proactive threat detection, real-time intervention, and unparalleled situational awareness.
In our experience, we have successfully deterred multiple attempted burglaries, demonstrating the effectiveness of this method in safeguarding clients, workers, and the community. We have had positive results representing retail Cannabis business sites near Belmont, specifically in Redwood City, and Pacifica, where we have consistently prevented crimes through the use of these advanced security measures.
I have spoken with Captain Armando at the Belmont Police Department to seek his input if he had any concerns with the security plan. It is my understanding, and per the Staff Report, Belmont PD has not identified any service concerns for this NUG project and has completed a preliminary review of the proposed NUG security/operational plans these were evaluated by Belmont PD to ensure that NUG’s security plan meet all the requirements described in the ordinance I do believe NUG will establish a safe and secure cannabis retail storefront, and I support and recommend that City Council approves the CUP for the NUG Retail Cannabis Dispensary @ 1538 El Camino Real, STE C. Thank you for your attention to this matter. I apologize for not being in attendance as I will be attending my mother-in-law's 90th birthday party at the same time as your City Council meeting on this matter. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to contact me.
Sincerely,
Dennis Smallie, President
Calidad Services, Inc.
Phone: 209-639-6398
[email protected]
MISINFORMATION vs. FACTS MEMO
First and foremost, we (NUG CV BLMT LLC) want to thank City Staff for all their diligent work and effort, and City Council for establishing a cannabis program in the City of Belmont. Since our initial open-house "Meet & Greet" (June 25th, 2024) that was held on-site at our proposed location, we participated and paid attention to the City Council Study Session (February 11th, 2025) and the public comments that were made along with Council's deliberation. Thereafter, we participated and listened diligently at a Planning Commission meeting (March 5th, 2025), a Zoning Administrator meeting (March 11th, 2025), and recently held a second virtual "Meet & Greet" (March 19th, 2025). We wanted to ensure that we heard the public and local Belmont residents’ concerns and questions. What we heard was a lot of similar information that was incorrect, not accurate, or based on misinterpretation of what Belmont's cannabis program is about or what our particular retail endeavor would actually entail. We put together this "Misinformation vs. Facts Memo" to allow both City Council and Belmont residents to have a better understanding and more clarity on the concerns and questions that we heard over the last 8 months. We shall continue to listen to the public and the City, and we hope this information helps alleviate some of the general issues that have been brought up by Belmont residents. Our goal is to address each matter, operate in compliance, and provide the City of Belmont a first-class respectable and sustainable cannabis retail storefront for years to come. Aside from the economic benefit the City will receive through the 6% cannabis business tax, and the 1.5% to 2% of community benefit monetary donations annually going to the City of Belmont Foundation and to Parks & Recreation Department, our team has followed the process the City has put forth and developed a competent and comprehensive plan to establish a quality cannabis retail store here in Belmont. We look forward to the opportunity to serve the City and its residents with safe cannabis products in a secure and inviting retail environment. Given the community benefits we are offering and the fact that our application meets ALL City of Belmont requirements, we respectfully ask for your vote of approval. # MISINFORMATION FACTS
1 "Location directly abuts residential backyards"
The proposed location is fully compliant with Belmont's cannabis ordinance and meets all zoning and planning requirements. Belmont developed its ordinance and zoning requirements through a public process beginning in January 2021. The proposed location does not directly abut any residential parcel; the proposed location is separated from residential by a chain-link fence, an alleyway, a hill, and a spur of Civic Lane that dead ends into a cul- de-sac and is a City right of way.
2 "This is a cannabis smoking lounge; customers
can consume cannabis on-site"
The proposed business is retail only, not a lounge of any kind. Onsite consumption is NOT permitted. This is not a smoking/vaping lounge. The business will be strictly retail sales of prepackaged and child proof/resistant cannabis products only. No cultivation or manufacturing of cannabis is done on site.
3 "Anyone can enter the cannabis retail store"
Customers must be 21+ for adult-use recreational sales or 18+ with a valid California Medical Card for medical sales (less than 5% of customers fall under this category). All customers must present a valid government-issued ID that is scanned by the receptionist and/or security guard at the front door. Individuals who don't meet these requirements will not be allowed to enter the facility. 4 "People can get in the store through the back of
the building near my house"
The proposed facility has a single point of ingress and egress on El Camino Real. All customers, employees, and contractors must enter the facility through this front door. All individuals entering the facility must have their ID checked before entering, as stated in #3, above. 5 "Cannabis consumers are kids, teenagers with
fake IDs, and young adults"
In actuality the average cannabis consumer age that purchases from a legally licensed dispensary is 37.6 years old, nationally. This comes from a study that was conducted by HeadSet.io, a dedicated cannabis analytical company and data platform. With our own retail stores, we have noticed, and our data shows that the average customer age is about 35, ranging between 30 and 40 based on each respective demographic.
6 "The consumer spends a lot of time in a store,
and loiters"
The average customer spends anywhere from 3-7 minutes in cannabis retail stores (based on our internal study of our other stores). And with the growth of e-commerce within our business customers spend even less time in the store. Approximately onethird of customers place orders through our e-commerce system, pre-pay, and then pickup their order in person. The pickup transaction generally takes 1-2 minutes to complete. Furthermore, loitering will not be tolerated anywhere within the proposed location and neighboring areas. Our security guards enforce a "Good Neighbor Policy" that requires our customers to respect our neighbors. The policy strictly states that loitering, excessive noise, trash disposal, and consumption are not tolerated on-site and in the surrounding neighborhoods. Any customer found to disregard this policy will be banned from the store.
7 "Cannabis retail is an all-cash business"
Since California legalized cannabis retail, the industry has evolved from cash-only to having digital/electronic payments accepted, such as debit, ACH, and CC transactions. Currently, on average, 70-85% (ranges from store to store) of our customers use a digital/electronic payment method such as debit, ACH or CC transactions. Therefore, in actuality, less than 15-30% of customers pay in cash.
Furthermore, our business is fully and compliantly banked with a federally recognized and FDIC insured bank that provides armored vehicle service to safely move cash to our bank account, as necessary.
8 "Children and youth will be able see cannabis
products from the exterior while walking by"
No, this is not correct. All exterior windows will have an opaque film or a light frosting to ensure that there is NO visibility to the interior of the store from the exterior. Cannabis products or cannabis transactions will not be visible from the exterior of the building.
Furthermore, customers that exit after their purchase, will have their products in an opaque exit bag.
9 "The entire block will smell of cannabis"
The proposed store will only sell pre-packaged, child-proof/resistant, and lab-tested products from legally licensed California cannabis distributors or vendors (including a significant amount of Nug branded products through our own cultivation, manufacturing, and distribution businesses, having a strong control of product quality).
These products arrive to the store fully packaged, thereby virtually eliminating odor. As an additional measure, the store will implement an Odor Control Plan that includes limiting the exchange of indoor/outdoor air and installation of special carbon and nano/micro filters to eliminate cannabis odor. Please see the attached Odor Mitigation & Air Quality Memo.
10 "Expired or unused cannabis product that is
thrown out will be accessible to people"
Expired or unused cannabis product is placed in a dedicated and secured receptacle located within the interior of the facility. The receptacle is picked up from time-to-time by a licensed cannabis waste management company and disposed of in compliance with state regulations. Cannabis waste will NOT be disposed of within the Belmont municipal waste stream. Please see the attached Cannabis Waste Management Services Memo.
11 "The "Sling It! Lacrosse" is a sports store that
only sells to youth and lacrosse is a youth sport
only for kids and high schoolers"
"Sling It! Lacrosse" is publicly listed as sporting goods store that primarily sells lacrosse equipment. The retail sports establishment is not a sensitive use as defined by municipal or state code.
Additionally, lacrosse is not solely a youth sport. There are local colleges that have lacrosse as a sport for its students (Canada College, San Mateo College, Notre Dame University) and there are adult lacrosse leagues in the Bay Area and nationally.
12 "Cannabis retail is a dissimilar retail business"
Our cannabis retail store operates as any other retail store would; we purchase pre-packaged goods from vendors, markup and
merchandise the goods on a retail floor, and sell the goods to qualifying customers. Specifically, we sell pre-packaged and childresistant cannabis products to customers who are of age (see #3 above). This business model is consistent with the City of Belmont General Plan and congruent with the other retail establishments within the 1538 ECR retail center and vicinity.
13 "We were not noticed or did not know about
these public hearings or meet and greets. We
had no clue cannabis was coming to Belmont"
The City of Belmont began a public process in January 2021 evaluating allowing cannabis business. Public opinions were solicited and evaluated at that time. In November 2023 the City Council adopted a Cannabis Overlay Zoning District defining where two cannabis businesses are allowed within Belmont. In January 2024 the City adopted a Cannabis Ordinance establishing the framework for selecting and regulating cannabis businesses. In Summer 2024 two applicants were selected through a rigorous RFP process to apply for cannabis business entitlements. We are one of those businesses and we are currently going through the entitlement process to open our retail store at 1538 El Camino Real. We have held two public "Meet & Greets" to introduce ourselves to the community and to address any concerns. On both occasions, over fifty mailers were sent to neighboring residents and businesses within 300' of our proposed site. These mailers were also sent by the Community Development Department to any emails received by the City during the public process.
14 "There is not enough parking at the 1538 ECR
retail center"
As stated above, customers are generally "in & out", spending an average of 4 minutes in the store. Nonetheless, the retail center has 18 shared parking spaces, and has adequate parking pursuant to retail parking guidelines as seen in the City of Belmont Municipal Code, Belmont Zoning Ordinance Section 8A (OFF-STREET
PARKING AND LOADING IN CORRIDOR MIXED USE AND
REGIONAL COMMERCIAL DISTRICTS & TABLE 8A.2-1: PARKING
STANDARDS). In addition, we are currently in negotiations with securing one of two off-site parking lots that will be utilized for our employees. Lastly, there is ample public parking spaces available on El Camino Real in front of the 1538 ECR retail center.
15 "We don't need two (2) cannabis stores in
Belmont, one is enough"
The two applicants are proposing very different businesses, from an operational, design, and experience standpoint. The other applicant, respectfully, has three (3) cannabis retail stores in San Francisco and this is their first time operating outside of SF. Our group, collectively, operate in approximately fifteen (15) different California municipalities. The look and feel of both storefronts will be different, and will resonate with various types of customer bases. In addition, as stated at a City Council Study Session, it was clear that the applicants are two different businesses with different approaches and models. The City's prudent approach to have two retail operators with two Development Agreements allows the City to diversify tax revenue and community benefit allocations, offer Belmont constituents two different and unique cannabis retail options, and given that both may not be successful (though the City hopes for both operators to do well), this gives the City downside protection that at least one will thrive and be sustainable to service Belmont residents safely and securely. Furthermore, Belmont has a population of approximately 25,000-30,000 people, therefore a one store to 12,500/15,000 ratio. The general practice used by California municipalities is one cannabis store to 10,000. If you include San Carlos (~30,000) and Foster City (~30,000), then that ratio is almost one cannabis retailer for approximately 45,000 people.
From: Raj J. Pottabathni
To: City Council
Cc: Hrant Ekmekjian; John Oram; Adam Peterson
Subject: Misinformation vs. Facts Memo RE: CUP for NUG CV BLMT @ 1538 ECR Date: Monday, March 24, 2025 5:43:13 PM
Attachments: BLMT_Misinformation vs. Facts Memo (FINAL) 3-24-25.pdf Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important Mayor Mates, Vice Mayor Pang-Maganaris, Council Members Jordan, McCune, & Latimerlo, We hope you all had a wonderful weekend.
On behalf of the ownership group for the applicant NUG CV BLMT regarding Agenda Item 11A specific to 1538 El Camino Real, please see the attached Misinformation vs. Facts Memo.
We hope this Memo provides the City of Belmont and its residents some useful information related to our proposed business and offers a level of reassurance.
We thank you for your time and we look forward to seeing you tomorrow. Thank you.
Regards,
RAJ J. POTTABATHNI
____________________
Principal & Managing Director
C: +1-732-801-6300
E: [email protected]
3056 Castro Valley Blvd. (#111)
Castro Valley, CA 94546
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: The contents of this electronic mail or message including any attachments/links are intended solely for the addressee(s) as an individual or entity and may contain confidential and/or privileged information and shall be legally protected from disclosure. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution or use of any of the information contained in this message is strictly prohibited. If you have received this transmission in error, please delete all copies and notify us immediately by forwarding a copy of this message to [email protected]. Thank you.
From: Raj J. Pottabathni
To: x-City Clerk"s Office
Cc: Carlos de Melo; Hrant Ekmekjian; John Oram; Dennis Smallie Subject: Public Comment Inquiry
Date: Monday, March 24, 2025 2:53:19 PM
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important City Clerk,
We are part of Agenda Item 11A at tomorrow's City Council meeting for the proposed project at 1538 ECR. We have 2 speakers that are unavailable in-person and via Zoom, but they have provided us with recorded videos that are less than 3 minutes.
Are you able to play these tomorrow as Public Comments if we submit a speaker card for them? Please advise, thank you,
Regards,
RAJ J. POTTABATHNI
____________________
Principal & Managing Director
C: +1-732-801-6300
E: [email protected]
3056 Castro Valley Blvd. (#111)
Castro Valley, CA 94546
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: The contents of this electronic mail or message including any attachments/links are intended solely for the addressee(s) as an individual or entity and may contain confidential and/or privileged information and shall be legally protected from disclosure. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution or use of any of the information contained in this message is strictly prohibited. If you have received this transmission in error, please delete all copies and notify us immediately by forwarding a copy of this message to [email protected]. Thank you.
From: joelococo
To: x-City Clerk"s Office
Subject: Public Hearing item 11A Development Entitlements for Two Cannabis Dispensary Businesses on the South El Camino Corridor March 25, 2025
Date: Monday, March 24, 2025 9:30:34 PM
[You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ]
We wish to clearly state our objections to the cannabis entitlements under consideration along El Camino Real.
The south El Camino Corridor already has massage parlors, vape shops, a tattoo parlor and a bar. The long term vision for Belmont should be to attract businesses and eateries that attract local residents and establish Belmont as a community destination, where people can feel comfortable walking around.
These types of businesses do the exact opposite, they detract from Belmont’s community appeal.
We are very concerned that the entitlement considerations for cannabis retail would further stray from long term goals that can be supported by the community at large and feel strongly that outreach to community would clearly demonstrate that, while cannabis retail in Belmont might be supported, the specific locations under consideration (one of the prime community entryways) would not. A far more appropriate location for canabis retail and one that we feel the community could support would be along Shoreway Rd east of Highway 101, where residences would not be affected and where the businesses would not detract from future visions for the Belmont community.
Thank you for your consideration.
Joseph and Alison LoCoco
Sent from my iPhone
From: Alisa Tamtum
To: x-City Clerk"s Office
Cc: [email protected]
Subject: Agenda Item 11A / Non-Opposition for NUG CV BLMT @ 1538 ECR Date: Monday, March 24, 2025 9:33:11 PM
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important My name is Alisa I am the owner of Spoon & Fork serving Belmont and San Mateo County residents for over 5 years. Hrant Ekmekjian cordially approached me to share information regarding his proposed cannabis retail storefront at 1538 ECR. While I am indifferent to cannabis in general, I understand the monetary economic tax and community benefits for Belmont. With that being said, I do not oppose this project.
Thank you.
Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone
From: JOSEPH RUK
To: City Council; Donna Bregante-Ruk
Subject: Yesterday Cannabis Video Mtg.
Date: Thursday, March 20, 2025 8:25:11 AM
Watched the propaganda presentation. Obviously the citizens of Belmont are unaware or do not care as there was no attendance. Could be the time as people were on the way home. Do not know where the original notification letter went out to as never received one. How far was the perimeter of the letter? Guess afraid to notify the entire city. But here are questions for you or staff to answer.
Gross profit is realy net profit. 1 1/2% of net profit up to $12 million. And 2 1/2% above. Is $12 million for one year or some other length of time. What retail business in Belmont makes $12 million net profit? Typically assume $12 million net profit then what is total sales needed, $24 million? Never reach over $12 million to get 2 1/2%. So with max of $12 million at 1 1/2% equals $180,000 to Belmont for the year or .02% of Belmont’s $102 million budget.
Will it reach this, I doubt it. So really a small gain not worth it.
Typical sale$50. So for example with $24 million, or 480,000 transactions a year or 1315 a day. A lot of traffic to get there.
Did the city ever receive a business plan from operator. How much sales did he think the net profit would be.
Company financial statements? Most likely had to have to get lease.
Just learned that in addition to 1 1/2 % tax and permit fees there is a $50,000 payment for recreation vehicle. Quid pro quo?
Is this owner the same both stores? Or are there two owners. If so what is other deal? What deals does this owner have for other stores in East Bay?
Hours of operation? Plan to sell food now or in future? 10 to 12 employees, where do they park there cars? Delivery service? Low key opening or ribbon cutting? How does this generate other businesses.. Did the city do a traffic study of how cars get in and out parking coming from both directions on El Camino? How does company deal with brand locality? Not known on peninsula. People already use Redwood City and Pacifica stores. Why would they come here. Without traffic Belmont does not benefit. Already discussed outlets 9 minutes away with delivery. Why come.
Read today’s Mercury news article on cannabis stores. State tax going up from 15% to 19%. Less profit, less for Belmont. Article talks about operations struggling. Does not sound like a good business venture.
Is this what Belmont really needs? I do not think so. Please pass this email to other department heads who are involved with this decision.
Donna and Joe Ruk
Sent from my iPad
From: Connie S. Tettenborn
To: City Council
Subject: March Council meeting--Cannabis dispensaries
Date: Friday, March 21, 2025 8:37:32 PM
[Some people who received this message don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important at https://aka.ms/LearnAboutSenderIdentification ]
Dear Council Members,
I am very opposed to opening any cannabis retail operations within Belmont. For decades, this city has been an attractive place for people to raise a family. In my opinion, the normalization of cannabis usage is detrimental to vulnerable youth and is therefore anti-family, especially in light of the effects of cannabis on a developing brain. Do NOT allow re-zoning of theses properties to permit a cannabis storefront.
Regards,
Connie Tettenborn
From: Terri Cook
To: City Council
Cc: Carlos de Melo
Subject: Cannabis on 3/25 agenda
Date: Saturday, March 22, 2025 7:07:30 PM
I know I have communicated with you previously on the topic of retail cannabis in Belmont, so you are familiar with my position on this matter.
I wanted to once again extend my support for one or both of the proposed establishments on the El Camino. I watched the planning commission meeting a few weeks ago when these establishments were before that body. I recognize there were some concerns raised by adjacent neighbors. While I honestly think these concerns are unfounded, I don’t live there, so I don’t want to presume to know how they’re feeling.
That said, if I lived there, I don’t think I would be concerned. I live just up the street from the Carmont shopping center. And while I recognize that current regulations would prohibit a cannabis store from locating there, as a neighbor, I would have no objection.
Cannabis establishments are much safer than many other industries, including liquor stores. There is no other establishment that requires a full-time security guard and to have to show your ID just to get in the door. Most of the time you don’t even know that that’s what the store is. Case in point was the comment made by Councilmember McCune some months ago when he realized after a year that the building across the street from where he was working was a cannabis establishment.
People worry about their kids, but they give no thought to the fact that the Carlmont shopping center, which is regularly frequented by students from nearby schools, has a liquor store. I also thought about this as I walked through the liquor section of the grocery store. I guess I’m a little puzzled why these parents who are concerned about what their kids see aren’t concerned about liquor stores.
I will reiterate that this issue is not just about revenue. This is about providing products and services that our residents are looking for. Cannabis is a legal albeit heavily regulated,product that is used both medicinally and recreationally. Honestly, I don’t think you can say the same thing about liquor. Yes maybe it’s recreational, but certainly not medicinal.
Good luck to you as you ponder what is best for the Belmont community.
Terri Cook
Sent from my iPhone
(650)921-1515
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