1 Casey Erlenheim
From: Arwa Asif
Sent: Tuesday, June 2, 2026 8:00 AM
To: City_Clerk
Subject: [June 3, 2026 Special Meeting] Public Comment Agenda Item No. 1 - 26-185 Attachments: Letter of Support - WCAP.pdf
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To Whom it May Concern:
On behalf of the West County Alcohol Policy Coalition (WCAP), I am writing to express our support of the Islamic Society of West Contra Costa County (ISWCC) and Richmond Progressive Alliance in their request regarding the proposed cannabis dispensary development in San Pablo, located directly across the street from their mosque and youth programming facility.
We understand that this mosque serves as a vital hub for the community, not only hosting structured youth programming multiple days per week, including afterschool programs and weekend educational services for K- 12 students, but as a pillar in the community for partnering with local food banks which is open to all community members who require aid, regardless of background. These programs provide essential social and community support for young people and families in the area.
Given the scope and weekly consistency of these activities, WCAP believes this site clearly functions as a youth-serving educational environment. As such, it should be recognized accordingly under applicable local and state considerations, particularly in matters involving land use decisions. To further drive our point, no other dispensaries in Contra Costa County are in such close proximity to a youth-serving organization as is proposed for the San Pablo dispensary. Designating the mosque as such is necessary not only to ensure youth safety but emphasize community wellbeing and ensure that planning considerations are properly accounted for.
We support the community’s request to formalize recognition of Masjid Al-Rahman, a site of an afterschool program or educational site. We urge decision-makers to carefully consider the impact of approving a cannabis dispensary in such close proximity to a location that serves children and families on a regular basis. Protecting spaces dedicated to youth development is essential to maintaining healthy and thriving communities.
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Arwa Asif
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West Contra Costa Alcohol Policy Coalition Coordinator
Bay Area Community Resources
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Letter of Support for Youth Program Designation at Masjid Al-Rahman
To Whom it May Concern:
On behalf of the West County Alcohol Policy Coalition (WCAP), I am writing to express our support of the Islamic Society of West Contra Costa County (ISWCC) and Richmond Progressive Alliance in their request regarding the proposed cannabis dispensary development in San Pablo, located directly across the street from their mosque and youth programming facility.
We understand that this mosque serves as a vital hub for the community, not only hosting structured youth programming multiple days per week, including afterschool programs and weekend educational services for K-12 students, but as a pillar in the community for partnering with local food banks which is open to all community members who require aid, regardless of background. These programs provide essential social and community support for young people and families in the area.
Given the scope and weekly consistency of these activities, WCAP believes this site clearly functions as a youth-serving educational environment. As such, it should be recognized accordingly under applicable local and state considerations, particularly in matters involving land use decisions. To further drive our point, no other dispensaries in Contra Costa County are in such close proximity to a youth-serving organization as is proposed for the San Pablo dispensary. Designating the mosque as such is necessary not only to ensure youth safety but emphasize community wellbeing and ensure that planning considerations are properly accounted for.
We support the community’s request to formalize recognition of Masjid Al-Rahman, a site of an afterschool program or educational site. We urge decision-makers to carefully consider the impact of approving a cannabis dispensary in such close proximity to a location that serves children and families on a regular basis. Protecting spaces dedicated to youth development is essential to maintaining healthy and thriving communities.
Sincerely,
Arwa Asif
West County Alcohol Policy Coalition Coordinator