Local Officials Welcome Investment by Cannabis Brand in Middletown

This article was originally published  by The Epoch Times: Local Officials Welcome Investment by Cannabis Brand in Middletown

Cannabis producer Jeeter will be setting up its New York packaging center at an old factory in Middletown’s industrial zone.

MIDDLETOWN, N.Y.—Jeeter, which sells pre-roll cannabis, has decided to base its New York expansion in the city of Middletown by investing millions into a production facility.

The cannabis brand, owned by parent company DreamFields, was founded in 2018 in California.

“The City of Middletown is pleased to welcome DreamFields to our community as they establish part of their operation here,” Middletown Mayor Joseph DeStefano said in a statement.

“Revitalizing empty industrial space with active, job-creating businesses has been a priority for us, and DreamFields’ decision to locate in Middletown demonstrates confidence in our workforce and our city’s future.”

The cannabis production and distribution center will be located at a long-vacant, 33,000-square-foot factory at 55 Midland Ave. The plant is expected to be a roughly $10 million investment and employ more than 200 locals.

The company is a major cannabis distributor in California, Michigan, Arizona, and Massachusetts, as well as in Canada.

“By breathing new life into a forgotten and vacant factory, this project will create well-paying jobs, stimulate economic activity, and further solidify our county’s role as a destination for innovative industries,” Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus said in a statement.

“We’re proud to support responsible growth and welcome new businesses that contribute to the revitalization of our communities.”

State Sen. James Skoufis expressed a similar sentiment, stating, “The Dreamfields project is smart economic development: good-paying jobs, community support, low/no adverse environmental impacts, and revitalizing a long-abandoned industrial building.”

The facility will be for packaging. No cannabis growing or retailing will happen at the site. Middletown decided against having on-site sales and consumption of cannabis.

DeStefano said the facility will release little to no odor in the area, as modern packaging techniques and ventilation prevent the spread of the cannabis smell.

In a separate statement, DeStefano said: “Cannabis is here to stay, whether we like it or not. Under New York State law, cannabis smoking is allowed in any area where cigarettes are permitted—this is state law, not local law.

“While my personal view on cannabis use is separate, I have a responsibility as Mayor to ensure our city follows its laws and zoning, and to continue creating jobs and tax revenue.”

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