By Emmanuel Vincent

Advesa MA, Inc. group held a community outreach meeting last week, introducing to Somerville residents the plan that is in the works to bring a cannabis retailer to the city.

Advesa is an Economic Empowerment Priority Applicant that is looking to provide the community with modern cannabis, as well as education surrounding the medical benefits of using it. This is an effort to help break to stigma centered on the drug that has been around for decades.

Throughout the years, individuals have been negatively impacted by laws; hit with charges related to cannabis, whether it be distribution and/or possession. Many have even faced incarceration. As a result, it is difficult for those to progress in the working world with these visible blemishes on their record.

Advesa will serve as a solid foundation for people who are looking gain stability in their life. “Advesa’s mission as a job incubator in Somerville goes beyond hiring these individuals,” explains Jessica Pelletier, a principle of the company. She says, “Advesa will pay living wages and aid individuals in gaining job skills that they can use as a springboard to enter into other sectors of the cannabis Industry.” Advesa’s presence in the community will certainly help change the narrative for many people’s stories, by providing them with a chance to grow within the industry.

Location in an essential element of any business, and this holds true for the forthcoming cannabis retailer. With its location in Ball Square, there is anticipation for steady traffic. “We have high hopes that our location to the Ball Square Green Line Extension will help us fulfill our plan to be an environmentally conscious company that plays a key role in the economic development of the Ball Square district following it completion,” says Pelletier. “Being next to the train station will deeply migrate local vehicle traffic concerns, and encourage walking, biking, and the use of public transportation.” Bike racks will be available for visitors as well. Also, deliveries will be available by the retailer. The drop-offs will not take place during times of heavy traffic.

The target date for the opening of the dispensary is based on its progress with the state, as they must wait to get approved for a license. The community meeting regarding permit in the city will take place next month. There is not set date for this at this time.