Bethel has lost its opportunity to protest the marijuana retail license for ALASKAbuds. The last day to protest is June 3, but the council learned Tuesday night at a council meeting that they were required to provide seven days notice to the licensee.
This realization came after six people spoke against the store at the start of the meeting. The only step left for ALASKAbuds to take is to obtain state fire marshal approval before opening for business in Bethel. The store did not seek approval for on-site consumption.
On Tuesday, the council also introduced the budget for Fiscal Year 2020. Acting City Manager Bill Howell noted that the council has three budget meetings remaining, which will likely result in fiscal changes.
Also at the meeting, council approved a contract with an executive search firm to look for a new city manager. Council has not yet disclosed the firm's name, saying that competing bidders might still protest.
Finally, council voted to demolish the abandoned laundromat building on Ridgecrest Drive, located next to the water treatment plant.
