Residents of Santa Fe County expressed strong opposition to a proposed cannabis grow operation during a recent government meeting, citing concerns over health, safety, and environmental impacts. The discussions highlighted significant apprehensions regarding the lack of oversight due to the farm's remote location, which is over an hour away from city officials.

Julie Bernard, a local resident, emphasized that the application for the cannabis operation does not meet several conditional use permit (CUP) criteria, particularly regarding compliance with health and safety standards. She referenced recent incidents in Torrance County, where cannabis operations were shut down and fined for exceeding legal limits and failing to track their activities. Bernard warned that similar issues could arise in Santa Fe County if the proposal is approved.

Her husband, Paul Bernard, read a letter from their neighbor, Kim Cook, who echoed concerns about the potential for unchecked expansion and the risks posed by inadequate monitoring. Cook's letter highlighted the challenges of enforcing regulations from a distance, raising fears about excessive water use and environmental degradation.

Another resident, Tate Whiteman, added to the chorus of opposition, questioning the adequacy of the proposed odor control measures and the potential influx of employees during peak growing seasons. Whiteman pointed out that even with industry-standard filtration, odors from existing operations are already a nuisance, and the proposed operation could exacerbate this issue.

The residents collectively urged the county to reject the proposal, arguing that the risks associated with the cannabis operation are incompatible with their residential neighborhood. They called for a more suitable location for such businesses, away from established homes, to protect the community's health and well-being. The meeting underscored the ongoing debate over cannabis cultivation in residential areas and the need for careful consideration of its implications.