In a tense and revealing session at the Pueblo County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) Work Session on January 2, 2025, local business owners voiced their frustrations over the mounting challenges faced by the cannabis industry. The meeting, held in the heart of Pueblo County, served as a platform for stakeholders to share their struggles with regulatory burdens and rising operational costs.

One passionate speaker highlighted the stark reality of running a cannabis business, emphasizing the critical need for water access. With five federally approved wells on his property, he expressed his dismay at being charged significantly more for water due to federal regulations that classify his operations as illegal. “Every turn we get at, we get hit,” he lamented, pointing out the disconnect between water access and federal cannabis laws.

The speaker also criticized the high fees associated with cultivating medical marijuana, arguing that these costs ultimately harm patients who rely on affordable access to their medication. “This is a medical industry for patients,” he stated, stressing that the financial burden should not fall on those who need the product most. He called for a reevaluation of the tax structure, suggesting that cannabis cultivation should be treated as agriculture rather than a commercial enterprise, which would alleviate some of the financial strain.

Concerns about excessive inspection fees were also raised, with the speaker questioning the necessity of multiple inspections for different aspects of his business. “Why can’t you do that in one inspection?” he asked, highlighting the inefficiency and additional costs that come with repeated visits from regulators.

As the discussion unfolded, it became clear that the cannabis industry in Pueblo County is at a crossroads. Business owners are grappling with a significant decline in revenue, with one speaker revealing that their operations have dropped to just 20% of what they were three years ago. The emotional toll of these challenges was palpable, as the speaker reflected on the stress of maintaining a business that feels increasingly untenable.

The meeting concluded with a call for action, urging the county to consider ways to lower fees and streamline regulations. “Anything we could do if we could lower rates somehow for anything would help,” the speaker implored, encapsulating the collective sentiment of those present. As the cannabis industry continues to navigate a complex landscape of regulations and economic pressures, the voices of Pueblo County’s business owners serve as a poignant reminder of the human impact behind the numbers.