The West Tisbury select board unanimously approved the transfer of Fine Fettle's marijuana dispensary to Black Harbor Group on Wednesday. This move secures one of the Island's two cannabis retail outlets amid past operational challenges and regulatory hurdles. The decision carries a strict six-month deadline for the new owner to meet state Cannabis Control Commission standards, particularly on external lighting mandated by the Martha’s Vineyard Commission.
Conditions Tied to Compliance and Operations
The board conditioned approval on Black Harbor Group bringing the State Road property into full compliance within six months. Town administrator Jennifer Rand emphasized that failure to resolve issues, especially lighting violations, would prompt a letter threatening revocation of operating rights and potential cease-and-desist action. Fine Fettle's permit covers both recreational and medical marijuana cultivation and retail sales, a dual function Black Harbor plans to maintain.
Erin Riley, Black Harbor's attorney, expressed confidence in meeting the timeline. She noted the condition would encourage cooperation among all parties, including the landlord, to select compliant vendors. The company, formed as a Massachusetts LLC in early July, lists mainland residents Monica Dean, Jamarhl Crawford, Kendall Mills, and Cornell Mills as managers.
Fine Fettle's Shutdown and Island-Wide Ripple Effects
Fine Fettle opened in 2021 as the Vineyard's sole legal commercial marijuana cultivation site and first retail outlet. The company halted growing operations in May and announced plans to close for financial reasons, leaving the Island without local production. State rules at the time required Vineyard dispensaries to sell only Island-grown marijuana, forcing the second retailer, Island Time, to shutter for several weeks.
Dispensaries on Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket petitioned the Cannabis Control Commission to permit mainland shipments. In June, the commission approved transporting marijuana across state waters for the first time, easing supply constraints and stabilizing retail.
Prospects for Revival Under New Ownership
Both Black Harbor Group and Fine Fettle owner Benjamin Zachs see the transfer as a chance to breathe new life into the Island's cannabis sector. Riley affirmed the group's commitment to local rules and integration into the community fabric. While details on future plans remain sparse, the acquisition addresses immediate supply risks and could foster a more sustainable market, provided compliance holds.
