Plateau’s first marijuana grow operation opening in Buckley

Buckley is adding another facet to its weed-friendly persona, as a commercial marijuana-growing operation is making headway along state Route 410.

Land is being cleared on two undeveloped parcels east of downtown, fronting the north side of the highway.

Plans submitted to City Hall call for three buildings to arise on that 2.3 acres of land. The two largest buildings are deemed “agricultural” – meaning marijuana growing and processing – with a small office or storage building also on the grounds, closest to SR 410. Rounding out the development will be drainage facilities at the rear of the site and a dozen parking spaces.

The larger buildings are identified as being 9,360 square feet in size. It is noted that one building will be constructed right away, with the second available if business goes well.

The project proponent, CarbCom Properties LLC, began working with Buckley in the spring of this year, long before the City Council enacted an emergency measure prohibiting such business ventures. The highway property is in the city’s General Commercial zone, which had allowed – until just last month – marijuana operations.

As part of the city process, comments were solicited from neighboring property owners and interested agencies.

One neighbor, who owns adjacent land, commented that he had no complaints about the type of business going in, but wanted assurance that development would not result in additional runoff onto his property. The state’s Department of Ecology weighed in, expressing concerns about hazardous waste and water quality.

The state’s Department of Transportation expressed no concerns with the project. Pierce Transit also had no concerns, as the agency currently provides no service to the Buckley area.

There are three phases to the recreational marijuana industry: growing, processing and retailing. Buckley currently is home to a pair of retailers, both fronting on SR 410.