Photo: City of Penticton

A proposed storefront for the new Green Essence cannabis store in Penticton.

Penticton city council has voted to approve four more cannabis stores for the city, rejecting another three over concerns about proximity to residences and areas frequented by children.

Councillors voted to approve Green Essence (437 Martin), Greenery Cannabis Boutique (465 Main), Zen Canna (2050 Main) and the Fairview Cannabis Store (1652 Fairview).

Mayor John Vassilaki voted against all proposals, arguing the city’s move from a buffer system that limited stores proximity from each other to the current cap system means more public input should be sought. The city-wide cap of 14 adopted by council last month is too high, he added.

Bluewater Cannabis, proposed for 130 Nanaimo Avenue West, was killed by Vassilaki and Couns. Kimberley, Robinson and Regehr due to worries about the residential suites in the upper floors of the building.

“I don’t think it should be anywhere near residences,” Robinson said. “I can tell you I wouldn’t want it next to my house and I certainly wouldn’t want to be above it.”

Green Light Cannabis, proposed for 94 Ellis Street, failed with just Coun. Julius Bloomfield in support. Councillors voiced concerns over the condo building going up nearby and youth that frequent Hoodoo Adventures. Cannery Brewing and Mile Zero Wine Bar are on the same block.

The Southside Cannabis Market, proposed for 3502 Skaha Lake Road, also failed with just Couns. Bloomfield and Sentes in support, due to its close proximity to homes.

Tuesday’s meeting brings the total number of stores approved by council to eight, including the first four approved in April.

The provincial government still has to grant final approval to all private cannabis stores. Planning manager Blake Laven said they have been informed one private store in Penticton has received approval in principle, pending a final site inspection. He did not disclose which one.

A government-run B.C. Cannabis store is working towards a fall opening, he added.