Central New York Cannabis Business Relaunches with New Ownership

A Central New York cannabis business has officially transitioned ownership and received a state license, marking a new chapter in its operations. The establishment, now named The Dispensary by the BuddBoyz, opened its doors at 918 N. Salina St. in Syracuse, previously known as The Herbal Center. This change comes after years of controversy over alleged illegal marijuana sales under the former management.

Rodney Haymes recently acquired the business from his cousin, John Vanfossen. During Vanfossen’s ownership, The Herbal Center faced numerous accusations from state and local authorities regarding unauthorized marijuana sales. Despite operating as a “private club,” the business expanded to three locations in Syracuse, Liverpool, and Central Square. However, all these sites received citations for selling marijuana without a proper state license, leading to closures ordered by the state Office of Cannabis Management.

The Syracuse location has been particularly scrutinized, receiving citations from the city’s codes office for illegal operations. In July, a court ruling prohibited cannabis sales at that site. Under Haymes’ leadership, The Dispensary now holds a state license, although it is specifically authorized to sell cannabinoid hemp products rather than full-THC marijuana.

The Dispensary will offer hemp-derived cannabis variations such as THCA and THCP. According to Haymes, THCA can produce effects similar to THC when combusted, while THCP is noted for its potency. “Our goal is to have something different to offer,” he stated.

The state has permitted the sale of cannabis products derived from hemp since 2018. Following the legalization of recreational marijuana in New York in 2021, the state began issuing different licenses for various cannabis-related activities. The Dispensary operates from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sundays.

In addition to the Syracuse location, Haymes plans to relocate the Liverpool shop from 612 Oswego St. to a new site at 642 Old Liverpool Road, which was previously occupied by a medical cannabis dispensary. He anticipates this new location will be operational within a month. The Central Square location at 3078 East Ave. remains closed and sealed by the state, prolonging its reopening.

Haymes is also working towards launching a licensed recreational marijuana dispensary in DeWitt, named The Dank Bank by the BuddBoyz. This facility will be situated in a former Chase Bank branch at 6004 Court Street Road, preserving its original features such as the vault and drive-thru lanes. Haymes aims to have this dispensary ready by January 1, 2024.

Haymes has a personal connection to the cannabis industry, having faced legal issues as a former marijuana dealer in Syracuse. He acknowledges his past but emphasizes his commitment to operating within the law since New York legalized marijuana in April 2021. He also advocates for the therapeutic benefits of cannabis, particularly for individuals dealing with chronic conditions. “So now we’re here, doing things the right way, and selling a good product. That’s what this is all about,” Haymes said.

The Dispensary by the BuddBoyz is now officially open, ready to serve customers with a range of hemp-derived cannabis products, marking a significant shift in its business operations and a step towards compliance in the evolving cannabis market.