West Tisbury Approves Fine Fettle Dispensary Transfer to Black Harbor Group
The West Tisbury select board unanimously approved the transfer of Fine Fettle's marijuana dispensary on State Road to Black Harbor Group. This change addresses ongoing compliance issues at the site, the Island's only former commercial grow facility, and aims to stabilize local cannabis retail amid recent closures. Black Harbor must bring the property into full compliance with state and local lighting regulations within six months or face revocation of operating rights.
Approval Comes with Strict Lighting Conditions
Fine Fettle has operated the dispensary since 2021, offering both recreational and medical marijuana. The board conditioned approval on resolving external lighting violations enforced by the Martha’s Vineyard Commission. Town administrator Jennifer Rand stated the board would send a letter to Black Harbor Group mandating compliance, with potential cease-and-desist action if unmet.
Erin Riley, attorney for the buyers, expressed confidence in meeting the deadline. She noted the six-month period as a "hard stop" to ensure cooperation among all parties, including the landlord, for selecting compliant vendors.
Island Cannabis Faces Recent Turbulence
Fine Fettle announced in May it ceased growing marijuana due to financial pressures and planned to close operations. As the Island's sole legal commercial grow facility, its shutdown disrupted supply for Island Time, the other dispensary. State rules had long required Vineyard outlets to source marijuana locally, forcing Island Time to close temporarily.
Retailers on Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket petitioned the Cannabis Control Commission, which approved transporting marijuana across state waters in June. This policy shift ended the local-only restriction, enabling mainland shipments and averting a total collapse of Island sales.
New Ownership Signals Revitalization Efforts
Black Harbor Group, formed as a Massachusetts LLC in early July, lists managers Monica Dean, Jamarhl Crawford, Kendall Mills, and Cornell Mills—all mainland residents. Representatives offered few details on future plans but affirmed commitment to town rules. Riley emphasized excitement about integrating into the community.
Both Black Harbor and Fine Fettle owner Benjamin Zachs view the transfer as a path to revive the Island's cannabis sector. With compliance assured, the deal preserves one of two dispensaries, bolstering access amid evolving state regulations.
