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Women-owned dispensary to open Greene County’s first cannabis store

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By Marlene McTigue

Capital Region Independent Media

Greene County is preparing to welcome its first recreational cannabis dispensary this fall. THTree has been approved by the town and is set to open at 12187 Route 9W, in the building that formerly housed a Dollar Tree. Contributed photo

COXSACKIE—Greene County is preparing to welcome its first recreational cannabis dispensary this fall, marking a historic moment for the area’s business landscape and community.

THTree, a women-owned and operated cannabis dispensary, has been approved by the town and is set to open at 12187 Route 9W, in the building that formerly housed a Dollar Tree. The store, owned by local entrepreneurs Brittany Palmateer and Poliany Weidman, will offer a variety of cannabis products to serve the increasing demand for legal cannabis in New York state.

Palmateer, from Athens, and Weidman, from Greenville, bring a wealth of business and compliance experience from their time in the alcohol industry. Palmateer spent 12 years working with Empire Wine and Liquor, with five of those years as a sales rep, while Weidman comes from Country Square Liquors in Greenville, which she owns with her husband, Matt.

Their shared experience in managing the regulations of government-controlled products like alcohol prepared them for the complex compliance requirements in New York’s legal cannabis market. Both women see this as a natural transition to a new but similarly regulated industry.

“This is definitely a passion project for us. Poly and I have poured everything into this business,” Palmateer said. “When recreational cannabis was legalized in 2021, we saw an opportunity to bring our knowledge of compliance and our love for Greene County together. This business is really about serving our community and helping people access safe, legal cannabis.”

The 8,000-square-foot building THTree will occupy is notably larger than many other dispensaries in New York, giving the store the space to create a unique “cannabis destination.” The interior design of the store will reflect the natural beauty of Greene County, with Palmateer and Weidman aiming to create an inviting environment that ties into the area’s local charm.

“We wanted to create a welcoming space that celebrates the local area and helps reduce the stigma surrounding cannabis,” Palmateer added. “There’s still a lot of negative perception around cannabis, and we want to show that it’s just like buying a bottle of wine for your dinner party—except safer and more regulated.”

THTree’s products will be pre-packaged, rigorously tested, and come with a certificate of analysis to ensure consumers know exactly what they’re getting.

“The state takes testing very seriously, which is one of the big advantages of legal cannabis,” said Palmateer. “Everything we sell will be lab-tested, free from harmful substances, and of the highest quality, giving customers peace of mind compared to the black market.”

While on-site consumption will not be offered initially, due to current regulations, Palmateer noted this could change as local laws evolve.

“It’s similar to how package liquor stores work—you buy your product here, and you enjoy it responsibly at home,” she explained. However, Palmateer speculates that the town of Coxsackie may opt in for on-site consumption in the future.

The business has generated a wave of local excitement, and the owners have worked closely with Coxsackie’s town board and planning officials throughout the process.

“The community response has been overwhelmingly positive,” Palmateer said. “We made sure to present our business plan at town meetings, even though the state didn’t require us to do that. We wanted the town to see who we are and what our vision is, and everyone—from town officials to residents—has been supportive.”

In addition to its contribution to the local cannabis market, THTree is expected to have a significant economic impact. The state imposes a 13% cannabis tax, with 4% going directly back to the town of Coxsackie, a significant boost for local revenues.

“That’s huge for a town like Coxsackie,” Palmateer said. “Even with our most conservative sales projections, we’re looking at a sizable contribution to the town’s budget.”

THTree plans to offer a wide range of cannabis products, from affordable entry-level options to premium selections, catering to different customer needs and budgets.

“Not everyone is going to want the most expensive products, so we’re making sure to stock a vibrant selection that serves a diverse group of customers,” Palmateer said. “The size of our space allows us to carry more variety than many other dispensaries.”

Palmateer and Weidman will personally operate the dispensary, alongside a management team with years of experience in compliance and the cannabis industry. One of their managers brings over eight years of experience in New York’s hemp and medical cannabis sectors.

“Our team’s experience is going to be a huge asset. We’re committed to offering not only high-quality products but also excellent service and expert advice,” Palmateer said.

As the grand opening approaches, the buzz surrounding THTree continues to build. Though the exact opening date has yet to be officially announced, updates will be provided through THTree’s Instagram account, @THTreeNY. The owners are also planning a grand opening event to celebrate the launch, which is expected to be a major draw for the community.

Beyond its immediate impact, THTree’s launch represents a shift in both the local economy and the evolving perception of cannabis in Greene County. For many, the dispensary is seen as a symbol of progress in both business and public health.

“We’re incredibly excited to be the first recreational dispensary in Greene County,” Palmateer said. “This is just the beginning of a new era for the area, and we’re thrilled to be a part of it.”

For more information and updates, follow THTree on Instagram or stay tuned for announcements about their upcoming grand opening.

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