The project entailed planning and installation of the security system which includes video cameras, access control, intrusion detection, low-voltage cable, alarm systems, and system monitoring at the approximately 10,000 square-foot Western Front facility. LAN-TEL’s crew of IBEW Local 103 technicians started the project in summer 2020 and Western Front anticipates opening in November this year, pending final authorization from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Cannabis Control Commission (CCC).
LAN-TEL also assisted Western Front owners in the approval process, both with the Chelsea Board of Health as well as providing representation regarding security project scope details at Chelsea community meetings.
Western Front, LLC, based in Chelsea, MA, is a Certified Economic Empowerment Cannabis Company, so designated by the state’s Cannabis Control Commission. The CCC established the certification under its Equity Programs initiative, which “enable full participation by people from communities that have been previously disproportionately harmed by marijuana prohibition and enforcement.” The equity program provides a number of benefits for Certified Economic Empowered Cannabis Companies, including technical assistance and training, expedited application review, waived application fees, and a 50% reduction in annual licensing fees.
The security project was headed by LAN-TEL’s Director of Security John Grennon, who spoke of the importance of the project: “LAN-TEL Communications is proud to work with the principals of Western Front, the city of Chelsea and the state’s Cannabis Control Commission in providing state-of-the-art security systems at their new Chelsea marijuana dispensary. It is especially important to LAN-TEL that we do our part to ensure social justice for all citizens, as we work to enhance public safety through security system solutions for businesses, public facilities, and communities throughout Massachusetts.”
