The hearing follows a judge’s order requiring a new review process for an Independent Nation-related project opposed by some local cannabis business owners and residents.

Organ Mountain News report

SUNLAND PARK - The Sunland Park City Council is scheduled to hold a public hearing Monday evening on proposed cannabis-related developments near the New Mexico-Texas state line, including a project tied to Independent Nation that has drawn opposition from some local cannabis business owners.

The hearing is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Monday at the Multi-Generational Building, 4700 McNutt Rd. in Sunland Park.

The meeting comes months after a state district judge ordered the city to hold a new hearing involving Independent Nation’s proposed alcohol and cannabis lounge project after litigation surrounding a previously denied special use permit application. According to prior reporting by CBS4 Local, the judge found the city’s earlier process did not meet required legal standards.

Several local cannabis operators and community stakeholders say they plan to attend Monday’s hearing to voice concerns about the proposal’s potential impacts on traffic, public safety, neighborhood quality of life and cross-border issues involving Texas, where recreational cannabis remains illegal.

Brian Grayson, an attorney representing several local business owners opposed to the proposal, said the hearing represents an important opportunity for public input.

“This hearing matters because the public deserves a lawful process, a complete record, and a fair opportunity to be heard,” Grayson said in a statement. “Our position remains that this proposal raises serious land-use, safety, and procedural concerns that should not be ignored.”

Christian Lira, owner of Cookies Sunland Park, said local operators view the hearing as significant for future development decisions in the area.

“This hearing is not just about one project,” Lira said. “It is about whether development in Sunland Park will be responsible, transparent, and respectful of the community.”

Pablo Duran, founder of Fields of Dreams, said business owners want development decisions to prioritize accountability and community trust.

“Responsible operators build trust through transparency, compliance, and respect for the community,” Duran said.

The public hearing agenda also includes consideration of special use permit requests for Station X Cannabis Dispensary at 420 Sunland Park Dr. and Cronica Cannabis Dispensary at 3801 Emory Dr.

The meeting is open to the public.