Belen putting hold on new cannabis retail applications

BELEN, N.M. (KRQE) – Belen is not accepting any new cannabis retail applications. The mayor is worried the number of stores could overwhelm the city of nearly 7,400 people. The resolution was approved three-to-one at the latest council meeting. Council members say the existing ordinance was passed as a living document to be reviewed and changed as appropriate.Right now, the city has three cannabis stores with four applications are awaiting approval.Mayor Pro Tem Danny Bernal is a