A new kind of business is growing in Johnstown.

Hanging Gardens LLC plans to open a medical marijuana growing and processing plant at the historic, former Bethlehem Steel mill site on Iron Street.

“We worked very closely with Hanging Gardens through the process. They were very interested in the Johnstown community. The authority owns all the infrastructure. What we were able to provide was exactly what they were looking for,” said Melissa Komar, the executive director of the Johnstown Redevelopment Authority.

Komar said the agreement was possible with support from city officials.

“Many of the city employees helped through the process. They needed zoning letters, support letters from our police department, our city manager,” Komar said.

City Manager George Hayfield said it’s a positive thing to see in his first month working for the city.

“Anytime we can get a long unused industrial space occupied, it’s a positive thing for the overall growth and well being for the community,” Hayfield said.

Police Chief Robert Johnson agreed that it’s a unique opportunity for the city.

“I think it’s a very unique opportunity for the city to bring an industry in and also employ many of the residents in the area as well as increase tax base in the city,” Johnson said. “I think it’s a good thing and I think many positive things will come from it down the road for the City of Johnstown.”

In a statement posted on its website, Hanging Gardens wrote: “We would also like to thank the City of Johnstown who have partnered with us to serve patients while bringing economic opportunity to its residents and those of the surrounding community. Hanging Gardens looks forward to being a key partner in bringing high quality medicine to Pennsylvanians in need.”

The news of a medical marijuana plant coming to Johnstown was a happy surprise for Troy Kendall.

“I think it’s great,” said Kendall, a Johnstown resident. “It’s definitely a different outlook and a new way of life for a lot of these people that become addicted to pain pills.”

Howard Bush’s brother grows medical marijuana in California. He said he’s glad to see it coming to Johnstown.

“I think it will bring employment, jobs. As far as the medical aspect of it, I think it’s a good thing,” Bush said.

Although other locals have growing concerns.

It’s got it’s medical benefits. It does. It’s just has to be really regulated the right way,” said Rachel Barron, a Johnstown resident.

“I think if they’re careful, then it’s ok. If you don’t go running around after doing that, just like any other medication you’re taking,” said Pat Alama, another local.

As Hanging Gardens takes root in the city, the consensus on medical marijuana is still up in the air.

“Pain medicine did what it did, but it wasn’t regulated. So, if people don’t get control of that, it’s going to be the same problem,” Barron said.

“Overall benefit is medical, as far as I’m concerned,” Howard said.

“If you’re really that sick or you need anything to help your pain,” Kendall added. “If you need to eat, anything like that, medical marijuana is awesome. I think it’s a great thing. I do.”

The exact lease agreement still has to be finalized. The 5-year contract will bring in $5-10,000 a month to the city, with incentives for hiring.

“Their rent will decrease for every 50 employees that are brought here,” Komar said.

Komar said this is a first for the city and it’s an opportunity with room to grow.

“The authority is super pleased with the approval of the license,” she said. “We look forward to working with Hanging Gardens and we welcome them to Johnstown.”