Item 1. Business
ITEM
1. BUSINESS
The
following discussion should be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and the related notes to the consolidated
financial statements that appear elsewhere in this annual report on Form 10-K.
As
used in this annual report on Form 10-K and unless otherwise indicated, the terms the terms “Zoned Properties”, “Company,”
“we,” “us,” or “our” refer to Zoned Properties, Inc. and its wholly owned subsidiaries, Gilbert Property
Management, LLC, Green Valley Group, LLC, Kingman Property Group, LLC, Chino Valley Properties, LLC, Zoned Oregon Properties, LLC, Zoned
Colorado Properties, LLC, Zoned Illinois Properties, LLC, Zoned Arizona Properties, LLC, Zoned Advisory Services, LLC, Zoned Properties
Brokerage, LLC, and ZP Data Platform 1, LLC as the context may require.
Overview
Zoned
Properties, Inc. (“Zoned Properties” or the “Company”), was incorporated in the State of Nevada on August 25,
2003. The Company is a real estate development firm for emerging and highly regulated industries, including regulated cannabis. The Company
is redefining the approach to commercial real estate investment through its integrated growth services. Headquartered in Scottsdale,
Arizona, Zoned Properties has developed a full spectrum of integrated growth services to support its real estate development and investment
model; Advisory Services, Brokerage Services, Franchise Services, and Property Technology (“PropTech”) Data Services each
cross-pollinate within the model to drive project value associated with complex real estate projects. With national experience and a
team of experts devoted to the emerging cannabis industry, Zoned Properties is addressing the specific needs of a modern market in highly
regulated industries. Zoned Properties is an accredited member of the Better Business Bureau, the U.S. Green Building Council, and the
Forbes Real Estate Council. The Company does not grow, harvest, sell or distribute cannabis or any substances regulated under United
States law such as the Controlled Substance Act of 1970, as amended (the “CSA”).
The
Company has the following wholly owned subsidiaries:
●
Gilbert
Property Management, LLC (“Gilbert”) was organized in the State of Arizona on February 10, 2014.
●
Chino
Valley Properties, LLC (“Chino Valley”) was organized in the State of Arizona on April 15, 2014.
●
Kingman
Property Group, LLC (“Kingman”) was organized in the State of Arizona on April 15, 2014.
●
Green
Valley Group, LLC (“Green Valley”) organized in the State of Arizona on April 15, 2014.
●
Zoned
Oregon Properties, LLC was organized in the State of Oregon on June 16, 2015 and is currently inactive.
●
Zoned
Colorado Properties, LLC (“Zoned Colorado”) was organized in the State of Colorado on September 17, 2015 and is currently
inactive.
●
Zoned Illinois Properties,
LLC (“Zoned Illinois”) was organized in the State of Illinois on July 15, 2015 and is currently inactive.
●
Zoned Arizona Properties,
LLC (“Zoned Arizona”) was organized in the State of Arizona on June 2, 2017.
●
Zoned Advisory Services,
LLC (“Zoned Advisory”) was organized in the State of Arizona on July 27, 2018.
●
Zoned Properties Brokerage,
LLC (“Zoned Brokerage”) was organized in the State of Arizona on March 17, 2021.
●
ZP Data Platform 1, LLC
(“ZP Data”) was organized in the State of Arizona on April 14, 2021.
In
March 2020, the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic and recommended containment and mitigation measures worldwide.
The Company is monitoring this closely, and although operations have not been materially affected by the COVID-19 outbreak to date, the
ultimate duration and severity of the outbreak and its impact on the economic environment and our business is uncertain. Currently, all
of the properties in the Company’s portfolio are open to its Significant Tenants and their customers and will remain open pursuant
to state and local government requirements. The Company did not experience in 2020 or 2021 and does not foresee in 2022, any material
changes to its operations from COVID-19. The Company’s tenants are continuing to generate revenue at these properties, and they
have continued to make rental payments in full and on time and we believe the tenants’ liquidity position is sufficient to cover
its expected rental obligations. Accordingly, while the Company does not anticipate an impact on its operations, it cannot estimate the
duration of the pandemic and potential impact on its business if the properties must close or if the tenants are otherwise unable or
unwilling to make rental payments. In addition, a severe or prolonged economic downturn could result in a variety of risks to the Company’s
business, including weakened demand for its properties and a decreased ability to raise additional capital when needed on acceptable
terms, if at all.
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Our
Business
We
are a real estate development firm for emerging and highly regulated industries, including regulated cannabis. We are redefining the
approach to commercial real estate investment through our integrated growth services. Headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, we have developed
a full spectrum of integrated growth services to support our real estate development and investment model; Advisory Services, Brokerage
Services, Franchise Services, and PropTech Data Services each cross-pollinate within the model to drive project value associated with
complex real estate projects. With national experience and a team of experts devoted to the emerging cannabis industry, we are addressing
the specific needs of a modern market in highly regulated industries. We are an accredited member of the Better Business Bureau, the
U.S. Green Building Council, and the Forbes Real Estate Council. We do not grow, harvest, sell or distribute cannabis or any substances
regulated under United States law such as the Controlled Substance Act of 1970, as amended (the “CSA”).
We
are in the process of developing and expanding multiple business divisions; including an advisory services division, a licensed commercial
real estate brokerage division, a real estate division focused on franchise services, a real estate division focused on property technology
data for real estate, and a nonprofit charitable organization to focus on community prosperity. Each of these operating divisions are
important elements of the overall business development strategy for long-term growth. We believe in the value of building relationships
with clients and local communities in order to position the Company for long-term portfolio and revenue growth backed by sophisticated,
safe, and sustainable assets and clients.
The
core of our business involves identifying and developing commercial properties that intend to operate within highly regulated industries,
including the regulated cannabis industry. Within highly regulated industries, local municipalities typically develop strict regulations,
including zoning and permitting requirements related to commercial real estate, that dictate the specific locations and parameters under
which regulated properties can operate. These regulations often include complex permitting processes and can include non-standard codes
governing each location; for example, restricting a regulated property or facility from operating within a certain distance of any parks,
schools, churches, or residential districts, or restricting a regulated property from operating outside a defined set of hours of operation.
When an organization can collaborate with local representatives, a proactive set of rules and regulations can be established and followed
to meet the needs of both the regulated operators and the local community.
The
Company currently maintains a portfolio of properties that we own, develop, and lease. We currently lease land and/or building space
at all four of the properties in our portfolio. These properties are leased to licensed and regulated cannabis tenants and are located
in areas with established zoning and permitting procedures. Two of the leased properties are zoned and permitted as licensed and regulated
cannabis dispensaries, and two of the leased properties are zoned and permitted as licensed and regulated cannabis cultivation facilities.
Each regulated property may undergo a non-standard development process. Various development requirements in this process may include
initial property identification, zoning authorization, and permitting guidance in order to qualify a commercial property for subsequent
architectural design, utility installation, construction and development, property management, facilities management systems, and security
system installation.
On
June 1, 2021, we closed on the sale of our Gilbert, AZ property with a third party (the “Purchaser”) pursuant to which we
agreed to sell, and the Purchaser agreed to purchase, the property located in Gilbert, Arizona, for an aggregate purchase price of $335,000.
In connection with the sale, we received net proceeds of $322,332 and recorded a gain on sale of rental property of $51,944.
There
are significant challenges that take place when zoning, permitting, and developing real estate with facilities that intend to operate
within a regulated industry, including the regulated cannabis industry. Each state and local jurisdiction may adopt specific zoning and
permitting regulations that may be unique compared to alternative jurisdictions. The Company has gained valuable knowledge and developed
best practices in this area by successfully completing project for third party clients across the country in multiple state and our own
major projects in the state of Arizona, a highly regulated market for the regulated cannabis industry. The Company intends to replicate
this business model across the nation as markets mature and rules and regulations are established.
The
process for obtaining zoning authorizations and permitting for a regulated cannabis facility can take months or sometimes years to complete.
The process primarily involves working directly with the local government representatives following state-level legalization. Notwithstanding
proper zoning and permitted use, we may work with local zoning authorities in order to revise zoning codes and regulations. The Company
has been involved with local representatives for each of the properties currently held in our portfolio and on behalf of third-part client
properties across the nation. For example, the Company worked directly with local representatives in Tempe, Arizona to update the local
zoning code that regulates licensed cannabis facilities. The successfully adoption of these code amendments directly impact the continued
development of any licensed cannabis facilities that operate within municipal limits.
In
the event a property is not currently zoned correctly or does not currently allow permitted use as a regulated cannabis facility, we
may work with local authorities to rezone the property or seek changes to existing zoning codes or permitted uses. Our efforts may not
be successful. For example, the property we sold in June of 2021 located in Gilbert, Arizona was not successfully zoned and permitted
for a prospective regulated cannabis facility and was ultimately divested as a non-core asset.
The
Company has established a network of experts in the fields of real estate, design, engineering, construction, operations, security, and
corporate social responsibility in order to provide tenants and clients with a full-spectrum of real estate solutions to best meet their
needs. We require our prospective tenants and clients to go through due diligence in order to meet the Company’s standards.
Our
vision is to be recognized for setting the standard in sustainable development for emerging industries, while increasing community prosperity
and shareholder value. We believe that a focus on real estate and the sustainable development of properties will bring value to the local
communities in which we operate and to local stakeholders. While we intend to expand into a variety of emerging industries, our current
focus is on real estate projects within the regulated cannabis industry.
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We
are the sole member of eleven limited liability companies: Zoned Advisory, Zoned Arizona, Gilbert, Green Valley, Kingman, Chino Valley,
Zoned Colorado, Zoned Illinois, Zoned Oregon, Zoned Brokerage, and ZP Data. Four of these entities own our properties: Zoned Arizona,
Green Valley, Kingman, and Chino Valley have all acquired land and/or real property.
Multiple
state-licensed operators from across the United States have approached Zoned Properties for strategic partnership and/or advisory services
for development and prospective sale-lease back arrangements. We are continuously evaluating these projects as we seek development partnerships,
prospective sale-lease back arrangements, and explore financing terms with capital funding sources.
We
are a non-plant touching organization. We believe that we are well positioned to benefit from ancillary development opportunities that
the regulated cannabis industry presents without having to deal with the risk of directly cultivating, distributing, or dispensing the
product, which is still illegal under federal law.
Our
initial holdings and acquisition targets have been in the State of Arizona. Unlike many other states that have legalized and regulated
cannabis, Arizona’s program has some of the most robust regulations in the country and limits the number of dispensaries that will
be allowed to be open and operate within the state. While there are hundreds of dispensaries in Denver, Colorado, the entire state of
Arizona will have a maximum of 169 operating dispensaries under current legislation. This limitation on the number of dispensaries permitted
to operate in Arizona under current legislation may limit our ability to purchase additional property in Arizona for lease to dispensary
operators.
Recent
Corporate History and Transactions
On
May 1, 2018, Zoned Arizona, Green Valley Group, Kingman Property, and Chino Valley Properties executed lease agreements with our Significant
Tenant at each of the respective properties. These locations generate rental revenue. The lease agreements have a 22-year term, expiring
on April 30, 2040.
The
leases dated May 1, 2018, with Zoned Arizona, Green Valley, Kingman, and Chino Valley each include a Guarantee of Payment and Performance
by Mr. Abrams and the tenant organizations.
Chino
Valley
On
May 29, 2020, Chino Valley and Broken Arrow entered into a second amendment to the 2018 Chino Valley Lease, as amended (the “2020
Chino Valley Amendment”), effective May 31, 2020 (“Effective Date”). Pursuant to the terms of the 2020 Chino Valley
Amendment, among other things, the base rent was adjusted to $32,800 per month, and the base rent was abated from June 1, 2020 to July
31, 2020. Any increase in the rentable area of the leased premises will result in an increase in all amounts calculated based on the
same, including, without limitation, base rent. Pursuant to the terms of the 2020 Chino Valley Amendment, the parties agreed that if
there is any change in laws such that the dispensing, sale or cultivation of marijuana upon the premises is prohibited or materially
and adversely affected as mutually and reasonably determined by Chino Valley and Broken Arrow, Broken Arrow may terminate the 2018 Chino
Valley Lease, as amended, by delivering written notice to Chino Valley, together with a termination payment which shall be the sum of
(i) any unpaid rent and interest, plus (ii) 5% of the base rent which would have been earned after termination for the balance of the
term.
In
addition, the parties agreed that from the period from the Effective Date to June 30, 2022 (the “Improvement Period”), Broken
Arrow will and/or Broken Arrow will cause its affiliate, CJK, Inc. (“CJK”), to invest a combined total of at least $8,000,000
of improvements (“Investment by Tenants”) in and to the property that is the subject of the Chino Valley Lease and the property
that is the subject of the Tempe Lease (discussed below, and collectively referred to as the “Facilities”). As of December
31, 2021, the Company’s Significant Tenants have completed improvements to the Facilities totaling in excess of $8,000,000 and
have satisfied the contractual obligations related to the same.
On
August 23, 2021, Chino Valley and Broken Arrow entered into the Third Amendment (the “Third Chino Valley Amendment”) to the
Licensed Medical Marijuana Facility Triple Net (NNN) Lease Agreement dated May 1, 2018, between Chino Valley and CJK, as amended (the
“Chino Valley Lease”), effective September 1, 2021.
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Pursuant
to the terms of the Chino Valley Lease, the parties previously agreed that between May 31, 2020 and May 31, 2022 (the “Improvement
Period”), Broken Arrow would and/or Broken Arrow would cause its affiliate, CJK, to invest a combined total of at least $8,000,000
of improvements in and to the property that is the subject of the Chino Valley Lease. The parties also previously agreed that the base
rental payments under the Chino Valley Lease would increase commensurate to any and all expanded and operational square footage on the
premises by calculating the fixed rate of $0.82 per square foot per month by the new operational square footage. Broken Arrow has now
satisfied its contractual obligation regarding these capital improvements.
Accordingly,
in the Third Chino Valley Amendment, the parties agreed that, as of September 1, 2021, the rental payment is increased to $55,195 per
month base rental payment, plus additional rental payments, as a result of the increase in the square footage of the operational space.
This lease modification qualifies as a separate contract as the modification grants the tenant additional right of use not included in
the original lease, as amended, and the increase in monthly rent payments is commensurate with the standalone price for the additional
square footage being leased.
Effective
January 24, 2022, Chino Valley and Broken Arrow entered into the Fourth Amendment (the “Fourth Chino Valley Amendment”) to
the Licensed Medical Marijuana Facility Triple Net (NNN) Lease Agreement dated May 1, 2018, between Chino Valley and CJK, as amended.
Pursuant to the terms of the Fourth Chino Valley Amendment, the parties acknowledge that an additional 30,000 square feet have become
operational, increasing the premises to a total of 97,312 square feet of operational space. In connection with the Fourth Chino Valley
Amendment, the Company paid $500,000 to CJK as a tenant improvement allowance for investment into the premises, which shall be capitalized
as a lease incentive receivable and recognized on a straight-line basis over the remaining lease term as a reduction to the lease income.
Pursuant
to the terms of the Fourth Chino Valley Amendment, effective March 1, 2022, the monthly base rent was increased to $87,581, representing
an increase from $0.82 per square foot to $0.90 per square foot, for all current and future operational square footage that may be developed
as the premises continues to expand. In addition, Broken Arrow agreed that it would provide audited financial statements to Chino Valley
on an annual basis no later than March 20 th of each calendar year.
Green
Valley
On
May 29, 2020, Green Valley and Broken Arrow entered into the First Amendment (the “Green Valley Amendment”) to the Green
Valley Lease, effective May 31, 2020. Pursuant to the terms of the Green Valley Amendment, among other things, the parties agreed to
abate the fixed base rent of $3,500 from June 1, 2020 to July 31, 2020. In addition, the Green Valley Amendment provides that any increase
in the rentable area of the leases premises will result in an increase in all amounts calculated based on the same, including, without
limitation, base rent. The parties also agreed that if there is any change in laws such that the dispensing, sale or cultivation of cannabis
upon the premises is prohibited or materially and adversely affected as mutually and reasonably determined by Green Valley and Broken
Arrow, Broken Arrow may terminate the Green Valley Lease by delivering written notice to Green Valley, together with a termination payment
which shall be the sum of (i) any unpaid rent and interest, plus (ii) 5% of the base rent which would have been earned after termination
for the balance of the term.
Tempe
On
May 29, 2020, Zoned Arizona and CJK entered into the First Amendment (the “Tempe Amendment”) to the Tempe Lease, effective
May 31, 2020. Pursuant to the terms of the Tempe Amendment, among other things, the base rent was increased to $49,200 per month, and
the base rent was abated from June 1, 2020 to July 31, 2020. Any increase in the rentable area of the leased premises will result in
an increase in all amounts calculated based on the same, including, without limitation, base rent. Pursuant to the terms of the Tempe
Amendment, the parties agreed that if there is any change in laws such that the dispensing, sale or cultivation of marijuana upon the
premises is prohibited or materially and adversely affected as mutually and reasonably determined by Zoned Arizona and CJK, CJK may terminate
the Tempe Lease by delivering written notice to Zoned Arizona, together with a termination payment which shall be the sum of (i) any
unpaid rent and interest, plus (ii) 5% of the base rent which would have been earned after termination for the balance of the term. In
addition, under the Tempe Amendment the parties agreed to an Investment by Tenant (as defined above in the subheading Chino Valley )
to the property that is the subject of the Chino Valley Lease and the property that is the subject of the Tempe Lease. If Broken Arrow
and/or CJK fails to deliver to the Company receipted bills for hard and soft costs of improvements to the Facilities totaling at least
$8,000,000 on or before June 30, 2022, Broken Arrow and CJK will be in default under the Chino Valley Lease and Tempe Lease, as amended.
As of December 31, 2021, the Company’s Significant Tenants have completed improvements to the Facilities totaling in excess of
$8,000,000 and have satisfied the contractual obligations related to the same. As soon as the improved, rentable areas have received
all required approvals for occupancy and commencement of operations, the Company and Broken Arrow expect to complete any appropriate
amendments to the Lease Agreement.
Kingman
On
May 29, 2020, Kingman and CJK entered into the First Amendment (the “Kingman Amendment”) to the Kingman Lease, effective
May 31, 2020. Pursuant to the terms of the Kingman Amendment, among other things, the parties agreed to abate the $4,000 base rent from
June 1, 2020 to July 31, 2020. In addition, the Kingman Amendment provides that any increase in the rentable area of the leases premises
will result in an increase in all amounts calculated based on the same, including, without limitation, base rent. The parties also agreed
that if there is any change in laws such that the dispensing, sale or cultivation of cannabis upon the premises is prohibited or materially
and adversely affected as mutually and reasonably determined by Kingman and CJK, CJK may terminate the Kingman Lease by delivering written
notice to Kingman, together with a termination payment which shall be the sum of (i) any unpaid rent and interest, plus (ii) 5% of the
base rent which would have been earned after termination for the balance of the term.
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CJK
and Broken Arrow, together, operate under the company brand, “Hana Meds”, and are referred to as the Company’s Significant
Tenants.
During the years ended December 31, 2021 and 2020,
substantially all of the Company’s real estate properties are leased under triple-net leases to tenants that are controlled by one
entity (each, a “Significant Tenant” and collectively, the “Significant Tenants”). For the years ended December
31, 2021 and 2020, rental and advisory revenue associated with the Significant Tenants amounted to $1,255,130 and $1,176,666, which represents
68.9% and 96.8% of the Company’s total revenues, respectively. As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company had an asset concentration
related to the Significant Tenants. As of December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Significant Tenants represented approximately 79.2% and 83.2%
of the Company’s total assets, respectively.
Future
minimum lease payments primarily consist of minimum base rent payments from Significant Tenants. Future minimum lease payments to be
received, on all leased properties, for each of the five succeeding calendar years and thereafter as of December 31, 2021 consists of
the following:
Future annual base rent *:
2022
$ 1,362,403
2023
1,362,403
2024
1,362,403
2025
1,362,403
2026
1,350,939
Thereafter
17,903,334
Total
$ 24,703,885
* Future annual base rent does not include the Fourth Chino Valley Amendment,
effective March 1, 2022 which increased the monthly base rent to $87,581, or an annual base rent to $1,050,972 (See Chino Valley above).
KCB
Jade Holdings, LLC Investment
On
March 19, 2020, the Company made an initial investment of $100,000 into KCB Jade Holdings, LLC (“KCB”). In exchange for the
investment, KCB issued to the Company a convertible debenture (the “KCB Debenture”) dated March 19, 2020 (the “Issuance
Date”) in the original principal amount of $100,000. The KCB Debenture bears interest at the rate of 6.5% per annum and matures
on March 19, 2025 (the “Maturity Date”). Interest on the outstanding principal sum of the KCB Debenture commences accruing
on the Issuance Date and is computed on the basis of a 365-day year and the actual number of days elapsed and shall be payable annually
due by the first day of each calendar anniversary following the Issuance Date. KCB may prepay the KCB Debenture at any point after 18
months following the Issuance Date, in whole or in part. However, if KCB elects to prepay the KCB Debenture prior to the Maturity Date
or prior to any conversion as provided in the KCB Debenture in whole or in part, the Company will be entitled to receive a number of
KCB units, in addition to such prepayment amount, constituting 10% of the total outstanding units and 10% of the total percentage interest
following such issuance and at the time of such issuance.
On
or after six months from the Issuance Date, the Company may convert all or a portion of the principal balance and all accrued and unpaid
interest due into a number of units equal to the proportion of the outstanding amount being converted multiplied by 33% of the total
number of units issued and outstanding at the time of conversion, constituting 33% of the total percentage interest (the “Conversion
Percentage”). If KCB defaults on payment of the KCB Debenture, the Company may, at its option, extend all conversion rights, through
and including the date KCB tenders or attempts to tender payment in full of all amounts due under the KCB Debenture. Conversion rights
terminate upon acceptance by the Company of payment in full of principal, accrued interest and any other amounts due under the KCB Debenture.
If
(i) KCB does not elect to exercise its rights of prepayment prior to the Maturity Date, (ii) the Company does not elect to exercise its
rights of conversion, and (iii) KCB pays to the Company all outstanding principal and interest accrued and due under the terms of the
KCB Debenture on the Maturity Date, the Company will still be entitled to receive a number of units, in addition to such payment amount,
constituting 8% of the total outstanding units and 8% of the total percentage interest following such issuance and at the time of such
issuance.
Upon
the occurrence of an Event of Default, as defined in the KCB Debenture, the entire principal balance and accrued and unpaid interest
outstanding under the KCB Debenture, and all other obligations of KCB under the KCB Debenture, will be immediately due and payable and
the Company may exercise any and all rights, power and remedies available to it at law or in equity or other appropriate proceeding,
whether for the specific performance of any covenant or agreement contained in the KCB Debenture and proceed to enforce the payment thereof
or any other legal or equitable right of the Company.
Any
amount of principal or interest not paid when due will bear interest at the rate of 12% per annum from the due date thereof until paid.
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On
February 19, 2021 (the “Amendment Date”), the Company made an additional investment of $100,000 into KCB (the “Additional
Investment”). In exchange, KCB issued to the Company an amended and restated convertible debenture (the “A&R Debenture”)
on the Amendment Date. The A&R Debenture amends and restates in its entirety the KCB Debenture. Pursuant to the A&R Debenture,
the Company and KCB agreed to certain new terms that did not exist in the KCB Debenture, which are described below.
●
Interest Accrual Commencement :
Pursuant to the A&R Debenture, interest on the Initial Investment begins accruing as of March 19, 2020, while interest on the
Additional Investment begins accruing on February 19, 2021.
●
Franchise Fees .
In the A&R Debenture, the parties acknowledge that each time that KCB sells one of its franchise locations, KCB earns a fee (an
“Initial Fee”), and that KCB also earns a fee when one of its franchise locations renews its franchise with KCB (a “Renewal
Fee”). Pursuant to the A&R Debenture, the Company and KCB agreed that, as additional consideration for the Additional Investment,
KCB will pay to the Company, in perpetuity, 5% of any Initial Fee received by KCB after the Amendment Date, as well as 5% of any
Renewal Fee received by KCB related to any franchise locations sold after the Amendment Date, in each case to be paid within five
(5) days of receipt of KCB thereof.
In
addition, following the Amendment Date, KCB agreed not to decrease the amount it charges its franchise locations for an Initial Fee or
any Renewal Fee as in effect on the Amendment Date without the prior written consent of the Company, or to take any other actions that
would reduce the value of KCB’s obligation to the Company with respect to these franchise fee payments. KCB’s obligation
to pay the Company the franchise fees listed above will survive any termination, repayment or conversion of the A&R Debenture. Failure
by KCB to pay the Company the franchise fees in the manner described above will result in an event of default, and, among other things,
any due and unpaid franchise fees will accrue interest at 12% per year from the date the obligation was due.
Apart
from the terms described above, the terms of the A&R Debenture are substantially identical to the terms of the KCB Debenture.
On
August 2, 2021, KCB issued to the Company a second amended and restated convertible debenture (the “Second A&R Debenture”).
The Second A&R Debenture amends and restates in its entirety the A&R Debenture. Pursuant to the Second A&R Debenture, the
Company and KCB agreed to revise certain terms in the A&R Debenture, as follows.
Right
of Prepayment . KCB may prepay the Second A&R Debenture at any point after 18 months following the Issue Date, in whole or in
part. However, if KCB elects to prepay the Second A&R Debenture prior to March 19, 2025 (the “Maturity Date”) or prior
to any conversion in whole or in part, the Company will be entitled to receive a number of KCB Class B units (“Class B Units”),
in addition to such prepayment amount, constituting 10% of the total outstanding KCB Units (as defined in KCB’s Limited Liability
Company Operating Agreement (the “Operating Agreement”)), for the avoidance of doubt, being 10% of the total of KCB’s
Class A units (“Class A Units”) and the Class B Units together, and 10% of the total Percentage Interest (as defined in the
Operating Agreement) following such issuance and at the time of such issuance.
Voluntary
Conversion . On or after six months from the Issue Date, the Company is entitled to convert all or a portion of the principal balance
and all accrued and unpaid interest due under the Second A&R Debenture (the “Outstanding Amount”) into a number of Class
B Units equal to the proportion of the Outstanding Amount being converted multiplied by the Conversion Percentage, as defined below).
Should KCB default on payment hereof, the Company may, at its option, extend all conversion rights, through and including the date KCB
tenders or attempts to tender payment in full of all amounts due under the Second A&R Debenture. Conversion rights will terminate
upon acceptance by the Company of payment in full of principal, accrued interest and any other amounts due under the Second A&R Debenture.
Conversion
Percentage. The Conversion Percentage will be 33% of the total number of Units (for the avoidance of doubt, being 33% of the total
of the Class A Units and the Class B Units together), issued and outstanding at the time of conversion, constituting 33% of the total
Percentage Interest (the “Conversion Percentage”).
Right
of Maturity Units . If (i) KCB does not elect to exercise its prepayment rights prior to the Maturity Date, and (ii) the Company does
not elect to exercise its conversion rights, and (iii) KCB pays to the Company all outstanding principal and interest accrued and due
under the terms of the Second A&R Debenture on the Maturity Date, then the Company will still be entitled to receive a number of
Class B Units, in addition to such payment amount, constituting 8% of the total outstanding Units (for the avoidance of doubt, being
8% of the total of the Class A Units and the Class B Units together) and 8% of the total Percentage Interest (as such term is defined
in the Second A&R Debenture) following such issuance and at the time of such issuance.
Apart
from the terms described above, the terms of the Second A&R Debenture are substantially identical to the terms of the A&R Debenture.
Gilbert
Property
On
March 3, 2021, Gilbert entered into that certain Commercial Lease Agreement (the “Lease”), dated as of February 26, 2021,
between Gilbert and AZ2CAL Enterprises, LLC (the “Tenant”). Pursuant to the terms of the Lease, Gilbert agreed to rent the
property located at 988 S. 182 nd Place, Gilbert, AZ (the “Property”) to the Tenant for a term of 24 months,
from April 1, 2021 to March 31, 2023, for monthly rent of $2,750; provided, however, that no rent is due for the month of April 2021.
6
In
addition, pursuant to the terms of the Lease, the Tenant has an option to purchase the Property (the “Option”) that can be
exercised any time after the fourth month of the lease term, but no later than the end of the 12 th month of the lease
term. On June 1, 2021, the Company closed on the sale of its Gilbert, AZ property with the Tenant pursuant to which the Company agreed
to sell, and the Tenant agreed to purchase the property located in Gilbert, Arizona, for an aggregate purchase price of $335,000. In
connection with the sale, the Company received net proceeds of $322,332 and recorded a gain on sale of rental property of $51,944.
Investment
in Joint Ventures
On
December 31, 2021 and 2020, the Company held investments with aggregate carrying values of $74,554 and $0, respectively. The entities
listed below are partially owned by the Company. The Company accounts for these investments under the equity method of accounting as
the Company exercises significant influence but does not exercise financial and operating control over these entities. Investments are
reviewed for changes in circumstance or the occurrence of events that suggest an other than temporary event where the Company’s
investment may not be recoverable.
On
April 22, 2021, ZP Data entered into a Limited Liability Company Operating Agreement (the “Beakon Operating Agreement”) with
a non-affiliated joint venture partner in connection with the formation of Beakon, LLC (“Beakon”), a Delaware limited liability
company formed on April 16, 2021. Beakon signed a licensing agreement for the licensing of a consumer data/marketing software platform
that Beakon will white-label for the cannabis industry. Beakon’s goal is to develop and leverage the platform to help drive foot
traffic to brick and mortar retail (i.e. dispensaries), and thus enhance the value of the real estate and mitigate risk. Pursuant to
the Beakon Operating Agreement, ZP Data purchased 50 units of Beakon for $50, which represent 50% of the membership interests of Beakon.
Each unit represents, with respect to any member, such member’s: (i) interest in Beakon’s capital, (ii) share of Beakon’s
net profits and net losses (and specially allocated items of income, gain, and deduction), and the right to receive distributions of
net cash flow from Beakon, (iii) right to inspect Beakon’s books and records, and (iv) right to participate in the management of
and vote on matters coming before the members as provided in the Beakon Operating Agreement. The transactions discussed above resulted
in a joint venture, in accordance with ASC 323-10 – Investments- Equity and Joint Ventures, between ZP Data and the non-affiliated
party. Each of the entities has 50% equity ownership and voting rights, and joint control in Beakon. ZP Data will account for its investment
in Beakon under the equity method of accounting in accordance with ASC 323. During the year ended December 31, 2021, the Company contributed
$86,000 to Beakon. On December 31, 2021, the Company recorded an other-than-temporary impairment loss of $73,970 because it was determined
that the fair value of its equity method investment in Beakon was less than its carrying value. Based on management’s evaluation,
it was determined that due to market conditions and lack of committed funding, the Company’s ability to recover the carrying amount
of the investment in Beakon was impaired. For the year ended December 31, 2021, the $73,970 impairment loss is included within loss
from unconsolidated joint ventures on the consolidated statement of operations.
On
May 1, 2021, the Company entered into a Limited Liability Company Operating Agreement (the “Zoneomics Green Operating Agreement”)
with a non-affiliated joint venture partner in connection with the formation of Zoneomics Green, LLC (“Zoneomics Green”),
a Delaware limited liability company formed on May 1, 2021. Zoneomics Green’s goal is to utilize advanced property technology to
provide solutions for property identification in regulated industries such as regulated cannabis. Pursuant to the Zoneomics Green Operating
Agreement, the Company purchased 50 units of Zoneomics Green for a capital contribution of $90,000, which represent 50% of the membership
interests of Zoneomics Green. Each unit represents, with respect to any member, such member’s: (i) interest in Zoneomics Green’s
capital, (ii) share of Zoneomics Green’s net profits and net losses (and specially allocated items of income, gain, and deduction),
and the right to receive distributions of net cash flow from Zoneomics Green, (iii) right to inspect Zoneomics Green’s books and
records, and (iv) right to participate in the management of and vote on matters coming before the members as provided in the Zoneomics
Green Operating Agreement. The transactions discussed above resulted in a joint venture, in accordance with ASC 323-10 – Investments-
Equity and Joint Ventures, between the Company and the non-affiliated party. Each of the entities has 50% equity ownership and voting
rights, and joint control in Zoneomics Green. In June 2021, the Company contributed $90,000 to Zoneomics Green.
Clients
We
target clients who require assistance with the identification and development of regulated cannabis properties. Our ideal prospective
clients will have a commitment to sophisticated, safe, and sustainable project development. The most significant barrier to success for
many industry operators and prospective clients includes distractions from primary business operations. These distractions often include
services related to the identification, zoning, permitting, and development of real estate.
We
complete significant due diligence on prospective tenants and prospective clients regardless of industry focus. Credit-worthiness, character,
and cash flows are all important traits that contribute to a sophisticated client for the Company.
Marketing
Currently,
the Company does not actively market its services using any direct marketing campaigns. Industry reputation, word-of-mouth, and networking
are the primary tools used to complete the marketing of our services. We have engaged a public relations firm, Proven Media, to assist
with our industry branding and to help maintain an updated website, shareholder presentation, and profile outlining the Company’s
services. These tools are created for transparency of operations and activities. Our executive management believes the reputation of
having integrity is an essential tool for marketing and business development.
7
Competition
The
commercial real estate market is highly competitive. We believe finding properties that are zoned for the specific use of allowing regulated
cannabis operations may be limited as more competitors enter the market. Several competitors have recently entered the marketplace. We
face significant competition from a diverse mix of market participants, including but not limited to, other public companies with similar
business models, independent investors, hedge funds and other real estate investors, hard money lenders, as well as would be clients,
regulated cannabis operators themselves, all of whom, who may compete against us in our efforts to acquire real estate zoned for cannabis
grow and retail operations. In some instances, we will be competing to acquire real estate with persons who have no interest in the regulated
cannabis business but have identified value in a piece of real estate that we may be interested in acquiring.
Government
Regulation
Real
Estate & General Business Regulations
We
are subject to applicable provisions of federal and state securities laws and to regulations specifically governing the real estate industry,
including those governing fair housing and federally backed mortgage programs. Our operations will also be subject to regulations normally
incident to business operations, such as occupational safety and health acts, workmen’s compensation statutes, unemployment insurance
legislation and income tax and social security related regulations. Although we will use our best efforts to comply with applicable regulations,
we can provide no assurance of our ability to do so, nor can we fully predict the effect of these regulations on our proposed activities.
In
addition, zoning commercial properties for specific purposes, such as regulated cannabis dispensaries or cultivation facilities, is subject
to specific regulations to the zoning requirements for the city, county and state related to any regulated cannabis facility. We expect
regulations to get tighter as time goes on.
Federal
and State Regulation of Cannabis
The
U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that it is the federal government that has the right to regulate and criminalize cannabis, even for medical
purposes. Therefore, federal law criminalizing the use of marijuana preempts state laws that legalize its use for medicinal purposes.
The
U.S. federal government regulates drugs through the CSA, which places controlled substances, including cannabis, in a schedule. Cannabis
is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance. A Schedule I controlled substance is defined as a substance that has no
currently accepted medical use in the United States, a lack of safety for use under medical supervision and a high potential for abuse.
The U.S. Department of Justice (the “DOJ”) defines Schedule I drugs, substances or chemicals as “drugs with no currently
accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse.” However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (the “FDA”) has
approved Epidiolex, which contains a purified form of the drug cannabidiol (“CBD”), a non-psychoactive ingredient
in the cannabis plant, for the treatment of seizures associated with two epilepsy conditions. The FDA has not approved cannabis or cannabis
compounds as a safe and effective drug for any other condition. Moreover, pursuant to the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (the “Farm
Bill”), CBD remains a Schedule I controlled substance under the CSA, with a narrow exception for CBD derived from hemp with a tetrahydrocannabinol
(“THC”) concentration of less than 0.3%.
The
Company maintains its operations so as to remain in compliance with the CSA. Even in those jurisdictions in which the manufacture and
use of medical marijuana has been legalized at the state level, the possession, use and cultivation all remain violations of federal
law that are punishable by imprisonment and substantial fines, and the prescription of marijuana is a violation of federal law. Moreover,
individuals and entities may violate federal law if they intentionally aid and abet another in violating these federal controlled substance
laws or conspire with another to violate them.
The
inconsistencies between federal and state regulation of cannabis were addressed in a memorandum (the “Cole Memo”) which then-Deputy
Attorney General James Cole sent to all U.S. District Attorneys in 2013 outlining certain priorities for the DOJ relating to the prosecution
of cannabis offenses. The Cole Memo acknowledged that, notwithstanding the designation of cannabis as a Schedule I controlled substance
at the federal level, several states had enacted laws authorizing the use of cannabis for medical purposes. The Cole Memo noted that
jurisdictions that have enacted laws legalizing cannabis in some form have also implemented strong and effective regulatory and enforcement
systems to control the cultivation, processing, distribution, sale, and possession of cannabis. As such, conduct in compliance with those
laws and regulations is less likely to implicate the Cole Memo’s enforcement priorities. The DOJ did not provide (and has not provided
since) specific guidelines for what regulatory and enforcement systems would be deemed sufficient under the Cole Memo. In light of limited
investigative and prosecutorial resources, the Cole Memo concluded that the DOJ should be focused on addressing only the most significant
threats related to cannabis, such as distribution of cannabis from states where cannabis is legal to those where cannabis is illegal,
the diversion of cannabis revenues to illicit drug cartels and sales of cannabis to minors.
8
On
January 4, 2018, former U.S. Attorney General Jeff Sessions issued a new memorandum (the “Sessions Memo”) which rescinded
the Cole Memo. The Sessions Memo stated, in part, that current law reflects “Congress’ determination that cannabis is a dangerous
drug and cannabis activity is a serious crime,” and Mr. Sessions directed all U.S. Attorneys to enforce the laws enacted by
Congress by following well-established principles when pursuing prosecutions related to cannabis activities. The Company is not aware
of any prosecutions of investment companies doing routine business with licensed marijuana related businesses in light of the DOJ position
following issuance of the Sessions Memo. However, there can be no assurance that the federal government will not enforce federal laws
relating to cannabis in the future. As a result of the Sessions Memo, federal prosecutors are now free to utilize their prosecutorial
discretion to decide whether to prosecute cannabis activities, despite the existence of state-level laws that may be inconsistent with
federal prohibitions. No direction was given to federal prosecutors in the Sessions Memo as to the priority they should ascribe to such
cannabis activities, and thus it is uncertain how active U.S. federal prosecutors will be in relation to such activities.
Federal prosecutors appear to continue to use the Cole Memo’s
priorities as an enforcement guide. Merrick Garland, who became Attorney General on March 10, 2021, has indicated that he would deprioritize
enforcement of low-level cannabis crimes such as possession, and has shared his view that the government should focus on large-scale
criminal enterprises that circumvent state legalization laws instead of going after people who abide by local cannabis policies. The Company
believes it is too soon to determine what prosecutorial effects will be created by the rescission of the Cole Memo or any replacement
thereof and when or if the Sessions Memo will be rescinded. President Joseph R. Biden, who assumed office in January 2021, has not yet
indicated whether and when he will decriminalize or legalize cannabis and has previously stated that he is opposed to legalization. The
sheer size of the cannabis industry, in addition to participation by state and local governments and investors, suggests that a large-scale
federal enforcement operation would more than likely create unwanted political backlash for the DOJ and the current administration. Regardless,
at this time, cannabis remains a Schedule I controlled substance at the federal level. The U.S. federal government has always reserved
the right to enforce federal law regarding the sale and disbursement of medical or adult use cannabis, even if state law authorizes such
sale and disbursement. It is unclear whether the risk of enforcement has been altered.
One legislative safeguard for the medical cannabis industry, appended
to the federal budget bill, remains in place following the rescission of the Cole Memo. For several years, Congress has adopted a so-called
“rider” provision to the Consolidated Appropriations Act (formerly referred to as the Rohrabacher-Farr Amendment and currently
referred to as the Rohrabacher-Blumenauer Amendment) to prevent the federal government from using congressionally appropriated funds to
enforce federal cannabis laws against regulated medical cannabis actors operating in compliance with state and local law. Despite the
rescission of the Cole Memo, the DOJ appears to continue to adhere to the enforcement priorities set forth in the Cole Memo.
The
Cole Memo and the Rohrabacher-Blumenauer Amendment gave licensed cannabis operators (particularly medical cannabis operators) and investors
in states with legal regimes greater certainty regarding the DOJ’s enforcement priorities and the risk of operating cannabis businesses.
While the Sessions Memo has introduced some uncertainty regarding federal enforcement, the cannabis industry continues to experience
growth in legal medical and adult use markets across the United States. When she was a U.S. Senator, Vice President Kamala Harris was
the lead sponsor of the Marijuana Opportunity, Reinvestment, and Expungement (MORE) Act, which seeks to end the federal prohibition of
marijuana, among other things, but in March 2020, it was reported that Vice President Harris has adopted the same position as President
Biden, who opposes legalization. Currently, there is no guarantee that state laws legalizing and regulating the sale and use of cannabis
will remain in place or that local governmental authorities will not limit the applicability of state laws within their respective jurisdictions.
Unless and until the U.S. Congress amends the CSA with respect to cannabis (and as to the timing or scope of any such potential amendments
there can be no assurance), there is a risk that federal authorities may enforce current U.S. federal law criminalizing cannabis.
Although
the U.S. Supreme Court has ruled that it is the federal government that has the right to regulate and criminalize cannabis, and federal
law criminalizing the use of marijuana preempts state laws that legalize its use, cannabis is largely regulated at the state level.
State
laws that permit and regulate the production, distribution and use of cannabis for adult use or medical purposes are in direct conflict
with the CSA, which makes cannabis use and possession federally illegal. Although certain states and territories of the U.S. authorize
medical and/or adult use cannabis production and distribution by licensed or registered entities, under U.S. federal law, the possession,
use, cultivation and transfer of cannabis and any related drug paraphernalia is illegal, and any such acts are criminal acts under federal
law under any and all circumstances under the CSA. Although the Company’s activities are believed to be compliant with applicable
state and local laws, strict compliance with state and local laws with respect to cannabis may neither absolve the Company of liability
under U.S. federal law, nor may it provide a defense to any federal proceeding which may be brought against the Company.
9
As of December 31, 2021, 37 states, plus the District of Columbia (and
the territories of Guam, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and the Northern Mariana Islands), have legalized the medical use of cannabis.
In 18 of those states, the sale and possession of cannabis is legal for both medical and adult use, and the District of Columbia has legalized
adult use but not commercial sale. Eleven other states have laws that limit THC content, for the purpose of allowing access to CBD products.
We
will continue to monitor compliance on an ongoing basis in accordance with our compliance program and standard operating procedures.
While our operations are in full compliance with all applicable state laws, regulations and licensing requirements, such activities remain
illegal under federal law. For the reasons described above and the risks further described in our Annual Report for the year ended December
31, 2020, as filed with the SEC, there are significant risks associated with our business.
Financial
transactions involving proceeds generated by marijuana-related conduct can form the basis for prosecution under the federal money laundering
statutes, unlicensed money transmitter statute and the Bank Secrecy Act. Previous guidance issued by the Financial Crimes Enforcement
Network, a division of the U.S. Department of the Treasury (“FinCEN”), clarifies how financial institutions can provide services
to marijuana-related businesses consistent with their obligations under the Bank Secrecy Act. Prior to the DOJ’s announcement in
2018 of the rescission of the Cole Memo and related memoranda, supplemental guidance from the DOJ directed federal prosecutors to consider
the federal enforcement priorities enumerated in the Cole Memo when determining whether to charge institutions or individuals with any
of the financial crimes described above based upon marijuana-related activity.
Consequently,
those businesses involved in the marijuana industry continue to encounter difficulty establishing banking relationships, which may increase
over time. Our inability to maintain our current bank accounts would make it difficult for us to operate our business, increase our operating
costs, and pose additional operational, logistical and security challenges and could result in our inability to implement our business
plan.
The
inability of our current and potential tenants to open accounts and continue using the services of banks will limit their ability to
enter into triple-net lease arrangements with us or may result in their default under our lease agreements, either of which could materially
harm our business and the trading price of our securities.
Local,
state and federal marijuana laws and regulations are broad in scope and subject to evolving interpretations, which could require us to
incur substantial costs associated with compliance or alter our business plan. In addition, violations of these laws, or allegations
of such violations, could disrupt our business and result in a material adverse effect on its operations. In addition, it is possible
that regulations may be enacted in the future that will be directly applicable to our proposed business. We cannot predict the nature
of any future laws, regulations, interpretations or applications, nor can we determine what effect additional governmental regulations
or administrative policies and procedures, when and if promulgated, could have on our business.
Employees
As
of December 31, 2021, we had four full-time employees, including our chief executive officer and chief operating officer, and multiple
part-time employees who operate as independent contractors of the Company. We have established an extensive network of external partners,
contractors, and consultants to which we outsource various operational tasks in an effort to minimize administrative overhead and maximize
efficiency.
10
Text extracted from the filing as submitted to EDGAR. Formatting, tables and exhibits are simplified for reading; the original document is authoritative for anything you rely on.