In a recent city council meeting, officials discussed the implementation of new regulations concerning cannabis businesses in Delaware, Ohio. The conversation was sparked by a recent ruling from the Michigan Court of Appeals that upheld guidance related to cannabis operations, prompting local leaders to consider how to best regulate these businesses within their community.

City Manager Brake clarified that the proposed regulations are not intended to prohibit cannabis sales but rather to establish a framework for how businesses can operate. The discussion highlighted the distinction between commercial cultivators and individual possession of cannabis, emphasizing that the regulations focus on land use and business operations rather than personal use.

The proposed regulations include a conditional use permit process, which would allow the city to address community concerns such as odors and lighting from cannabis businesses. Brake noted that previous community feedback indicated a desire for access to cannabis products without having such businesses located nearby, leading to the proposed protective measures.

Council members expressed varying opinions on the timeline for implementing these regulations. While Brake suggested a two-year period for the zoning changes, some council members argued for a more expedited timeline, proposing that a six-month review would be more appropriate given the ongoing developments at the state level. They emphasized the need for local ordinances to align with state legislation as it evolves.

The council ultimately agreed to consider a shorter timeframe for the regulations, with discussions on how to ensure that local rules are in sync with state decisions. The meeting underscored the importance of balancing community interests with the need for business development in the emerging cannabis market.