Mayor proposes marijuana cultivation on valuable land

During a recent government meeting, council members discussed the potential development of land adjacent to the wastewater treatment plant, specifically sites two and three, which stretch east to Red Bridge Road. Councilor Moore highlighted the value of the combined sites, suggesting that even if some land is sold off, the overall investment remains worthwhile.

The conversation took an unexpected turn when the mayor proposed utilizing part of the land for marijuana cultivation, suggesting it could generate revenue for the city. This idea received support from other council members, who agreed that it could be a financially beneficial venture.

Additionally, the meeting touched on the significance of the wastewater treatment plant in monitoring public health. One council member noted that the facility could provide insights into community health issues, including the presence of drugs and even COVID-19 in the water supply. This underscores the plant's role not only in waste management but also in public health surveillance.

The meeting also addressed the absence of transit chair Becky Hicks, who was unable to attend due to illness, leaving the discussion on transit matters to the vice chair. Overall, the meeting highlighted both innovative ideas for land use and the critical role of public infrastructure in community health.