City simplifies cannabis regulations to boost industry growth

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed significant changes to the local cannabis code aimed at simplifying regulations surrounding cannabis establishments. The proposed ordinance would allow cannabis businesses to operate as a \"use by right\" in both C-2 and I-1 zoning districts, eliminating the need for special use permits that were previously required. This move is intended to streamline the process and align local regulations more closely with state law.

One of the key points raised during the discussion was the omission of distance requirements from residential zones, apart from the existing 300-foot buffer from schools and daycare centers mandated by state law. Officials acknowledged that previous regulations had created hardships and inconsistencies, as the city often found itself in violation of its own distance requirements. The decision to remove these additional restrictions was made to create a clearer and more manageable regulatory framework.

Concerns were voiced regarding the absence of distance requirements from places of worship, with suggestions to consider implementing similar regulations as those applied to liquor sales and nightclubs. However, officials noted that the current ordinance is designed to be straightforward and compliant with state guidelines, which do not impose such restrictions.

The ordinance also includes provisions limiting the hours of operation for cannabis establishments from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and it prohibits onsite consumption, except as required under the Compassionate Use Act. The meeting concluded with a commitment to review the possibility of adding distance requirements from places of worship before finalizing the ordinance.