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Solon resident warns council about proposed recreational dispensary near schools and park
Summary
A resident urged the council to reconsider allowing a recreational marijuana dispensary near St. Rita School, Solon High School and a city park, saying the location adds a risk point for youth and community character.
Rick Santangelo, a long-time Solon resident, spoke during public comments to urge councilmembers to reconsider the proposed placement of a recreational marijuana dispensary on Aurora Road, saying the location is near Saint Rita School and Solon High School and is “within a few feet of the state minimum of separation from the school.”
Santangelo said he was “shocked and alarmed” by the permit to allow a dispensary adjacent to an area being developed and near parks and schools. He argued that while the location may comply with state minimum separation, it violates “the spirit of the law” and makes access easier for high-school students. Santangelo also said that the presence of a dispensary could lead groups to congregate at nearby parks and that the smell of marijuana could affect recreational spaces.
Mayor Krause responded that the city understands residents’ concerns and that the city and school officials have discussed the matter. The mayor also noted state-wide votes legalizing recreational marijuana and said council members and staff had taken resident concerns seriously.
The council did not take formal action on the dispensary during the meeting; Santangelo said he hoped the council would consider additional steps or review, and he referenced Hudson as a nearby municipality that planned to continue discussion.
