Council rejects ordinance to ban adult-use and medical marijuana operators

The Richmond Heights City Council voted 3-4 on July 9, 2025, to reject Ordinance No. 80-2025, which would have amended the city’s planning and zoning code to add a definition for adult-use cannabis operators and to enact a prohibition on adult-use cannabis operators and medical marijuana entities.

Council President Jordan moved for passage, saying the council had discussed the topic extensively and did not need to “rehash it all over again.” The motion was seconded. In the roll call, Jordan, Justice and Lewis voted yes; Nelson, Robinson, Silver and Pursue voted no. The ordinance did not pass.

The ordinance, introduced by Council President Jordan and Mayor Thomas, proposed changes to the planning and zoning code described in the ordinance text as additions to chapter 11.23 (definitions), a new section 11.25.12 (prohibition of adult use cannabis operators and medical marijuana entities), and repeals of portions of sections listed in the ordinance text (11.51.03, 116.70? as spoken). The ordinance also referenced building code section 13.13.02. The council did not adopt the ordinance, and no amendment or referral was recorded at the meeting.

No further formal direction or follow-up tasks were recorded on the council record for this item at the July 9 meeting. The transcript indicates the council had discussed the issue at prior meetings but chose to vote on the third reading at this session. The council did not adopt the ordinance, so the city zoning and building code were unchanged by this vote.

The vote occurred during the meeting’s unfinished business and was the only formal vote taken on that agenda item during the July 9 session. The transcript does not record additional staff reports or next steps tied to the failed ordinance at this meeting.