Public opposition centers on school proximity as council weighs Elmwood cannabis special-use permit

The Committee on Legislation reopened a public hearing on a special-use permit for a retail cannabis dispensary at 758 Elmwood Avenue on Tuesday, where dozens of residents, school officials and business owners testified for and against the proposal and the applicant’s attorney said state licensing and a unanimous planning-board recommendation weigh in the applicant’s favor.

The hearing matters because the site is within blocks of several schools and a small public micro-park, prompting neighborhood groups and school representatives to argue the location poses risks to children; supporters and the applicant say the license-holder meets state proximity and security requirements and that a compliant, regulated dispensary can benefit the neighborhood economically.

Applicant Kevin Kane said he had met with Council Member David Rivera, held public meetings and spoken with the Elmwood Village Association and nearby businesses since the committee’s prior meeting. “My goal with this project is to be a good neighbor,” Kane said, adding his team intends to be engaged with the Elmwood Village community.

Opposition coalesced around…