Willows council narrows cannabis zoning, approves two ordinance changes and creates ad hoc review committee

The Willows City Council voted to amend local zoning rules to allow cannabis retail/dispensary businesses in additional parts of the city and then set up a short‑term council review committee to evaluate applications for the two available licenses.

On second reading the council adopted two separate ordinances: Ordinance 760‑2024 permits cannabis retail/dispensary businesses in the central commercial district, and Ordinance 761‑2024 permits the businesses in the general commercial and light industrial districts. Both measures passed on 3–2 roll‑call votes after public comment and council debate.

City staff said the ordinances apply the city’s recently adopted 600‑foot setback from schools (as stated in the resolution accompanying the ordinance work) and that a conditional use permit and a two‑phase city application process remain required. Planning staff will review technical application materials, the planning commission will consider conditional‑use permits, and the council will make final licensing decisions.

The council also agreed by consensus to form a two‑member ad hoc committee to participate in the initial competitive review of applications and to forward a recommendation to the full council; Vice Mayor Thomas and Council member Bridal were appointed to that committee. Council members said the committee would have an advisory, time‑limited role and would not supplant planning commission or council final decisions.

Public comment included concerns that loosening location restrictions could change downtown character, while supporters and some council members emphasized potential sales‑tax revenue, regulated retail access and product safety compared with illicit markets. Pastor and business owner Jason Grant urged council caution, saying loosening location rules could alter community image. In contrast Vice Mayor Thomas said he favored regulated, secure retail and noted that many purchases now occur via delivery from outside the city.

City staff noted interest from at least two prospective applicants and said the city would advertise a deadline for submissions. Council members discussed application details including owner consent for leased properties, how bonuses or incentive structures would be handled by other jurisdictions, and whether any local vendor preference would be applied under future municipal code changes.

Both ordinances were adopted at the meeting. The city will begin accepting applications under the new zoning after the administrative steps spelled out in the municipal code and the ordinances are completed.