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Atascadero council declines to advance retail cannabis zoning changes after lengthy public debate
Summary
The council voted 3–2 to not proceed with zoning changes that would add retail cannabis storefronts to the municipal code. Supporters said retail would keep tax dollars in town; opponents cited youth safety, uncertainty about health and traffic impacts and asked for more public outreach.
The Atascadero City Council voted 3–2 not to direct staff to proceed with code changes that would allow retail cannabis storefronts in the city. The motion — to not move forward — passed after an extended presentation, council questions, and nearly an hour of public comment both for and against allowing retail cannabis sales.
Community Development Director Dunsmore presented background material, comparing nearby jurisdictions that have authorized retail cannabis and describing options the city could use to limit locations (overlay zones), limit the number of retailers, or require community benefit programs. Dunsmore summarized state-level issues including Proposition 64 and the state's Business and Professions Code framework for cannabis licensing.…
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