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Westerly council orders advertisement of updated cannabis retail ordinance, schedules Oct. 28 public hearing
Summary
The Town Council voted to order advertisement of an updated cannabis retail ordinance and two related ordinances, endorsing a 200‑foot residential‑zone buffer (with shopping‑center exception), special‑use permits in commercial zones, and a 500‑foot school/worship buffer consistent with liquor rules.
The Westerly Town Council voted to order advertisement for public hearing on an updated cannabis retail ordinance and two associated ordinances and set the public hearing for Oct. 28.
The Town Manager summarized the updated ordinance and accompanying maps, saying the draft includes a 200‑foot buffer measured from residential zones (with an exception for storefronts located in defined shopping centers) and a special‑use permit approach for commercial and highway commercial districts. The manager said certain downtown commercial locations were not favored and that a 500‑foot buffer from schools and places of worship mirrors existing liquor store siting requirements.
William Nardone, who identified himself as representing a group with offices at 42 Granite Street in Westerly, told the council his group "has no objection to the ordinance the way it's advertised" and clarified that the 200‑foot buffer is measured from a residential zone rather than an individual residence. He also said one previously discussed site has been removed from his group's consideration.
A motion to order advertisement of the updated ordinance and the related ordinances was made, seconded and carried by the council. The chair announced the public hearing will take place on Oct. 28.
No substantive amendments were adopted at the meeting; the item will be considered at the advertised public hearing where additional public comment may be taken.
