The City of Delaware is considering a moratorium on adult-use cannabis operators, cultivators, and retail dispensaries for up to two years to better regulate recreational cannabis in the community. The proposed moratorium was discussed during a meeting of the Delaware City Council, with concerns raised about the duration and potential impact on businesses. Council members emphasized the need to create clear regulations for cannabis businesses while ensuring that residents’ rights to consume and grow cannabis are not restricted.
The proposed moratorium was met with opposition from council members who expressed concerns about the length of the moratorium and its impact on tax revenue. Some council members believed that all necessary regulations could be put in place within six months, rather than two years as initially proposed. Additionally, concerns were raised about the lack of public input on the proposal, leading to a decision to allow public comments during the meeting.
One resident, Ali Bazzi, who plans to open a dispensary in Delaware, expressed his concerns about how the moratorium would affect his business and requested that his dispensary be grandfathered into the city to avoid relocation. The City Attorney noted that she was not aware of Bazzi’s plans prior to the meeting. No votes were taken on the moratorium, and it is expected that the language of the ordinance will be revised based on feedback from council members and the public. A public hearing will be scheduled for further input on the proposal.
Source
Photo credit www.delgazette.com
