CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — New details have emerged about the Chillicothe City Council’s initiative to restrict marijuana dispensaries within city limits, spurred by a push from City Law Director Anna Villareal. According to a recently released document, Villareal has been a key advocate for implementing tighter regulations, citing examples from other Ohio cities.
In a letter to Council President Kevin Shoemaker, Villareal stated, “As a member of the OMAA, our office is copied on many emails between law directors from other cities. We have noticed that a number of cities have enacted legislation to regulate the location of such businesses, much like the regulation of adult entertainment venues.” She further recommended that the issue be assigned to a council committee to explore potential ordinances. “Perhaps the committee will recommend that city ordinances be created to clearly state what parameters exist with regard to marijuana code and regulations,” Villareal wrote.
GUARDIAN IMAGE | Residents flood Chillicothe City Council over proposed dispensary ordinance.
The proposed ordinance would impose a moratorium on new dispensaries in Chillicothe while the council studies the effects of marijuana legalization on the community. However, the initiative has sparked a significant public backlash.
One local resident expressed frustration, saying, “This is just another push by our legislators to obstruct the will of the voters. This is just what they did previously to places like the Lion’s Den. They won’t let that store in the city limits either.”
During last Monday’s council meeting, more than 100 residents packed the chambers to voice their concerns and opposition. Initially, the ordinance was set for its first reading, with a vote planned as an emergency measure. However, faced with the overwhelming public outcry, council members decided not to waive the three-read rule, opting instead to allow more time for debate and discussion.
The council’s decision has bought time for further deliberation, but the controversy highlights the ongoing tensions between city leaders and residents over the regulation of marijuana businesses. For now, the future of dispensaries in Chillicothe remains uncertain, with more meetings and discussions on the horizon.
CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — New details have emerged about the Chillicothe City Council’s initiative to restrict marijuana dispensaries within city limits, spurred by a push from City Law Director Anna Villareal. According to a recently released document, Villareal has been a key advocate for implementing tighter regulations, citing examples from other Ohio cities. In a letter Read More
