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DOVER, DE- The future of the marijuana industry in Dover will be decided Monday night as the city council holds its final vote on ordinances that could shape the industry within city limits.
After months of debate, the proposals include a 750-foot distancing requirement for cultivation, testing, and manufacturing sites, and a 500-foot buffer for retail locations.
On October 15, the Committee of the Whole moved the ordinances forward, incorporating new proposed restrictions. If approved, the regulations would mandate that buildings be located at least 750 feet from residential zones, K-12 schools, hospitals, colleges or universities, daycare centers, or licensed substance abuse treatment facilities.
According to Dave Hugg, Dover City Manager, the issue has been a major topic since the statewide legalization of cannabis in 2023, with ongoing discussions about whether Dover will welcome the industry into the city.
“This has been a significant public policy issue for voters. We did a survey and had a lot of input at hearings and discussions. So it’s a decision that’s not made lightly or quickly, for that matter.”
The ordinances, which had their first reading at a City Council meeting in October, were then reviewed by the Planning Commission.
The commission recommended denying the ordinances, a decision Hugg believes could influence the final vote.
“It probably will have a significant impact on council. They tend to listen to the planning commission recommendations. The planning commission essentially was concerned that these uses were not the kinds of things we want to see happen in Dover.”
Advocates, like Zoe Patchell with the Delaware Cannabis Advocacy Network, argue that a “no” vote would mean missed opportunities for the city.
“Nearly 70% of Delawareans, including those in Dover, supported cannabis legalization. Dover is passing on much-needed job opportunities, economic development, and they’re passing on property and licensing taxes that would benefit the city and the residents.”
However, Patchell also believes the proposed ordinances are overly restrictive when compared to other industries.
“We think legal businesses should be zoned just like alcohol stores, which are not subjected to the same level of restriction.”
City officials say that if the ordinances are passed, the mayor will have 10 days to approve or veto them.
The council’s final vote will determine how and if marijuana-related businesses can operate within Dover.
”}]] The future of the marijuana industry in Dover will be decided Monday night as the city council holds its final vote on ordinances that could shape the industry within city Read More
