CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — The Chillicothe City Council is once again debating a proposed ordinance that could temporarily ban recreational cannabis sales within the city. The newly amended legislation, initially introduced by City Law Director Anna Villareal, includes revisions that may significantly impact existing dispensary operations alongside future establishments.
Proposed One-Year Moratorium
The ordinance, titled Ordinance 24-089 (Amended), seeks to impose a one-year moratorium on the approval of permits for adult-use cannabis operators. The moratorium is intended to give city officials time to evaluate regulations set by the Ohio Division of Cannabis Control and amend local ordinances to address zoning and operational standards for dispensaries.
Key points of the proposed ordinance include:
- No New Permits: During the moratorium, the city will not process or issue permits for new recreational cannabis businesses.
- Review Period: The city administration plans to review state cannabis rules and consider amendments to zoning and criminal codes to better regulate the industry.
- Impact on Current Dispensaries: The ordinance mandates compliance with limitations in Ohio Revised Code Section 3780.25(C), which may affect existing cannabis operators in the city.
Impact on Chillicothe’s Only Licensed Dispensary
Residents have expressed particular concern about Section 3 of the ordinance, which could jeopardize the city’s only state-licensed recreational marijuana dispensary. Under state law, if local councils pass prohibitive ordinances, existing dispensaries may be required to cease operations within 60 days. However, dispensaries can seek to overturn such decisions by initiating a ballot measure, provided they gather sufficient petition signatures from registered voters.
Public Reaction and Legal Concerns
The ordinance has sparked debate among Chillicothe residents. Critics argue that the proposed moratorium mirrors historic city legislation that blocked adult entertainment businesses.
“Chillicothe City Council thinks we’re stupid. We know what they are doing,” said one frustrated resident.
Meanwhile, legal experts have raised procedural concerns. According to one local attorney, the revisions made to the original ordinance mean the proposal should start over as a first reading, rather than proceeding to a second reading as planned.
Emergency Legislation Declaration
The ordinance has been classified as an emergency measure, which allows it to take effect immediately upon passage. The City Council has defended this designation, citing the need to ensure public safety and provide adequate time to craft comprehensive regulations.
As the second reading of the proposed ordinance approaches, residents and stakeholders remain divided over its potential consequences. At 7 PM this evening, the council meeting is expected to draw a large turnout, as community members weigh in on whether the legislation represents a reasonable pause or an undue restriction on legal cannabis sales in Chillicothe.