Southwick – The Select Board opted Monday night not to support location of a medical marijuana distribution facility here.
The three member board instead voted to proceed with creation of local zoning regulations that will govern the location of facilities for both medical and recreational marijuana.
Health Wise Foundation Inc. proposed location of a medical marijuan distribution facility in the former Berkshire Bank at 185 College Highway several months ago.
The issue before the Select Board was a request from Health Wise for a letter of support or a letter of no opposition to the plan. Medical marijuan facilities are governed by the state Department of Public Health.
But, Select Chairman Russell Fox indicated Monday he has “problems with the location of a medical marijuana facility here.”
Also, Select Board member Douglas Moglin said a review of medical marijuana law indicates the town will lack authority to reject any request for recreational marijuana distribution if it allows a medical facility. Massachusetts approved recreational use of marijuana at the Nov. 8 federal election.
“We need discussion and a public hearing on the issue,” Moglin said.
Fox said “i am not in support of a host agreement at this time with Health Wise,” Fox said.
Fox, Moglin and Select Board member Joseph Deedy agreed that Moglin will work with city planners on creation of a town zoning bylaws that will govern the location and operation of marijuana facilities in Southwick.
They did not indicate when the issue will be presented to the public at a hearing.
A public information hearing in September drew about 30 residents. A majority of those who attended voiced opposition to Health Wise’s proposal. The opposition came despite assurance from company representatives James A. McMahon and Christopher Acosta that their request was for medical marijuana distribution only.
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Full Article: Southwick Select Board Does Not Support Medical Marijuana Facility In Town
Author: Ted LaBorde
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