Adopt Ordinance #23-09 Interim Ordinance Regulating the Sale of THC

At the May 9, 2023 regularly scheduled City Council meeting, a public hearing was held to introduce Ordinance #23-09 with no public comments received. If adopted, the ordinance will prohibit the establishment of new uses or the expansion of existing uses related to sales, testing, manufacturing, and distribution of real THC products and chemically related products for up to one (10) year or until City Council determines the proper regulations are in place for the sale of adult-use cannabis. During the duration of the interim ordinance, staff will be working with the Office of Cannabis Management to complete the following:

1. Develop ordinances for reasonable restrictions of the operation of a cannabis or hemp business;
2. Develop standardized forms and procedures for the issuance of retail registration, and
3. Develop policies and procedures for performance compliance check.

As of now, the House and Senate have voted to pass the bill to regulate adult-use cannabis. Currently, the bill is in the Conference Committee to iron out a couple differences between the House and Senate. Once this is complete, it will go before the Governor for final signature.  The sale of Adult-Use Cannabis may be effective as soon as January 1, 2024; therefore, it is pertinent for staff to get the proper regulations in place prior to 2024.

 

A notice of Public Hearing for May 9, 2023 was published on April 28, 2023.

Alternative 1: Adopt Ordinance #23-09
Alternative 2: Deny Ordinance #23-09.  If denied, new establishments could continue to open up under the regulations established in state statute.

Staff recommends City Council adopt Ordinance #23-09.

Motion to adopt Ordinance #23-09, An Interim Ordinance Prohibiting the Establishment of New Uses or the Expansion of Existing Uses Related to Sales, Testing, Manufacturing and Distribution of Real Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Chemically Related Products.