Independence City Council Prepares for Potential Medical Cannabis Businesses with Preliminary Zoning Work
The Independence City Council took a significant step on Monday night by passing a resolution to commence preliminary zoning work for medical cannabis businesses. This proactive measure comes ahead of the November ballot vote, which will determine whether medical cannabis businesses will be allowed to operate in the city.
Preliminary Zoning Efforts Initiated
On Monday night, the Independence City Council decided to begin preliminary zoning work for medical cannabis businesses. This decision is part of a broader effort to prepare the city in advance, ensuring that the necessary zoning is in place by January 1, 2025, in the event that the ballot measure passes in November.
Statements from City Officials
City staff, Mayor Chris Reinersman, and council members have indicated that this preparatory work is crucial for timely implementation. Mayor Reinersman emphasized the importance of being ready:
“It will be on the ballot,” Reinersman said. “In preparation for it if it passes, we wanted to go ahead and get the ball rolling on the zoning.”
Resolution Details
The resolution passed allows City Administrator Chris Moriconi to submit a text amendment to the Kenton County Planning and Development Services. This amendment initiates the planning process for defining how the zones for medical cannabis businesses will be divided within the city.
Timing Concerns and Legal Deadlines
There is a pressing concern about the timeline for establishing these zones. The city needs to have its zoning regulations in place by January 1, 2025, but with the ballot vote scheduled for November, there is a narrow window to finalize these zones if the measure passes.
County vs. City Zoning Regulations
The Kenton County Fiscal Court has conducted a first reading of an ordinance that would ban medical cannabis businesses throughout the county. However, individual cities, including Independence, have the authority to override this county-wide ban by establishing their own zoning laws or by seeking voter approval before creating zones.
Mayor Reinersman’s Assurance
Mayor Reinersman expressed confidence that the city would be able to meet the zoning deadline if the ballot measure is approved:
“We should be well positioned to have zoning in place by Jan. 1,” Reinersman said.
The Independence City Council’s decision to start preliminary zoning work reflects a proactive approach to potential regulatory changes regarding medical cannabis businesses. By initiating this process early, the city aims to ensure a smooth transition and compliance with legal deadlines, should the ballot measure pass in November.
