Parma Heights City Council Considers New Recreational Marijuana Ordinances Following Statewide Legalization
Parma Heights City Council is currently deliberating on new ordinances to accommodate the recent legalization of recreational marijuana in Ohio. The proposed amendments are set to align with Issue 2, which was passed by Ohio voters, including a significant majority in Parma Heights. The city is working to integrate these changes into its existing marijuana regulations, which previously only covered medical use.
Response to State Law Changes
City Council President Tom Rounds emphasized the need for these legislative updates. “Our marijuana legislation is in response to the passing of Issue 2,” Rounds stated. “We need to update our current ordinances to reflect this change in law.” This move comes after a six-month moratorium, implemented to allow the city to study the impacts of the new state laws and prepare appropriate regulations.
Planning Commission Review and Proposed Amendments
In accordance with the city charter, the proposed legislative amendments have been referred to the planning commission for review. Mayor Marie Gallo, a proponent of the new legislation, noted that these changes are necessary to facilitate the licensing of adult-use cannabis dispensaries in line with state laws.
“Everyone is aware of the changes in state law that happened by initiative,” Gallo said. “We immediately implemented a moratorium to study the changes in state law and to study the new regulations.” The proposed amendments would allow marijuana dispensaries to operate in the city’s three multi-use districts, under strict conditions.
Zoning and Regulatory Framework
The proposed legislation stipulates that dispensaries, whether for medical, adult, or dual use, will be permitted as a conditional use in each designated district. However, the city will enforce limitations, allowing no more than one dispensary per district and ensuring that dispensaries are spaced at least a mile apart. Notably, the city will prohibit the establishment of cultivation centers and processing facilities within its boundaries.
Economic and Community Impact
While there have yet to be inquiries from potential dispensary owners, Mayor Gallo anticipates interest will grow once the legislation is finalized. She stressed the potential economic benefits of these dispensaries, which are expected to be heavily regulated by the state. “It’s economic development. It’s an economic engine, not only for our city, but for surrounding cities,” Gallo remarked. The city’s safety department, including the safety director and police chief, has expressed support for the regulations, citing no significant concerns.
Next Steps for Parma Heights
As Parma Heights moves forward with the proposed marijuana ordinances, the focus remains on balancing economic growth with community safety and regulatory compliance. The City Council aims to pass the new legislation by this summer, ensuring that the city’s framework for cannabis businesses is comprehensive and up-to-date with state laws.
