South OC Town May Allow Cannabis Dispensaries, Pending City Vote

LAGUNA WOODS, CA — One south Orange County town is closer to permitting legal marijuana dispensaries within its borders.

On July 19, the Laguna Woods City Council approved the first reading of an ordinance on business regulations for cannabis storefront retailers within the city.

According to the agenda report, Mayor Cynthia Conners and councilmembers Shari Horne and Annie McCary voted in favor of the ordinance, and councilmembers Carol Moore and Noel Hatch voted against.

If the ordinance moves forward during a second reading in August, the City of Laguna Woods will join the cities of Costa Mesa, Santa Ana and Stanton in allowing cannabis storefront retailers.

Councilmembers also discussed a 10 percent tax that the city would enforce on cannabis sales due to the potentially increased law enforcement costs.

Laguna Woods councilmembers will discuss the ordinance again at their regular meeting starting at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 16. at Laguna Woods City Hall, 24264 El Toro Road.