Will Darien's Marijuana Policy Shift?

DARIEN, IL – By a 4-3 majority, Darien aldermen four years ago approved a policy allowing one marijuana dispensary in town.

In last week's election, Ralph Stompanato and Gerry Leganski defeated aldermen Lester Vaughan and Tom Chlystek, respectively.

Both Vaughan and Chlystek supported allowing such a business. High Haven plans to open this spring in the shopping center that includes Q Bar.

Patch could not determine Stompanato's and Leganski's position on marijuana. They did not return messages Tuesday.

Three years ago, Leganski said he opposed allowing marijuana growers to occupy the property at Cass Avenue and South Frontage Road, according to City Council meeting minutes. The video shows him saying he was against the "entire industry."

In a 2019 vote, aldermen Chlystek, Vaughan, Tom Belczak and Eric Gustafson favored allowing one dispensary. Aldermen Joe Kenny, Ted Schauer and Mary Sullivan opposed it.

Gustafson, who prevailed in his re-election bid last week, pushes for Darien to be aggressive in seeking a marijuana business, saying it would bring tax income to the city.

In February, the city and High Haven announced the store's opening at 8131 Cass Ave. in the Darien Plaza.

The site for High Haven is a permitted use with no further city action needed, officials said.

Some residents have complained that High Haven would be near Concord Elementary School. Just as close are a bar and a liquor store.