Town Meeting to Take up Marijuana Moratorium

DEDHAM, MA — A potential moratorium on recreational marijuana establishments is on the table at Monday night's Annual Town Meeting.

Town meeting members will be asked to vote on Article 18, which would establish a moratorium on Dec. 31, 2018, or six months from the date that final regulations are issued by the Cannabis Control Commission, whichever date is later until such time, according to the meeting warrant.

Currently, the town does not have any zoning bylaws regarding recreational marijuana businesses. Town officials say a moratorium would give towns time to create zoning bylaws, regulations, and planning goals.

"During the moratorium period, the Town shall undertake a planning process to address the potential impacts of recreational marijuana in the Town, consider the Cannabis Control Commission regulations regarding Marijuana Establishments and related uses, and shall consider adopting new zoning bylaws to address the impact and operation of Marijuana Establishments and related uses," the warrant reads.

If passed, medical marijuana businesses would not be affected because they have separate regulations.

The article was crafted by the planning board, which voted 4-0-1 on Match 23 to recommend adoption.

The Annual Town Meeting at Dedham High School starts at 7 p.m.

Image: File Photo