Selectmen Studying Options for Proposed Marijuana Dispensary

As the Foxborough Board of Selectmen contemplate a proposed medical marijuana dispensary on the corner of Route 1 and North Street, the state rules and regulations for the drug could change.

Town counsel Patrick Costello told the selectmen on Tuesday that the Department of Public Heath is reviewing further revisions to the state’s medical marijuana laws.

The update was part of the fact-finding aspect of the application process for Beacon Wellness Center. As the current regulations stands, the board can issue a letter of support, non-opposition, or no letter at all. If a letter is not issued, the process would end with no appeals process. If a letter is issued, the applicant would then apply for a special permit from the planning board and enter talks for a host agreement with the town, which could include a mitigation agreement.

Refusing to issue a letter is not unprecedented. Selectman Ginny Coppola pointed out that Norwood sent a letter of non-opposition for one company and did nothing for another.

Another major change could be on the horizon. A state ballot question on legalizing marijuana for recreational use is possible in 2016, making some communities wonder what effect that would have on current licenses according to Costello.

The selectmen will pick up the issue again at a future meeting.