The board of trustees heard a first reading for a proposed ban on retail and medical marijuana sales through Dec. 31, 2016.
“The state is not sure what the rules are, so waiting till they do makes sense,” said Mayor Val Truelsen.
Another concern was the costs of regulating marijuana shops.
“Seventy percent of a shop’s product must be grown by the owner,” said town attorney Mike Green. “The inspections for electrical systems in the growing facilities, along with additional security by the sheriff’s office would add expenses for the town.”
Trustee Colette Heeney questioned the wisdom of shutting out potential new businesses .
Interim manager Lana Hancock noted that if passed, the board could rescind the resolution at any time. Whether to sell marijuana could also be decided by a vote of the town.
The proposed ban is only for commercial sales. It would not affect individual rights of adults to possess, consume, and grow marijuana under Amendment 64 .
A final reading and public hearing on the proposed ordinance will take place on July 14.