The Marine City Commission has postponed its decision on the adoption of a new ordinance aimed at regulating adult-use cannabis facilities within the city limits. The delay, announced during their February 15th meeting, marks another setback in the city's efforts to finalize regulations surrounding the establishment of cannabis businesses.
In the fall, the commission had successfully passed the first reading of an ordinance designed to introduce adult-use cannabis facilities to Marine City. This initial proposal set forth strict zoning requirements, demanding a 1,000-foot buffer zone from various sensitive areas, including residential zones, schools, churches, rehabilitation centers, child care facilities, and similar establishments.
However, complications arose when City Manager Scott Adkins revealed issues with the proposed zoning restrictions. Initially, a map outlining a 1,000-foot buffer zone left no viable locations for cannabis facilities. Subsequent adjustments to reduce the buffer zone to 750 and then 500 feet did little to alleviate the problem, eventually identifying only two potential sites for such establishments.
During a January 18th meeting, the commission agreed to reconsider the ordinance with the reduced 500-foot buffer, prompting a review and adjustment of the language concerning zoning requirements. Public opinion on the matter has been mixed, with a majority expressing opposition to the introduction of cannabis facilities in Marine City, while others, including former Commissioner Michael Hilferink, have voiced support.
The recent discussion highlighted Commissioner Brian Ross's suggestion to align the city's zoning restrictions more closely with state recommendations, which primarily focus on avoiding exclusively residential areas and maintaining a 1,000-foot distance from K-12 schools. Ross proposed that by adhering to these state guidelines, Marine City could demonstrate compliance while still imposing additional local restrictions.
City Attorney Robert Davis emphasized the importance of reviewing the final mapping to ensure the ordinance's effectiveness and legality. He also noted that there is no urgency to finalize the ordinance, advocating for a thorough review process to ensure the community's needs and legal requirements are adequately addressed.
The commission decided to further explore zoning possibilities by working with the county's geographic information system service to create a map that incorporates the state's recommendations. This decision was approved by a vote of 6-1, with Commissioner William Klaassen dissenting. The outcome of this initiative will be discussed in future meetings, as Marine City continues to navigate the complex process of integrating adult-use cannabis businesses into its community framework.
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