While other Michigan cities have had cannabis dispensaries for years, Howell remains one of the few without any within its city limits. However, this could change depending on the outcome of a proposal set for the November ballot. The proposal has sparked mixed reactions from the community.
Some residents, like Gary Campbell, support the idea of having a dispensary in Howell. "I think it's just fine. There's a lot of people who can benefit from it. I don't think it's as addictive as they once said, and it's a lot better for people who have a great need," Campbell said.
On the other hand, some residents oppose the measure. Kathy Langhorst expressed her view, stating, "I think we can get marijuana in many places, and we don't need a dispensary here in Howell."
The debate surrounding the proposal has been ongoing for some time. Over the past year, a local group called the Open Stores in Howell Committee has pushed to have the issue put to a vote. Their efforts paid off in September when they won a court case allowing the proposal to appear on the ballot.
The proposal, if passed, would amend the city’s charter to establish an application and licensing process for up to two "adult-use" cannabis retail stores. Despite this, not all local officials are on board. The Livingston County Sheriff’s Office has openly opposed the measure, with Sheriff Michael Murphy making his stance clear in a Facebook video posted on October 1st. In the video, Murphy urged residents to vote against the proposal, saying, "How about this? Why don’t you stock up a little when you go elsewhere, and you have that two and a half ounces in your house, so we don’t have to have a dispensary in the city of Howell? We do not need pot shops in Livingston County."
These sentiments are shared by Howell Mayor Bob Ellis, who has expressed concerns about the potential impact on the city's image. "It would kind of change the character of our city if the first thing you see when you come into Howell is marijuana shops," Ellis said. He also mentioned worries about the potential health effects on Howell’s residents.
Despite the opposition, there are still residents like Carol Nickles who believe that cannabis stores could be a positive addition to the community. "I think marijuana stores are a great idea," Nickles said.
The proposal will appear on the November ballot as a proposed city charter amendment, leaving the decision in the hands of Howell voters.
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