PROSPECT — The Planning and Zoning Commission is trying to get ahead of the curve when it comes to medical marijuana.
The commission is looking to make two amendments to the zoning regulations. The changes deal with the placement of buildings for growing and selling medical marijuana.
The first proposed change states that medical marijuana dispensary facilities can only be located in an area zoned as a business district. The second proposed amendment states that medical marijuana production facilities can only be located in areas zoned as either Industrial 1 or Industrial 2.
The regulations also stipulate that any facility built will have to go through a public hearing before being issued a special permit.
“If someone comes in and wants to build either a production or dispensary facility this allows the public to come and voice their concern or support for the location,” Land Use Inspector William Donovan said.
Donovan said there have not been any applications for either production or dispensary facilities filed with the town yet. However, the town wants to be ready if and when that happens, he said.
The state legalized the production and use of medical marijuana in 2012. In January the state awarded four licenses to production facilities and in April award six licenses to dispensaries.
The commission held a public hearing on the changes Nov. 5. Donovan said two residents attended the hearing — one spoke in favor for the facilities and one against.
The commission continued the public hearing to its next meeting Nov. 19, when it is also expected to make a decision on the regulations.
