(9/25) After many inquiries concerning the possible opening of a cannabis dispensary in the restricted industrial area of town, Porter introduced the idea of adding language in the Town’s Code that would allow it. Her opinion and advice are if it’s something the Council would like to consider doing, it needs to be articulated in the Code because as of right now, it is not. Mayor Jones agreed, stating, "We should be prepared. It’s happening everywhere else," he said.
According to Porter, state law dictates that a dispensary cannot be prohibited by setting up zoning requirements or restrictions which burden cannabis businesses, but the law doesn't necessarily say that a municipality or town has to allow them.
"There are a lot of restrictions with the State as far as location for a dispensary and the cultivation aspect," said Porter. She also confirmed that there isn't really a location for the cultivation of the product in town at this time.
Adding to the Town’s Code would just be allowing a dispensary to open in town. However, the dispensary applicant would have to follow the state and town restrictions, making sure electric and security are up to date prior to opening, as well as other strict requirements.
Councilwoman Laura Conway questioned the rules about opening near schools. Porter confirmed that the State has no restrictions, however, the Town can apply their own limits in the Code revision. Porter did say, "Local government can prohibit or prevent dispensaries within 500 feet of schools, daycares, libraries and playgrounds."
Porter will be working on the wording of the Code revision in preparation for a future month's discussion.
In other business…
In preparation for the November elections, Town Attorney Mandy Porter introduced two resolutions to the Town Charter and Code. The resolutions will change the requirements for potential candidates and for when an election is held.
The Charter allows the mayor and town council to deem it necessary and appropriate to amend certain residency requirements in order to provide reasonable and appropriate representation of the Town and its affairs, per the Constitution of Maryland. Municipal Charter amendments are allowed by resolution.
The first resolution requires the mayor and council member candidates to maintain continuous primary residence in the Town of Union Bridge for at least two years immediately preceding the election in which they are running. Additionally, all candidates must be registered voters.
The second resolution regards uncontested elections. The mayor and town council have found that given the cost of conducting special elections and the time commitment required by Town staff and volunteers, it is in the best interest of the Town to amend the Charter so that an election will not be required if the number of qualified candidates for an office is equal or less than the number of vacancies. "That’s to save the Town money when there are no candidates other than incumbents," confirmed Mayor Perry Jones. Porter also clarified that municipalities are not required to allow write-in candidates; however, they may choose to accept them.
The Council plans to hold a public meeting next month and both resolutions will become part of the Charter if not contested within 50 days.
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