The City of Dryden won’t be stopping the establishment of private retail Cannabis stores in the community.
The decision was made Monday night in a 4-1 Council vote.
Mayor Greg Wilson says the decision to “opt-in” will entitle the community to $9,200 in immediate funding and another $9,200 in future funding to assist in any potential transition.
Wilson says the City also now has the opportunity of sharing 50/50 revenue from the Federal excise tax on anything over $100-million.
The vote doesn’t mean Cannabis stores will be popping up overnight.
Wilson stresses Council, staff and the public will have input on future government decisions on allowing stores and locations, noting communities don’t make the decision.
Wilson voted against the “opt-in”. He says he’s not necessarily against retail pot outlets, but he wanted Dryden to get its bearings and re-assess the situation,
Wilson says if Council liked what they saw with other community experiences, then they could “opt-in”.
Dryden staff consulted City Police when drafting a report for Council.
A police assessment didn’t anticipate any significant impacts, but did recommend that the City’s Smoking by-law be reviewed and updated to encompass the legalization of cannabis.
Staff have supported that recommendation.
Licences for retail stores won’t be allowed in Ontario until April.