EASTHAMPTON – Now that recreational use of marijuana is legal, city officials are looking into possible regulations for businesses selling pot.
Last month, the School Committee voted to recommend the city limit the number of allowable marijuana shops to two.
Although Ballot Question 4 legalized limited possession and cultivation of marijuana by adults 21 and over, retail sale of the substance won’t be legal for about another year. Councilor James “JP” Kwiecinski said the measure was passed by a majority of city voters — 60 percent, he said — and so the time has come to explore next steps.
“It’s here, we need to discuss it,” Kwiecinski said.
City councilors moved forward a request by Kwiecinski to begin considering regulations and taxation of marijuana during the body’s Dec. 7 meeting.
“I believe it will be important for Easthampton to begin discussions on this matter sooner rather than later, in a way which will engage participation of the entire community,” he said. “So that our city will be ahead of the curve and fully prepared as the commonwealth moves forward with the legalization of marijuana.”
Some of the issues to be discussed, Kwiecinski said, include locations and the number of retail marijuana businesses in the city, hours of operation, signage and advertising directed toward minors.
The ordinance subcommittee met on Wednesday and discussed possible regulations, but agreed to discuss the matter in late January after more research is done.
Caitlin Ashworth can be reached at cashworth@gazettenet.com.