In a recent decision that has stirred debate within the community, the City of Burnside, Kentucky, has officially opted out of allowing medical marijuana businesses to operate within its jurisdiction. This decision was made during a special-called meeting of the Burnside City Council, where the vote on Ordinance 2024-010 resulted in a tie that was ultimately broken by Mayor Robert Lawson.
The Council’s Decision-Making Process
The council’s vote on October 10, 2024, was marked by a 3-3 tie, with Mayor Lawson casting the deciding vote against allowing medical cannabis businesses. This outcome mirrored a previous vote earlier in the week, where the council also failed to pass an ordinance that would have permitted cannabis operations in Burnside.
- Voting Breakdown:
- In Favor of Opting Out: Mayor Lawson, Councilors George Bryant, Lula Jean Burton, and Keith Summers.
- Against Opting Out: Councilors Randy Berry, Carol Griffin, and Dwayne Sellers.
Mayor Lawson expressed concerns about the potential burden on local law enforcement and the lack of financial benefits for the city. “There’s no benefit to the city to do it,” he stated, emphasizing that the state does not allow municipalities to impose taxes on cannabis sales, leaving only business license fees as a revenue source.
Community Reactions and Economic Implications
The decision to opt out has not been without its critics. Local businessman Brook Ping, who had applied for a cannabis business license, voiced his disappointment at the council’s decision. He highlighted the financial implications of the council’s choice, arguing that allowing a dispensary could bring significant economic benefits to Burnside.
- Ping’s Arguments:
- He estimated spending around $1 million on construction and hiring 10-15 full-time employees.
- He pointed out that the presence of a dispensary would attract traffic and provide essential services to local residents, particularly those with medical needs.
Ping also noted that many residents would face challenges accessing medical cannabis if they had to travel to neighboring counties that had opted in. He argued that the council’s decision could set a negative precedent for business development in the area.
The Future of Cannabis in Burnside
As the state prepares for a lottery in November to select applicants for medical cannabis licenses, the council’s decision leaves Burnside at a disadvantage. With a limit of one dispensary per county, the competition is fierce, and neighboring municipalities that opt in may benefit significantly.
- Current Status of Nearby Municipalities:
- Pulaski County Government and the City of Science Hill have opted out.
- The City of Somerset has also stated that cannabis license seekers cannot apply using its address due to its opt-out status.
The council’s decision has raised questions about whether they might reconsider their stance before the January 1, 2025, deadline to opt in or out. Some council members expressed a desire to pause and gather more information before making a final decision.
Concerns About Law Enforcement and Community Safety
Burnside Police Chief Mike Hill voiced his concerns regarding the potential impact of cannabis businesses on local law enforcement resources. He emphasized the need for adequate support to manage any challenges that may arise from operating a dispensary in the community.
“I don’t want to put a strain on my police department, and I don’t want to put a strain on our citizens,” Lawson reiterated, reflecting the sentiments of several council members who are wary of the implications of legal cannabis.
As the situation develops, the Burnside City Council faces pressure from both sides of the debate. The decision to prohibit medical marijuana businesses may have immediate implications, but the long-term effects on the community’s economic landscape and public health remain to be seen.
