In a decisive move to shape the future of its community, Surfside Beach town leaders have voted to impose a six-month ban on the establishment of new vape, cannabis, and tobacco businesses within town limits. This decision, made during a recent council meeting, aims to provide the town with the necessary time to develop specific regulations for these types of shops.
A Thoughtful Approach to Zoning
The unanimous vote came after a public hearing, although no residents voiced their opinions during the session. Mayor Rob Krouse expressed satisfaction with the decision, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the family-friendly atmosphere of Surfside Beach. “We’re not trying to stop people from selling legal products, but we do want to zone properly,” Krouse stated, highlighting the town’s commitment to preserving its community values.
- Key points of the moratorium include:
- A six-month period for crafting specific regulations.
- Focus on zoning to maintain the family beach atmosphere.
The town leaders believe that this pause will allow them to carefully consider how to enforce future rules regarding these businesses. The planning commission is expected to play a crucial role in this process, working to create language that addresses the unique challenges posed by vape, cannabis, and tobacco shops.
Revocation of Delta Dispensary’s License
In a related development, the Surfside Beach council has also unanimously decided to revoke the business license of Delta Dispensary. This action follows the arrest of two individuals associated with the dispensary, who were allegedly found selling products containing higher levels of THC than permitted under South Carolina law.
Mayor Krouse refrained from commenting on whether police investigations are ongoing for other local businesses. However, he reiterated that the sale of marijuana, whether for medical or recreational use, remains illegal in South Carolina. “The bottom line is in the state of South Carolina, there’s no legal marijuana, medical or recreational,” he noted.
- The revocation of Delta Dispensary’s license highlights:
- Enforcement of state laws regarding THC levels.
- Ongoing scrutiny of local businesses in compliance with regulations.
This decision underscores the town’s commitment to upholding the law and ensuring that all businesses operate within the legal framework established by the state.
Future Considerations for Surfside Beach
As the six-month moratorium begins, Surfside Beach leaders are keen on engaging with the community to gather input on the proposed regulations. While the current focus is on zoning and enforcement, there is potential for the council to extend the moratorium if the planning commission requires additional time to finalize their recommendations.
Mayor Krouse remains optimistic about the process, stating that the council is dedicated to creating a balanced approach that respects both the community’s values and the rights of business owners. “We want to make sure that we’re doing this right,” he said, indicating a willingness to adapt as necessary.
- Potential next steps may include:
- Community forums to discuss proposed regulations.
- Collaboration with local law enforcement to ensure compliance.
The town’s leaders are committed to fostering a safe and welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike, while also navigating the complexities of modern retail trends.
