Briefing: Medical Marijuana Sites
Worcester is the only Central Massachusetts community that hasn't pursued a moratorium on medical marijuana dispensaries since the state law allowing them took effect.
That may have something to do with the fact that the city garnered the most medical marijuana applications of any Massachusetts city or town, since an applicant's ability to demonstrate local support, and at least a lack of opposition, weighs heavily in the Department of Public Health's (DPH) selection process.
But it's likely that Worcester's central location and size also played a role in attracting the nine phase-two applications to site dispensaries in the city, compared with six in Boston and five in Framingham. Meanwhile, Shrewsbury has attracted two applicants.
How Many Dispensaries Will Be Allowed In Worcester?
The state statute requires at least one per county, but no more than five. A selection committee designated by the DPH is expected to issue preliminary licenses sometime in early 2014, and a maximum of 35 licenses will be issued.
The committee will evaluate applications based on such factors as appropriateness of the site, geographic distribution of dispensaries, local support, and applicants' ability to meet patients' needs while ensuring public safety, according to the DPH.
How Important Is Geography?
Matthew Allen, executive director for the Massachusetts Patient Advocacy Alliance, the group that pushed to get medical marijuana on the ballot in 2012, said dispensaries should be evenly dispersed across the state to reach all patients in need. “Serious conditions that prevent them from being able to travel easily,” he said.
Where Will They Be Located?
According to a memo by Tim McGourthy, city chief development officer, zoning allows dispensaries to locate in most high-density areas of the city, while restricting their presence in neighborhoods. The City Council approved an amendment that will allow dispensaries to locate in three zoning districts, including all of the city's business general, manufacturing general, manufacturing limited and institutional-hospital zones, provided that they're not within 300 feet of things like a residential district, school, library or park.
What About Oversight?
The DPH will have regulatory oversight and is also responsible for registering patients. But cities and towns will also be allowed to enforce local oversight.
Read more
14 Apply To Sell Medical Marijuana In Worcester County
WBJ Web Partners
Most Recent
Most Recent
0 Comments