Cannabis dispensaries may now explore the possibility of establishing a location in Enfield following the repeal of the previous ordinance. After a 2-hour public hearing in which dozens of residents spoke both in favor of and against the possibility of a marijuana dispensary in town, the Enfield Town Council voted to repeal a September ordinance which prohibits cannabis establishments. The council decided by a 6-3-1 vote to overturn the ban, which had passed by a 6-3 party-line vote on Sept. 7 under the previous Republican-controlled council. On Nov. 2, Democrats took the council majority by a 7-4 margin; one of the items featured prominently during the campaign was a letter signed by most Democratic candidates assuring they would reverse the ordinance if elected.
Republicans Marie Pyznar, Lori Unghire and Mike Ludwick voted against the motion. Councilor Joe Bosco was not present. Democrat Doug Finger abstained.
"All cannabis establishments, producers, dispensary facilities, cultivators, micro-cultivators, retailers, hybrid retailers, food and beverage manufacturers, product packagers, delivery services or transporters, any other types of licensed cannabis-related businesses, or the conducting of any such activity for commercial purposes by whichever name used, are and shall be prohibited within the Town of Enfield.
"This prohibition shall not be construed to affect-the medical use of cannabis as expressly authorized by Bill No. 1201, section 83, as the same may be amended from time to time."
Unghire said she would concur with many of the public speakers that the issue be put to town residents via referendum. Finger agreed.
Town Attorney James Tallberg said a referendum may be requested by submission of a petition signed by at least 10 percent of the registered electors in Enfield.