On February 12, 2014, I had the opportunity to provide testimony to the City of Santa Monica Planning Commission, along with other advocates, in favor of a zoning ordinance that would allow dispensaries. I was arguing for 4 licenses rather than the 2 originally proposed by the Planning Department, but the debate last night focused more on whether to allow any dispensaries because of the Planning Department Staff’s recent report which recommended no dispensaries in Santa Monica. The issue remains before the Planning Commission for at least two more weeks and then goes to the City Council. The Planning Commission seemed receptive to the many advocates of dispensaries, and somewhat skeptical of the law enforcement concerns raised by the Police Chief. Former Mayor Mike Feinstein, among others, provided very effective and helpful testimony as well. Stay tuned…
Please see: Planning Commission Meeting and Report on Medical Marijuana Dispensaries