Warren restricts number of marijuana retailers | News, Sports, Jobs

WARREN — The City Council has approved an ordinance limiting the number of recreational marijuana dispensaries in the city’s central business district to a maximum of three.

The decision, which has been met with minimal opposition, sets regulations on hours of operation, requires a police presence and social distancing from schools, similar to rules in nearby cities such as Girard and Niles.

Pharmacies can only operate between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m., seven days a week, and must be at least 500 feet from schools, churches, parks, libraries and playgrounds. They will also need an approved safety plan from the police chief before they can open, the legislation states.

The ordinance also prohibits dispensaries from displaying images of marijuana leaves or smoking on their signs. Only the business name can be displayed, and the signs must be approved by the Design Review Board. All outdoor areas must be well-lit for safety purposes.

Potential locations include the city’s main corridors of Elm Road, Youngstown Road and Parkman Road, and the council is expected to review the ordinance annually for potential expansion. The state of Ohio will oversee the licensing process, and each outlet must comply with state and local planning regulations before opening.

Council members unanimously supported the legislation, with only one resident expressing opposition during the meeting. One council member noted that the parameters outlined in the ordinance, such as restrictions on loitering and hours of operation, ensure consistency with existing laws governing marijuana dispensaries statewide.

Helen Rucker, D-at Large, said the city plans to review the ordinance annually, with the potential to expand the number of dispensaries if demand allows. However, any further expansion would depend on permits granted by the state of Ohio, and dispensaries must comply with local planning regulations regarding renovations or construction.

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