Baldwin Park extends moratorium on new non‑retail commercial cannabis businesses

The City of Baldwin Park voted unanimously on Dec. 3 to extend an interim moratorium on the establishment, creation or expansion of non‑retail commercial cannabis businesses while staff completes new regulations.

City attorney explained the council previously adopted a 45‑day interim urgency ordinance and that the extension is authorized under California law to allow staff additional time to finish proposed regulations. "That was really to, because staff needed time in order to develop some new regulations…this would be extended for up to a year, but or until we adopt the new regulations," the attorney said.

During the public portion of the hearing, Pastor Paul Flores spoke in favor of the moratorium, saying it allows the city time to produce "a more efficient or long term measure" before approving new cannabis‑related commercial activities. "I speak in favor of the moratorium," he said.

Council member Manuel Lozano moved to adopt the extension and Council member Emmanuel Estrada seconded. The roll call vote was Ayala — yes; Estrada — yes; Lozano — yes; Avila — yes. The motion carried 4–0.

Staff said the extension can last up to one year or conclude earlier if new regulations are adopted; the moratorium will end on adoption of the permanent rules. The attorney framed the action as a temporary pause to allow staff to draft regulations and return to council for final action.

The council did not receive public testimony in opposition during this hearing. The extension preserves the city's current pause on new non‑retail commercial cannabis permits while staff continues rulemaking.