Mount Clemens commission approves first reading of zoning changes to allow medical marijuana facilities; residents urge safer locations

The Mount Clemens City Commission on a voice and roll-call vote introduced and approved a first reading of amendments to the city’s zoning code to specify where medical marijuana facilities may locate, setting March 4, 2019, for a second reading and possible adoption. The changes would update sections 8.2(a), 9.2(a) and 9.3(a) to align permitted uses with City Ordinance No. 20.11, which the Planning Commission recommended 7–0.

Residents used the public comment period to press officials for careful siting of any dispensary. “Medical marijuana is more of a front, which will be obsolete and is a forerunner for recreational marijuana,” said Joe E. Harrington, 152 Court Street, arguing a dispensary would be a “bad fit” in a residential area and could jeopardize employment if cannabis shows on drug tests. Harrington also alleged some doctors issue medical marijuana cards too easily, saying cards are “for $60.”

Ruthie Stevenson, of 69 Bain Street, told the commission to prioritize residents’ concerns over business interests and to consider the local impact before approving locations. “When this comes back before you, consider the impact that it’s going to have on the city,” she said.

Wendy Cott, of 68 Robertson Street, warned of traffic and pedestrian safety risks at the corner of Walnut and northbound Gratiot, naming five nearby churches and noting children walk from Prevail Academy. “To put a medical marijuana dispensary on the corner of Walnut and northbound Gratiot … is setting up a traffic situation that could prove to be very dangerous,” she said, citing a previous fatality near a school crossing.

City staff responded that the Mount Clemens Medical Marijuana Facilities ordinance No. 20.11 and the zoning ordinance already define allowable districts for facilities and that the full ordinance text and zoning section references (zoning ordinance sections cited during the meeting) are available on the city website. “The ordinance defines the types of zoning districts allowable based upon the state of Michigan guidelines,” the city manager noted during the administrative response.

Commissioner Menser reminded the public that although the ordinance has been adopted, “there have been no permits approved or issued” to date. The motion to introduce and schedule the second reading was moved on the floor and approved by roll call; commissioners recorded “yes” votes during the roll call that followed the motion.

The commission’s next step is the March 4, 2019, second reading and possible adoption; residents who addressed the commission urged tighter siting rules and additional safety review before any permits are granted.