Ross officials are getting numerous inquiries from people who want to open dispensaries or facilities for medical marijuana, so the township is taking steps to determine where such enterprises can be located.
Commissioners on Tuesday introduced an ordinance limiting medical marijuana dispensaries and growers/processors as conditional uses in the commercial C-1 and industrial I-1 zoning districts.
The proposed ordinance also would prohibit the operations from being within 1,000 feet of a school, child care facility, public park or place of worship.
The ordinance must be approved at a second meeting and also be approved by the planning commission and Allegheny Countys planning department.
There is a strong likelihood that we will end up with a dispensary, said Jeremy Shaffer, president of the commissioners.
Zoning administrator Dominic Rickert gets calls constantly about it, Commissioner Steve Korbel said.
Under the new state law governing the medical marijuana business, the state is split into six regions. The southwest region consists of 11 counties and is allowed permits for five dispensaries and two growers/processors.
Commissioner Jack Betkowski asked if the township could assess a fee to cover any police expenses that might be needed at such businesses. The dispensaries will operate on a cash-only basis.
Solicitor Bonnie Brimmeier said the procedure would be similar to a nuisance bar.
You can look at it down the road if it becomes a nuisance. But not right now, without having some basis for it, she said.
Those who want to operate a dispensary or grow or process marijuana must apply by March 20. The state expects medical marijuana in liquid form only to be available to patients in early 2018.
In other business, the commissioners approved placing stop signs on Gass Road at its intersection with Highland Avenue.
They also approved amending the pension plan for all new nonunion employees to be placed into a defined contribution plan, such as a 401(k).
News Moderator: Katelyn Baker
Full Article: Ross Prepares For Medical Marijuana Businesses
Author: Sandy Trozzo
Contact: (412) 263-1100
Photo Credit: Seth Perlman
Website: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
