The Land Use Committee last week unanimously approved the special permit for Garden Remedies, the medical marijuana dispensary slated to open on Washington Street in Newtonville, according to a story by Ellen Ishkanian in yesterday’s GlobeWest. The full board will vote on it next week.
I was happy to read that Alderman Norton is no longer opposed to the dispensary special permit. She was quoted as follows:
“I had great concern, particularly related to security and the amount of cash that would be at the site. To my mind, those have been largely addressed.”
@Gail: Technically I was never “opposed” to the dispensary. I am a firm supporter of medical marijuana in general, and in lowering barriers to its accessibility for those who are suffering. Rather, I had concerns about it being a cash-only business in which patients could be carrying up to $3600 in cash in order to make their purchase. I was worried that would be putting the safety of patients as well as the community at risk. An armed robbery took place just a few blocks down the street from the proposed dispensary less than two months ago and the assailants have not been apprehended.
Thanks for the clarification Emily. I’ve modified my post to more accurately reflect your position.
It is shameful that medical marijuana has found no champion in federal, state, or local government. And it’s downright disrespectful that citizens have to wait more than two years for elected officials to implement a legally binding ballot initiative. My heart goes out to the medical patients who are suffering, and forced to wait for the politicians to get their heads out of their asses. From the White House, to the State House, to Newton City Hall, not a single elected official has stood up as a true advocate for sick and dying people. What a disgrace!