The council previously extended a moratorium on such businesses through June.
“We did not feel that the best use of our very limited land and real estate in the city was a dispensary,” said Mayor Peggy Lehner, who noted that there are dispensaries an easy drive away in Beavercreek and Dayton.
In November 2023, Ohioans approved Issue 2, which legalized recreational marijuana. But the statewide ballot initiative allows municipalities to adopt ordinances to prohibit cannabis cultivators, processors and dispensaries within their borders.
“Home grow and use would still be allowed in accordance with state law,” City Manager Matt Greeson said at the council’s Jan. 14 meeting.
Although recreational marijuana is permitted in Ohio, many employers, including the city of Kettering, have zero tolerance cannabis policies.
The ordinance will take effect in two weeks.
Kettering already prohibits medical marijuana businesses, which began operating legally in the state in 2019.
Council members on Tuesday also authorized a pay raise for Greeson.
The increase of 3% is effective Dec. 16, 2024, and is the same raise received by department heads, according to the council agenda.
Greeson’s base salary of $204,505.60 is $210,641.60 with the pay raise.
About the Author
