MONROE COUNTY, Mich — A citizen-proposed item on the November ballot in Bedford Township would remove a ban on marijuana establishments.
While recreational dispensaries are legal in the state of Michigan, township leaders passed the ordinance prohibiting marijuana establishments in 2018, effectively banning dispensaries.
Proponents of the item, which would allow for a maximum of five retail establishments in township limits, say it would be a boost to the economy.
"I mean, we already allow liquor stores and grimy motels, so I don't see the issue," said resident David Whitmore.
Some residents oppose it, though, simply because they don't want marijuana retailers in their neighborhoods.
"I just think it's something that doesn't need to be available, especially for young people just starting out driving, I can't think of any good thing coming about it. So I'm definitely against it," said resident Donna Steele.
"Having the dispensaries and anyone can go in and it's there, it's just like a convenience store, so I just think that's just going to make things worse in the end," she added.
In saying he would vote yes, Whitmore added that if it passes carefully deciding where the establishments would set up shop would be important.
As for whether or not Bedford will ever see a dispensary, the results of the general election on Nov. 5 will decide.
"Definitely need to decide the actual area where one would be," he said.
Monroe County officials did not respond to a request for comment on Saturday regarding the ballot item.
The full ballot text, according to the Michigan Secretary of State's website, is below:
The proposed citizen Initiative, if approved by the Registered Electors of Bedford Township, Monroe County, Michigan, would effectively repeal the current Bedford Township Prohibition of Marihuana Establishments Ordinance (Ordinance No. 101 – adopted by the Bedford Township Board on November 20, 2018) which prohibits any adult use marihuana retailer establishments within Bedford Township, and would provide for a maximum of five (5) adult use marihuana retailer establishments allowed within Bedford Township, Monroe County, Michigan.