Vote would be advisory
The Avalon City Council this week approved two cannabis-related questions that will appear on the March 2020 election ballot.
The questions are “advisory vote only” ballot measures, meaning the results are not legally binding on the council.
The council also approved a resolution setting deadlines for submitting arguments and rebuttles to arguments for and against the questions.
In related news, City Manager Denise Radde confirmed that candidates will be able to pull papers to run in the election starting Tuesday, Nov. 12. Papers must be returned by 5 p.m., Friday, Dec. 6
The “advisory vote” cannabis questions will ask:
• “Should the City of Avalon expand its current commercial cannabis ordinance from medical delivery only to allow for adult use/recreational delivery sales within the City of Avalon city limits?”
• “Should the City of Avalon expand its current commercial cannabis ordinance to allow for a cannabis business storefront location or dispensary within the City of Avalon city limits?”
City Attorney Scott Campbell said staff would bring an ordnance back to the council based on the results of the advisory vote.
Mayor Anni Marshall expressed concern about the language of the questions. “I think it’s too wordy.”
However, Council Member Cinde MacGugan-Cassidy was fine with the questions as proposed.
Marshall asked for public input before proceeding to the vote.
Rhonda Kalish said, “I’m really glad we have time to inform our community about what we’re about to step into, especiall with the FDA and the surgeon general coming forth with some of the hazards of vaping and TCH.”No one else spoke.
Technically, the council approved three resolutions in a single vote. In addition to setting deadlines for arguments and approving the ballot questions, the council also approved a resolution consolidating the city’s election with the statewide primary on March 3.
